Kel'el Ware

Ware logged just six minutes in Miami’s season opener, so his availability won’t have an impact on fantasy hoops managers’ lineup decisions.

Not only was Ware one of the best-performing rookies at the NBA 2K25 Summer League, but he was one of the best players overall. The first-round pick was named first-team All-Summer League before Monday’s championship game, and Ware posted another double-double in the overtime victory. Ware’s fantasy potential this season will depend on how much Erik Spoelstra is willing to play him alongside Bam Adebayo. The former Indiana standout can step away from the basket, but can he do it well enough to avoid negatively impacting Miami’s offensive spacing? Regardless of the answer, Ware is a rookie who needs to be selected in all drafts.

Ware’s comfort level has improved by the game, and he has been one of the best rookies in Las Vegas. The 15th overall pick in last month’s draft recorded a second consecutive double-double, and he is up to seven blocked shots in three games. The talent level at summer league is not on par with what Ware will experience in October. But the rebounding, shot blocking, and motor are attributes that should translate. Even though Ware is likely to come off the bench, he’s a rookie worth selecting in standard league drafts.

Ware has played hard throughout his summer with the Heat, providing precisely what the team hoped to receive when selecting the former Indiana center with the 15th overall pick. He recorded another double-double on Monday, his second of the summer, while also producing a full stat line. Bam Adebayo being in the lineup likely prohibits Ware from being a starter, but there will be times when the two bigs share the court. Ware’s perimeter shooting ability in those spots will help the Heat spacing-wise.