The 2025-26 NBA season has officially kicked off, while the now-ongoing PBA Philippine Cup kickstarts the second-oldest pro basketball league in the world’s golden anniversary, and there are a couple of matchups that I’m looking forward to competing in.
In partnership with Daily Fantasy, I’m here to share my must-roster players for this week's slate of games in the NBA and PBA — and why you should consider making them part of your lineup.
TOR v. NYK (Dec. 10)
Must-Roster Suggestions
TOR: Brandon Ingram, Scottie Barnes
NYK: Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart
If you’re wondering why Karl-Anthony Towns isn’t in my must-roster suggestions, he’s got a calf issue and just missed their December 7 win over the Orlando Magic. If he isn’t good to go by the Toronto game, I’m expecting big numbers for Mitchell Robinson. That also opens up more opportunities for Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges to be the New York Knicks’ lead stars. Josh Hart also has to be there since he’s a do-it-all guy.
As for the Toronto Raptors, I see Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes shining against the Towns-less Knicks, so they’re the main guys I want on my team. As a side note, Sandro Mamukelashvili is a sneaky pick for this matchup, so maybe take a flier on him.
OKC v. PHX (Dec. 11)
Must-Roster Suggestions
OKC: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren
PHX: Collin Gillespie, Dillon Brooks, Mark Williams
In a rematch of their Nov. 29 meeting, this one’s in the knockout stages of the NBA Cup, so you can expect both sides to bring out their A-game.
With that in mind, the Oklahoma City Thunder are sure to give heavy minutes to their core three of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren as they aim to secure their spots in the semifinals in Las Vegas. But if SGA is out, Ajay Mitchell is the play.
Unfortunately for the Phoenix Suns, Devin Booker is likely out due to a groin injury. I believe Dillon Brooks will be the Suns’ A1 player for this matchup, while Collin Gillespie looks to continue building on his breakout season. Additionally, Mark Williams should also have more touches with Booker out, so he’s in my lineup.
MER v. CON (Dec. 14)
Must-Roster Suggestions
MER: Chris Newsome, CJ Cansino, Cliff Hodge
CON: Juan Gomez de Liano, Justine Baltazar, Alec Stockton
The Philippine Cup portion of PBA Season 50 is nearing the end of the elimination stages, and the Converge FiberXers have already secured their slot in the playoffs, but are also pursuing a twice-to-beat advantage.
That’s why I think Juan Gomez de Liano, Justine Baltazar, and Alec Stockton will be playing heavy minutes in this game. Additionally, “Balti” and Juan GDL will have increased touches if Justin Arana remains out with an ankle sprain.
Meanwhile, the Meralco Bolts are at 3-4 this conference and on pace to make the postseason. However, they cannot afford to lose more. This situation gives me confidence in rostering Chris Newsome, CJ Cansino, and Cliff Hodge, since they’re Meralco’s top gunners this season.
Also, if you can somehow slot in Meralco’s Bong Qunito into your lineup, you should go for it.
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