Happy New Year, basketball fans! With 2025 here, here are 10 bold predictions for the rest of the NBA season. I usually focus on realistic outcomes, but with injuries and trade rumors creating so much uncertainty, I’ve identified some situations that could greatly impact fantasy basketball. Let’s get started!
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will finish as the top player in 9-cat leagues
While Nikola Jokić and Victor Wembanyama will be tough competition, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been the best player in 9-cat leagues over the last month, putting up MVP-worthy stats.
In that stretch, SGA averaged 33.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. He also added 2.3 three-pointers, 2.3 steals, 1.3 blocks, and 2.5 turnovers per game with shooting splits of 57/36/92. He’s excelling on both ends and will continue to compete with those two stars for the top spot for the rest of the season.
The Cavaliers will win 70 games
It might sound crazy, but the Cavaliers, currently 29-4, are on pace for 71 wins. Only two NBA teams have reached 70 wins in a season. If they maintain this pace, it will be great for fantasy owners of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.
The Warriors trade for Jimmy Butler
Although Miami doesn’t want to trade Jimmy Butler, his potential departure next season might force them to consider a deal. If the Warriors trade for him, he could be the missing piece to support Stephen Curry with his two-way skills and clutch performances.
Zach LaVine gets traded to the Lakers
LaVine’s contract has been a sticking point, but his solid production could lead to a trade. The Lakers are a good fit since he’d provide an extra scoring option to help LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves. A package with a first-round pick, Gabe Vincent, and Rui Hachimura could get the deal done.
Immanuel Quickley becomes a top-40 player in points leagues
Quickley had a rough start to the season with injuries but showed his potential with 21 points and 15 assists in his return. Expect him to shine, providing the scoring, assists, and steals that fantasy managers hoped for when they drafted him.
The Kings move DeMar DeRozan to the bench
Although nothing has happened yet, there have been talks about moving DeRozan to a bench role. With Keegan Murray needing more opportunities to develop, the Kings might make this change to create more space for Murray’s growth while still utilizing DeRozan’s scoring off the bench.
Zion Williamson won’t play 20 games for the Pelicans this season
Williamson has been out for two months due to a hamstring injury. With his injury history and apparent disinterest in staying in New Orleans, it’s wise to sell him in fantasy leagues if you can.
James Harden finishes higher than Tyrese Haliburton in 9-cat leagues
As of Thursday, Haliburton ranks 26th while Harden is 41st. With Kawhi Leonard returning, Harden’s assist numbers and overall efficiency will improve. Meanwhile, Haliburton has struggled and may not return to the first-round value he had the past two seasons.
Cam Thomas averages 30 points per game for the rest of the season
If the Nets trade Cameron Johnson by the deadline, Thomas could take over as the team’s primary scorer. He’s averaging 24.7 points per game, and with increased shot attempts, he could average 30 points moving forward.
The Rockets make a move
Though Houston has been reluctant to trade players, they may make a move as the deadline approaches. With a 22-11 record, they’re in the third spot in the Western Conference and could use some veteran additions to strengthen their roster. De’Aaron Fox could be a potential target.
