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The Houston Rockets realized the value of Fred VanVleet, which is why they re-signed the guard to a two-year, $50 million contract this summer. It also shows just what kind of blow this latest news is for a team with championship aspirations.

VanVleet suffered a torn ACL at an unofficial team workout in the Bahamas and could miss the entire upcoming NBA season, a story broken by Shams Charania of ESPN and since confirmed by others. This was a contact injury, and VanVleet has returned to Houston, where he is expected to have surgery later this week.

On a roster stacked with talent on the wings and in the frontcourt — Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr. and more — VanVleet was the glue at an otherwise thin point guard spot that held everything together. VanVleet averaged 14.1 points and 5.6 assists last season, and is a plus defender. Last season, the Rockets were 3.3 points per 100 possessions better when VanVleet was on the court. VanVleet's value really stood out in the playoffs, when he averaged 18.7 points, 4.4 assists and 4.1 rebounds a game and the Rockets were 21 points per 100 possessions better when he was on the court in their series loss to the Warriors.

VanVleet's injury puts a lot of pressure on second-year guard Reed Sheppard, who was being asked to make a big step up to the backup point guard role this season and now will have more on his plate. Behind him is veteran Aaron Holiday.

This is a potentially serious blow to the Rockets' title hopes, especially in a deep West where Oklahoma City brings back 14 players from the team that just won the title, and the Denver Nuggets have stacked the roster around Nikola Jokic (that's not even mentioning Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves or the LeBron James and Luka Doncic tandem in Los Angeles).

We're less than a month away from the start of the NBA season, which makes this a great time to go through our positional rankings at Rotoworld.

You can find our Top 50 forwards here and our Top 50 centers here, but we're discussing guards in this article.

The guard position is a vital one to figure out in fantasy basketball, though it certainly isn't a position that is lacking talent. There are plenty of unique guards with different strengths and weaknesses that can be optimized for any team build, though last season's MVP is alone at the top, thanks to his well-rounded, dominant statistical production.

Below is how we'd value SGA and 49 other guards in fantasy basketball this season.

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1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 6.4 assists, 1.7 steals, 1.0 block, 2.1 three-pointers

SGA was the best guard in fantasy basketball last season, which is why he should be selected with a top-three pick in every draft. The reigning MVP is the top guard on our board due to a combination of his ability and his availability. The Thunder rotation should be the same as it was last season, which means SGA should be able to deliver a similar output. Not that any roster change would actually impact his production; he’ll continue to be one of the best offensive players in the league while also providing both steals and blocks. He posted career-highs in points, assists and three-pointers last season, and he’ll be in the mix for the top spot in fantasy basketball once again this year.

2. Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, 7.7 assists, 1.8 steals, 3.5 three-pointers

Raise your hand if you accurately predicted how Doncic’s 2024-25 season would go. He missed time early on due to injuries, and then was traded to the Lakers in a move that shocked the basketball world. The last few months of their season was simply a trial run, and they made moves this offseason to better build around Doncic and LeBron James, with the signing of Deandre Ayton as the team’s lob threat down low as the main addition. Now, with an offseason to forge a team and playbook around the strengths of Doncic, the Lakers will be looking to compete for a title. With LeBron on the wrong side of 40, keeping him fresh for the playoffs is a priority, which means Doncic will be running things more often than not. He should be in for what has become a typical dominant season.

3. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 26.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 9.1 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.8 blocks, 2.1 three-pointers

It took a few seasons, but Detroit was finally able to put together a competitive roster around Cunningham, and it immediately resulted in the best season of his career. The added spacing of Malik Beasley and Tim Hardaway Jr. opened up driving lanes for Cade, and the development of his teammates made things easier. Plus, Cunningham made individual strides. The Pistons lost THJ in free agency, and Beasley remains unsigned, but the return of Jaden Ivey, who missed the final three months of last season with a broken leg, should help make up for the losses. There’s no reason to think Cunningham won’t continue to progress after making his first All-NBA team last season.

4. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.2 steals, 4.1 three-pointers

Every year, Edwards seems to take a step forward and add something new to his game. Last season, it was a three-point revolution for him, as he led the league in total threes made and increased his scoring average, which he has done every season of his career. Minnesota lost Nickeil Alexander-Walker in free agency, but the rest of the rotation should look the same, with some of the young guys making up for NAW’s departure. None of that will directly impact Edwards’ spot, and he’ll continue to carry the offensive workload for the T-wolves, which should result in a monster season for him.

5. Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 25.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, 7.1 assists, 0.9 steals, 2.4 three-pointers

To put it mildly, last season was a disaster for the Suns, but it wasn’t terrible for Booker. Sure, his field goal percentage dropped, but he was still able to average at least 25 points for the seventh consecutive season, and he set a new career-high for assists. Now, Phoenix’s “big three” experiment is over, with Kevin Durant in Houston and Bradley Beal in Los Angeles. The Suns brought back Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, but this is clearly Booker’s team. While the two newcomers will see their fair share of usage, everything is going to run through Booker under new head coach Jordan Ott. It isn’t an unfair expectation to think Booker could be in for the most productive season of his career.

6. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 24.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, 11.6 assists, 1.2 steals, 2.9 three-pointers

Young started last season slowly, and while he did improve as the season progressed, he posted the lowest field goal percentage of his career and his fewest points per game since his rookie year. Young was one of the premier point guard options in fantasy hoops last season by providing a healthy dose of points, assists and threes while maintaining an elite free throw percentage and rate. Now, he has the most talented supporting cast of his career, headlined by the addition of Kristaps Porzingis, who is by far the best stretch five that Young has played with. It wouldn’t be shocking if Young was able to have one of the most efficient seasons of his career with more space to operate in.

7. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 24.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.3 steals, 3.3 three-pointers

While the Cavs were able to put together the second 60-win season in franchise history, it wasn’t because Mitchell took a step forward. In fact, his numbers regressed across the board during the first season under Kenny Atkinson. Mitchell’s 31.4 minutes per game were a career-low, which can at least partially be attributed to the absurd amount of blowout wins the team had. They didn’t make many offseason changes, but they’ll enter the year with Darirus Garland (toe) and Max Strus (foot) both dealing with injuries, which should mean extra usage for Mitchell early on. He could certainly be in for a bounceback season after “only” providing third-round value in nine-category leagues last season.

8. Amen Thompson, Houston Rockets

Positions: PG/SG/SF

2024-25 stats: 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.4 steals, 1.3 blocks

When Jabari Smith Jr. went down with a left hand injury last season, Thompson stepped into a starting role with Houston and never gave it back. In just his second year, Thompson became one of the best players in fantasy basketball, and the trade to bring in Kevin Durant will only help. With Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks gone, Thompson will be the Rockets’ best defender and starting shooting guard. Durant’s presence will create more space for Thompson as a driver, and his dominance defensively should continue. Shooting will never be a strength for him, but Thompson is impactful everywhere else.

9. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.1 steals, 4.4 three-pointers

Curry just keeps getting it done at a high level. He was back up over a steal per game and played at least 70 games for the second straight season. He also survived a slower start to the season (to his standards) and was better after the All-Star break. The trade deadline addition of Jimmy Butler will alleviate some of the offensive responsibility from Curry, but it also made life a little easier. This roster still has some unknowns as they try to navigate the Jonathan Kuminga saga, but nothing should drastically impact Curry’s production. This team will go as far as he takes them. They know that, and there’s nothing that could happen that will change that.

10. James Harden, LA Clippers

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.7 assists, 1.5 steals, 3.0 three-pointers.

Even at his age, Harden continues to get it done. He played 79 games last season, making it the second consecutive season that he played at least 70 games. He also provided second round value, which was a nice bounceback for him after he finished outside the first two rounds during the 2023-24 season for the first time in over a decade. The Clippers made some roster upgrades this offseason, but nothing should impact Harden’s place in the rotation or his usage. He figures to be among the league leaders in assists once again while still providing plenty of points, steals and threes.

11. Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 26.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.8 steals, 3.1 three-pointers

There was a lot to be frustrated about in Philadelphia last season, but Maxey’s early season success wasn’t part of that. He had the best season of his career and was one of the best players in fantasy basketball from mid-December to early February. He wasn’t available much after the All-Star break, but he should be healthy to start this season. The availability of Joel Embiid is the big question mark in Philly right now, and the answer should have a large impact on how dominant Maxey can be. Regardless, Maxey will at least be the second option, and it’s hard to imagine Embiid playing more than 50-55 games, and that’s staying positive. Maxey should run this team for much of the upcoming season.

12. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 26.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 0.9 steals, 2.3 three-pointers

The arrival of Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges gave the Knicks a more balanced roster, which contributed to Brunson taking nearly three fewer shots per game last season. His scoring dropped, but he made up for it with a career-high for assists. New York moved on from Tom Thibodeau this summer and hired Mike Brown to replace him. They also added more depth in the backcourt with Jordan Clarkson and Malcolm Brogdon. Brunson will still be the focal point offensively, but there’s certainly a chance he loses out on a few minutes per game. Still, he should be one of the best offensive players in the league once again, and Brown will want to take advantage of that in his first season at the helm. Expect plenty of points and assists from Brunson once again.

13. Josh Giddey, Chicago Bulls

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.5 three-pointers

The knee jerk reaction to the trade that sent Alex Caruso to the Thunder and Giddey to the Bulls was that OKC dominated the trade. While the addition of Caruso helped the Thunder win the championship last season, it doesn’t feel like a landslide deal anymore, thanks to the second-half emergence of Giddey, who was one of the best players in fantasy basketball after the All-Star break. It took a while, but they signed him to a four-year, $100 million contract in September. They didn’t give him superstar money, but he should play that role for them for the next few seasons, which means he could be in for a monster season in the box score.

14. De’Aaron Fox, San Antonio Spurs

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 23.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.9 three-pointers

Drama swirled around Sacramento early on last season, which resulted in Mike Brown being fired in December and Fox being traded to San Antonio in February. Fox only played in 17 games for the Spurs, with Victor Wembanyama only being available for five of those. San Antonio also added Dylan Harper with the second pick in the draft, and while he shouldn’t impact Fox’s minutes immediately, it does put his future with the team in question, which is weird to think about, since they’ve barely had him on the roster. Still, that won’t alter this season, and Fox should be in for a big year as the lead ball handler and playmaker for the most talented Spurs team in a while. The Fox-Wemby pairing should be fun to watch and only get better as the season progresses.

15. LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 25.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.1 steals, 3.8 three-pointers

LaMelo played 47 games last season. While that was an improvement over his two previous seasons, it still wasn’t good enough. It’s difficult to invest a premium pick into a player that has played 105 gamesover the last three seasons, but that’s the type of talent that Ball is. Charlotte added Kon Knueppel in the draft and traded for Collin Sexton, which will provide Ball with more space to operate and scorers to pass the ball to. This team is talented enough to compete for a postseason spot in the East, but like the last few seasons, it won’t happen if Ball isn’t available to play. That’s the risk every manager will take when they consider drafting him, but if he has a healthy season, the payoff will be worth it.

16. Desmond Bane, Orlando Magic

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 stats: 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.2 steals, 2.4 three-pointers

Bane has been a top-40 player in nine-cat leagues for each of the last four seasons, but he’ll get a fresh start in Orlando after spending the first five seasons of his career in Memphis. Bane will immediately step into a starting spot and provide Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner with plenty of space to operate in the paint. Bane will be the third option on offense, but he should get plenty of good looks as a floor spacer while still getting the chance to orchestrate the offense. It may look different, but there’s no reason to think Bane won’t be able to replicate top-tier production for his new squad as they try to compete for the top seed in the East.

17. Dyson Daniels, Atlanta Hawks

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 3.0 steals, 1.1 three-pointers

There may not have been a better value pick last season than Daniels, who won the Most Improved Player award and was a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year. In his first season with Atlanta, Daniels enjoyed a breakout season and led the league in steals. The Hawks added some backcourt depth this offseason in Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard, but neither should impact Daniels’ place in the rotation. Daniels may not replicate his steals production from last season, but he should be among the league leaders in swipes.

18. Derrick White, Boston Celtics

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 16.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.1 blocks, 3.5 three-pointers

White ascended to fantasy stardom two years ago and was able to maintain that last season. He took slight hits across the board, but he set a new career-high for points, rebounds and three-pointers, which prevented his overall value from sinking far despite a drop in shooting percentages. Obviously, this Celtics roster is going to look quite different next season, with Jayson Tatum (Achilles) out for the season, Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis gone, Al Horford likely gone, and Anfernee Simons in town. White is now the clear best defender, and he’s still one of the best offensive players, though he may not see a usage bump with both Simons and Payton Pritchard splitting point guard duties. Still, White should remain a top-tier option in fantasy basketball once again.

19. Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 21.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.4 steals, 2.3 three-pointers

After years of injury question marks, Murray has been able to flip the narrative in recent years. His 67 games last year were the most he’s played since the 2018-19 season, and his 36.1 minutes per game were a career-high. Denver made some backcourt upgrades this offseason by bringing in Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr., but neither move should have an impact on Murray’s production. Assuming Murray is able to have another healthy season, he should be in line for another strong season after finishing in the top-20 in nine-cat value last season.

20. Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 20.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 1.2 steals, 2.8 three-pointers

Despite a slow finish to last season, Garland was still able to have a productive year, finishing in the top-50 for the third time in the last four years. It was a step up after a down year during the 2023-24 season, and he was able to address the toe issue that caused his slow finish to the year by undergoing a procedure in June. He’s expected to miss the start of the season, but it isn’t expected to be a long-term absence, though it could cause him to start the year slow.

21. Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 23.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.8 three-pointers

Morant was in and out of the lineup all season for Memphis, but his 50 games played were a huge step up after only being available nine times the year before. However, his production took a hit across the board, including his minutes. The team fired Taylor Jenkins at the end of the season and made Tuomas Iisalo the full-time coach at the end of the year. Iisalo emphasized pick-and-rolls with Zach Edey way more than Jenkins did, which is something Morant had been asking for. Health will continue to be a concern for Morant, but he could certainly have the most productive season of his career.

22. Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.1 steals, 2.7 three-pointers

Reaves is coming off the most productive season of his career, and he continues to improve every year. The trade for Luka Doncic didn’t slow him down; in fact, he was even better after the deal. The Lakers made some improvements this offseason, but none that will alter the backcourt rotation. Reaves will look to replicate his late-season numbers, where he was a borderline top-25 player in fantasy basketball. It seems unlikely that he does, but if he can, he’ll end up thoroughly outplaying his ADP.

23. Immanuel Quickley, Toronto Raptors

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 17.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 2.6 three-pointers

When Quickley was traded to the Raptors during the 2023-24 season, he was productive during the second half of that year, which led to many expecting a breakout for him last season. Unfortunately, injuries prevented that from happening. Now, he’s healthy to start this year, and he’ll be running a team that also added Brandon Ingram, who is set to make his debut for them. Quickley could be in line to have the breakout season that was expected last year, and if he does, Toronto could compete for a postseason spot.

24. Jordan Poole, New Orleans Pelicans

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 20.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.3 steals, 3.5 three-pointers

Despite a tumultuous first season in Washington, Poole was much better last year, which resulted in him posting career-highs in points, steals and three-pointers per game. That was enough for New Orleans to trade for him this offseason and task him with being the team’s point guard while Dejounte Murray recovers from an Achilles tear. Everything went wrong for the Pelicans last season, but Poole can have a productive year as the primary playmaker for a talented team. They don’t have the rights to their 2026 first-round pick, which means there’s no incentive to tank. There’s no reason to think Poole will be at risk of being a shutdown candidate if things go poorly for New Orleans again.

25. Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.3 steals, 2.9 three-pointers

Irving was an important piece for Dallas last season but quickly became even more important after Luka Doncic was traded to the Lakers. He was carrying the load offensively for the Mavericks for most of February before tearing his ACL in March. Irving will miss at least the first few months of the season, if not more, but it's difficult to pass on a player that's this good for very long. D'Angelo Russell and Cooper Flagg will both help with facilitating the offense until Irving returns, but he should be an impactful player when he's healthy, especially during the fantasy playoffs.

12-Team, 9-Cat Fantasy Basketball Mock Draft 2025-26: Take Giannis Antetokounmpo and don’t look back

Starting a draft with Giannis Antetokounmpo allows you to establish your team’s strengths and weaknesses immediately.

• Noah Rubin,

26. Tyler Herro, Miami Heat

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 23.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 3.3 three-pointers

27. Anfernee Simons, Boston Celtics

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 19.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, 4.8 points, 0.9 steals, 3.1 three-pointers

28. Zach LaVine, Sacramento Kings

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 23.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 0.8 steals, 3.2 three-pointers

29. Andrew Nembhard, Indiana Pacers

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 10.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.8 three-pointers

30. Coby White, Chicago Bulls

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 20.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 2.9 three-pointers

31. Christian Braun, Denver Nuggets

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 stats: 15.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.1 three-pointers

32. Jalen Green, Phoenix Suns

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.9 steals, 2.9 three-pointers

33. Cam Thomas, Brooklyn Nets

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 stats: 24.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.7 three-pointers

34. Payton Pritchard, Boston Celtics

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 3.2 three-pointers

35. Jalen Suggs, Orlando Magic

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 16.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.9 blocks, 2.2 three-pointers

36. D’Angelo Russell, Dallas Mavericks

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 12.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.0 steal, 1.9 three-pointers

37. Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 stats: 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.4 three-pointers

38. CJ McCollum, Washington Wizards

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 21.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.8 steals, 3.1 three-pointers

39. Bradley Beal, LA Clippers

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 stats: 17.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.9 three-pointers

40. Malik Monk, Sacramento Kings

Position: SG

2024-25 stats: 17.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 0.9 steals, 2.1 three-pointers

41. Brandin Podziemski, Golden State Warriors

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 11.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.8 three-pointers

42. Scoot Henderson, Portland Trail Blazers

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 12.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.0 steal, 1.6 three-pointers

43. Collin Sexton, Charlotte Hornets

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 18.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.7 three-pointers

44. Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists. 2.1 three-pointers

45. Shaedon Sharpe, Portland Trail Blazers

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 stats: 18.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.9 steals, 2.0 three-pointers

46. Dennis Schröder, Sacramento Kings

Position: PG

2024-25 stats: 13.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.7 three-pointers

47. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 14.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.2 three-pointers

48. VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers

Positions: SG

2024-25 stats (at Baylor): 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.1 steals, 1.6 three-pointers

49. Keyonte George, Utah Jazz

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 16.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.6 three-pointers

50. Dejounte Murray, New Orleans Pelicans

Positions: PG/SG

2024-25 stats: 17.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 2.0 steals, 1.7 three-pointers

Three things remain true about Jonathan Kuminga and his future: 1) He wants a bigger role with a team, to be a top-two focal point, something not happening in Golden State anytime soon; 2) Kuminga remains at a stalemate with the Golden Warriors over his next contract (an issue that will be resolved by Oct. 1, one way or another); 3) A divorce between the sides seems inevitable.

All of which is why Kuminga's agent, Aaron Turner, made the media rounds recently. He made the case that if the Warriors don't up the offers to the restricted free agent — specifically giving Kuminga a player option rather than a team option on the final year of their offers — he will take the qualifying offer, play for one year, then become a free agent. Here is what Turner said on ESPN's “The Hoop Collective” podcast.

"He wants to pick where he wants to go. So the QO is real for sure."

Golden State has made three offers to Kuminga (that we know of). The most recent and largest contract is a three-year deal worth $75.2 million, with a team option for the third year. The other primary one was a two-year, $45 million offer, but with a team option on the second year and the Warriors are demanding Kuminga give up the no-trade clause that would come with this offer. The third was a three-year, $54 million deal that was well below fair market value for the forward entering his fifth season.

The first two of those are set up to make Kuminga a trade chip — but one where he has no real control. Kuminga's leverage is that he will take the Warriors' qualifying offer — he gets a no-trade clause, likely would play out the season with the Warriors, then become a free agent next summer. That comes with risk and about $16 million left on the table this season, but Turner emphasized it's in play.

"If JK wants to take [the qualifying offer], it does have upside, right? We've talked about that. You're not getting traded. You're going to have unrestricted free agency. People are going to say, 'Well, Aaron, there's not going to be 10 or 12 teams [with cap space].' Fine, there'll be six teams with cap space for the clear-cut under-35 top wing on the market. So there's a lot of upside."

One way or another, it seems the Warriors and Kuminga are headed for a split — on a team aiming to win now with Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green as natural fours, where does Kuminga fit in? Warriors coach Steve Kerr has never fully trusted Kuminga (with reason at times), and it feels like the sides are locked in. The Warriors talked trade with Sacramento and Phoenix, but no deal was reached.

The most likely outcome is a compromise contract between the Warriors and Kuminga that gets him some money, some control, but sets up a trade, something Turner talked about in an appearance on 95.7 The Game in San Francisco.

"Another point is: he's probably... there's a good chance he gets traded. Okay? There's a good chance he gets traded, and that's halfway through the year. And he has to go to some team that he doesn't necessarily know which team that's going to be, or what exactly that's going to entail. So when we look at those factors, and just the fact that he's been there for four years and it's been up and down and up and down... when you look at all that, you go, 'Okay, the player option is the signal to him that like, make this work.' And you know, for us, we view it as we see his market at a certain level right now, you know, $24 million. We could all argue about that or whatnot. But making sure that the [Warriors] can stay under the second apron? No problem. We can help with that."

It's a sticky mess of a situation, but one with an absolute deadline — Kuminga has to take the qualifying offer by Oct. 1. Either a new deal is worked out by then, or Kuminga will pick up the offer and play out this season with the Warriors, eyes forward on next summer. That's not a good situation for Kuminga or the Warriors, which is why some kind of two- or three-year contract likely gets worked out in the coming 10 days.

However it shakes out, by Oct. 1 Kuminga will have a new contract and be on a path to another team. Wherever that might be.

Another day, another mock! I joined 11 other analysts in a nine-cat, head-to-head mock draft that was hosted by Adam King on Fantrax, selecting from the fifth spot. The other unique aspect of this draft is that it had a third-round reversal, which flips the draft order after the second round.

The top four picks in every draft should be pretty much locked in, which makes the fifth pick an interesting place to start, leaving you with plenty of options.

Round 1

1. Nikola Jokic (C - DEN)

2. Victor Wembanyama (C - SA)

3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (G - OKC)

4. Luka Doncic (G - LAL)

5. Giannis Antetokounmpo (F - MIL)

6. Anthony Davis (F - DAL)

7. Anthony Edwards (G - MIN)

8. Cade Cunningham (G - DET)

9. James Harden (G - LAC)

10. Trae Young (G - ATL)

11. Devin Booker (G - PHO)

12. Karl-Anthony Towns (C - NY)

To me, Giannis is the way to go, and he’s a fun player to build around, with a clear punt path. He’s dominant in a handful of categories, and his weaknesses are clear, meaning you can either try and make up for it, or lean into them. I opted to lean into his strengths by emphasizing points, rebounds, assists, steals and field goal percentage while largely disregarding the other four categories. The end of the first round feels weak this year, so the third-round reversal helped even out the league.

Round 2

13. Stephen Curry (G - GS)

14. Tyrese Maxey (G - PHI)

15. Evan Mobley (F - CLE)

16. Domantas Sabonis (C - SAC)

17. Kevin Durant (F - HOU)

18. Donovan Mitchell (G - CLE)

19. Amen Thompson (F - HOU)

20. Jalen Johnson (F - ATL)

21. Jalen Williams (G - OKC)

22. Josh Giddey (G - CHI)

23. Jaren Jackson (C - MEM)

24. LaMelo Ball (G - CHA)

I felt comfortable taking Johnson here. I’m expecting him to be an All-Star this year, and he fits in well with Giannis. I would’ve loved to get Thompson, but he went one pick before me, which made my decision regarding Johnson much easier. I also thought about Williams, who I have ranked higher than Johnson, but I opted for the better fit. There are quite a few options I really like in round two.

Round 3

25. Myles Turner (C - MIL)

26. Jamal Murray (G - DEN)

27. Scottie Barnes (F - TOR)

28. LeBron James (F - LAL)

29. Tyler Herro (G - MIA)

30. Chet Holmgren (C - OKC)

31. Dyson Daniels (G - ATL)

32. Alperen Sengun (C - HOU)

33. De'Aaron Fox (G - SA)

34. Jalen Brunson (G - NY)

35. Ja Morant (G - MEM)

36. Deni Avdija (F - POR)

While I love the second round, things start to drop off in round three. However, I really lucked out here in a way that made up for a previous mishap. I have Sengun ranked much higher than this and even higher than Johnson. It was an oversight on my part, but it ended up working out flawlessly. I also would’ve been thrilled with Holmgren or Daniels, but they went right before. Also, I suspect Herro will be drafted later after undergoing a procedure on his foot and ankle on Friday.

Round 4

37. Austin Reaves (G - LAL)

38. Darius Garland (G - CLE)

39. Derrick White (G - BOS)

40. Paolo Banchero (F - ORL)

41. Pascal Siakam (F - IND)

42. Kawhi Leonard (F - LAC)

43. Bam Adebayo (C - MIA)

44. Jimmy Butler (F - GS)

45. Cooper Flagg (F - DAL)

46. Franz Wagner (F - ORL)

47. Trey Murphy (F - NO)

48. Kristaps Porzingis (C - ATL)

I had three players on my mind entering this round, and I opted to go with the veteran player in Siakam, partially because Banchero was taken one pick before me. The other player was Zion Williamson, who went one pick before me in the next round, sadly. However, Siakam fits well and should be in for a monster season with Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) sidelined and Myles Turner now in Milwaukee.

Round 5

49. Payton Pritchard (G - BOS)

50. Desmond Bane (G - ORL)

51. Jaylen Brown (F - BOS)

52. Walker Kessler (C - UTA)

53. Brandon Miller (F - CHA)

54. Coby White (G - CHI)

55. Zion Williamson (F - NO)

56. OG Anunoby (F - NY)

57. Zach LaVine (G - SAC)

58. Ivica Zubac (C - LAC)

59. Immanuel Quickley (G - TOR)

60. Mark Williams (C - PHO)

As I mentioned previously, I was hoping to get Zion, but that just didn’t happen. Anunoby isn’t my favorite fit with the rest of my team, but he is certainly a productive, helpful piece that isn’t going to hurt me anywhere. Plus, he’s a strong source of steals, which I hadn’t really addressed yet. Wasn’t part of my plan, but I’m not upset about it at all. Also, Pritchard in the top-50!

Round 6

61. Jordan Poole (G - NO)

62. Jalen Green (G - PHO)

63. Jakob Poeltl (C - TOR)

64. Fred VanVleet (G - HOU)

65. Ausar Thompson (F - DET)

66. Nikola Vucevic (C - CHI)

67. Rudy Gobert (C - MIN)

68. Lauri Markkanen (F - UTA)

69. Deandre Ayton (C - LAL)

70. Julius Randle (F - MIN)

71. Jalen Duren (C - DET)

72. Joel Embiid (C - PHI)

Yes, this was really early for me to select Thompson, but he fit my team too well for me to risk waiting another round. This Thompson twin is the one I’m hoping to leave every draft with, and I think he’s in for a breakout season like his brother had last year. He may not reach those heights, but he should play more than he ever has, and when he’s been on the floor, he’s been elite. I’m all in on Ausar.

Round 7

73. Miles Bridges (F - CHA)

74. Donovan Clingan (C - POR)

75. Brandon Ingram (F - TOR)

76. Andrew Nembhard (G - IND)

77. Paul George (F - PHI)

78. DeMar DeRozan (F - SAC)

79. Jarrett Allen (C - CLE)

80. Onyeka Okongwu (C - ATL)

81. Josh Hart (G - NY)

82. Matas Buzelis (F - CHI)

83. Alex Sarr (C - WAS)

84. Shaedon Sharpe (G - POR)

I didn’t expect Okongwu to be here, but I certainly wasn’t upset about it. I still think he could start for the Hawks this season at center, and he was producing at an elite level to close out last year. I would’ve loved to get Clingan here, and I was between Allen and Okongwu, though that decision was made for me.

Round 8

85. Isaiah Hartenstein (C - OKC)

86. Mikal Bridges (F - NY)

87. Kel'el Ware (C - MIA)

88. Cameron Johnson (F - DEN)

89. Jalen Suggs (G - ORL)

90. Toumani Camara (F - POR)

91. Keegan Murray (F - SAC)

92. Zach Edey (C - MEM)

93. Michael Porter (F - BKN)

94. Herbert Jones (F - NO)

95. Christian Braun (G - DEN)

96. Bradley Beal (G - LAC)

At this point, I didn’t have a guard, so I really needed to start adding some. I went with Suggs, who will add some defensive stats. He may not provide as many assists as he has in the past with Desmond Bane now in Orlando, but he’ll still be able to produce strong value. I also wanted Edey and Braun, but they didn’t fall to me in the next round.

Round 9

97. Tobias Harris (F - DET)

98. John Collins (F - LAC)

99. Jay Huff (C - IND)

100. Norman Powell (G - MIA)

101. Naz Reid (C - MIN)

102. Draymond Green (F - GS)

103. Kyrie Irving (G - DAL)

104. Brandin Podziemski (G - GS)

105. Devin Vassell (G - SA)

106. Scoot Henderson (G - POR)

107. Anfernee Simons (G - BOS)

108. Kevin Porter (G - MIL)

Podz fits my team perfectly, and I was happy he fell to me here. He’s an excellent rebounder from the guard spot, and he stepped up his play after the Warriors traded for Jimmy Butler. Golden State has a lot of questions left to answer this offseason, but Podz is locked in as a starter. He’ll end up being a bargain outside the top-100.

Round 10

109. Donte DiVincenzo (G - MIN)

110. Jaden McDaniels (F - MIN)

111. Jaden Ivey (G - DET)

112. Kyle Filipowski (C - UTA)

113. Tari Eason (F - HOU)

114. Kyshawn George (G - WAS)

115. Cameron Thomas (G - BKN)

116. Jrue Holiday (G - POR)

117. D'Angelo Russell (G - DAL)

118. RJ Barrett (F - TOR)

119. CJ McCollum (G - WAS)

120. Dennis Schroder (G - SAC)

At this point, I was looking for upside, and nobody fits that better than Eason. The addition of Kevin Durant isn’t going to limit Eason, and there aren’t many players that can contribute defensive stats like Eason. I also considered Schroder to get me some assists, and George is a player I’m hoping to get in the last few rounds of every draft. He just went a tad earlier in this mock.

Round 11

121. Bobby Portis (F - MIL)

122. Dereck Lively (C - DAL)

123. Cam Whitmore (F - WAS)

124. Dejounte Murray (G - NO)

125. Andrew Wiggins (F - MIA)

126. Malik Monk (G - SAC)

127. Nicolas Claxton (C - BKN)

128. Isaiah Collier (G - UTA)

129. Carlton Carrington (G - WAS)

130. Zaccharie Risacher (F - ATL)

131. Jabari Smith (F - HOU)

132. Aaron Nesmith (F - IND)

After missing out on Schroder, I really needed to get some assists in the later rounds, and Collier can certainly provide those. He doesn’t do much scoring, but the rest of my team can help make up for that. I just really needed the dimes.

Round 12

133. De'Andre Hunter (F - CLE)

134. Keyonte George (G - UTA)

135. Scotty Pippen (G - MEM)

136. T.J. McConnell (G - IND)

137. Bennedict Mathurin (F - IND)

138. Jonathan Kuminga (F - GS)

139. Aaron Gordon (F - DEN)

140. Cason Wallace (G - OKC)

141. Mitchell Robinson (C - NY)

142. Kyle Kuzma (F - MIL)

143. Isaiah Jackson (C - IND)

144. Stephon Castle (G - SA)

Mathurin doesn’t fit my team well, but at this point, I don’t really care. This was 20 spots after his Fantrax ADP and 40 spots after his Yahoo! ADP. He’s going to score a ton of points. That’s more than what can be said for most of the other players going in this range.

145. Collin Sexton (G - CHA)

146. Neemias Queta (C - BOS)

147. Lonzo Ball (G - CLE)

148. Ace Bailey (F - UTA)

149. Chris Paul (G - LAC)

150. Moussa Diabate (C - CHA)

151. Bruce Brown (G - DEN)

152. Taylor Hendricks (F - UTA)

153. P.J. Washington (F - DAL)

154. Chris Boucher (F - BOS)

155. Daniel Gafford (C - DAL)

156. Ty Jerome (G - MEM)

The last round is for upside swings, and Hendricks has a ton of upside. He’s the best perimeter defender on the Jazz, and any progression offensively will allow him to be a top-100 producer in nine-cat leagues. He’s not a guarantee, but that’s not what the final round of your draft is for.

Here’s what my full team ended up looking like:

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo (F - MIL)
2. Jalen Johnson (F - ATL)
3. Alperen Sengun (C - HOU)
4. Pascal Siakam (F - IND)
5. OG Anunoby (F - NY)
6. Ausar Thompson (F - DET)
7. Onyeka Okongwu (C - ATL)
8. Jalen Suggs (G - ORL)
9. Brandin Podziemski (G - GS)
10. Tari Eason (F - HOU)
11. Isaiah Collier (G - UTA)
12. Bennedict Mathurin (F - IND)
13. Taylor Hendricks (F - UTA)

Overall, I was really happy with how this team turned out. The first three rounds were spectacular, and I was able to get a few of my favorite mid-late round targets. As far as the other teams, there was a nice mix of risky swings and value picks, making this an excellent replica of a competitive draft.

Patrick Beverley has never shied away from a beef. With anyone.

Enter Trae Young. Beverley and the Atlanta Hawks' All-Star guard have been going back and forth this week, and it all started over the All-Star Game. It all began on X, when Beverley responded to a question about why players go harder in random summer pick-up games than the All-Star Game — Beverley said the All-Stars take the game for granted — then Young jumped in and said All-Stars should speak on that.

Beverley came back hard at Young on the Pat Bev Podcast. It started with Beverley saying, "I don't think he's won enough to even speak to me like that or tweet me like that," and then added, "I've talked to people who played in Atlanta. They don't wanna play there. Why? They don't think he's a good leader. They don't think he's a good teammate."

Shots fired.

Young came back hard in an almost 12-minute video where he said Beverley was about seeking attention. "You don't know what it's like to be in my position, you don't know what it's like to put my shoes on. I promise you — there's not a selfish bone in my body."

Kevin Durant rallied to Young's defense, calling Beverley "delusional." The Hawks' social media team put together a video of Young scoring on Beverley.

Beverley then came back with shots of his own, saying Young gets coaches and general managers fired because of his play.

In this beef, the ultimate score is that Young is a four-time All-Star, while Beverley played in zero.

Young, however, enters this season feeling some pressure. The Atlanta front office went out and put the best team — on paper — around Young he has ever had with Kristaps Porzingis at the five, shooting and defense in Nickeil Alexander-Walker, more shooting in Luke Kennard, plus Jalen Johnson returns healthy from a breakout year sidelined by injuries, and Zaccharie Risacher should take a step forward in his sophomore year. The Hawks are projected as a top-four team in the East.

Young did not get the contract extension he wanted this summer, and now the pressure is on him to lead this group to a high seed and maybe the second round of the playoffs, or it will not just be Beverley asking questions.

While head-to-head leagues may grant fantasy managers some grace if their teams start slowly, that isn't necessarily the case in roto leagues. Availability, which is critical in any fantasy league regardless of format, is paramount; a star player sitting for an extended period can be crushing to a manager's chances of winning their league.

I recently participated in a 12-team, 9-cat roto mock snake draft, holding the second pick, and there was no third-round reversal. After kicking things off with reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, I looked to craft a roster capable of offering value in all statistical categories. It should be noted that this draft was held before it was learned that Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro would undergo foot/ankle surgery that will sideline him indefinitely.

How to Play Fantasy Basketball 2025-26: Draft tips and beginner’s guide

With fantasy basketball drafts beginning this month, here’s everything first-time players need to know about how to play and win their league.

• Raphielle Johnson,

Round 1

One can't be blamed for considering Victor Wembanyama for the second overall pick. However, Wembanyama returning from a blood clot issue influenced my decision, as did Gilgeous-Alexander playing at least 75 games each of the last two seasons. Giannis Antetokounmpo going third, ahead of Wemby, was a mild surprise. However, given the proven production Milwaukee lost this offseason, it's easy to envision a scenario in which Antetokounmpo's numbers receive a boost.

Round 2

With the Pacers already having ruled Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) out for the 2025-26 season, some of their starters will receive a boost to their fantasy values. Siakam, who has center eligibility in Yahoo! leagues, certainly qualifies. He's averaged 20.6 points per game as a Pacer, and I can see putting up a higher number than that this season.

Round 3

According to the ADP data compiled by Hashtag Basketball, Yahoo! and Fantrax league participants value Mobley far more than ESPN managers do. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year, he increased his scoring by just over three points per game last season and shot 37 percent from three on an average of 3.2 attempts. With Darius Garland (toe) and Max Strus (foot) not expected to be available when the regular season begins, it would be unsurprising if Mobley's offensive output were to increase.

Round 4

Remember a few years ago when people assumed Derrick White's fantasy value would decline after the Celtics acquired Jrue Holiday? Boston won the NBA title that season (2023-24), and White was nearly a top-25 player in fantasy basketball according to Basketball Monster. With Holiday no longer in the picture (traded to Portland, with Anfernee Simons headed to Boston) and Jayson Tatum (Achilles) set to miss a significant chunk of the upcoming season, White feels like a player who can once again offer elite fantasy value.

Round 5

At the beginning of the fifth round, there were safer options on the board. However, I was confident enough in the selections made during the first four rounds that it felt like a good time to select Flagg. Plus, he probably would have been off the board by the time my next pick came up. Even with the Mavericks signing D'Angelo Russell, I'm intrigued to see how Kyrie Irving's (knee) being out will impact Flagg's opportunities to play with the ball in his hands.

Round 6

Like Siakam, Nembhard is a Pacer whose fantasy value may be boosted due to the Haliburton injury. He's primarily been a starter his first three seasons, so that part of Nembhard's role won't change. However, the usage (16.3 last season; 16.2 for his career) stands to increase. Points, assists and steals are three categories I'm tracking in relation to the impact Haliburton's absence will have on Nembhard this season.

Round 7

I was surprised that Turner was on the board at this point in the draft, especially since he is joining a team whose roster is not as deep as the Pacers' squad he left in free agency. Sure, the Bucks center's scoring has decreased each of the last two seasons. But the Bucks have a lot of question marks on their roster beyond Giannis and Bobby Portis. And if the scoring isn't there, Turner will be good for a few blocked shots on most nights.

Round 8

Getting a productive player who has yet to miss a game in seven NBA seasons at this point in the draft felt like a steal. Bridges' first season with the Knicks may have been underwhelming in the eyes of some, but he's capable of getting back to being the near-top 50 player he was during his time with the Suns. If anything, Bridges' first full season with the Nets (2022-23) may have raised the bar too high regarding his fantasy value.

Round 9

In selecting Clingan this round, I decided to target rebounds and blocked shots, not to mention upside. The scoring may not be there due to the number of options within Portland's expected rotation, but rebounds and blocks are two areas where that should not impact Clingan's fantasy potential. Also, rookie Yang Hansen's skill set is such that there could be times when they share the court instead of head coach Chauncey Billups deciding that only one can be on the court at any given time.

Round 10

Why not go with another UConn product in the 10th round? Castle, the reigning Rookie of the Year, should have more room to "spread his wings" offensively due to the departure of Chris Paul. While San Antonio added Dylan Harper in the draft, adding another guard to the mix, he isn't guaranteed to be fully healthy to start the season after undergoing thumb surgery. Castle does need to be more efficient than he was as a rookie, but that should not have too negative an impact on this team.

Round 11

Portis is unlikely to be a starter, but he will still play plenty for the Bucks. Having only started 99 of the 339 games he's played in Milwaukee, Portis has averaged 13.6 points and 8.3 rebounds in 25.0 minutes. As long as he continues to play 25 minutes, providing reliable fantasy value should not be an issue, regardless of league format.

Round 12

Jones only playing 20 games last season due to injury unquestionably impacts his draft position. However, he played at least 66 games in each of his first three seasons, so the concerns should not be at the level of, say, Zion Williamson. One of the NBA's premier wing defenders, Jones has averaged 1.6 steals and 0.7 blocks per game as a pro. If he can offer a consistent perimeter shot as well, getting Jones in the 12th round could be a steal.

Round 13

Final team:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Pascal Siakam
Evan Mobley
Derrick White
Cooper Flagg
Andrew Nembhard
Myles Turner
Mikal Bridges
Donovan Clingan
Stephon Castle
Bobby Portis
Herbert Jones
Kyle Filipowski

I'm pleased with how this team turned out. Gilgeous-Alexander and Siakam are likely to lead the way scoring-wise, while Mobley and White should also offer excellent value at their respective draft positions. Flagg has gone earlier in the category league mocks I've participated in, and I wasn't going to pass on the opportunity in the fifth round.

The Bridges pick felt like a steal; while he did struggle at times in his first season with the Knicks, availability has not been an issue for him at any point in his NBA career (knock on wood). To get a player you can assume to be available for all 82 games in the eighth round, especially one who logs the minutes that Bridges does, is quite the find.

Jones did not play much last season due to injury, but he can produce excellent defensive stats when healthy. I'm betting on Clingan and Castle taking a step forward in their second seasons in the NBA, while Portis is worth grabbing despite coming off the bench on most nights.