New York, November 30, 2025
Mikal Bridges continues to showcase unmatched durability in the NBA, maintaining a streak of 574 consecutive games played, while rookie Kel’el Ware rises as a promising fantasy asset, and Andre Drummond dominates rebounding amid Joel Embiid’s absence. These developments reflect key trends for fantasy basketball managers navigating the modern, injury-prone landscape.
Mikal Bridges: The NBA’s Ironman
Mikal Bridges stands out in today’s NBA for his extraordinary durability. Having played 574 consecutive games without missing a single appearance, including playoffs, Bridges holds the fourth-longest streak in league history. This uninterrupted run underscores a rare resilience in the current era where load management and injuries frequently sideline players.
Bridges’ consistent presence translates into significant fantasy value. Ranked 24th in fantasy points per game, he is delivering career-best assists (4.7 APG), three-point shooting (2.4 3PG), and defensive production. His role has expanded notably, especially during Jalen Brunson’s absence, where Bridges assumed greater playmaking duties. Even after Brunson’s return, he maintains this enhanced role, attesting to his versatility and growth.
His streak began in college at Villanova, demonstrating a longstanding commitment and physical capability to contribute every game. Averaging 37 minutes per game last season, Bridges’ ability to consistently perform heavy minutes without fatigue sets him apart as a cornerstone for the New York Knicks and a reliable fantasy asset.
Kel’el Ware: Emerging Physical Dominance
In his sophomore year with the Miami Heat, Kel’el Ware is demonstrating a marked improvement in confidence, effort, and physicality. Standing at 7-foot-4 with an extensive wingspan, Ware leverages his size to impose defensive pressure and secure rebounds, becoming a key rim protector.
Coaches and teammates have noted a significant leap in his development. Ware is beginning to unlock his potential, and as he gains more experience and earns increased trust from the coaching staff, his fantasy outlook is expected to improve considerably, especially in categories such as rebounds, blocks, and scoring.
Andre Drummond: Rebounding Force
With Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid sidelined, Andre Drummond has assumed a dominant rebounding role. Averaging 12.0 points and an impressive 14.0 rebounds per game over seven starts, including six double-doubles, Drummond has become indispensable for both the team and fantasy managers.
His rebounding prowess solidifies his status as a must-add player while Embiid remains out. Drummond’s presence underscores the importance of availability and specialization for fantasy success amid fluctuating team dynamics.
Additional Fantasy Insights
De’Aaron Fox’s strong playmaking and scoring surge in San Antonio further enhance his fantasy value, rounding out early-season considerations for managers seeking reliable contributors.
Implications for Fantasy Management
The current NBA landscape is marked by frequent injuries and load management strategies, making availability and consistent performance more valuable than ever. Mikal Bridges exemplifies the benefits of steady presence and versatility, while assets like Kel’el Ware remind managers to watch for emerging talent with high upside. Meanwhile, specialists like Andre Drummond provide targeted value during star player absences.
For fantasy basketball stakeholders and analysts, these developments emphasize that durability, role expansion, and breakout potential are critical factors when evaluating players amid ongoing uncertainties in player health and usage patterns.