Hold onto your hats, fantasy basketball fans, because this NBA season is about to get even more thrilling! Here’s a bold prediction: Tyrese Maxey might just lead the league in fantasy points, and Jayson Tatum could be back on the court sooner than you think. But here’s where it gets controversial—is Maxey’s durability enough to outshine the per-game dominance of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic? Let’s dive in.
Every week in the NBA brings a new chapter, filled with surprises that keep fantasy managers on their toes. This season, Philadelphia 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a fantasy powerhouse, currently topping the charts with 2,804 fantasy points (averaging 53.9 per game). Last season, Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic were the undisputed MVPs, both surpassing 4,000 points. Jokic’s 69.7 fantasy points per game (fPPG) and Gilgeous-Alexander’s 58.7 fPPG set the bar high. Maxey, despite playing only 52 games, averaged 45.5 fPPG.
This season, Maxey has truly blossomed into a star, but his lead in fantasy points is largely due to his ironman-like availability. Playing a league-high 38.6 minutes per game, he’s missed just two contests. In contrast, Gilgeous-Alexander (abdomen) missed five games before the break and might sit out more, while Jokic (knee) has missed 16 games, returning only recently. While SGA and Jokic are better per-game options—as is Luka Doncic—Maxey’s consistency is undeniable. And this is the part most people miss: durability is just as valuable as per-game production in fantasy basketball.
But should fantasy managers in points formats trade Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic, or Doncic for Maxey? Injuries can happen to anyone, including Maxey. No player has averaged more than 38 MPG since James Harden in 2015-16, and the 76ers claim they’re trying to limit Maxey’s minutes—though they haven’t done so consistently. Even with Joel Embiid’s dominance, the 76ers need Maxey to keep playing at this pace, unlike the Thunder and Nuggets, who might ease their stars into the playoffs. Personally, I wouldn’t trade Gilgeous-Alexander or Jokic for Maxey, but swapping Doncic for him? That’s a different story.
Now, let’s talk about Jayson Tatum. The Boston Celtics are playing it cool regarding his return from an Achilles tear, but don’t be fooled. Tatum is already practicing and participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages. The Celtics, a championship contender, want him back ASAP. While they might manage his minutes and avoid back-to-backs, he’ll likely return well before the playoffs—and fantasy managers will rejoice. Don’t expect last season’s 48.4 fPPG, but 40+ fPPG in 30 minutes seems reasonable.
Mark your calendars: the Celtics host the 76ers on March 1 in a nationally televised game on NBC. It’s the perfect stage for Tatum’s triumphant return. Yes, it feels early, but every athlete heals differently. Just because Tyrese Haliburton and Damian Lillard are out for the season doesn’t mean Tatum will follow suit. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Is Tatum still a top-tier fantasy asset despite his injury? His roster rate in ESPN leagues suggests otherwise, but don’t bet against him dropping 50 fantasy points on his return.
Controversial take: Tatum’s current roster rate is baffling. How is he barely above 50% while players like Ty Jerome, Bennedict Mathurin, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. are being scooped up? Fantasy managers, are you sleeping on Tatum, or is this a smart move? Let’s debate in the comments!
Elsewhere in the NBA, keep an eye on these developments as the season heats up. Whether you’re a Maxey believer or a Tatum skeptic, one thing’s for sure—this season is far from over, and the surprises are just beginning.
