Oct. 30, 2025 – One week into the new NBA campaign, several unexpected fantasy basketball patterns have surfaced, according to ESPN senior writer Eric Karabell.
Nikola Jokić Trails the Pack—For Now
Denver center Nikola Jokić, fantasy basketball’s top overall scorer for six consecutive seasons, is still producing a triple-double average. However, Karabell notes the reigning MVP is taking fewer shots than usual, potentially dropping his scoring from 29.6 points per game to about 25. Even with projected averages of 25 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists, Jokić might finish outside the top three overall fantasy slots.
The columnist advises managers to monitor the rest of Denver’s rotation. Guard Jamal Murray and forward Aaron Gordon opened the season combining for 55 points per game—numbers Karabell expects to normalize. Newly acquired wing Cameron Johnson, rostered in under half of ESPN leagues, is highlighted as a long-range specialist who could surpass Gordon in fantasy value.
Antetokounmpo Starts Fast While Help Lags Behind
Milwaukee forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is delivering elite numbers across most categories, with poor free-throw accuracy the lone drawback. Karabell reports that supporting production has been sporadic: Gary Trent Jr. and Cole Anthony have each posted single standout games, while new center Myles Turner has so far contributed mainly shot-blocking.
Turner averaged modest rebounds with Indiana, and early returns in Milwaukee are similar. Karabell labels him a stronger play in roto or category formats that reward blocks rather than in points leagues. Outside Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ offense leans heavily on three-point attempts from Trent, Anthony, AJ Green and Ryan Rollins, with Kevin Porter Jr. (ankle) expected to fit the same mold when healthy.
Jrue Holiday Reclaims Fantasy Relevance in Portland
Former Bucks guard Jrue Holiday, now 35, has revived his fantasy profile with Portland after two underwhelming seasons in Boston. Through the opening week, Holiday’s production mirrors his prior Milwaukee averages of 18.5 points, 6.8 assists and 1.5 steals. Karabell projects the veteran as a reliable top-50 option even if the Trail Blazers move him before the trade deadline.
Portland’s young core is also drawing attention. Forward Deni Avdija and rookie center Donovan Clingan have emerged as notable contributors, with Karabell suggesting Clingan could finish as a top-10 fantasy center. By contrast, sophomore guard Scoot Henderson (hamstring) remains sidelined and showed shooting struggles last season.
Source: ESPN
