Fantasy NBA 2025-26: Best Player by Round Breakdown

The 2025-26 NBA season delivered fantasy gold, with multiple players outperforming their draft picks. Yahoo Fantasy analyst Dan Titus highlights the top performers by round, identifying the most valuable selections for 9-cat and High Score formats.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way in the first round. The Sixers star was drafted at 3.8 but finished third in 9-cat and fourth in High Score. SGA played more games than any first-round pick and was rostered in 27.6% of Yahoo’s top-500 leagues.

Tyrese Maxey dominated the second round. Maxey delivered first-round value, finishing top-five in 9-cat and top-seven in High Score. He hit career highs in six of nine categories and was the fifth-most rostered player in the top-500.

Jalen Johnson was the standout in the third round. The Hawks forward averaged a career-best 8.0 assists and recorded 13 triple-doubles, tying with Josh Giddey for second-most in the league. Johnson outperformed his ADP by one round in 9-cat and two in High Score.

Jamal Murray came through in the fourth round. The Nuggets guard played over 70 games and posted career highs in scoring, assists, FG%, and 3s per game. He ranked 10th in 9-cat and 15th in High Score.

Kawhi Leonard was the fifth-round steal. The Clippers forward nearly hit 50/40/90 shooting splits and finished top-five in 9-cat. His return to form surprised many, and he became one of the top-15 players in High Score.

Jalen Duren made a big leap in the sixth round. The rookie big man improved his scoring efficiency and became a versatile threat near the rim. He averaged 12.1 points and 11.6 rebounds while leading the league in offensive rebounds with 4.5 per game.

Julius Randle was the best value in the seventh round. The Knicks forward played in every game this season, averaging 21-7-5 with 1 steal per game. Randle finished 40th in High Score and outperformed his ADP in 9-cat.

OG Anunoby delivered in the eighth round. The Knicks wing ranked 32nd in 9-cat, four rounds ahead of his ADP. Anunoby’s balanced stat line and efficiency made him a top-32 player despite averaging under 20 points per game.

Donovan Clingan exceeded expectations in the ninth round. The rookie big man averaged a double-double and led the league in offensive rebounds. Clingan finished 77th in High Score and 50th in 9-cat, proving his fantasy upside.

Onyeka Okongwu was the 10th-round gem. The Hawks center averaged 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists per game while maintaining a low turnover rate. Okongwu ranked 37th in 9-cat and 74th in High Score, making him a steal for fantasy managers.