NBA Player Returns Shake Up 2025-26 Fantasy Basketball Rankings

Significant returns to the court impact fantasy basketball rankings

Several key NBA players have returned to action recently, shaking up fantasy basketball rankings and team strategies for the ongoing season. Notable returns include Kawhi Leonard, Darius Garland, Paul George, and LeBron James, influencing roster decisions for fantasy managers. Meanwhile, Utah Jazz’s Lauri Markkanen continues to impress despite uncertainties about his future playing time, while updated player rankings reflect ongoing performances and anticipated impacts for fantasy leagues.

Key points:

• Kawhi Leonard, Darius Garland, Paul George, and LeBron James have resumed play, causing lineup adjustments in fantasy teams.
• Lauri Markkanen is performing at a first-round fantasy level but faces speculation regarding Utah’s strategy and his minutes.
• Nikola Jokić maintains the top spot in overall fantasy rankings.
• Several players including Derik Queen, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Mikal Bridges, Ryan Rollins, and De’Aaron Fox have risen notably in rankings.
• Injuries and role changes have caused significant drops for Isaiah Collier, Tre Jones, DeMar DeRozan, Jarrett Allen, and Ausar Thompson.

Player returns shift fantasy basketball landscape

The past week has seen major players return after injuries, which has substantially affected fantasy basketball rosters and rankings. LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard returned after a 10-game absence, Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland came back following five missed games, and stars Paul George and LeBron James made their season debuts for the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers respectively. Fantasy managers had to adjust their lineups to accommodate these returning stars who were previously stored in injury reserves.

Lauri Markkanen: A key player under scrutiny

Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen has been available all season so far and is delivering strong fantasy results. However, concerns persist about how the Jazz’s front office will manage his playing time as the season progresses, especially given the anticipated depth and talent in the 2026 NBA Draft class. Markkanen has showcased first-round caliber stats — averaging 29.3 points per game, 6.1 rebounds, and solid shooting percentages. His previously low average draft position (ADP) due to uncertainty from the last two seasons has intrigued fantasy players weighing whether to sell high or trust his current production long-term.

Updated top fantasy basketball rankings

The latest Top 200 player rankings reinforce Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets in the number one position, followed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder) and Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs). Noteworthy is Lauri Markkanen ranking 7th, demonstrating his strong current form. Other significant players in the top tier include Kawhi Leonard, Mikal Bridges, Scottie Barnes, and Donovan Mitchell.

High Score 100: Rising and falling stars

Yahoo’s High Score 100, a fantasy leaderboard reflecting year-to-date performance, shows significant upward movement for players like Derik Queen (New Orleans Pelicans), Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Atlanta Hawks), and Ryan Rollins (Milwaukee Bucks). De’Aaron Fox (San Antonio Spurs) is also gaining value following his return from injury.

Conversely, some players have slipped due to reduced playing time or inconsistent performances. These include Isaiah Collier (Utah Jazz), Tre Jones (Chicago Bulls), DeMar DeRozan (Sacramento Kings), Jarrett Allen (Cleveland Cavaliers), and Ausar Thompson (Detroit Pistons).

Victor Wembanyama’s dominance despite injury

Despite a left calf strain sidelining Victor Wembanyama for several weeks, he holds the number one position in category-based fantasy rankings. His unique ability to excel in blocked shots and contribute across multiple statistical categories makes him an unparalleled asset in fantasy basketball. Simulations show that he would need to miss an extraordinary number of games to lose his top spot, underscoring his exceptional value.

Weekly fantasy performance leaders

The fifth week of the season featured outstanding fantasy showings from:

• Nikola Jokić: Averaged 74.5 fantasy points per game including multiple triple-doubles.
• Luka Dončić: Impressive figures with 35 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds per game, sharing the floor with LeBron James.
• Tyrese Maxey: Carried the Philadelphia 76ers in the absence of Embiid and George, highlighted by a 54-point game.
• Cade Cunningham: Returned from injury to contribute a near triple-double average.
• Jalen Johnson: Maintained strong all-around performances despite Trae Young’s absence.

Promising sophomores making an impact

Several sophomore players have shown significant improvement and value for fantasy basketball:

• Kel’el Ware (Miami Heat) has demonstrated double-double capability and strong defensive contributions.
• Alex Sarr (Washington Wizards) has increased efficiency and offensive production.
• Kyshawn George (Washington Wizards) has delivered steady stats across key categories.
• Donovan Clingan (Portland Trail Blazers) improved his defensive impact and free-throw efficiency.
• Reed Sheppard (Houston Rockets) capitalized on increased playing time.
• Ajay Mitchell (Oklahoma City Thunder) has emerged as a Sixth Man of the Year candidate.
• Matas Buzelis (Chicago Bulls) shows strong defensive skills and increased offensive role.

Outlook and continued updates

Fantasy managers should expect further volatility in player rankings as more stars return from injuries, including Tyler Herro and Jalen Williams. The dynamic nature of NBA rotations and injuries demands frequent roster re-evaluations. The ongoing weekly updates to rankings will be essential for fantasy players to stay competitive throughout the 2025-26 NBA season.

This detailed overview highlights the latest developments, performances, and strategic considerations shaping fantasy basketball. Continuous monitoring and adaptation remain critical for success as the season progresses.