Oklahoma City opens its 2025-26 preseason with a road test against Charlotte in a non-traditional arena in South Carolina, a backdrop that highlights the evaluation phase for both teams. The 4 p.m. CT matchup is streamed via the Thunder App and Fubo, giving fantasy managers a chance to assess rotation decisions and depth after a short summer run.

The Thunder lean on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, with Isaiah Hartenstein providing frontcourt size. Charlotte counters with LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges and Mason Plumlee. Notable injuries—Thomas Sorber for OKC, Grant Williams and Josh Green for Charlotte—shape early lineups, while the week’s schedule teases a Mavericks test and a Pacers trip.

Giannis Antetokounmpo anchors fantasy forward rankings for 2025-26, with Milwaukee’s post-overhaul outlook shaping his ceiling and free-throw risk intact. Anthony Davis and Kevin Durant headline the next tier, but durability and new-team contexts temper their floors. A rising wave—led by Jalen Williams, Jalen Johnson and Cooper Flagg—adds high-end upside, while Zion Williamson’s health and Franz Wagner’s shooting loom large for category formats. The top-50 blends proven stars with a robust rookie-class, emphasizing workload, efficiency and health in a crowded landscape.

LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges could lift Charlotte's fantasy ceiling as the Hornets look to rebound; Ball's playmaking and Bridges' scoring should move rotation and waivers. Cavs, Knicks and Magic shifts add East upside.

Boucher signs with Boston, adding rim protection and frontcourt versatility that could boost fantasy in the Celtics' depth chart. Derrick Rose's jersey retirement with Chicago stirs nostalgia and hints at guard-depth moves that may ripple into late-season value.