Cooper Flagg anchors NBA 2K26’s rookie wave, landing an 82 overall to begin his Dallas Mavericks career as the top-rated newcomer. He sits 79th overall league-wide, ahead of notable rookies Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey and VJ Edgecombe, who come in at 78, 77 and 76 respectively. The game also features Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the Standard Edition cover star for OKC, Carmelo Anthony for the Superstar Edition, and Angel Reese for the WNBA Edition, underscoring the cross-era hype around this rookie class. Flagg’s path in Dallas will be watched closely, given his Duke-driven college dominance and Summer League showing where he posted strong scoring and versatility. The mix of high expectations for Flagg and the presence of established stars around him sets the stage for a high-variance, fantasy-friendly rookie season that could unlock immediate opportunistic value in deeper leagues while demanding patience in shallower formats. The 2K26 release window is set for Sept. 5, adding another layer of anticipation for fantasy managers mapping out early-season strategies.

The 2025-26 NBA season opens with Thunder and Rockets tipping off in a banner-raising feud, a high-stakes test for a Western Conference that could define the year. Durant returns to the arena that forged his rise, leading Houston’s bid to dethrone Oklahoma City, while the Lakers and Warriors square off in a marquee cross-conference duel that will shape early fantasy projections.

Five-alarm storylines follow: Durant’s reunion tour with a retooled Rockets; Chris Paul returning to the Clippers; Myles Turner joining the Bucks; Kristaps Porzingis landing with Atlanta. Into the opening week come Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper facing off in Mavs–Spurs, Victor Wembanyama’s presence in Dallas–San Antonio, and Rutgers teammates Ace Bailey and Harper chasing December matchups with the Jazz.

The Christmas slate features five games that will test fantasy rosters’ durability and upside: Cavaliers–Knicks, Spurs–Thunder, Mavericks–Warriors (featuring Flagg’s debut), Rockets–Lakers and Timberwolves–Nuggets. The season’s early mood centers on star showdowns (LeBron–Curry, Durant–Doncic), rookies carving space, and a handful of revenge and rematch games that could tilt fantasy values all winter long.

NBA2K26 reveals a rookie ratings wave, with Cooper Flagg atop the class, Dylan Harper close behind, Ace Bailey just ahead of VJ Edgecombe. Edgecombe earns a 76, placing him fourth among rookies. The Sixers’ guard out of Baylor is projected to be a central rotation piece from day one, with a real shot to push for starting minutes in Philly.

Flagg’s lofty rating underscores Dallas’ high hopes for him as a long-term core player, while Harper’s combination of scoring and playmaking makes him a promising fit in San Antonio’s rebuild. Bailey sits just behind them for now in Utah, a testament to the depth and talent entering the league this season. Fantasy players should monitor how each rookie earns minutes and how quickly they translate on the floor.

For Edgecombe, the path to consistent fantasy value hinges on opportunity and fit within Philadelphia’s guard rotation. If he lands solid minutes early, his athleticism and defensive versatility could push him into productive shooting guard or secondary playmaking duties. Flagg, Harper, and Bailey each carry upside tied to their teams’ rosters, and early-season roles will be the tell for dynasty and DFS rosters alike.

Utah Jazz rookie Ace Bailey, previously criticized for his draft strategy, is now being acknowledged for his potential. After canceling workouts with teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Bailey was drafted fifth overall. In his first two summer league games, he showed promise with an average of 13.5 points and 7.0 rebounds. Sixers star Paul George, who had initially questioned Bailey's decisions, has since retracted his stance, praising the young player's talent and commitment to doing things his way. George recognizes that Bailey's approach could have failed, but it has instead placed him in a favorable position to shine with the Jazz.

Meanwhile, the Sixers selected VJ Edgecombe at the third overall pick, anticipating he will bolster their backcourt alongside established players. As Bailey develops, he could become a cornerstone for the Jazz as they continue their rebuilding efforts. The upcoming season will be crucial for Bailey and the Jazz to validate their faith in his abilities and demonstrate that he can meet the expectations set for him in the league.