Jalen Johnson Leads Week 7 Fantasy Basketball Risers in Yahoo’s ‘High Score 100’
Yahoo’s innovative High Score 100 – a dynamic ranking of the top 100 fantasy basketball players based on year-to-date performance and recent production – has seen significant shifts following Week 7. The latest update reveals which players are delivering exceptional value and which are beginning to fade, offering crucial insights for fantasy managers navigating the season. This weekly update, released every Tuesday, provides a real-time reflection of player performance in the new High Score format, known for its simple rosters and scoring.
The Risers: Players Ascending the Rankings
Jamal Murray – G, Denver Nuggets
Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray has surged to 16th overall (⬆️ 10) after being named Western Conference Player of the Week for Week 7. Murray is currently achieving career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, alongside his highest-ever PER and true-shooting percentage in his nine NBA seasons. According to analysts, this combination of efficiency and volume translates to 47 High Score fantasy points per game, solidifying his position as a top-20 asset and a key offensive partner to Nikola Jokić.
Jaylen Brown – G/FC, Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown is rapidly climbing the ranks, now sitting at 13th overall (⬆️ 9) after being crowned Eastern Conference Player of the Week for Week 7. Over the past two weeks, Brown has averaged 61.4 fantasy points per game, ranking fourth overall and propelling him from 22nd to 13th in the High Score 100. Currently enjoying a career year with averages of 29.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, Brown has flourished as the Celtics’ primary option during Jayson Tatum’s absence.
Jalen Johnson – FC, Atlanta Hawks
The breakout of Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson is undeniable. While his move from 9th to 6th overall (⬆️ 3) may seem modest, sources indicate he is rapidly approaching top-five asset status. Since November 28, Johnson has recorded four games with over 70 fantasy points, including three impressive triple-doubles. “He’s doing everything – scoring, rebounding, creating,” one analyst noted, adding that his improved shot creation in the absence of Trae Young has sparked a legitimate All-NBA conversation. Like Brown, Johnson is one of only five players currently averaging at least 60 fantasy points per game over the last two weeks, making him a valuable acquisition for fantasy managers.
The Fallers: Players Facing Regression
Ajay Mitchell – G, Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell’s promising run has come to an abrupt halt with the return of Jalen Williams. While his efficiency remains notable, a lack of consistent minutes and usage has rendered him an unreliable High Score stash. Unless presented with a rare spot start due to injuries to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Jalen Williams, managers are advised to consider dropping him.
Joel Embiid – FC, Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has plummeted 15 spots to 70th overall, a direct consequence of his declining availability. The former MVP is currently shooting 40% from the field and 21% from three-point range, averaging a relatively pedestrian 18-5-3 with one block per game. He has appeared in only three games since November 9, failing to exceed 35 fantasy points in any of those contests despite playing over 30 minutes in two of them. Health concerns continue to impede his progress, and fantasy managers are advised to keep him benched for the time being.
Jaren Jackson Jr. – FC, Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr.’s decline continues, now ranked 98th overall (⬇️ 13). He has failed to reach 40 fantasy points in the last two weeks and is averaging a season-low 17 points per game, his lowest since the 2021-22 season. His block rate has also dropped to a career-low 3.3%, diminishing the statistic that once justified his third- or fourth-round draft position. While managers remain hopeful for a turnaround, current trends and declining stats are discouraging.
Complete High Score 100 Rankings
The High Score 100 remains a dynamic tool, reflecting both year-to-date performance and recent production trends. The complete rankings are available on Yahoo Sports, providing fantasy managers with the latest data to optimize their rosters and compete throughout the season.
