Fantasy Basketball Rookie Rankings (2025)

The 2025 NBA Summer League provides early glimpses of the rookie class, prompting fantasy basketball rookie rankings. While Summer League performance isn't a definitive predictor, first impressions are notable, highlighted by Cooper Flagg's 31-point game after a poor start, Tre Johnson's street-ball style offense, and Joan Beringer's shot-blocking.

Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks) is ranked highly, though his fantasy ceiling for next season is seen as somewhat capped due to the talented roster around him. Despite this, his versatility on both ends of the court is expected to give him an elite fantasy floor, and he should start immediately.

Dylan Harper (San Antonio Spurs) possesses skills like rim attacking, distribution, and defense that suggest he'll be an impactful fantasy player early. However, questions about his exact role (starter or bench leader) within the Spurs' rotation remain unanswered until the season starts.

Ace Bailey's (Utah Jazz) opportunity share looks significantly boosted due to Utah trading away John Collins, Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, and Johnny Juzang. Despite early Summer League offensive struggles, a subsequent 18-point game eased concerns, and little stands in his way to be a top fantasy rookie.

VJ Edgecombe (Philadelphia 76ers) produced eye-catching highlights in his Summer League debut but then suffered a thumb injury. His fantasy stock faces competition from Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and Quentin Grimes, but his athleticism and defense provide a solid fantasy floor foundation.

Tre Johnson (Washington Wizards) is showcasing his scoring ability, his primary skill from college. While Washington's crowded backcourt (CJ McCollum, Khris Middleton, Marcus Smart) is a concern for his fantasy outlook, it's expected coach Brian Keefe won't relegate the talented Johnson to the bench all season.

The New Orleans Pelicans experimented with playing Derik Queen next to Yves Missi in Summer League, indicating the starting center spot is open. Playing both next to Zion Williamson is considered problematic. If Queen wins the job, his offensive talent is seen as a major fantasy asset.

Khaman Maluach's rookie season might resemble Yves Missi's previous year. However, Maluach's poor three-point shooting in Summer League (1-for-6 in his debut) contrasts with Missi attempting only one three his entire rookie season, raising a point of attention for his fantasy profile.