Identifying undervalued fantasy basketball players requires looking past draft-day hype to find athletes whose production, role, or efficiency is not fully captured by their average draft position (ADP). According to reports from Yahoo Sports, managers can maximize late-round value by targeting specific players across the league who are poised for increased usage or efficiency in the 2026-27 season.
Ty Jerome’s Efficiency in Memphis
Ty Jerome, currently holding a 109.3 ADP, presents a high-efficiency option for fantasy rosters. Despite the crowded backcourt in Memphis, Jerome’s ability to shoot at a high level and facilitate secondary creation makes him a valuable asset. In a limited 15-game sample from last year, he recorded nearly 20 points and 6 assists in under 25 minutes per game. Rather than banking on a massive jump in total usage, fantasy managers are looking at his consistent per-minute production as a way to bolster roster efficiency.
Ajay Mitchell’s Role in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell is being highlighted as a potential breakout candidate with an ADP of 118.1. While a portion of his production occurred while teammate Jalen Williams was sidelined, the efficiency Mitchell displayed—shooting 48.5% from the field and 87% from the line—suggests he does not require heavy minutes to be effective. Yahoo Sports noted that Mitchell averaged 13.6 points, 3.6 assists, and 1.2 steals in roughly 26 minutes per game, making him a viable target if his role expands within the Thunder rotation.
Defensive Versatility from Collin Murray-Boyles
Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles, drafted at 111.1, is a primary target for managers seeking defensive statistics. His ability to defend across multiple positions provides a unique fit alongside teammates Scottie Barnes and Kawhi Leonard. Reports indicate Murray-Boyles spent the offseason extending his shooting range, which could increase his offensive ceiling. His current value is tied to his ability to contribute stocks (steals plus blocks) and rebounds, with potential for increased time at the center position if Jakob Poeltl misses time.
Quentin Grimes and Khaman Maluach’s Upside
Quentin Grimes (120.4 ADP) and Khaman Maluach (118.2 ADP) offer distinct profiles for the final rounds of a draft. Grimes, now with the Los Angeles Lakers, demonstrated rapport with Luka Dončić in Dallas, where he shot 39.4% from three-point range. He provides reliable category coverage in scoring and defensive stats without requiring a featured role.
Meanwhile, Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach is positioned to see significant early-season minutes following an injury to Mark Williams. Maluach is viewed as an upside play due to his defensive tools, including rim protection and rebounding, which Yahoo Sports suggests could translate to fantasy relevance faster than his offensive development.
Rui Hachimura’s Role with the Clippers
Rui Hachimura (116.9 ADP) rounds out these targets as a forward who can contribute efficient scoring and rebounding without damaging a team’s percentages. While he offers limited defensive output or assists, his value is tied to his potential for a starting role with the Los Angeles Clippers. Following a strong showing with Japan’s national team this summer, Hachimura is entering the season with a clear opportunity to increase his offensive responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Khaman Maluach considered a high-upside pick?
Maluach’s fantasy value is tied to the injury of Mark Williams, which is expected to sideline the Phoenix center for several months. This absence creates a direct path for Maluach to secure starting minutes, where his rim protection and rebounding can provide immediate category coverage.
How does Ajay Mitchell’s efficiency impact his fantasy value?
Mitchell’s ability to maintain high shooting percentages—48.5% from the field and 87% from the free-throw line—while limiting turnovers to 1.4 per game allows him to be a productive fantasy asset even if he does not reach 30 minutes of playing time per night.
What makes Collin Murray-Boyles a valuable Year 2 target?
Murray-Boyles offers defensive versatility and the potential to play at the center position. If he successfully extends his shooting range, he increases his offensive ceiling, making him a multi-category contributor who can fit into various lineup builds.
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