The NBA season's second half is here, and with it, the sprint to the fantasy basketball playoffs begins! Week 17 delivered an extended, action-packed stretch before and after the All-Star break, giving star players ample opportunity to rack up massive High Score fantasy points. Now, as the fantasy playoffs (often Week 21 in Yahoo Fantasy leagues) draw near, every performance is critical.
Key Fantasy Takeaways from Week 17
- Nikola Jokić has roared back to MVP fantasy form, shaking off injury concerns with a monster outing.
- Cade Cunningham delivered a season-high fantasy performance, signaling his elite upside.
- Injuries couldn't slow down Luka Dončić, who continued his scoring title campaign with a dominant week.
- Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama showcased his sky-high ceiling, reminding us of his league-winning potential.
High Score Heroes: The Perfect Lineup Unpacked
Fantasy managers know that navigating the post-All-Star schedule is crucial. The extended Week 17 allowed several players to log 5-6 games, providing a treasure trove of opportunities for top-tier production in Yahoo Fantasy High Score leagues. Let's break down the standout performers who shaped the latest perfect lineup.
Cade Cunningham's Ascendant Campaign
It feels almost criminal that Cade Cunningham isn't garnering more buzz, especially in fantasy circles. While real-life MVP talks often gravitate towards names like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cunningham is quietly having an incredible season. His 42-point explosion against the Knicks in Madison Square Garden was a statement game, demonstrating his capacity for elite scoring and playmaking. For fantasy managers, this performance solidified his status as a high-volume, high-upside asset.
Luka Dončić: Unstoppable Force, Regardless
Luka Dončić continues to defy expectations, especially with a nagging hamstring injury that previously sidelined him for three games. Despite the health concerns, Dončić didn't miss a beat, posting 38 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists in a crucial win over the Clippers. Averaging an astounding 32.8 points per game, Luka remains a primary contender for the 2025-26 NBA scoring title and, more importantly for fantasy, a consistent engine of elite production in any format.
Nikola Jokić Reclaims His Fantasy Throne
After a brief dip in production following a knee injury, Nikola Jokić has emphatically declared his return to dominance. The Nuggets' superstar delivered a vintage Joker performance: 35 points, 20 rebounds, 12 assists, and 5 stocks (steals+blocks). This was his first 90+ fantasy point output in High Score since Christmas, proving that when healthy, Jokić is unequivocally the most dominant fantasy asset in the league. His full recovery signals a dangerous second half for opponents and a rewarding one for fantasy owners.
Victor Wembanyama's Rookie Masterclass
Victor Wembanyama continues to shatter expectations for a rookie. While his game-to-game consistency can fluctuate, his high-ceiling performances are truly league-altering. Post-All-Star Weekend, Wemby dropped an incredible 28 points, 15 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 stocks in a win over the Kings. These explosive outings are why fantasy managers drafted him early; his ability to stuff every category makes him a unique and incredibly valuable piece, capable of winning weeks on his own.
Kawhi Leonard's Steady, Unsung Heroics
Kawhi Leonard is in the midst of a silent renaissance season. Averaging close to 30 points per game in February, the Clippers forward is steadily climbing the High Score rankings. Despite his team's inconsistent play, Leonard's individual brilliance cannot be overstated. He's proving to be a highly reliable fantasy option, providing consistent scoring and defensive stats that could be a league-winner for fantasy managers heading into the crucial playoff push.
Paolo Banchero: The High-Variance Wonder
Paolo Banchero exemplifies the high-variance nature of some fantasy assets. His 26 points, 14 rebounds, 8 assists, and 4 blocks performance against the Suns (requiring two overtimes to achieve) shows his immense upside. However, Banchero's scoring can be erratic, making him a riskier play at times. With a challenging schedule ahead, including matchups against the Lakers, Rockets, and Pistons, managers will be watching closely to see if he can maintain this elevated production.
%20(1).jpg)
