Kon Knueppel and Cooper Flagg Rise in NBA Rookie Fantasy Stock Watch

Rookies Knueppel and Flagg see their fantasy value surge in February, while Coward and Queen struggle

Feb. 19, 2026 at 5:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rookies Kon Knueppel and Cooper Flagg have seen their NBA fantasy stock rise in recent weeks thanks to strong February performances, while Cedric Coward and Derik Queen have seen their rookie stock cool off a bit. Knueppel has been a consistent scorer for the Charlotte Hornets, while Flagg has emerged as a star for the Dallas Mavericks. Meanwhile, fluctuations in efficiency and production have kept Coward and Queen from climbing higher in rookie rankings.

Why it matters

Rookie performances can have a big impact on both real-world NBA teams and fantasy basketball rosters. The rise and fall of rookie stock can significantly influence lineup decisions, trade values, and overall team success in fantasy leagues. Tracking these trends is crucial for fantasy managers looking to gain an edge.

The details

Kon Knueppel has been one of the most consistent rookie scorers this season, averaging nearly 19 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game for the Charlotte Hornets. His efficient shooting, including strong three-point production, has steadily boosted his rookie stock. Cooper Flagg's stock has surged as he's grown into a star role with the Dallas Mavericks, putting up around 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. Cedric Coward's rookie stock has cooled a bit, as fluctuations in shooting efficiency and game-to-game production have kept him from climbing higher in Rookie Ladder rankings. Derik Queen's rookie stock has also seen ups and downs, as inconsistency and occasional dips in usage have slowed his ascent compared to the top rookies.

  • On February 7, 2026, Cooper Flagg had a standout performance for the Dallas Mavericks.
  • In early January 2026, Cedric Coward struggled with the Memphis Grizzlies.
  • On December 12, 2025, Kon Knueppel had a strong shooting game for the Charlotte Hornets.
  • On January 31, 2026, Derik Queen played for the New Orleans Pelicans.

The players

Kon Knueppel

A rookie guard for the Charlotte Hornets who has been one of the most consistent rookie scorers this season, averaging nearly 19 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game.

Cooper Flagg

A rookie forward for the Dallas Mavericks who has emerged as a star, putting up around 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game this season.

Cedric Coward

A rookie forward for the Memphis Grizzlies who has seen his rookie stock cool off a bit due to fluctuations in shooting efficiency and game-to-game production.

Derik Queen

A rookie center for the New Orleans Pelicans who has shown flashes of brilliance but has also dealt with inconsistency and occasional dips in usage, slowing his ascent compared to the top rookies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The rise and fall of rookie stock can have a significant impact on fantasy basketball rosters, with standout performances from players like Kon Knueppel and Cooper Flagg boosting their value, while inconsistency from Cedric Coward and Derik Queen has tempered expectations. Fantasy managers will need to closely monitor these trends to gain an edge in their leagues.