Every year, fantasy basketball comprises a mix of reliable stars, breakout players and sleeper picks who outperform their draft position. The 2024-25 season has been no exception, with plenty of value found across all rounds of a standard 10-team, 9-category head-to-head league on Yahoo. Today, we're breaking down the best value picks from each round, considering their ADP (average draft position) compared to their rankings through Week 21.
If you drafted any of these players, you're likely in the hunt for a championship — or already took one home. Let's dive in.
Go here for the most regretful draft picks of 2024-25.
Round 1
Best Pick: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (ADP: 4; Current rank: 2)
SGA is having another MVP-caliber season, leading the league in scoring, while being extremely efficient offensively and one of three guards to average over a steal and a block per game. His all-around dominance helped fantasy managers stay competitive across every category and he's been more reliable than Nikola Jokić in the fantasy playoffs. Availability is key too, and SGA played in 72 games through Week 21.
Round 2
Best Pick: Karl-Anthony Towns (ADP: 19; Current rank: 6)
KAT's reunion with Thibs reminded everyone why he was once a frequent first-round pick in fantasy drafts. Managers who took a chance on him in the second round were rewarded handsomely, as Towns recaptured form as a top-10 player. He thrived across categories, racking up the third-most double-doubles, finishing second in rebounding and showcasing his elite shotmaking for a big man averaging 24 points with 52/43/83 shooting splits.
Close Call: James Harden (ADP: 15; Current rank: 18)
Harden brought home a few titles for me and his play over the final month warranted a shoutout. He's been a top-10 player in the fantasy playoffs while playing 70+ games for the Clippers. Kevin Durant also deserves a nod, closing the year in the top 12 despite being a late second-rounder as well.
Round 3
Best Pick: LeBron James (ADP: 24; Current rank: 16)
The 40-year-old legend remains a top-tier fantasy asset, averaging at least 24/8/8 for the fourth time in his 22-year career. With LeBron playing alongside Luka Dončić, Father Time will be put on the back burner yet again.
Close Call: Tyrese Maxey (ADP: 26; Current rank: 9)
Maxey would've been my first choice in this round had he played more games. The back and finger injuries that cost him the last 15 games were a ...
