Fantasy Basketball: 2024-25 Early Season Awards

Christiane Aman

2 min read

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16-12-2024

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The 2024-25 NBA season is still young, but already some players are making strong cases for early-season fantasy awards. While it's far too early to definitively crown champions, analyzing early performances allows us to highlight standout contributors and potential breakout stars. This early season assessment considers performance through the first few weeks of the season, acknowledging that the landscape can shift dramatically as the year progresses.

Early Season MVP Candidate: Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)

Joel Embiid continues to dominate. His consistent scoring prowess, coupled with impressive rebounding and improved playmaking, has solidified his position as a top-tier fantasy asset. While other players might challenge his lead as the season progresses, Embiid's early-season dominance makes him a strong contender for the overall MVP. His per-game averages significantly surpass expectations, making him an indispensable asset for any fantasy team.

Most Improved Player: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)

While not necessarily "improved" in the traditional sense given his established high level of play, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken his already impressive game to new heights. Enhanced leadership and a refined offensive arsenal have pushed his numbers even further into elite territory, making him a legitimate MVP candidate and fantasy gold. His improved efficiency and overall impact solidify his spot in early-season award consideration.

Sixth Man of the Year: Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)

Tyrese Haliburton has showcased his unique blend of scoring and playmaking, proving his value even in a starting role. His ability to impact the game significantly even when coming off the bench emphasizes his incredible talent and makes him an asset to any fantasy team. His consistent contributions regardless of his role makes him a compelling candidate for Sixth Man of the Year. While his starting position might disqualify him from traditional Sixth Man awards, his overall performance deserves acknowledgement.

Defensive Player of the Year: Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies)

Jaren Jackson Jr. is making a strong case for Defensive Player of the Year with his exceptional rim protection and overall defensive versatility. His presence alone significantly impacts the game, leading to fewer points allowed for his team. His early-season defensive dominance showcases his continued growth and solidified his position as a top-tier defender.

Rookie of the Year: Amen Thompson (Houston Rockets)

While the rookie class is talented and still developing, Amen Thompson has demonstrated impressive all-around potential. His blend of scoring, passing, and defensive capabilities hints at a bright future. His consistency and impact in early games make him a frontrunner for Rookie of the Year. This is a highly competitive category, but Thompson’s early contribution has put him ahead of the pack.

Disclaimer: This is an early-season assessment based on limited games. Player performance, injuries, and team dynamics can significantly impact the final outcome of these awards. This analysis should not be considered a definitive prediction.