Young Fantasy Basketball Players Ready to Take Over 2026

Jalen Johnson, Atlanta Hawks

Suffice it to say, the Trae Young trade has made Johnson a cornerstone for the Hawks and his near triple-double status on the season (23/10/8). His assist number cooled a bit in January as CJ McCollum got acclimated to the team, but Johnson has still posted at least five assists in all but one game played this season. Johnson is a true fantasy asset that fulfills multiple category needs.

Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans

Murphy made our recent list of top fantasy risers because he has been a fantasy manager’s dream in January. He is averaging 29.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.3 steals, while also being efficient shooting from the field and from beyond the arc. Even with some low-back issues that have irritated him, Murphy has been a consistent asset with a very positive ROS outlook.

Kon Knueppel, Charlotte Hornets

Admittedly, putting a rookie on this list is tricky because there’s no way of knowing what a first-year player’s threshold is. However, the Duke product is getting a ton of playing time with LaMelo Ball frequently dealing with injuries, and he’s rising to the occasion. He is posting 19.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists on the season while maintaining efficient shooting. He also ranks in the top 10 this season in 3-pointers made, which of course gives his fantasy stock a boost.

Peyton Watson, Denver Nuggets

We’ve talked about Watson recently because he has become quite the fantasy asset in Nikola Jokic’s absence. Nevertheless, his balance of reliable defense and scoring surges make him a great fit in category leagues. Since the Nuggets continue to struggle with injured stars this season, Watson could have the opportunity to keep playing regularly.

How to Add or Trade for These Young Guns

Managers with one of these ascending young stars should take stock of how their team is shaping up. (Are injured veterans returning? Will a trade shake up the lineup chemistry?) Because if the environment is holding, you should consider holding them for second-half upside.

Looking to add or trade? Check the waiver wire first, although it’s likely other managers have scooped up these youngsters to fill in for injured stars. Consider parting with one of your regressing stars in a package deal for a fresh new face.

Risks to Monitor

One major caveat with youngsters: They are prone to burn out before the regular season is over. A player who’s surging right now could be in for a major letdown after the All-Star break, which means a less productive fantasy roster.

Big trades and veterans returning from injury also impact young players, because roster shakeups can result in more playing time. Managers should look at the team around their young studs before making their final roster decisions.

Conclusion

All in all, there’s no stopping the youth movement. So managers might as well jump on board. These young risers are building cases to elevate your roster and take you to a fantasy championship. Add them before the deadline and enjoy the benefits.

People Also Ask

Is Jalen Johnson a fantasy takeover candidate?
Yes, as Hawks' cornerstone post-Young trade with elite all-around stats.

Who are rising young players for fantasy ROS?
Anthony Black, Trey Murphy III, and Peyton Watson surge with roles and production.

How to add young breakout players in fantasy?
Prioritize waivers/trades for those with expanded minutes.

Do young players have high upside mid-season?
Yes, development and opportunities accelerate value.