Fantasy Basketball 2026-27: Forwards Whose Fantasy Stock Could Spike by Training Camp

There is a 2026-27 fantasy basketball forwards stock spike on the horizon, with several notable players gearing up for expanded roles next season.

Sure, forwards don’t typically take the forefront on fantasy basketball rosters like guards and bigs do. But that doesn’t mean smart managers are ignoring these difference-makers for next season. Emerging youngsters, healing veterans, and players in new systems are set for increased usage. Ample opportunity turns to multi-cat performances and fantasy gold.

Here’s who managers should keep an eye on as they craft their 2026-27 fantasy draft strategy.

Forwards Positioned for Major Role Expansion by Training Camp

Young Stars Ready for Third and Fourth-Year Leaps

Nobody expected Matas Buzelis to become a waiver-wire savior in 2025-26. His post-deadline promotion to a starting role revealed a mix of defensive stocks and scoring versatility, which upped his fantasy stock across different league formats. Amid coaching and front office chaos in Chicago, Buzelis will likely be an anchor for the Bulls next season. That means more usage, and more fantasy fuel.

Another young fantasy candidate to keep a close eye on this offseason is Brandon Miller. He maintained his growth toward All-Star caliber play in 2025-26 as the Charlotte Hornets broke out. He also formed strong on-court chemistry with rookie guard Kon Knueppel. The duo is expected to enter training camp in the starting lineup, which elevates Miller’s value as a 3-and-D forward.

Veterans Returning from Injury with Clearer Paths to Minutes

Health Recoveries That Could Unlock Elite Production

Bilal Coulibaly is an interesting case, since he missed significant late-season time for a heavily rebuilding Washington Wizards team. Oblique and heel injuries are expected to be in the rearview mirror by 2026-27 training camp, when Coulibaly is expected to start in the Trae Young-led lineup. The fourth-year forward is a fantasy asset for assists and stocks, which should rise when he’s a healthy starter next season.

Then, there’s Jalen Johnson, whose hip and shoulder injuries kept him sidelined at fantasy playoff time. But managers are already watching his multi-cat abilities unfold in the NBA playoffs as he plays more than 35 minutes per night. Unsurprisingly, his ADP is projected to rise significantly this offseason.

Depth Chart Shifts and New Coaching Schemes Favoring Forwards

Players Benefiting from Roster and Coaching Changes

Jonathan Kuminga ’s fantasy stock was nothing to lose sleep over when the Golden State Warriors were looking to trade him last season. Suffice it to say, the move to the Hawks has done him a lot of good. His elevated points and rebounds after the trade gave him a healthy fantasy boost.

Of course, Kuminga’s future as a starter hinges on what offseason changes the Hawks make and how he will fit long-term alongside Johnson. Regardless, this forward-favoring Atlanta lineup sets the foundation for Kuminga’s fantasy stock to surge by training camp.

Draft Strategy for Targeting Training Camp Risers

We know, it feels like a waiting game. But the best course of action is to monitor emerging forwards all the way through the summer into the opening of camp.

Owners should keep an eye on each forward’s team, too. Surprise draft selections and unexpected free-agency signings can make ADPs fluctuate. They can also throw a wrench in prep for redraft leagues or make a dynasty league trade look unnecessary.

And, of course, keep an eye on health. Especially for players like Buzelis and Coulibaly, whose 2025-26 seasons ended with injuries. They are expected to be starters when camp opens, and a summer setback could ruin that.

The Bottom Line on 2026-27 Forward Stock Spikes

The forwards highlighted here have the clearest paths to increased opportunity to kick off the 2026-27 NBA season. Managers who act on these projections before the first preseason games will hold a decisive edge in 2026-27 leagues. Monitor these players through the summer to lock down your picks, and watch these forwards give your fantasy roster a massive boost next year.

2026-27 Fantasy Basketball Forward Questions Answered

Which forwards could see their fantasy stock spike by 2026-27 training camp?Jalen Johnson, Matas Buzelis, and Brandon Miller top the list. Each enters the offseason with clear paths to expanded roles. Johnson’s return to full health, Buzelis’ sophomore leap, and Miller’s projected usage growth position them for significant value jumps in 2026-27 fantasy drafts.

Why do training camp developments matter so much for fantasy basketball forwards?Training camp determines starting lineups, bench rotations, and usage rates. A single position battle or coaching decision can add 8–10 minutes per game. Historical data shows forwards who gain consistent opportunity in camp routinely outperform their early ADP by multiple rounds.

Is Jalen Johnson a buy for 2026-27 fantasy basketball?Yes. When healthy in 2025-26, Johnson posted strong per-minute numbers at both ends of the floor. With Atlanta’s depth chart potentially opening up, his stock stands to rise sharply once training camp confirms his role.

How should advanced managers approach 2026-27 forwards with uncertain roles?Prioritize those with the highest projected minute upside over pure talent. Track summer league performance, free agency moves, and early camp reports. These signals often separate future top-100 producers from roster fillers.

What separates a training camp riser from a true bust risk in fantasy basketball?Sustained opportunity. Players like Bilal Coulibaly who have shown flashes but lacked consistent minutes can spike if camp confirms a larger role. Advanced analysis focuses on projected usage rather than past name value.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the Fantasy section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.