Congrats! If you're reading this, you’ve made the playoffs in your NBA Fantasy League. But don’t get too comfortable just yet—getting into the postseason is just one part of the battle. Now comes the real challenge: navigating the postseason correctly and securing your victory. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy vet or a rookie, some strategies can help you improve your chances of winning big. With a little extra effort, a keen eye for detail, and some smart moves, you can boost your lineup and outperform your competition.

After last week's article about what to do if you were going to miss the postseason in your NBA Fantasy League, it seems only appropriate to talk about what to do if you did make it. I say ‘did’ because, at this stage, your league's playoffs are likely already underway.

I know what you’re thinking. If the NBA fantasy postseason is already underway, how can I help? Well, because making the playoffs does not mean you know how to win them.

Allow me to share a quick story. Many, many moons ago, my brother asked me to join his basketball league. I didn’t know anything about the game, but I trusted him when he said I’d be okay as long as I got my first few picks correct.

Well—I got the No. 1 pick, and this guy by the name of Kevin Garnett was dominating everybody (2003-04). So, I took him and got two more superstars (I’ve slept since then; I don’t remember who) with my second and third picks.

I rode those three into the postseason and, eventually, the championship game, where I lost because of poor roster management.
To that end, you already may know everything I’m about to say. If you are one of those guys, keep reading. It will make my editor happy. If I tell you something you didn’t know, I’ll take ten percent of your winnings as a consultant fee (JK…unless you want to send me money).

4 Tips For A Better NBA Fantasy Postseason

These are in no particular order.

Your Roster
At this point, your trade deadline has passed, and the only way you can improve is through free agency. But at this stage, anyone worth a roster spot already has one, right? Probably. But just in case, dive into the stats and latest player news. Look for someone who has played well but isn’t on the fantasy radar because of playing time. Maybe if his team is out of playoff contention already he’s going to get more time so the team can see what he can do. Or maybe the guy in front of him has injury issues. At this time of year, you will probably not find anyone. But with a championship, bragging rights, and maybe some money on the line…do it.

The Schedule
If you haven’t done so already, check the schedule to see how many games your best players will have during the playoffs. Do the same for your opponents. If you have the time, dive a little deeper and see if your players (or your opponents) have favorable matchups. This will give you an idea of your scoring potential for the week. Should there be a glaring disparity between your potential and your opponent’s, see what’s available via free agency.

The Rules
If you do not know them, review your league’s rules. Most fantasy players don’t read the fine print. Consequently, they miss out on a detail or two or a loophole that could help them score more points. In the postseason, every point matters.

The Golden Rule
Have fun. Talk smack. Enjoy yourself. Okay, so there may be money on the line, and you take winning money seriously. But you are still playing a game, and games are supposed to be fun. So, relax, post a stupid gif to your league’s message board, and enjoy yourself.

In the end, the NBA Fantasy playoffs are about more than just the players you have on your roster—they're about making the right moves at the right time. By paying attention to matchups, monitoring your players' schedules, and staying engaged with the waiver wire, you can give yourself the edge you need. And above all, remember that fantasy sports are meant to be fun. Enjoy the journey and may the best manager win!