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.
NBA: Playoffs-Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers
How to Play Fantasy Basketball 2025-26: Draft tips and beginner’s guide
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With fantasy basketball drafts beginning this month, here’s everything first-time players need to know about how to play and win their league.
Round 1
Pick
Position
Player
Team
1
C
Nikola Jokić
Denver Nuggets
2
PG
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Oklahoma City Thunder
3
PF/C
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee Bucks
4
C
Victor Wembanyama
San Antonio Spurs
5
PG/SG
Luka Dončić
Los Angeles Lakers
6
PG/SG
Anthony Edwards
Minnesota Timberwolves
7
PG/SG
Cade Cunningham
Detroit Pistons
8
PF/C
Anthony Davis
Dallas Mavericks
9
C
Domantas Sabonis
Sacramento Kings
10
PF/C
Karl-Anthony Towns
New York Knicks
11
PG
Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks
12
PG/SG
Devin Booker
Phoenix Suns
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
Pick
Position
Player
Team
1
PF/C
Paolo Banchero
Orlando Magic
2
PG/SG
James Harden
LA Clippers
3
SF/PF
LeBron James
Los…
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