As 2025 draws to a close, let’s review which NBA players are ending the year strongly and who might need to reset when the new year begins.
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Anthony Black has been outstanding recently, highlighted by his best game this past Saturday and impressive performances over the last three weeks.
Players to watch:
Maxime Reynaud, Center for the Kings, has stepped up as a dependable starter in Domantas Sabonis’ absence. Reynaud has recorded four double-doubles in his last six games, including a career-high 29 points during an overtime loss to the Trail Blazers. Although he lacks three-point shooting, assists, and blocks are limited, Reynaud is proving to be a solid contributor. The question remains how his role will change once Sabonis returns.
Anthony Black, playing both point guard and shooting guard for the Magic, has been a fantasy steal lately. Over the last four games, he’s averaged 27.8 points, 4.3 three-pointers, 4.5 assists, and multiple steals in three of those games. Black continues to drive his offense aggressively and create opportunities, especially in the absence of Franz Wagner, whose return date is still unknown.
Donovan Clingan, Center for the Blazers, has been a consistent force during a roller-coaster season. Even without veteran players like Julie Holiday and Jerami Grant, Clingan is maintaining a double-double average and scored an impressive 18 points without missing a shot against the Celtics. His ability to space the floor with improved three-point shooting complements his rebounding and shot-blocking, making him the key center for Portland moving forward.
Players slipping:
Anfernee Simons, Guard for the Celtics, hasn’t had the breakout that many expected. Despite a promising start, his December performance has dipped, averaging just 11.4 points per game with poor shooting splits. Simons has been mostly a bench player recently, and as Peyton Pritchard and Derrick White hold the starting guard spots during a winning streak, his role remains uncertain. Fans hope Simons will regain his shooting form in the new year.
Zachary Lizacher, Small/Power Forward for the Hawks, hasn’t yet delivered as expected from a top draft pick. The Hawks have lost seven games straight, and Lizacher’s offensive involvement is limited. His impact on rebounds and playmaking is minimal, raising concerns that he might become a trade candidate as the team struggles.
Deandre Ayton, Center for the Lakers, has seen a decline in fantasy value since November. Day-to-day injuries sidelined him for some time, and since returning, his production has dipped to 11 points and 7.7 rebounds per game with less defensive impact. While his shooting efficiency remains decent, limited attempts and scarce free throws mean his scoring output won’t bounce back quickly.
Fan Take: This overview is crucial for basketball enthusiasts tracking player performance trends late in the season and fantasy sports participants seeking an edge. Understanding who’s rising and who’s fading can shape team strategies and offer insights into potential shifts for the new year, influencing both the league’s competitive landscape and fan engagement.
