2018 NBA Statistical Review (Southwest Division)

Intro

Using basketball-reference.com I gathered the regular season totals of all players who logged at least 150 minutes (a set of 437 players) this 2017-18 season. I then examined each players' total output in the nine categories commonly used in the fantasy basketball community (3-points made, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, turnovers, points, field goal %, and free throw %). I calculated the z-scores (the amount of standard deviations away from the mean the datum is) of each player's category to equalize all numbers and give a clear score of how each player performed in each category on the year.

I then took the average of each players' set of nine z-scores to give them their "9-cat average". I also took averages of each players' best eight z-scores (dropping their worst category) to give them their "8-best average". I also calculated everyone's fantasy points per game (based off of FanDuel's scoring system) to give a per-game perspective.

My overall rankings (and total work) can be see here, but the highlights of the Southwest Division follow...

Also, check out the Eastern Conference (Atlantic, Central and Southeast) divisions by following the links.

Dallas Mavericks

61. Dirk Nowitzki
Age: 39 - Games: 77

Points: 927 (0.733) - Rebounds: 438 (1.022)
Assists: 120 (-0.079) - 3P Made: 138 (1.358)
Steals: 43 (-0.002) - Blocks: 45 (0.647)
Turnovers: 51 (0.424) - FT%: 0.898 (1.290)
FG%: 0.456 (-0.008)
FanDuel PPG: 23.97
9-Cat Average: 0.598

8-Best Average: 0.683

-As shocking as it may be, Dirk Nowitzki was able to be the highest ranking Maverick despite being 39 years young. Dirk played 77 games this season which allowed him to get a pleasantly high amount of rebound, threes and blocks while maintaining great efficiencies. We can't expect much from Dirk going forward but this year was great to see.

86. Harrison Barnes

Age: 25 - Games: 77
Points: 1452 (1.891) - Rebounds: 468 (1.179)
Assists: 152 (0.175) - 3P Made: 119 (1.032)
Steals: 49 (0.118) - Blocks: 14 (-0.459)
Turnovers: 118 (-0.697) - FT%: 0.827 (0.670)
FG%: 0.445 (-0.162)
FanDuel PPG: 30.03
9-Cat Average: 0.424

8-Best Average: 0.564

-Harrison Barnes can get rebounds, hit threes and score. While he does all those things well and on good efficiencies, the lack of meat in his other categories leaves his game feeling incomplete. It may be unfair to gripe about Barnes, who is a quality starter, and his youth does give space for improvement, but the absence of blocks, assists and steals are noticeable. 

129. Dennis Smith Jr.

Age: 20 - Games: 69
Points: 1048 (1.000) - Rebounds: 260 (0.089)
Assists: 358 (1.809) - 3P Made: 106 (0.810)
Steals: 71 (0.882) - Blocks: 18 (-0.317)
Turnovers: 195 (-1.986) - FT%: 0.694 (-0.490)
FG%: 0.395 (-0.864)
FanDuel PPG: 28.54
9-Cat Average: 0.104

8-Best Average: 0.365

-It was a pretty good rookie season for Dennis Smith Jr. because of his high amount of points, assists, threes and steals. DSJ's efficiencies were bad but that is to be expected from a person Smith's age. I have no doubt in my mind that Dennis Smith will be in the top 50 within the next few seasons.

Houston Rockets

3. James Harden
Age: 28 - Games: 72

Points: 2191 (3.522) - Rebounds: 389 (0.765)
Assists: 630 (3.967) - 3P Made: 265 (3.531)
Steals: 126 (2.619) - Blocks: 50 (0.826)
Turnovers: 315 (-3.994) - FT%: 0.858 (0.941)
FG%: 0.449 (-0.106)
FanDuel PPG: 53.00
9-Cat Average: 1.341

8-Best Average: 2.008

-It was another monster season for the MVP favorite, James Harden. In the thick of his prime, Harden produced outlier levels in points, assists, and threes while providing an elite number of steals as well. Considering James did this all while coming in above-average (sans one highly-droppable category) and there is no wonder why Harden is the runaway MVP candidate. 

22. Clint Capela

Age: 23 - Games: 74
Points: 1026 (0.951) - Rebounds: 802 (2.929)
Assists: 68 (-0.491) - 3P Made: 0 (-1.004)
Steals: 58 (0.472) - Blocks: 137 (3.932)
Turnovers: 103 (-0.446) - FT%: 0.560 (-1.660)
FG%: 0.652 (2.745)
FanDuel PPG: 34.76
9-Cat Average: 0.825

8-Best Average: 1.136

-Seeing Clint Capela ranked this highly may be rather surprising to many but the young man has become one of the best at what he does. Capela may be limited in three key categories but he is one of the best rebounders, blockers, and field goal shooters around. With Clint's young age, it is possible that he can still improve as well.

28. Chris Paul

Age: 32 - Games: 58
Points: 1081 (1.073) - Rebounds: 313 (0.367)
Assists: 457 (2.595) - 3P Made: 144 (1.460)
Steals: 96 (1.672) - Blocks: 14 (-0.459)
Turnovers: 128 (-0.865) - FT%: 0.919 (1.473)
FG%: 0.460 (0.049)
FanDuel PPG: 40.42
9-Cat Average: 0.818

8-Best Average: 1.029

-Chris Paul was not able to play 60 games this season but was still able to rank in the top 30 players of the year. As CP3 enters the twilight of his career, he is still able to provide elite assists, free throws, steals and threes. If Paul can ever play 70+ games again, there is a chance he could break back into the top 20, though his age/history makes that difficult to count on.

Memphis Grizzlies 

23. Marc Gasol
Age: 33 - Games: 73

Points: 1258 (1.463) - Rebounds: 592 (1.829)
Assists: 305 (1.389) - 3P Made: 109 (0.861)
Steals: 54 (0.345) - Blocks: 101 (2.647)
Turnovers: 194 (-1.969) - FT%: 0.834 (0.732)
FG%: 0.420 (-0.513)
FanDuel PPG: 36.94
9-Cat Average: 0.754

8-Best Average: 1.094

-Marc Gasol may be reaching the twilight of his career but he has done much in recent years to make his game more interesting than ever. Gasol was above-average in six categories this season while providing an elite level of blocks. Because Marc is already into his 30s, his game is bound to a step backwards eventually but the Gasols have proven to stave off father time.

118. Tyreke Evans

Age: 28 - Games: 52
Points: 1010 (0.916) - Rebounds: 265 (0.116)
Assists: 269 (1.103) - 3P Made: (-0.352)
Steals: 57 (0.440) - Blocks: 17 (-0.352)
Turnovers: 117 (-0.681) - FT%: 0.785 (0.304)
FG%: 0.452 (-0.064)
FanDuel PPG: 35.32
9-Cat Average: 0.303

8-Best Average: 0.426

-It was comeback season for Tyreke Evans who put up high quality points and assists while shooting decent percentages given his volume. As usual, the catch with Evans will always be the amount of games he is able to play. Tyreke is still in his prime but his injury history is always going to be a question for him to answer.

177. Dillon Brooks

Age: 22 - Games: 82
Points: 898 (0.669) - Rebounds: 257 (0.074)
Assists: 135 (0.040) - 3P Made: 94 (0.604)
Steals: 73 (0.945) - Blocks: 17 (-0.352)
Turnovers: 124 (-0.798) - FT%: 0.747 (-0.028)
FG%: 0.440 (-0.232)
FanDuel PPG: 18.96
9-Cat Average: 0.103

8-Best Average: 0.215

-Dillon Brooks came on strong, especially down the end of his rookie season. While the numbers may seem relatively muted, Brooks produced a surprisingly high amount of points, threes and steals while maintaining good stats everywhere else as well. Given Dillon's age and Memphis' need for production, I expect Brooks to take another step forward next season.

New Orleans Pelicans

2. Anthony Davis
Age: 24 - Games: 75

Points: 2110 (3.343) - Rebounds: 832 (3.087)
Assists: 174 (0.350) - 3P Made: 55 (-0.063)
Steals: 115 (2.272) - Blocks: 193 (5.931)
Turnovers: 162 (-1.434) - FT%: 0.828 (0.679)
FG%: 0.534 (1.088)
FanDuel PPG: 55.09
9-Cat Average: 1.695

8-Best Average: 2.086

-Anthony Davis was arguably the best individual statistical player this season due to his extreme outlier in blocks, points and rebounds. Davis was also able to produce elite steals and an above-average field goal percentage. Given that AD's is still rather young, there is a chance his best years are ahead of him (if you can imagine that).

13. Jrue Holiday

Age: 27 - Games: 81
Points: 1537 (2.079) - Rebounds: 365 (0.640)
Assists: 486 (2.825) - 3P Made: 120 (1.049)
Steals: 123 (2.524) - Blocks: 64 (1.326)
Turnovers: 213 (-2.287) - FT%: 0.786 (0.313)
FG%: 0.494 (0.526)
FanDuel PPG: 37.68
9-Cat Average: 0.999

8-Best Average: 1.410

-The underrated king this season is Jrue Holiday because he produced elite points, steals and assists with above-average threes. Holiday was also a solid source of rebounds, blocks and percentages, which makes him an all-around asset. Jrue is in the middle of his prime so this might be his career year but next season should be similar (though his injury history makes me skeptical that he can repeat 81 games).

33. DeMarcus Cousins

Age: 27 - Games: 48
Points: 1210 (1.357) - Rebounds: 617 (1.960)
Assists: 257 (1.008) - 3P Made: 104 (0.776)
Steals: 79 (1.135) - Blocks: 76 (1.754)
Turnovers: 242 (-2.772) - FT%: 0.746 (-0.036)
FG%: 0.470 (0.189)
FanDuel PPG: 53.31
9-Cat Average: 0.597

8-Best Average: 1.018

-Boogie Cousins was having a monster statistical season before it was cut short by injury. Even though he play about half the season, Cousins still produced well above-average points, rebounds, assists, threes, blocks and steals. It is safe to say that DeMarcus can do it all if he can stay on the floor. Cousins is in the middle of his prime so his return from injury should be similar to what he was before.

San Antonio Spurs

35. LaMarcus Aldridge

Age: 32 - Games: 75

Points: 1735 (2.516) - Rebounds: 635 (2.054)

Assists: 152 (0.175) - 3P Made: 27 (-0.542)

Steals: 43 (-0.002) - Blocks: 90 (2.254)

Turnovers: 111 (-0.580) - FT%: 0.837 (0.758)

FG%: 0.510 (0.751)

FanDuel PPG: 40.17

9-Cat Average: 0.820

8-Best Average: 0.995

-LeMarcus Aldridge had another strong season with powerful levels of points, blocks and rebounds on quality percentages. Aldridge may not help much in any other areas but he is not much of a negative either. Due to LeMarcus' relatively advanced age, I suspect a gradual decline to persist going forward, though San Antonio is known for prolonging careers.

66. Kyle Anderson

Age: 24 - Games: 74

Points: 585 (-0.022) - Rebounds: 396 (0.802)

Assists: 202 (0.572) - 3P Made: 19 (-0.679)
Steals: 115 (2.272) - Blocks: 60 (1.183)

Turnovers: 94 (-0.296) - FT%: 0.712 (-.333)

FG%: 0.527 (0.989)

FanDuel PPG: 24.25

9-Cat Average: 0.499

8-Best Average: 0.646

-It was a mini-breakout season for Kyle Anderson who was given a surprise amount of responsibility and handled it all well. Anderson contributes good rebounds and defensive stats while shooting well from the field. Because Kyle Anderson is only 24, there is opportunity for his game to take another step forward but that is growing unlikely.

153. Dejounte Murray

Age: 21 - Games: 81

Points: 654 (0.131) - Rebounds: 459 (1.132)

Assists: 231 (0.802) - 3P Made: 9 (-0.850)

Steals: 97 (1.703) - Blocks: 31 (0.147)

Turnovers: 134 (-0.965) - FT%: 0.709 (-0.359)

FG%: 0.443 (-0.190)

FanDuel PPG: 22.24

9-Cat Average: 0.172

8-Best Average: 0.314

-Dejounte Murray had a nice sophomore year and stepped into a bigger role well enough. Murray is good for steals, assists and rebounds but is still working on contributing in other categories. Because Dejounte is so young, it seems inevitable for his growth to continue. I am high on Dejounte Murray and believe he should be in the top 100 next year.

2018 NBA Statistical Review (Atlantic Division)

Intro

Using basketball-reference.com I gathered the regular season totals of all players who logged at least 150 minutes (a set of 437 players) this 2017-18 season. I then examined each players' total output in the nine categories commonly used in the fantasy basketball community (3-points made, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, turnovers, points, field goal %, and free throw %). I calculated the z-scores (the amount of standard deviations away from the mean the datum is) of each player's category to equalize all numbers and give a clear score of how each player performed in each category on the year.

I then took the average of each players' set of nine z-scores to give them their "9-cat average". I also took averages of each players' best eight z-scores (dropping their worst category) to give them their "8-best average". I also calculated everyone's fantasy points per game (based off of FanDuel's scoring system) to give a per-game perspective.

This exercise favors players who played more games this season as all z-scores are based off season totals. My final rankings are based off of "8-best average".

My overall rankings (and total work) can be seen here, but the highlights of the Atlantic Division follow.

Also, check out the Central and Southeast divisions by following the links.

Enjoy.

Boston Celtics

42. Al Horford

Age: 31 - Games: 72
Points: 927 (0.733) - Rebounds: 530 (1.504)
Assists: 339 (1.659) - 3P Made: 97 (0.656)
Steals: 43 (-0.002) - Blocks: 78 (1.825)
Turnovers: 132 (-0.932) - FT%: 0.783 (0.286)
FG%: 0.489 (0.456)
FanDuel PPG: 31.98
9-Cat Average: 0.687

8-Best Average: 0.890

-Horford had good season overall. He provided above-average stats in 5 categories and was solid in all the rest. At the age of 31, it may be the time in Al's career where we see declines from year to year but he is still providing a level of basketball that should be useful for a few more seasons.

43. Kyrie Irving

Age: 25 - Games: 60
Points: 1466 (1.922) - Rebounds: 227 (-0.084)
Assists: 306 (1.397) - 3P Made: 166 (1.837)
Steals: 65 (0.693) - Blocks: 17 (-0.352)
Turnovers: 140 (-1.065) - FT%: 0.889 (1.212)
FG%: 0.491 (0.484)
FanDuel PPG: 38.39
9-Cat Average: 0.671

8-Best Average: 0.889

-Kyrie missed a chunk of games this season that really set him back in the overall rankings. Checking the FanDuel PPG and Irving's elite levels in four categories, it is easy to see Uncle Drew's top 20 potential but if he continues to turn in partial seasons, he will continue to be ranked as partially elite.

51. Jayson Tatum

Age: 19 - Games: 80
Points: 1112 (1.141) - Rebounds: 402 (0.833)
Assists: 128 (-0.015) - 3P Made: 105 (0.793)
Steals: 83 (1.261) - Blocks: 58 (1.111)
Turnovers: 114 (-0.630) - FT%: 0.826 (0.662)
FG%: 0.475 (0.259)
FanDuel PPG: 26.19
9-Cat Average: 0.602

8-Best Average: 0.756

-Jayson Tatum had a very exciting 2018 season. He gaves above-average numbers in 6 categories and isn't too bad in any place. Given Tatum's age and situation, it is easy to see a lot of potential for years to come. I think Jayson could be a top 30 player as soon as next season.

Brooklyn Nets

53. Spencer Dinwiddie

Age: 24 - Games: 80
Points: 1007 (0.909) - Rebounds: 259 (0.084)
Assists: 524 (3.126) - 3P Made: 141 (1.409)
Steals: 68 (0.787) - Blocks: 23 (-0.138)
Turnovers: 128 (-0.865) - FT%: 0.813 (0.584)
FG%: 0.489 (-0.977)
FanDuel PPG: 28.11
9-Cat Average: 0.543

8-Best Average: 0.733

-Spencer Dinwiddie had a breakout season in 2018 due to his elevated stats in five categories (including an elite level of assists). Due to his age, there is reason to believe Dinwiddie will stick around for some time. It is unclear exactly how Brooklyn will proceed but Spencer should be a part of their picture.

108. Jarrett Allen

Age: 19 - Games: 72
Points: 587 (-0.017) - Rebounds: 388 (0.760)
Assists: 49 (-0.642) - 3P Made: 5 (-0.919)
Steals: 28 (-0.476) - Blocks: 88 (2.182)
Turnovers: 82 (-0.095) - FT%: 0.776 (0.225)
FG%: 0.589 (1.860)
FanDuel PPG: 19.33
9-Cat Average: 0.320

8-Best Average: 0.475

-Jarrett Allen had a very promising season for a player in his position. Although his minutes where brought along slowly, Allen provided enough rebounds and blocks on good enough percentages to be a quality rotation player. Given Jarrett's age, there is optimism that he breakout as soon as next year.

117. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson

Age: 23 - Games: 68
Points: 946 (0.775) - Rebounds: 459 (1.132)
Assists: 167 (0.294) - 3P Made: 13 (-0.782)
Steals: 65 (0.693) - Blocks: 48 (0.754)
Turnovers: 121 (-0.747) - FT%: 0.788 (0.330)
FG%: 0.472 (0.217)
FanDuel PPG: 28.90
9-Cat Average: 0.296

8-Best Average: 0.431

-Rondae Hollis-Jefferson gets it done in a variety of categories and his percentages are better than most of his teammates. RHJ had muted totals due to some missed games this year, something he will need to prove he can move away from these next few years. Otherwise, there is a lot to like here.

New York Knicks

58. Enes Kanter

Age: 25 - Games: 71
Points: 1000 (0.894) - Rebounds: 780 (2.814)
Assists: 105 (-0.198) - 3P Made: 0 (-1.004)
Steals: 36 (-0.223) - Blocks: 37 (0.362)
Turnovers: 122 (-0.764) - FT%: 0.848 (0.854)
FG%: 0.592 (1.902)
FanDuel PPG: 30.85
9-Cat Average: 0.515

8-Best Average: 0.705

-The surprise pillar of the 2018 Knicks was Enes Kanter (who only played 71 games). Kanter gets rebounds, he shoots good percents and he scores enough to be a noticeable player wherever he goes. Maybe his game isn't as versatile as others but Enes' game is reliable.

76. Kristaps Porzingis

Age: 22 - Games: 48
Points: 1088 (1.088) - Rebounds: 316 (0.383)
Assists: 57 (-0.579) - 3P Made: 90 (0.536)
Steals: 36 (-0.223) - Blocks: 115 (3.146)
Turnovers: 93 (-0.279) - FT%: 0.793 (0.374)
FG%: 0.439 (-0.246)
FanDuel PPG: 39.85
9-Cat Average: 0.467

8-Best Average: 0.597

-It was a spectacular start to the season that was unfortunately cut short for Kristaps Porzingis. Before his injury, Porzingis was looking like a MIP candidate with elite paces in a handful of categories earlier this year. If Kristaps plays a full season, he has top tier potential but he will need to prove he can next season.

142. Tim Hardaway Jr.

Age: 25 - Games: 57
Points: 996 (0.885) - Rebounds: 224 (-0.099)
Assists: 155 (0.199) - 3P Made: 130 (1.221)
Steals: 62 (0.598) - Blocks: 10 (-0.602)
Turnovers: 92 (-0.262) - FT%: 0.816 (0.574)
FG%: 0.421 (-0.499)
FanDuel PPG: 28.44
9-Cat Average: 0.224

8-Best Average: 0.327

-Tim Hardaway Jr. hits threes and gets a good amount of steals. THJ also shoots a good percentage from the line. There are some signs that Hardaway could get enough assist if he played enough games as well. There are some nice things about his game but not enough to rank very high.

Philadelphia 76ers

14. Ben Simmons

Age: 21 - Games: 81
Points: 1279 (1.510) - Rebounds: 659 (2.180)
Assists: 661 (4.213) - 3P Made: 0 (-1.004)
Steals: 140 (3.061) - Blocks: 70 (1.540)
Turnovers: 278 (-3.375) - FT%: 0.560 (-1.660)
FG%: 0.545 (1.242)
FanDuel PPG: 42.14
9-Cat Average: 0.856

8-Best Average: 1.385

-Ben Simmons was an elite NBA player in the 2018 season. Simmons was a true outlier in multiple categories and above-average in almost everything. Simmons gets knocked for his clear shortcomings (shooting) but his game clearly makes up for that and more. Ben Simmons is a likely top 10 candidate for years to come.

19. Robert Covington

Age: 27 - Games: 80
Points: 1009 (0.914) - Rebounds: 433 (0.996)
Assists: 156 (0.207) - 3P Made: 203 (2.470)
Steals: 137 (2.996) - Blocks: 72 (1.611)
Turnovers: 126 (-0.831) - FT%: 0.853 (0.897)
FG%: 0.413 (-0.611)
FanDuel PPG: 28.30
9-Cat Average: 0.958

8-Best Average: 1.181

-Robert Covington had a great year in in many ways this season. His game will be overshadowed by the likes of Simmons and Embiid but it should be noted that Covington was abover-average in every counting stat this year. It was a breakout campaign for RoCo.

26. Joel Embiid

Age: 23 - Games: 63
Points: 1445 (1.876) - Rebounds: 690 (2.343)
Assists: 199 (0.548) - 3P Made: 66 (0.125)
Steals: 40 (-0.097) - Blocks: 111 (3.004)
Turnovers: 234 (-2.638) - FT%: 0.769 (0.164)
FG%: 0.483 (0.372)
FanDuel PPG: 44.29
9-Cat Average: 0.633

8-Best Average: 1.042

-It was a sensational year for Joel Embiid but his season totals don't have him as high as one might expect due to Embiid's limited game total. It is clear that Joel's limiting factor will always been his games played. The sky is the limit if he ever plays a full season.

Toronto Raptors

15. Kyle Lowry

Age: 31 - Games: 78
Points: 1267 (1.483) - Rebounds: 434 (1.001)
Assists: 537 (3.230) - 3P Made: 238 (3.069)
Steals: 85 (1.324) - Blocks: 19 (-0.281)
Turnovers: 183 (-1.785) - FT%: 0.854 (0.906)
FG%: 0.427 (-0.415)
FanDuel PPG: 34.90
9-Cat Average: 0.948

8-Best Average: 1.290

-It may have slightly flown under the radar but Kyle Lowry had another strong season. Lowry submitted two elite categories and four others that could be considered well above average. It will be interesting to see how long Kyle can keep this up given his age. I imagine he'll age more gracefully than others.

36. DeMar DeRozan

Age: 28 - Games: 80
Points: 1840 (2.747) - Rebounds: 315 (0.378)
Assists: 417 (2.278) - 3P Made: 89 (0.519)
Steals: 85 (1.324) - Blocks: 22 (-0.174)
Turnovers: 175 (-1.651) - FT%: 0.825 (0.653)
FG%: 0.456 (-0.008)
FanDuel PPG: 37.37
9-Cat Average: 0.674

8-Best Average: 0.965

-Like his running mate, it was a good campaign for DeMar DeRozan. Much noise has been made about his uptick in 3-pointers but DeRozan also added in a lot of assists and steals this season. This all helps DeMar be more than just a scorer, which he is sometimes pegged as. I imagine DeRozan is awfully close to his peak right now. 

60. Serge Ibaka

Age: 28 - Games: 76
Points: 959 (0.804) - Rebounds: 478 (1.232)
Assists: 62 (-0.539) - 3P Made: 107 (0.827)
Steals: 29 (-0.444) - Blocks: 99 (2.575)
Turnovers: 90 (-0.229) - FT%: 0.797 (0.409)
FG%: 0.483 (0.372)
FanDuel PPG: 25.26
9-Cat Average: 0.556

8-Best Average: 0.693

-Serge Ibaka can still block shots, he still gets a good amount of rebounds and he can still score with enough threes to be a quality rotation player. I sense his numbers will more likely diminish than advance next season due to what he's shown over the years but that is not a certainty. 

2018 NBA Statistical Review (Central Division)

Intro

Using basketball-reference.com I gathered the regular season totals of all players who logged at least 150 minutes (a set of 437 players) this 2017-18 season. I then examined each players' total output in the nine categories commonly used in the fantasy basketball community (3-points made, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, turnovers, points, field goal %, and free throw %). I calculated the z-scores (the amount of standard deviations away from the mean the datum is) of each player's category to equalize all numbers and give a clear score of how each player performed in each category on the year.

I then took the average of each players' set of nine z-scores to give them their "9-cat average". I also took averages of each players' best eight z-scores (dropping their worst category) to give them their "8-best average". I also calculated everyone's fantasy points per game (based off of FanDuel's scoring system) to give a per-game perspective.

My overall rankings (and total work) can be seen here, but the highlights of the Central Division follow...

Also, check out the Atlantic and Southeast divisions by following the links.

Chicago Bulls

85. Lauri Markkanen

Age: 20 - Games: 68
Points: 1033 (0.967) - Rebounds: 508 (1.389)
Assists: 79 (-0.404) - 3P Made: 145 (1.477)
Steals: 39 (-0.128) - Blocks: 40 (0.469)
Turnovers: 83 (-0.112) - FT%: 0.843 (0.810)
FG%: 0.434 (-0.317)
FanDuel PPG: 28.16
9-Cat Average: 0.461

8-Best Average: 0.569

-The highest ranking player to finish the season on Chicago's roster is Lauri Markkanen. That speaks to the state of the Bulls right now but it also speaks to Markkanen's rookie year. Larui provided everything Chicago could have hoped for with points, rebounds and threes. Throw in decent percentages and defensive stats and Markkanen has a very bright future.

88. Justin Holiday

Age: 28 - Games: 72
Points: 876 (0.620) - Rebounds: 291 (0.252)
Assists: 153 (0.183) - 3P Made: 161 (1.751)
Steals: 80 (1.166) - Blocks: 31 (0.147)
Turnovers: 93 (-0.279) - FT%: 0.823 (0.636)
FG%: 0.371 (-1.201)
FanDuel PPG: 23.54
9-Cat Average: 0.364

8-Best Average: 0.560

-Justin Holiday may not be exciting but he got it done well enough in most of he categories to make up for his poor shooting percentage. I am skeptical if Holiday will ever top this season but he did well enough with his opportunity. 

141. Kris Dunn

Age: 23 - Games: 52
Points: 699 (0.230) - Rebounds: 221 (-0.115)
Assists: 310 (1.429) - 3P Made: 43 (-0.268)
Steals: 104 (1.924) - Blocks: 27 (0.005)
Turnovers: 150 (-1.233) - FT%: 0.730 (-0.176)
FG%: 0.429 (-0.387)
FanDuel PPG: 32.16
9-Cat Average: 0.157

8-Best Average: 0.330

-It is pretty impressive that Kris Dunn ranks so high despite missing 30 games this year. He played in an almost ideal situation as he was given a lot of room to gain experience so it will be interesting to see if that can last. Dunn definitely produced on a per game pace and should break the top 100 next year if he plays more than 70 games.

Cleveland Cavaliers 

1. LeBron James

Age: 33 - Games: 82
Points: 2251 (3.654) - Rebounds: 709 (2.442)
Assists: 747 (4.896) - 3P Made: 149 (1.546)
Steals: 116 (2.303) - Blocks: 71 (1.576)
Turnovers: 347 (-4.529) - FT%: 0.731 (-0.167)
FG%: 0.542 (1.200)
FanDuel PPG: 54.10
9-Cat Average: 1.436

8-Best Average: 2.181

-The King comes in on top this year for several reasons. He is an outlier in four categories and elite in three others. Despite all that, I think his most impressive feat this year was 82 games. LeBron James is truly having a special career and this season was just another league-leading performance. 

77. Kevin Love

Age: 29 - Games: 59
Points: 1039 (0.980) - Rebounds: 546 (1.588)
Assists: 103 (1.340) - 3P Made: 137 (1.751)
Steals: 43 (-0.002) - Blocks: 24 (-0.102)
Turnovers: 90 (-0.229) - FT%: 0.880 (1.133)
FG%: 0.458 (0.021)
FanDuel PPG: 33.22
9-Cat Average: 0.502

8-Best Average: 0.593

-Kevin Love had a very strong start to the season but ends up outside the top 50 because he missed so much time down the stretch. Love did well in 5 categories and should be trusted to bring something similar next year. However, I do think it is clear that we are seeing the beginning of Kevin Love's decline.

133. Kyle Korver

Age: 36 - Games: 73
Points: 672 (0.170) - Rebounds: 165 (-0.408)
Assists: 88 (-0.333) - 3P Made: 164 (1.802)
Steals: 31 (-0.381) - Blocks: 27 (0.005)
Turnovers: 55 (0.357) - FT%: 0.889 (1.212)
FG%: 0.459 (0.035)
FanDuel PPG: 15.36
9-Cat Average: 0.273

8-Best Average: 0.358

-We all know Kyle Korver is a 3-point specialist who gets it done in the efficiency numbers but is someone who is generally lacking in all the counting stats. He appears to be ageless so he'll probably be able to keep this up for a couple more years. I'm not the biggest fan but Korver's strengths are clear.

Detroit Pistons

11. Andre Drummond

Age: 24 - Games: 78
Points: 1171 (1.271) - Rebounds: 1247 (5.261)
Assists: 237 (0.850) - 3P Made: 0 (-1.004)
Steals: 114 (2.240) - Blocks: 127 (3.575)
Turnovers: 200 (-2.069) - FT%: 0.605 (-1.267)
FG%: 0.529 (1.018)
FanDuel PPG: 45.46
9-Cat Average: 1.097

8-Best Average: 1.493

-Andre Drummond had another prolarizing season which is what we've come to expect from him. Drummond had some of the best rebounding and defensive numbers in the league. He also gets enough assists and points to be ahead of the curve. However, because his shooting categories are so below-average, Andre finishes the season just outside the top 10.

84. Blake Griffin

Age: 28 - Games: 58
Points: 1242 (1.428) - Rebounds: 428 (0.970)
Assists: 334 (1.619) - 3P Made: 111 (0.895)
Steals: 41 (-0.065) - Blocks: 18 (-0.317)
Turnovers: 165 (-1.484) - FT%: 0.785 (0.304)
FG%: 0.438 (-0.260)
FanDuel PPG: 39.11
9-Cat Average: 0.343

8-Best Average: 0.572

-It was another star-crossed season for Blake Griffin who clearly still has game when he's healthy. Despite missing 20+ games, Griffin was still able to be above-average four counting statistics. I sold all my Blake Griffin stock a long time ago but he always has the potential for a resurgence due to his abilities. This caveat will always be whether or not Blake can ever surpass 70 games in a season again.

187. Stanley Johnson

Age: 21 - Games: 69
Points: 599 (0.009) - Rebounds: 252 (0.047)
Assists: 112 (-0.142) - 3P Made: 67 (0.142)
Steals: 95 (1.640) - Blocks: 14 (-0.459)
Turnovers: 77 (-0.011) - FT%: 0.772 (0.191)
FG%: 0.375 (-1.145)
FanDuel PPG: 19.12
9-Cat Average: 0.030

8-Best Average: 0.177

-Stanley Johnson had another quiet season but there is still potential here. All of Johnson's categories hover around average (outside his steals specialist abilities) but at the age of 21, that could be considered ahead of the curve. I have my reservations but since this franchise may be in flux going forward, I could see Stanley stepping into more opportunity soon.

Indiana Pacers

8. Victor Oladipo

Age: 25 - Games: 75
Points: 1735 (2.516) - Rebounds: 390 (0.771)
Assists: 323 (1.532) - 3P Made: 161 (1.751)
Steals: 177 (4.229) - Blocks: 57 (1.076)
Turnovers: 219 (-2.387) - FT%: 0.799 (0.426)
FG%: 0.477 (0.287)
FanDuel PPG: 42.27
9-Cat Average: 1.133

8-Best Average: 1.573

-The Cinderella member of the top 10 is Victor Oladipo and he earned every bit of it. Oladipo submitted two elite categories while coming in well above average in 4 others. In fact, Victor was only below average in turnovers (the least reliable category) and, at 24, Oladipo actually still has time to improve his game even further.

78. Myles Turner

Age: 21 - Games: 65
Points: 828 (0.515) - Rebounds: 417 (0.912)
Assists: 87 (-0.340) - 3P Made: 56 (-0.046)
Steals: 38 (-0.160) - Blocks: 118 (3.253)
Turnovers: 96 (-0.329) - FT%: 0.777 (0.234)
FG%: 0.479 (0.315)
FanDuel PPG: 28.17
9-Cat Average: 0.484

8-Best Average: 0.587

-Myles Turner turned in what many consider to be a disappointing individual season (myself included). However, much of that can be chalked up to Turner's high amount of missed games (something that was not a problem last year). I still believe Turner will have multiple top 50 seasons throughout his career but, besides his elite blocks, Myles' numbers were only mildly good this campaign. 

144. Domantas Sabonis

Age: 21 - Games: 74
Points: 861 (0.587) - Rebounds: 572 (1.724)
Assists: 151 (0.167) - 3P Made: 13 (-0.782)
Steals: 40 (-0.097) - Blocks: 32 (0.183)
Turnovers: 137 (-1.015) - FT%: 0.750 (-0.001)
FG%: 0.514 (0.807)
FanDuel PPG: 25.04
9-Cat Average: 0.175

8-Best Average: 0.324

-Domantas Sabonis was another pleasant surprise for Indiana this season as the young man grabbed rebounds and hit shots. Sabonis is still very young so he can continue to grow. If Domantas can add another above-average category or two to his game over the years, he can definitely become a top 100 staple.

Milwaukee Bucks

6. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Age: 25 - Games: 75
Points: 2014 (3.131) - Rebounds: 753 (2.673)
Assists: 361 (1.833) - 3P Made: 43 (-0.268)
Steals: 109 (2.082) - Blocks: 106 (2.825)
Turnovers: 223 (-2.454) - FT%: 0.760 (0.086)
FG%: 0.529 (1.018)
FanDuel PPG: 51.75
9-Cat Average: 1.214

8-Best Average: 1.672

-The meteor that is Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to rise. Antetokounmpo put up elite counting stats across the board (outside of threes) and did so on quality percentages. It is clear that Giannis will be a staple of the NBA elite for years to come.

18. Khris Middleton

Age: 26 - Games: 82
Points: 1652 (2.333) - Rebounds: 429 (0.975)
Assists: 328 (1.571) - 3P Made: 146 (1.494)
Steals: 119 (2.398) - Blocks: 21 (-0.210)
Turnovers: 191 (-1.919) - FT%: 0.884 (1.168)
FG%: 0.466 (0.133)
FanDuel PPG: 35.22
9-Cat Average: 0.883

8-Best Average: 1.233

-One of the most underrated players in the NBA is Khris Middleton. Middleton put up two elite categories, three above-average categories and was quality everywhere else too. To say Giannis doesn't have help isn't entirely true because Khris Middleton does seem like the perfect teammate for Antetokounmpo and is just a great player in any situation. There is no reason Middleton can't repeat these numbers next season and beyond.

21. Eric Bledsoe

Age: 28 - Games: 74
Points: 1313 (1.585) - Rebounds: 284 (0.215)
Assists: 370 (1.905) - 3P Made: 125 (1.135)
Steals: 149 (3.345) - Blocks: 42 (0.540)
Turnovers: 216 (-2.337) - FT%: 0.792 (0.365)
FG%: 0.473 (0.231)
FanDuel PPG: 34.67
9-Cat Average: 0.776

8-Best Average: 1.165

-It was a wild ride of a season for Eric Bledsoe. As Bledsoe reaches his peak age and he finds his fit with his newest team, it is clear that he can get volume shots, assists and elite steals while not hurting you too much anywhere else. I question how many more top 50 seasons Eric Bledsoe has left but I do think next year is likely to be one of them.