The 2025-26 NBA season introduces a rookie class loaded with talent, fantasy intrigue, and long-term potential. Headlined by Cooper Flagg, this group features a mix of high-upside prospects, polished scorers, and role-ready shooters who could make an impact from day one. While Flagg is clearly the crown jewel, several other first-year players are poised to carve out fantasy value this season.
Cooper Flagg: The Fantasy Star in the Making
It’s hard to start anywhere else. Cooper Flagg enters the NBA not only as the most hyped rookie of his class but also as one of the most fantasy-ready. The Dallas Mavericks are expected to slot him directly into the starting small forward role, giving him the freedom to impact both ends of the court.
At Duke, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 48.1% from the floor and 38.5% from beyond the arc. His versatility—scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defense—makes him a rare fantasy gem. Even with stars like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving around him, Flagg’s two-way game should allow him to contribute across all categories right away. Dynasty players should consider him untouchable, while redraft managers can safely target him early.
Ace Bailey: High-Volume Scorer on a Rebuilding Team
If Flagg is the safe fantasy bet, Ace Bailey represents high risk, high reward. The Jazz rookie brings elite scoring talent after averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds at Rutgers, but questions remain about his decision-making and efficiency.
That said, Utah’s rebuilding status ensures Bailey will have the green light to play through mistakes. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues should value him for his scoring and rebounding upside, even if turnovers and streaky shooting may frustrate in the short term.
Kon Knueppel: A Sharpshooter with Immediate Impact
Kon Knueppel may not have Bailey’s upside, but he’s one of the safest fantasy picks in this class. The Charlotte Hornets are expected to start him right away, and his elite 3-point shooting (40.6% from deep in college) should translate instantly.
As a complementary wing alongside Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges, Knueppel won’t be asked to dominate the ball but will provide strong shooting, smart decision-making, and steady production. He’s a prime late-round fantasy steal who can deliver category value in 3-pointers and efficiency.
Dylan Harper: Elite Talent, but Patience Required
On pure talent, Dylan Harper is arguably the second-best rookie behind Flagg. However, his short-term fantasy appeal is limited. Drafted by the Spurs, Harper joins a crowded roster featuring Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and De’Aaron Fox. He may begin his career as a sixth man, and thumb surgery could delay his debut.
Long-term, Harper projects as a star, but redraft managers should treat him as a late-round flyer at best. Dynasty formats, however, should prioritize him for his massive future upside.
Khaman Maluach: Defensive Anchor with Upside
Khaman Maluach may not light up the scoreboard, but his defensive potential gives him intriguing fantasy value. The 7-footer enters the NBA as a shot-blocking force with rebounding upside.
The Suns’ acquisition of Mark Williams could limit Maluach’s minutes early, but if he finds 20+ minutes per game, he’ll immediately become a valuable streamer for blocks and boards. Dynasty managers, in particular, should track his growth as he develops offensively.
Fantasy Outlook
- Immediate stars: Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel
- High-upside swings: Ace Bailey, Dylan Harper
- Defensive specialists: Khaman Maluach
This rookie class may lack the depth of past years, but at the top, it has potential franchise-changing talent. For fantasy managers, balancing immediate production with long-term upside will be the key to getting the most out of the 2025-26 rookie crop.