As the 2025 NBA season tips off, fantasy basketball enthusiasts are gearing up for another exciting year of DFS and seasonal league dominance. In this Eastern Conference preview, we dive into the key fantasy assets, team outlooks, and betting insights for each team, based on the in-depth analysis. From breakout candidates to potential busts, here’s everything you need to know to dominate your fantasy basketball drafts and DFS lineups.

 

2025 NBA Eastern Conference Team Previews

Atlanta Hawks

Win Total: 46.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Kristaps Porzingis, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu, Zaccharie Risacher

Team Outlook: The Hawks have revamped their roster with impactful additions like Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kennard, and Dyson Daniels, aiming to escape the play-in purgatory of recent seasons. With a bold prediction from Grande that Atlanta could contend for the Eastern Conference crown, their high-paced offense and improved depth make them a fantasy goldmine.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Trae Young remains an elite assist machine, with his numbers climbing yearly, making him a top-tier point guard in all formats.
  • Jalen Johnson is the X-factor, a potential All-Star with a high ceiling if he plays 65+ games. His multi-category contributions (points, rebounds, assists) make him a must-draft.
  • Kristaps Porzingis is a high-risk, high-reward option due to his injury history, but in Atlanta’s fast-paced system, he could deliver massive fantasy value when healthy. Look for 3-point shooting and blocks.
  • Onyeka Okongwu will feast on minutes when Porzingis rests, offering rebounding and defensive stats.
  • Dyson Daniels is a steals specialist who could take an offensive leap, while rookie Zaccharie Risacher has low-end fantasy appeal but could surprise.
    Betting Insight: Lean toward the over on 46.5 wins, as Atlanta’s starting five could be among the East’s best if healthy.

Boston Celtics

Win Total: 41.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Jalen Brown, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, Anfernee Simons, Neemias Queta

Team Outlook: The Celtics face uncertainty with Jason Tatum’s Achilles injury and a roster overhaul to dodge the luxury tax. They’re projected as a play-in team at best, relying heavily on Jalen Brown and a guard-heavy lineup.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Jaylen Brown is the centerpiece, likely carrying a massive scoring load, making him a top-10 fantasy option.
  • Derrick White and Payton Pritchard will see heavy minutes and shoot plenty of threes, offering value in points, assists, and steals. Pritchard’s defensive limitations could cap his upside in larger roles.
  • Anfernee Simons could average 20+ points off the bench, a sneaky DFS and seasonal pick, though he’s a trade candidate.
  • Neemias Queta might provide low-end value in deep leagues for rebounds and blocks, but his minutes are inconsistent.
  • Sam Hauser and bench players like Josh Minott are too unpredictable for reliable fantasy production.
    Betting Insight: The 41.5 win total feels high with so many uncertainties. Stay away or lean under, as injuries or trades could derail their season.

Brooklyn Nets

Win Total: 19.5–20.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Michael Porter, Egor Demin, Nick Claxton, Cam Thomas

Team Outlook: The Nets are in rebuild mode, drafting five rookies and adding veterans like Michael Porter and Terrence Mann. With a focus on next year’s draft, they’re projected to win fewer than 20 games, making them a DFS-friendly but risky seasonal option.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Michael Porter will have a green light to shoot, offering elite scoring and 3-point potential, though his controversial off-court persona adds risk.
  • Egor Demin, the Nets’ top pick, is a sleeper with multi-category upside (points, assists) if he gets significant minutes.
  • Nick Claxton is a reliable rebounder and screener but lacks offensive growth, capping his fantasy ceiling.
  • Cam Thomas is a pure scorer with health concerns and limited playmaking, making him a volatile fantasy option.
  • Day’Ron Sharpe could push Claxton for minutes, offering DFS value as a backup center.
    Betting Insight: The under on 19.5–20.5 wins is favored, as the Nets’ reliance on rookies and lack of cohesion could lead to a disastrous season.
 

Charlotte Hornets

Win Total: 26.5–27.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, Colin Sexton, Ryan Kalkbrenner, Kon Knueppel

Team Outlook: The Hornets could surprise and sneak into the play-in if LaMelo Ball stays healthy. Additions like Colin Sexton and a solid bench (Grant Williams, Josh Green) add depth, but their center rotation remains a weak point.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • LaMelo Ball is a top-10 fantasy point guard if he plays 65 games, delivering elite points, assists, and steals.
  • Brandon Miller is a scoring machine with double-double potential, though his rebounding may dip with better teammates.
  • Colin Sexton is a perfect sixth man, offering scoring pop off the bench, making him a great late-round pick or DFS target.
  • Miles Bridges has been electric in the preseason, providing points and rebounds despite off-court concerns.
  • Ryan Kalkbrenner and Moussa Diabate are undersized centers with limited fantasy appeal due to defensive weaknesses.
    Betting Insight: Go over on 26.5–27.5 wins if Ball and Miller stay healthy, as their scoring trio could steal wins in the weak East.

Chicago Bulls

Win Total: 33.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Josh Giddey, Coby White, Matas Buzelis, Nikola Vucevic

Team Outlook: The Bulls are stuck in mediocrity, with a low win total but a fast-paced style that boosts fantasy value. Josh Giddey and Coby White lead the way, while rookie Matas Buzelis could be a breakout star.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Josh Giddey has top-20 overall fantasy upside with his playmaking and improved shooting (40% from three in Chicago). He could lead in assists and potentially rebounds if Vucevic is traded.
  • Coby White is likely the leading scorer, offering 20+ points and solid assists, though a calf injury is a concern.
  • Matas Buzelis is a high-ceiling prospect with superstar potential, averaging 18 points and nearly 2 blocks in limited starts last year. He’s a must-draft in dynasty and deep leagues.
  • Nikola Vucevic is a trade candidate but provides steady points and rebounds when on the floor.
  • Bench players like Patrick Williams, Jalen Smith, and Ayo Dosunmu offer DFS value in spot starts.
    Betting Insight: Lean over on 33.5 wins, as Billy Donovan’s teams consistently win 38–41 games, and their fast pace could lead to upsets.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Win Total: 57.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, Jared Allen, DeAndre Hunter

Team Outlook: The Cavs are the East’s favorites with a projected 57.5 wins, thanks to a stellar starting five. Injuries to Darius Garland and Max Strus open early opportunities for bench players, but their depth is a concern.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are elite guards, though limited minutes in blowouts last year capped their fantasy output. Both are top-tier picks.
  • Evan Mobley is a Defensive Player of the Year candidate with untapped offensive potential. If he develops a three-point shot, he could be a top-20 player.
  • Jared Allen is a double-double machine but competes with Mobley for touches, slightly lowering his ceiling.
  • DeAndre Hunter could thrive as a sixth man, offering scoring and occasional rebounds, though his inconsistency is a risk.
  • Bench players like Jaylon Tyson and Lonzo Ball (limited minutes) are DFS dart throws.
    Betting Insight: The 57.5 win total is fair, but their lack of depth makes the over risky. Plus-215 odds to win the East are tempting.
 

Detroit Pistons

Win Total: 45.5–46.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Jalen Duren, Jaden Ivey, Duncan Robinson

Team Outlook: The Pistons overachieved last year behind Cade Cunningham’s breakout, but losing Malik Beasley’s shooting hurts. Jaden Ivey’s return and Ausar Thompson’s development could keep them competitive.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Cade Cunningham is a top-10 fantasy player, excelling in points, assists, and rebounds as Detroit’s centerpiece.
  • Ausar Thompson is a defensive monster with rebounding and rim-finishing ability, though his scoring needs work.
  • Jalen Duren offers double-double potential and sneaky assists, making him a solid center option.
  • Jaden Ivey (once back from injury) is a high-upside guard with scoring and playmaking ability.
  • Duncan Robinson provides elite 3-point shooting but may split minutes with Caris LeVert, limiting his consistency.
    Betting Insight: Lean under on 45.5–46.5 wins, as their shooting regression could hinder them despite a strong core.

Indiana Pacers

Win Total: 36.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Pascal Siakam, Andrew Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson

Team Outlook: The Pacers are reeling from Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury and Miles Turner’s departure, but Pascal Siakam and young talent like Bennedict Mathurin keep them intriguing.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Pascal Siakam could average a double-double (20 points, 10 rebounds), making him a top-20 fantasy asset with his 43% 3-point shooting.
  • Bennedict Mathurin is poised for a breakout as the starting shooting guard, offering scoring and rebounding upside.
  • Andrew Nembhard steps into a larger playmaking role, with assist props and multi-category contributions making him a sleeper.
  • Isaiah Jackson is a high-upside DFS play for double-doubles and blocks when he avoids foul trouble.
    Betting Insight: The 36.5 win total feels low compared to Boston’s 41.5, as the Pacers’ core could outperform expectations. Lean over.

Miami Heat

Win Total: 38.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Bam Adebayo, Norm Powell, Nikola Jovic, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez.

Team Outlook: The Heat are a middling team without Tyler Herro, relying on Bam Adebayo and young players like Nikola Jovic and Kel’el Ware. Their offense could struggle, but Spoelstra’s coaching keeps them competitive.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Bam Adebayo is a top-5 fantasy center without Herro, delivering points, rebounds, and defensive stats.
  • Norm Powell has 20-point potential while Herro is out, making him a steal in drafts.
  • Nikola Jovic and Kel’el Ware offer 3-point shooting and rebounding, with Ware likely securing 25+ minutes.
  • Jaime Jaquez. has breakout potential after a mixed sophomore year, though his role depends on health.
    Betting Insight: Lean under on 38.5 wins, as their offensive limitations could cap their ceiling.
 

Milwaukee Bucks

Win Total: 43.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Miles Turner, Bobby Portis, AJ Green, Kevin Porter

Team Outlook: With Damian Lillard gone, Giannis Antetokounmpo is poised for an MVP-caliber season. Additions like Miles Turner and a strong bench (Bobby Portis, Cole Anthony) make them a top-5 East team.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo is a top-3 fantasy player, likely dominating points, rebounds, and assists.
  • Miles Turner provides elite blocks and 3-point shooting, a perfect fit next to Giannis.
  • Bobby Portis is a high-upside sixth man, offering double-doubles off the bench.
  • AJ Green and Kevin Porter are solid shooters, with Porter’s Houston version offering multi-category upside.
  • Kyle Kuzma is a fantasy avoid after a disappointing 2024.
    Betting Insight: Take the over on 43.5 wins, as Giannis could carry them to 45+ wins.

New York Knicks

Win Total: 53.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart

Team Outlook: The Knicks are a top East contender with a loaded starting five and improved depth. Health (Josh Hart’s back injury) and Mike Brown’s rotations will dictate their ceiling.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Jalen Brunson is an elite point guard, delivering points, assists, and efficiency.
  • Karl-Anthony Towns at power forward offers elite scoring, rebounding, and 3-point shooting.
  • OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges provide defensive stats and scoring, though Bridges’ role could shrink with Clarkson’s addition.
  • Josh Hart is a multi-category bench contributor, ideal for deep leagues.
  • Jordan Clarkson is a high-usage scorer off the bench, perfect for DFS.
    Betting Insight: Lean over on 53.5 wins if they stay healthy, as their depth and talent could push them to 55+ wins.

Orlando Magic

Win Total: 50.5–53.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Paolo Banchero, Desmond Bane, Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs

Team Outlook: The Magic addressed their shooting woes by adding Desmond Bane, pairing him with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Their elite defense and improved offense make them a dark horse to win the East.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Paolo Banchero is a stud, offering points, rebounds, and improving 3-point shooting.
  • Desmond Bane is a 3-point machine, boosting his fantasy value in points and efficiency.
  • Franz Wagner needs to fix his shooting hitch but remains a multi-category asset.
  • Jalen Suggs, if healthy, provides 40% 3-point shooting and steals.
  • Bench players like Moe Wagner and Tyus Jones offer DFS value but limited seasonal appeal.
    Betting Insight: Go over on 50.5–53.5 wins, as the Magic could hit 55 with health and shooting improvements.
 

Philadelphia 76ers

Win Total: Not Bet-Worthy

Key Fantasy Players: Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, VJ Edgecomb, Kelly Oubre

Team Outlook: The 76ers’ success hinges on Joel Embiid and Paul George’s health. With a talented starting five and deep bench, they could reach the East Finals or flop entirely.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Joel Embiid is a steal at his current draft price ($8 in auctions), offering MVP-level production if he plays 65 games.
  • Tyrese Maxey is a stud point guard, excelling in points and assists without Haliburton’s playmaking.
  • Paul George is a high-value pick if he plays 60 games, though injuries are a concern.
  • VJ Edgecomb is a raw, athletic rookie with scoring upside, making him a late-round flier.
  • Kelly Oubre provides steady points, rebounds, and steals.
    Betting Insight: Avoid betting their win total, as Embiid’s health makes it a coin flip.

Toronto Raptors

Win Total: 38.5–40.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, Jakob Poeltl

Team Outlook: The Raptors’ starting five (Quickley, Barrett, Ingram, Barnes, Poeltl) is talented but lacks shooting and cohesion, making them a middling team.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett took leaps last year, offering points and assists, but their fit with Ingram and Barnes is questionable.
  • Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram are high-upside players but potential busts due to overlapping roles.
  • Jakob Poeltl is a reliable double-double threat but lacks defensive stats.
  • Bench players like Gradey Dick and Kelly Olynyk are DFS dart throws.
    Betting Insight: Lean under on 38.5–40.5 wins, as their lack of shooting could lead to struggles.

Washington Wizards

Win Total: 20.5 (Over/Under)

Key Fantasy Players: CJ McCollum, Khris Middleton, Bub Carrington, Keyshawn George, Trey Johnson

Team Outlook: The Wizards are a fun, bad team with young talent and veterans like CJ McCollum and Khris Middleton. They’ll play hard but likely finish with 20–25 wins.

Fantasy Takeaways:

  • CJ McCollum and Khris Middleton provide steady scoring and playmaking, though Middleton may move to the bench.
  • Bub Carrington and Keyshawn George are high-ceiling rookies with multi-category potential.
  • Trey Johnson and Cam Whitmore are instant-offense bench players, perfect for DFS.

Tristan Vukcevic is a fantasy-point-per-minute monster when given minutes.
Betting Insight: Lean over on 20.5 wins, as their veterans and young talent could steal games in the weak East.

 

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