Magic: The Gathering Market Watch: Climbers & Crashers

The new year is already shaping up to be a dynamic period for the Magic: The Gathering secondary market. With seven sets on the roadmap for 2026, collectors and players are closely monitoring price movements for both new and existing cards.

While the future looks busy, the current market offers a fascinating snapshot of demand. Certain cards from 2025 and earlier are experiencing significant price surges, driven by competitive viability and collector interest. Meanwhile, other staples are beginning to decline, signaling a shift in the market landscape.

This week's analysis highlights the most notable climbers and crashers, offering insight into the forces shaping card values. From the elemental power of the Avatar set to the nostalgic appeal of crossover collaborations, the market is reacting to a variety of factors.

Leading the charge among climbers is Badgermole Cub from the Avatar: The Last Airbender set. This card has been a top contender since its preview, prized for its ability to earthbend and generate bonus mana when tapping a creature to cast a spell. Its market value has climbed to approximately $55.

Another card gaining traction is Icetill Explorer, currently valued around $22. This card is particularly valuable in the Edge of Eternities World Shaper precon, as it allows players to play additional lands and retrieve them from the graveyard.

The Aetherdrift set may not be long remembered, but Lumbering Worldwagon is making a lasting impression. This vehicle has seen its value surge from under a dollar to nearly $3, growing in power as more lands are played.

The Stranger Things Secret Lair collaboration continues to see price appreciation. Eleven, the Mage is now valued around $20. This card offers a unique mechanic allowing the player to have eleven cards in their hand, with the added benefit of playing instants and sorceries for free upon attacking.

Another card from the same collaboration, Will the Wise, is also climbing in price to around $12. It features the 'Friends forever' keyword and triggers an investigation from each opponent, who must either pay life or allow the player to investigate.

These cards are notable for their thematic nods to the show's first season and their versatility as potential Commanders, driving sustained collector and player demand.

Not all news is positive for card values. The upcoming release of the Lorwyn Eclipsed Commander decks is set to cause a significant market correction for two specific cards: Necroskitter and Cream of the Crop. Both cards have not been reprinted in years and are included in the new decks.

As soon as these decks arrive, the increased supply is expected to cause a sharp drop in the value of both Necroskitter and Cream of the Crop. For collectors holding these cards, the window to sell may already be closing.

Additionally, cards from the Avatar: The Last Airbender set are beginning to cool off. Aang, at the Crossroads has fallen to just over $1, while the borderless Aang, Swift Savior is now under $20 and continues to drop.

Even powerful, long-standing cards are not immune to market fluctuations. The Ur-Dragon, a formidable 10/10 five-color Dragon, is experiencing a financial decline despite its utility.

Currently valued around $26, this card is known for its ability to lower the cost of Dragon spells even when it resides in the Command Zone. Its recent drop in price demonstrates that even the most iconic cards can see movement based on broader market trends and reprint speculation.

The current market highlights the delicate balance between scarcity, utility, and reprint schedules. Cards like Badgermole Cub and Eleven, the Mage demonstrate how unique mechanics and cross-media appeal can drive value, while the impending release of the Lorwyn Eclipsed decks serves as a reminder of the impact of supply increases.

As 2026 progresses with its packed release calendar, these trends are likely to evolve. Collectors and players should continue to watch for cards that combine competitive strength with collector appeal, while remaining cautious of staples that may be targeted for future reprints.