Hidden gems are true currency in fantasy basketball. Undervalued players with a ton of upside can pay dividends, and late-round targets at draft time can separate contenders from pretenders once the playoffs roll around.
These players provide multi-category value without burning early picks since their ADP is low. This guide breaks down why they outperform expectations and how to grab them before your fellow managers catch on.
Why These Picks Outperform ADP
The following players may have a low ADP because of trends set early in the season. However, midseason trades, injuries, and coaching changes have expanded roles and boosted usage. Sometimes, ADP doesn’t readily catch up to a surging player’s production, making them a steal when draft time comes around.
The late-round stars we’re talking about aren’t one-dimensional players. They are efficient, multi-category fantasy assets you can draft at a lower cost. These are the kind of players that will help bring balance to your roster and set you up for a successful season.
Top Late-Round Hidden Value Picks
GG Jackson II’s expanded role and minutes growth drive late-round scoring, rebounds, and assists upside.© Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
(© Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images)GG Jackson II (Memphis Grizzlies): Usage Surge
The Memphis Grizzlies have entered rebuild mode, and the 21-year-old forward has surged as his role on the team has expanded. He now averages close to 30 minutes per game and has boosted his points, rebounds, and assists. Jackson’s development suggests he will continue to play a larger role next season, making him a solid late-round draft selection to fantasy rosters.
Naz Reid (Minnesota Timberwolves): Stretch-Big Multi-Cat Upside
This sixth-season big man continues to be solid for the playoff-bound Minnesota Timberwolves, and he offers a rare mix of scoring, rebounding, and blocks. He also consistently plays big minutes, which makes him a steal for a team heading for the postseason. This mix makes Reid a premier late-round selection that can balance your fantasy squad.
Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics): Scoring Explosion
Payton Pritchard’s bench scoring and three-point efficiency create stable late-round points and threes production value.Dennis Lee-Imagn Images
(Dennis Lee-Imagn Images)
Reliable bench players make great late-round draft selections. Such is the case for the Boston Celtics guard, who continued to be an offensive force even when Jayson Tatum returned to the lineup in 2026. Pritchard is also an efficient shooter from three-point range, which boosts his late-round value despite a low ADP.
Bennedict Mathurin (Los Angeles Clippers): Rebound Candidate
Bennedict Mathurin’s increased usage and improved efficiency position him as a late-round scoring rebound candidate.© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images


(© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

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Athlon’s has talked plenty about Mathurin in spring 2026 because his move to the Clippers has done him some good. Increased opportunity has led to a usage and production surge, even as he’s dealt with some late-season bumps and bruises. Mathurin is a more consistent shooter in his expanded role, which gives him sneaky fantasy value in later rounds.
Fantasy Strategies for Late Round Draft Targets 2026-27
We touched on this in our piece about building a balanced roster. To reiterate, fantasy managers want to first lay a foundation with 9-cat players. They’ll want to target these late-round assets in rounds 8-12 for high upside steals. And then, of course, keep an eye on undervalued candidates during preseason before finalizing your roster.
Conclusion: Find The Hidden Value for 2026-27 Season
Fantasy basketball late-round targets like Naz Reid and Bennedict Mathurin can deliver hidden value that wins leagues in the 2026-27 season. Build a smarter and more consistent roster by targeting these players before their ADP rises.
People Want To Know More About Late-Round Fantasy Basketball Targets for 2026-27
Who are the top fantasy basketball late-round targets for 2026-27?
Reed Sheppard, Naz Reid, Payton Pritchard, and Bennedict Mathurin lead the list.
Is Reed Sheppard a late-round steal in 2026-27 fantasy?
Yes, rising usage and elite shooting deliver multi-category value.
What is Naz Reid’s fantasy outlook for 2026-27?
Stretch-big production with scoring, rebounds, and blocks upside.
Should I draft Payton Pritchard in fantasy basketball?
Yes for consistent bench scoring and threes at a discount.
Are there other hidden value picks in 2026-27 fantasy basketball?
Bennedict Mathurin’s bounce-back offers high-volume scoring potential.
When should I target late-round fantasy basketball picks?
Rounds 8-12 in drafts for maximum value before ADP climbs.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the Fantasy section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.