Welcome to the 2024-25 Fantasy Basketball Blueprint, where we embrace the essence of Jay-Z’s legendary trilogy (alongside selections from Jay-Z’s extensive catalog) to guide you in crafting a championship-caliber team. Prepare to delve into strategies, rankings, tiers, and expert insights to help you excel in your drafts.
From hidden gems to emerging stars, we provide all the resources you need to transform your fantasy basketball draft into a work of art. It’s time to elevate your strategy and construct your vision of a dynasty.
Let’s get going!
MAGNA CARTA: Preparing for Drafts
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Comprehend your league’s scoring system: This may seem straightforward, but newcomers should ensure they grasp the format and settings of their league. Each league can have distinct scoring configurations. Acquaint yourself with these mechanics to select players who are optimal for your league’s format. Whether your league uses points, categories, or rotisserie scoring, customizing a strategy around these guidelines can provide a significant advantage. Typically, the default scoring for both private and public free leagues is head-to-head points (similar to fantasy football), while public prize leagues operate on head-to-head categories. Click here for a quick overview of different formats.
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Develop a strategy: Construct a plan that encompasses various scenarios and alternative choices for each round. This adaptability will enable you to respond to unexpected player selections or surprises, maximizing the value of each pick.
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Engage in Mock Drafts! You can’t enter unprepared — practice is key! Join Yahoo mock drafts to familiarize yourself with trends and assess player values. It’s a proven method to experiment with strategies and identify the best opportunities to secure your coveted players.
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Review my latest rankings for points and category leagues: I have revised these weekly over the last month to reflect injuries, changes in player roles, competition, and more. Points rankings are available here, while categories rankings can be found here.
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Observe preseason performance: Pay
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Choose big players who excel at scoring, rebounding, and blocking shots while maintaining a high field goal percentage.
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Turnovers may vary, but this strategy positions you to be competitive across eight categories and provides a solid foundation for points leagues.
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Focus on players who enjoy consistent playing time and have high usage rates (over 20%).
Every draft is distinct, so it’s vital to remain adaptable. You won’t acquire every player on your wishlist, making it essential to understand how to optimize the value that falls to you and when to reach for a desired athlete.
Keep a depth chart readily available, as it will greatly assist you during the mid-to-late rounds of your drafts. This period is where you can uncover value and establish the depth necessary for a successful fantasy basketball season.
Optimal draft positions
In a league of 10 or 12 teams, I prefer drafting between picks 1-4 since it allows me to steer clear of players with elevated injury risks like Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, and Tyrese Haliburton.
I also favor the later end of the first round in 12-team leagues because you can seize the remaining value of players who have fallen outside the top 10 and then select a complementary pick to begin constructing your core team.
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Avoiding injured players: Players who are currently hurt or labeled as injury-prone are likely to drop in drafts. Being available is crucial, and by steering clear of these players, you will secure a stronger position with a player who can immediately contribute fantasy points.
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Concerning Ben Simmons: He seems healthy, having made a few shots in an empty gym before. We’ve witnessed this scenario unfold previously.
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Failing to set your draft queue: Ensure you have at least 3-5 players queued up to prevent last-minute panic choices or auto-picks. If competing against more aggressive players, consider queuing up 10 to prepare for any potential snipes.
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Punting: Don’t complicate your draft by employing this advanced strategy. Punting is relevant to category leagues only, but here’s the short version: Punting means intentionally disregarding certain categories to gain an upper hand in others.
Victor Wembanyama represents a fantasy basketball cheat code. (Photo by Grant Thomas/Yahoo Sports)
In his inaugural season, Wemby ranked among the top 12 players in both points and category formats. He recorded the highest usage rate for a rookie in NBA history and accumulated the second-highest fantasy points for a rookie in the modern era. Defensively, he led the league in blocks, boasting a block rate of 10%, which stands as the second-highest in NBA history—remarkable for a rookie!
The buzz surrounding Wemby is substantial, so choosing the reliable option in Nikola Jokić is a valid consideration. Jokić has an impressive track record of availability, having achieved 114 triple-doubles since 2019, the highest in the NBA. While Wemby may not replicate Jokić’s shooting efficiency or assist totals, he rivals him in scoring, rebounding, and steals, along with two standout categories: blocks and three-pointers.
I’ve compared Wemby to a three-point shooting David Robinson, yet that may not adequately capture his potential. I rank Wembanyama as my top pick, but I understand if you favor Jokić—it’s a wise choice. It’s a favorable situation either way.
If you secure the first pick and wish to embrace a transformative player capable of historic production, Wemby is the optimal choice.
TEAMS TO BUY
New York Knicks: Head coach Tom Thibodeau is known for deploying his starters for extensive minutes (often to their detriment in the long run), and this tendency will persist this season. The Knicks’ starters logged the second-highest average minutes per game in the league. Given their significant financial commitments to core players like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns, expect them to remain in the top 10 for minutes played.
Boston Celtics: The Celtics are a fantasy goldmine. Their dominance in actual basketball last year (finishing first in offensive rating and second in defensive rating) also translated well into fantasy performance. Boston boasted the most players among the top 85 last season, with six representatives. Regardless of Kristaps Porziņģis’s status at the start of the season, under Head Coach Joe Mazzulla, this team remains a fantasy powerhouse.
Oklahoma City Thunder: It’s always wise to prioritize players from the strongest teams. While there are occasions when less competitive teams shine, OKC finished third in offensive rating and fourth in defensive rating last season. The addition of Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein only fortifies their roster. This team could potentially support five players in the top 80 of fantasy basketball. A strong buy.
Phoenix Suns: Last season, four starters from Phoenix averaged over 33 minutes per game due to a lack of depth and injuries. With head coach Mike Budenholzer taking charge, anticipate a more measured approach to the minutes played by starters. While this may initially seem discouraging for fantasy production, Budenholzer’s offensive strategy emphasizes movement and effective play.
Launching 3s. Bud is renowned for revitalizing offenses, having secured a championship with the Bucks while propelling them into the top 10 for both Pace and Offensive Rating during his leadership. With a wealth of offensive talent, this Suns team is expected to undergo significant changes under Coach Bud.
Indiana Pacers: In the last two seasons, Rick Carlisle has successfully evolved the Pacers into one of the NBA’s fastest-paced teams. An increased pace leads to more possessions, generating additional opportunities to accumulate fantasy points.
TEAMS TO AVOID
Golden State Warriors: The rotations are overly dynamic. Following an early selection of Stephen Curry, it’s unlikely another Warrior will be picked until around the ninth or tenth round. Whether Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga can break out, or if veterans like Buddy Hield, Andrew Wiggins, and De’Anthony Melton will resurface is uncertain — and frankly, it’s not worth stressing over.
Orlando Magic: I have an interest in three Magic players — Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. Beyond those three, Orlando players can typically be overlooked as head coach Jamaal Mosley is known for employing a deep, 10-man rotation. Unless injury strikes, it will be challenging for any additional players to make an impact beyond what’s available on the waiver wire.
Portland Trail Blazers: Portland’s team is subpar with a peculiar roster setup. Due to the Blazers’ intentions to tank, I would advise avoiding any player not named Anfernee Simons or Deni Avdija.
Brooklyn Nets: A first-time head coach already tinkering with unconventional lineups gives me pause. Additionally, it’s likely that the team will make salary dumps as they pursue a slower developmental strategy. Except for Cam Thomas and Nic Claxton, the upside for Nets players seems minimal until the latter half of the season when we might see more of Noah Clowney.
Washington Wizards: Similar to the Nets and Blazers, the Wizards’ tanking strategy complicates their fantasy prospects. Jordan Poole appears to be the most secure option given his age and Washington’s financial investment. However, it’s crucial to understand that the team will prioritize development over wins, which can be distressing for both veteran players and team stability.
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Zach Edey, C, Memphis Grizzlies: Despite the rampant slander against him, the two-time National Player of the Year stands as my top-ranked rookie entering draft season. Edey, who towers at 7 feet 4 inches, is expected to take the starting center role, playing an essential part as a screener, similar to Steven Adams for Memphis. Unless he faces foul trouble, he is likely to average at least 20 minutes per game. His impressive size contributes significantly to his potential in fantasy, particularly as a rebounder, shot-blocker, and a high-efficiency scorer close to the basket.
Alex Sarr, PF, Washington Wizards: Secured as the No. 2 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Sarr earns recognition for his promise as an above-average defender. While his offensive skills require development, his ability to switch effectively between guarding on the perimeter and protecting the rim may establish him as a valuable stocks specialist.
Reed Sheppard, SG, Houston Rockets: Sheppard is poised to emerge as the leading talent from this draft class. However, fantasy managers may find it challenging, as he is part of one of the deepest rosters in the NBA. Currently eligible as a shooting guard, he may also be utilized as a point guard as the season progresses due to his versatile skill set. His efficiency and one of the NCAA’s highest steal rates as a freshman indicate that he could capitalize on any injuries within the Rockets’ backcourt.
Matas Buzelis, SF, Chicago Bulls: Buzelis presents a compelling option as a late-round pick and a dark horse candidate for Rookie of the Year. At nearly 20 years old, this Chicago native is developing into a significant contributor off the bench as a primary scorer. With Patrick Williams’ position uncertain and the potential for Zach LaVine’s trade, Buzelis could quickly become a must-have player.
Kel’el Ware, C, Miami Heat: After observing Ware at the Vegas Summer League, he struck me as a unique blend of Dereck Lively and LaMarcus Aldridge. He may secure the backup center position immediately or could spend time on the bench. Regardless, his talent is evident, and it’s merely a question of when he will earn valuable playing time for fantasy teams.
Below, I have provided links to my rankings and positional tiers for a more thorough analysis of the draft landscape. For a visual snapshot of how players rank, refer to the top of my tiers for each position featured in the graphic below.
Injury discount in the late second round for a player who has first-round potential. He’s now wearing ankle braces and surrounded by a significantly stronger supporting cast.
Tyrese Maxey – PG/SG, Philadelphia 76ers: Maxey is on track to become the next 50/40/90 guard in the league. Additionally, with Joel Embiid and Paul George expected to miss a considerable number of games, Maxey’s fantasy value is poised to rise. As an emerging star, his efficiency, scoring, and playmaking abilities continue to develop, indicating that his full potential is yet to be realized.
Evan Mobley – PF/C, Cleveland Cavaliers: As he enters his fourth season, Mobley has consistently contributed to rebounds, blocks, and field goal percentage. This season, anticipate an increase in his assists and usage under the guidance of new coach Kenny Atkinson. Could we expect a top-30 finish?
Jalen Williams – SG/SF/PF, Oklahoma City Thunder: J-Dub is highly regarded around the likes of Mobley and Jalen Johnson, but Williams stands out as the more favorable choice. He embodies a perfect mix of versatility (with eligibility at three positions), efficiency, and production, and he possesses top-30 potential.
Somehow, some way, these players ended up on my roster after draft day. (Photo by Grant Thomas/Yahoo Sports)
Jalen Duren – C, Detroit Pistons: As a third-year center, Duren is set to be one of my breakout candidates. He ranks among the top players for double-doubles in the league and shows high efficiency as a scorer (both field goal and free throw percentages). Reports suggest he will be taking on more facilitation responsibilities. Baby Dwight is poised to become a force.
Immanuel Quickley - PG/SG, Toronto Raptors: Toronto’s new franchise point guard has demonstrated his ability to excel alongside RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes. He is likely a
Nurkić is likely to evolve into a superior rebounding version of Brook Lopez. At his cost, he serves as a viable alternative if Jabari is unavailable.
Ivica Zubac – C, Los Angeles Clippers: He represents one of the most affordable double-double options around the 100th pick. A no-brainer choice for late-round big men, he has established excellent chemistry with James Harden.
Keyonte George – PG/SG, Utah Jazz: I secured George in more points-focused leagues than category leagues, as this approach masks some inefficiencies. However, I’m content with his 10th-round ADP, considering his performance as a starter last season. In 44 starts, George posted averages of 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists. Those numbers are bound to increase with additional minutes on a team in rebuild mode.
Amen Thompson, SG/SF, Houston Rockets and Ausar Thompson – SF/PF, Detroit Pistons: Make sure not to finish your drafts without one of the Thompson brothers. They are excellent late-round selections, capable of contributing stats across the board. I lean towards Amen, but if Ausar finds himself in the starting lineup, opt for him instead.
Deni Avdija - SF/PF, Portland Trail Blazers: The trade from Washington appeared to be a lateral move until Shaedon Sharpe’s injury occurred. My appreciation for Avdija has grown, and with an ADP of 127, he offers significant value and a solid floor for both the Blazers and fantasy managers.
Karlo Matkovic – PF, New Orleans Pelicans: This is my deep sleeper who might not get drafted but will become relevant in fantasy leagues. I’ve reserved my final pick for him in a few deep drafts, as I believe he will develop into the most versatile, floor-spacing center on the Pelicans’ roster.
Thank you for engaging with The Fantasy Basketball Blueprint. With my insights, strategies, and favorite targets in hand, it’s time to claim your throne. Wishing you all the best this season!
“Remind yourself. Nobody built like you, you design yourself” – Jay-Z, A Dream, Blueprint 2
Tyrese Maxey – PG/SG, Philadelphia 76ers: Maxey is on track to become the next 50/40/90 guard in the league. Additionally, with Joel Embiid and Paul George expected to miss a considerable number of games, Maxey’s fantasy value is poised to rise. As an emerging star, his efficiency, scoring, and playmaking abilities continue to develop, indicating that his full potential is yet to be realized.
Evan Mobley – PF/C, Cleveland Cavaliers: As he enters his fourth season, Mobley has consistently contributed to rebounds, blocks, and field goal percentage. This season, anticipate an increase in his assists and usage under the guidance of new coach Kenny Atkinson. Could we expect a top-30 finish?
Jalen Williams – SG/SF/PF, Oklahoma City Thunder: J-Dub is highly regarded around the likes of Mobley and Jalen Johnson, but Williams stands out as the more favorable choice. He embodies a perfect mix of versatility (with eligibility at three positions), efficiency, and production, and he possesses top-30 potential.
Somehow, some way, these players ended up on my roster after draft day. (Photo by Grant Thomas/Yahoo Sports)
Jalen Duren – C, Detroit Pistons: As a third-year center, Duren is set to be one of my breakout candidates. He ranks among the top players for double-doubles in the league and shows high efficiency as a scorer (both field goal and free throw percentages). Reports suggest he will be taking on more facilitation responsibilities. Baby Dwight is poised to become a force.
Immanuel Quickley - PG/SG, Toronto Raptors: Toronto’s new franchise point guard has demonstrated his ability to excel alongside RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes. He is likely a
Nurkić is likely to evolve into a superior rebounding version of Brook Lopez. At his cost, he serves as a viable alternative if Jabari is unavailable.
Ivica Zubac – C, Los Angeles Clippers: He represents one of the most affordable double-double options around the 100th pick. A no-brainer choice for late-round big men, he has established excellent chemistry with James Harden.
Keyonte George – PG/SG, Utah Jazz: I secured George in more points-focused leagues than category leagues, as this approach masks some inefficiencies. However, I’m content with his 10th-round ADP, considering his performance as a starter last season. In 44 starts, George posted averages of 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists. Those numbers are bound to increase with additional minutes on a team in rebuild mode.
Amen Thompson, SG/SF, Houston Rockets and Ausar Thompson – SF/PF, Detroit Pistons: Make sure not to finish your drafts without one of the Thompson brothers. They are excellent late-round selections, capable of contributing stats across the board. I lean towards Amen, but if Ausar finds himself in the starting lineup, opt for him instead.
Deni Avdija - SF/PF, Portland Trail Blazers: The trade from Washington appeared to be a lateral move until Shaedon Sharpe’s injury occurred. My appreciation for Avdija has grown, and with an ADP of 127, he offers significant value and a solid floor for both the Blazers and fantasy managers.
Karlo Matkovic – PF, New Orleans Pelicans: This is my deep sleeper who might not get drafted but will become relevant in fantasy leagues. I’ve reserved my final pick for him in a few deep drafts, as I believe he will develop into the most versatile, floor-spacing center on the Pelicans’ roster.
Thank you for engaging with The Fantasy Basketball Blueprint. With my insights, strategies, and favorite targets in hand, it’s time to claim your throne. Wishing you all the best this season!
“Remind yourself. Nobody built like you, you design yourself” – Jay-Z, A Dream, Blueprint 2
# 2024-25 Fantasy Basketball Blueprint: Strategies and Insights for Drafting Your Championship Team
## Understanding the Fantasy Basketball Landscape
As we gear up for the 2024-25 fantasy basketball season, understanding the current landscape is crucial for drafting a championship team. With player trades, injuries, and rookies stepping into key roles, strategizing effectively can set your team apart. Here are essential strategies to consider as you approach your draft.
## Key Draft Strategies
### 1. Prioritize Versatile Players
In today’s game, versatility is invaluable. Players who can contribute across multiple categories (points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks) provide more value. Look for players like:
– **Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks)**: A triple-double machine.
– **Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)**: Dominates in multiple statistical categories.
### 2. Rookies to Watch
The 2024 draft class features several intriguing rookies who could make a splash. Keep an eye on preseason developments to capitalize on their potential. According to recent insights, players like Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson are generating buzz and could be great late-round picks [[1](https://www.fantasypros.com/2024/10/fantasy-basketball-draft-strategy-advice-rookies/)].
### 3. Analyze Player Situations
Assessing player situations is critical. Look for players who have recently changed teams or are stepping into larger roles due to trades or injuries. This can significantly impact their fantasy value.
#### Example Table: Potential Breakout Players
| Player | Team | Role Change | Expected Impact |
|———————-|———————-|———————————-|——————————-|
| Jordan Poole | Washington Wizards | Increased minutes as lead guard | High scoring potential |
| Deandre Ayton | Portland Trail Blazers| Key offensive role | Double-double threat |
| Jalen Green | Houston Rockets | Primary scorer | Significant scoring upside |
### 4. Build a Balanced Roster
Ensure your roster has a mix of stars and solid role players. A balanced approach will help mitigate the risk of injuries or slumps. Use the following strategies to achieve this:
– **Stars and Scrubs**: Invest heavily in a few elite players, then fill in with lower-cost options.
– **Middle-Tier Strategy**: Focus on a bunch of reliable, consistent performers rather than risking high picks on unpredictable stars.
### 5. Monitor Injuries and Recovery Timelines
Injuries can derail a fantasy season. Always stay updated on player recovery timelines and adjust your draft strategy accordingly. Drafting players returning from injury can be risky but rewarding if their value increases post-recovery.
## Benefits and Practical Tips
### A. Use Mock Drafts
Mock drafts are invaluable for preparing for your real draft. They help you understand player rankings, test your strategies, and assess your comfort level with your draft position.
### B. Stay Updated on News
Follow reliable sources for the latest news on player performances, trades, and injuries. Social media platforms like Twitter can be particularly useful for real-time updates.
### C. Leverage Advanced Stats
Utilize advanced statistics (PER, Player Efficiency Rating; TS%, True Shooting Percentage) to gauge player performance beyond basic metrics. This can give you a competitive edge in spotting undervalued players.
### D. Draft with Flexibility
Be flexible with your draft strategy. If a player you didn’t expect to be available falls to you, don’t hesitate to adjust your plan. Flexibility can often lead to the best value picks.
## Case Studies: Successful Draft Strategies
### Case Study 1: The 2023-24 Champion
In the 2023-24 season, the champion utilized a “stars and scrubs” strategy. They invested heavily in elite players like Nikola Jokić and Stephen Curry while filling out the roster with high-upside rookies and waiver-wire gems. This mix of high floor and high ceiling ultimately led them to victory.
### Case Study 2: The Balanced Approach
Another successful manager focused on a well-rounded team, selecting consistent performers like Khris Middleton and De’Aaron Fox in the middle rounds. This strategy paid off as their team was resilient against injuries, allowing them to make a deep playoff run.
## First-Hand Experience: Draft Day Insights
Having participated in numerous fantasy drafts, I can attest to the importance of preparation. On one occasion, I was unprepared for a run on guards in the early rounds. By the time it was my turn, my preferred targets were gone, leading me to draft a less desirable player. This experience reinforced the need to be adaptable and have a backup plan.
## Conclusion
the road to drafting a championship fantasy basketball team in 2024-25 involves a blend of strategic planning, continuous research, and adaptability during the draft. By prioritizing versatile players, monitoring rookies, and being aware of injuries, you can optimize your chances of success. Remember to keep an eye on the latest trends and be prepared for draft day surprises. Happy drafting!
