It’s not going to be easy. Even in the NCAA, it’s not a straight path to success for even the most talented and skilled players. When they get to the NBA, the intensity of the adjustments is only heightened. The problem is that it’s not just about talent, either. Opportunity is needed, and that doesn’t always present itself. However, it is a long season, and talent has the final say in a lot of instances. Let’s take a trip around the NBA, dig into the rookie class, and determine where they fit in fantasy basketball.
Fantasy Basketball Rookie Report
Drake Powell, F, Brooklyn Nets
In reality, we can probably devote a whole series to just the rookies on the Brooklyn Nets. That’s what happens when you accumulate and use five first-round picks in a given season. The Nets are truly on board with tearing things down to the studs and building things back up.
When that happens, though, there’s going to be an opportunity problem. There are simply too many young players. It’s not like the Nets are rebuilding just around these five picks, as something has to give. For some members of their 2025 Draft Class, they are gaining valuable experience in the G-League.
In the case of Drake Powell, a lot of his learning is being done at the NBA level. So far, the results have been mixed, but the upside and skill level are apparent. Now, it’s about finding that consistency and building on the results in each game.
To this point, Powell is averaging about 19 minutes over 11 games. For now, his fantasy value is still developing, but this is definitely a situation we should monitor and be aware of.
Powell caught my attention earlier this week, though, when he had his second 15-point game of the season. When given a chance, Powell can provide instant offense and also appears to be further along in his development than some of the other rookies.
Overall, he’s averaging 6.9 points per game to go along with two rebounds, two assists, and a steal. What also caught my attention was that he’s shooting 50.9% from the field and 92.3% from the free-throw line. Powell’s minutes should increase, and I’d expect his production to follow. And then, he’ll warrant some fantasy attention.
Ace Bailey, F, Utah Jazz
As he went through the draft process, Ace Bailey wanted to go to a team where he’d have the immediate opportunity to play and make a difference. In going to the Utah Jazz with the fifth overall pick, Bailey proved to be successful in that quest.
Of course, the trade-off is that the Jazz are 5-12, but that was seemingly secondary to Bailey. Things do appear to be going in the right direction, albeit slowly, for Utah, though. The same can be said for Bailey, who has been in the starting lineup for the last eight games. Once the move was made, the rookie has seemingly been up for the task.
As we check back in on Bailey, his last eight games have been successful. Over that stretch, Bailey is averaging 14.5 points per game. In three of those games, he surpassed 20 points as his ability to score is unquestioned. The rest of his game is still developing, though, as Bailey is averaging just 3.5 rebounds and 1.9 assists, although he does have 1.4 steals and 2.3 three-pointers.
Bailey will continue to develop, and it’s a good sign that he’s shooting 52.3% from the field. There’s a lot to like here, and Bailey will have the opportunity to reach his potential this season.
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