Max Kulish outlines punt strategies for 2025-26 fantasy basketball, showing how punting threes, FT%, FG%, or assists reshapes rosters and boosts value when a category is skipped. He lists prime targets per build, weighs risk against upside, and highlights sleepers who gain prominence as soon as a category is punted.

Focus areas include: punting threes to lean into big men and mid-range efficiency, punting FT% around Giannis-like anchors, punting FG% with high-volume shooters, and punting assists by avoiding high-assist playmakers. Concrete targets and situational picks drive actionable drafting plans for savvy rosters.

Houston's 2025-26 starting five is set with Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr. as starters, with a fluid battle for the fifth spot among Reed Sheppard, Tari Eason, and Steven Adams. The mix of a star guard, a versatile frontcourt, and a defensive backbone creates a high ceiling and clear fantasy implications as Udoka tests lineups in the preseason.

Durant's gravity should lift Smith and Sengun for easier looks, while Smith’s return to the starting unit signals a continued two-way impact. The guard rotation around Thompson will determine late-game playmaking, with Sheppard and Eason offering value if extended minutes materialize. Openers vs. Atlanta in the preseason will begin the evaluation.

Phoenix Suns opened the preseason with a 103-81 win over the Lakers, flashing Jordan Ott’s pressure defense and a multi-weapon offense that aims to empower every passer. Devin Booker led with 24 points and 7 assists, while Grayson Allen and Dillon Brooks spaced the floor and pressed on defense. The bench—Gillespie, Richards, O’Neale, Hayes-Davis—provided depth, and rookie Maluach flashed late with a dunk.

Booker’s playmaking and off-ball creativity set the tone as the Suns teased more action through Durant and Beal when healthy. Extended looks went to Ighodaro, Maluach and Fleming as they prepare for two China exhibitions against the Nets, testing rotations and depth for a longer season.