Wednesday, May 9, 2018

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.

2018 NBA Statistical Review (Southeast 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 Southeast Division follow...

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


Atlanta Hawks

44. Taurean Prince
Age: 23 - Games: 82
Points: 1158 (1.243) - Rebounds: 389 (0.765)
Assists: 214 (0.667) - 3P Made: 176 (2.008)
Steals: 85 (1.324) - Blocks: 42 (0.540)
Turnovers: 191 (-1.919) - FT%: 0.844 (0.819)
FG%: 0.426 (-0.429)
FanDuel PPG: 26.05
9-Cat Average: 0.558
8-Best Average: 0.867

-Taurean Prince had good months and bad months this season, which can be excused a bit due to his younger age. Overall though, Prince put up above-average numbers in seven categories. I believe Prince has enough diversity in his game to be a quality rotation player for the next several years.

79. Dennis Schroder
Age: 24 - Games: 67
Points: 1301 (1.558) - Rebounds: 208 (-0.183)
Assists: 417 (2.278) - 3P Made: 76 (0.914)
Steals: 72 (2.398) - Blocks: 6 (-0.745)
Turnovers: 183 (-1.785) - FT%: 0.849 (0.862)
FG%: 0.436 (-0.288)
FanDuel PPG: 33.24
9-Cat Average: 0.323
8-Best Average: 0.586

-It was a muted season for Dennis Schroder who just missed the 70 games played mark. Schroder performs well in the typical point-guard categories (assists, steals, and shooting) and is elite enough where I do think he could crack the top 40 if he plays a full season. The flames may have cooled on Schroder but I think he still has a few exciting years ahead of him.

81. John Collins
Age: 20 - Games: 74
Points: 777 (0.402) - Rebounds: 541 (1.562)
Assists: 98 (-0.253) - 3P Made: 16 (-0.730)
Steals: 47 (0.124) - Blocks: 80 (1.897)
Turnovers: 105 (-0.480) - FT%: 0.715 (-0.307)
FG%: 0.576 (1.678)
FanDuel PPG: 24.99
9-Cat Average: 0.432
8-Best Average: 0.578

-The apple of Atlanta's eye, John Collins had a very strong rookie season. Collins was able to submit above-average rebounds, blocks and field goal percentage while showing promise in other categories as well. Given Collins' age, there is a lot to get excited about here.


Charlotte Hornets

17. Kemba Walker
Age: 27 - Games: 80
Points: 1770 (2.593) - Rebounds: 247 (0.021)
Assists: 444 (2.492) - 3P Made: 231 (2.949)
Steals: 91 (1.514) - Blocks: 24 (-0.102)
Turnovers: 179 (-1.718) - FT%: 0.864 (0.993)
FG%: 0.431 (-0.359)
FanDuel PPG: 36.23
9-Cat Average: 0.931
8-Best Average: 1.263

-It was another great year for Kemba Walker who continues to fly under the radar due to the minimal success of his team overall. Walker gave elite levels in three categories and above-average numbers in two others. This is Kemba's prime so I expect him to produce similar numbers for the next couple seasons.

29. Dwight Howard
Age: 32 - Games: 81
Points: 1347 (1.660) - Rebounds: 1012 (4.030)
Assists: 105 (-0.198) - 3P Made: 1 (-0.987)
Steals: 48 (0.156) - Blocks: 131 (3.718)
Turnovers: 208 (-2.203) - FT%: 0.574 (-1.537)
FG%: 0.555 (1.383)
FanDuel PPG: 37.63
9-Cat Average: 0.669
8-Best Average: 1.028

-Dwight Howard gets an outlier level of blocks and rebounds while also scoring on a good field goal percentage. Howard is such a polarizing player because his stats themselves are polarized. As strong as his strengths are, Dwight is pretty limited everywhere else and his age makes him eligible for declines from year to year. I think Dwight will hover around the top 50 for another year or two.

291. Malik Monk
Age: 19 - Games: 63
Points: 421 (-0.384) - Rebounds: 66 (-0.927)
Assists: 91 (-0.309) - 3P Made: 83 (0.416)
Steals: 20 (-0.728) - Blocks: 9 (-0.638)
Turnovers: 48 (0.474) - FT%: 0.842 (0.801)
FG%: 0.360 (-1.356)
FanDuel PPG: 10.73
9-Cat Average: -0.293
8-Best Average: -0.162

-It was a quiet rookie season for Malik Monk but I do think there are positives here. If Monk is given a bigger role, I believe he can break into the top 150 as soon as next season. Monk shows signs from the free throw line and he hit a good amount of three while being given far less minutes than many wanted for him. 


Miami Heat

34. Josh Richardson
Age: 24 - Games: 81
Points: 1045 (0.993) - Rebounds: 285 (0.220)
Assists: 231 (0.802) - 3P Made: 127 (1.169)
Steals: 121 (2.461) - Blocks: 75 (1.718)
Turnovers: 140 (-1.065) - FT%: 0.845 (0.828)
FG%: 0.451 (-0.078)
FanDuel PPG: 26.93
9-Cat Average: 0.783
8-Best Average: 1.014

-Josh Richardson finally came on the scene after being a cult hero for a few years. Richardson provides good numbers in literally every category and would be an excellent starter on any team. Because Josh is only 24, I can see him continuing to take steps forward for the next few years.

68. Goran Dragic
Age: 31 - Games: 75
Points: 1296 (1.547) - Rebounds: 307 (0.336)
Assists: 359 (1.817) - 3P Made: 111 (0.895)
Steals: 63 (0.630) - Blocks: 12 (-0.531)
Turnovers: 166 (-1.501) - FT%: 0.801 (0.444)
FG%: 0.450 (-0.092)
FanDuel PPG: 30.16
9-Cat Average: 0.394
8-Best Average: 0.631

-It was another solid year from Goran Dragic who has proven himself to be a quality starting point guard as he gets above-average points, assists, threes and steals. Dragic also shoots good percentages and can rebound well too. Since Goran is past 30, a decline from year to year can be expected but that may not become clear for another couple seasons.

90. Hassan Whiteside
Age: 28 - Games: 54
Points: 754 (0.351) - Rebounds: 618 (1.962)
Assists: 54 (-0.602) - 3P Made: 2 (-0.970)
Steals: 37 (-0.191) - Blocks: 94 (2.397)
Turnovers: 92 (-0.262) - FT%: 0.703 (-0.412)
FG%: 0.540 (1.172)
FanDuel PPG: 34.77
9-Cat Average: 0.383
8-Best Average: 0.552

-It was a troubled campaign for Hassan Whiteside who wasn't able to clock in 60 games this year. Whiteside can rebound and block shots at an elite level while also scoring decently well on a good field goal percentage. However, beyond that Hassan can be limited and because of his career-long issue with minutes, I hesitate to invest in him.


Orlando Magic

62. Nikola Vucevic
Age: 27 - Games: 57
Points: 939 (0.759) - Rebounds: 523 (1.468)
Assists: 191 (0.485) - 3P Made: 64 (0.091)
Steals: 56 (0.409) - Blocks: 63 (1.290)
Turnovers: 109 (-0.547) - FT%: 0.819 (0.601)
FG%: 0.475 (0.259)
FanDuel PPG: 36.86
9-Cat Average: 0.535
8-Best Average: 0.670

-Nikola Vicevic was a positive in eight categories this season despite missing more than 20 games. I have always questioned Vucevic's tansferability but I cannot deny that he has filled up the stat sheets for many years now. I've never been one to invest much in Nikola but there's still opportunity in Orlando for him to repeat these numbers next year (with upside that he can play more games as well).

116. Aaron Gordon
Age: 22 - Games: 58
Points: 1022 (0.943) - Rebounds: 457 (1.122)
Assists: 136 (0.048) - 3P Made: 115 (0.964)
Steals: 59 (0.503) - Blocks: 45 (0.647)
Turnovers: 107 (-0.513) - FT%: 0.698 (-0.455)
FG%: 0.434 (-0.317)
FanDuel PPG: 34.13
9-Cat Average: 0.327
8-Best Average: 0.432

-Aaron Gordon can get all the counting stats but struggles with his percentages. I am a fan of Gordon's multicategorical game and there is a lot of upside due to his age & the possibilities of him playing more than 70 games in a season one day. Either way, I would bet on Gordon being in the top 80 next season.

131. Evan Fournier
Age: 25 - Games: 57
Points: 1013 (0.923) - Rebounds: 180 (-0.330)
Assists: 165 (0.278) - 3P Made: 127 (1.169)
Steals: 47 (0.124) - Blocks: 16 (-0.388)
Turnovers: 95 (-0.312) - FT%: 0.867 (1.020)
FG%: 0.459 (0.035)
FanDuel PPG: 27.55
9-Cat Average: 0.280
8-Best Average: 0.363

-Evan Fournier provides quality in six categories, which is rather rare. Unfortunately, his breakout season seems to be in perpetual delay due to one reason or another (this season being the games missed). Despite the disappointment, I expect Evan to hang around this league for awhile due to his diverse game.



Washington Wizards

16. Bradley Beal
Age: 24 - Games: 82
Points: 1857 (2.785) - Rebounds: 363 (0.629)
Assists: 373 (1.928) - 3P Made: 199 (2.402)
Steals: 97 (1.703) - Blocks: 36 (0.326)
Turnovers: 214 (-2.304) - FT%: 0.793 (0.374)
FG%: 0.460 (0.049)
FanDuel PPG: 37.04
9-Cat Average: 0.877
8-Best Average: 1.274

-Bradley Beal had a stellar year as he finally put everything together in a healthy season like many had hoped. Beal is elite in four categories and above-average in three others. If Bradley can continue this progression for the next couple years (reasonable), he could break the top 10 eventually.

30. Otto Porter Jr.
Age: 24 - Games: 77
Points: 1134 (1.190) - Rebounds: 492 (1.305)
Assists: 157 (0.215) - 3P Made: 138 (1.358)
Steals: 116 (2.303) - Blocks: 41 (0.504)
Turnovers: 75 (0.022) - FT%: 0.828 (0.679)
FG%: 0.503 (0.652)
FanDuel PPG: 30.60
9-Cat Average: 0.914
8-Best Average: 1.026

-Otto Porter Jr.'s game was above average in every single measure this season (even turnovers!) while particularly excelling in 4 categories. It may surprise some to see OPJ ranked so highly but his combination of volume and efficiency is extremely rare. If Porter can stay healthy, he will be a premiere glue guy for years to come.

152. John Wall
Age: 27 - Games: 41
Points: 797 (0.446) - Rebounds: 150 (-0.487)
Assists: 393 (2.087) - 3P Made: 62 (0.057)
Steals: 57 (0.440) - Blocks: 45 (0.647)
Turnovers: 158 (-1.367) - FT%: 0.726 (-0.211)
FG%: 0.420 (-0.513)
FanDuel PPG: 41.82
9-Cat Average: 0.122
8-Best Average: 0.308

-Another surprise from Washington is John Wall's low ranking due to him missing half the season. Wall's elite ability to get stats on both ends of the floor is very attractive but his limitation will always be the amount of games he can register in a given season. If John Wall plays a full season, he would be a top 50 player but because of his age and injury history, it is risky to expect that.