2017 JBL Midseason Review

Merry Christmas and welcome to the Power Rankings Midseason Review. To celebrate the halfway mark of the regular season, I thought it would be a good idea to look back on what everyone has accomplished thus far.

Here are the leaders, so far, of each category used for the Power Rankings this season:

Most Injured Team

Winner: TimAint Duncan - Nick

Average Missed Games: 15.5 games per week

Average Place in Rankings: 3.4 Power Ranking score

Other Nominees: Pippen Aint Eazy, Draymond Green Tornado Kick, Make It Nashty

Unfortunately for Nick, TimAin't Duncan has consistently been one of the most injury plagued teams in our league. Based off of their per game average, we can estimate that this team has missed out on about 335 fantasy points a week so far. While painful, the silver lining may be that this team is due to be better once healthy.

Best Transactions

Winner: MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich

Average Points Per Game Gained: 7.7 ppg added per week

Average Place in Rankings: 3.5 Power Ranking score

Other Nominees: Team Penetration, Blow Me, All-NBA 5th Team

Though MAMA Said Knock You Out started the season off slowly, the team has consistently improved through the transaction market. Rich has been both diligent and savvy while netting a total improvement of 61.6 points per game so far this season.

 Best Bench

Winner: Team Penetration - Michael

Average Total: 317 points per week

Average Place in Rankings: 2.3 Power Ranking score

Other Nominees: Blow Me, Admiral Kryptonite, All-NBA 5th Team

Team Penetration has one of the few benches that has been consistently elite. They are leading the league with a weekly average forty points higher than anyone else and Team Penetration has 13 guys averaging over twenty fantasy points per game. It is clear this team possesses the most elite depth.

 Best Starting Lineup

Winner: Team Nipple - Chris

Average Points Per Games: 34.3 ppg per week

Average Place in Rankings: 1.0 Power Ranking score

Other Nominees: Team Penetration, All-NBA 5th Team, Balls to the Wall

The defending chamions have systematically posted the highest per game average each week. The nearest team still gives up over two points per game on the season. At this point, it is safe to say that Team Nipple will beat any team if they play the same amount of games.

 Best Team

Winner: Team Penetration - Michael

Average Weekly Total: 1109 points per week

Average Place in Rankings: 1.4 Power Ranking score

Other Nominees: Team Nipple, All-NBA 5th Team, Balls to the Wall

Team Penetration has the best top-to-bottom squad right now and it showing in both the standings and the weekly averages. More often than not, Team Penetration has claimed the highest weekly total and Michael's crew has yet to lose. Clearly, this has been the most dominate team of the first half of the season.

2017 Power Rankings (Week 8)

Who stepped up their game this week?

Happy holidays everyone! Welcome to the halfway mark of the regular season and the eighth week of Power Rankings. Skip ahead to the rankings if you want but in case you are curious, here's how the scoring works...

Each team was ranked in six categories for the week:
-Total fantasy points scored.
-Fantasy points averaged per game by starters.
-Total amount of points produced by the bench.
-Games missed due to inactivity (doubled for starters).
-Fantasy points per game gained or lost through transactions (using last 30 averages)
-The standings.

Then, each team was given points depending on where they were in the rankings. The better a team performed in the rankings, the less points I gave them.

I doubled the scores in the weekly total and per game categories as a final touch because this game is ultimately about scoring fantasy points.

From there, I totaled each team's score across the six categories and used those final scores to sort my power rankings. 52 points would be average with the lower scores being above average.

I also added everyone's season average (and ranking) beneath their week's score. Just another way to consider how things are shaking out.

Here are my results:

12. TimAint Duncan - Nick (2-6)

Week Total: 12

Per Game: 12

Bench Scoring: 11

Injuries: 3

Transactions: 5

Standings: 9

Week 8 Total: 76

Season Average: 70.8 (12th)

In the same spot as last week, TimAint Duncan scored 612 points on 19.7 points per game in a loss to All-NBA 5th Team. Nick's bench put together 143 points while the team missed 14 games due to inactivity. Nick did not make a transaction this week.

Even with the high amount of missed games, the low scores all-around are tough pills to swallow. This team seems to be missing scoring pop as it is often found near the bottom in scoring from the starting lineup and bench alike. Until that is resolved, TimAint Duncan will have difficulty climbing the ranks.

11. Draymond Green Tornado Kick - Nathaniel (2-6)

Week Total: 10

Per Game: 9

Bench Scoring: 7

Injuries: 4

Transactions: 12

Standings: 9

Week 8 Total: 70

Season Average: 59 (10th)

Sliding two spots down this week, Draymond Green Tornado Kick put up 754 points at a pace of 25.1 points per game in a pivotal win over RIM JOBS. Nate Dogg's bench added in 232 points of their own while the team missed 13 games due to injuries. The team netted a total loss of 12.2 points per game by dropping Jonathan Simmons for Cameron Payne and trading away Kyrie Irving for Avery Bradley. 

A quality win while missing a good amount of games is nice to see. The bench was solid but the starting lineup was actually below average. The transactions this week have a lot of good qualities to them but certainly come with risks. If they pay off, however, Draymond Green Tornado Kick may see a resurgence.

10. Pippen Aint Eazy - Freddy (2-6)

Week Total: 8

Per Game: 11

Bench Scoring: 5

Injuries: 10

Transactions: 5

Standings: 9

Week 8 Total: 67

Season Average: 55.5 (9th)

Falling four spots, Pippen Aint Eazy posted 832 points on 23.1 points per game in a tough loss to Make It Nashty. Freddy bench contributed 242 points as well while the team missed 4 games due to inactivity. No transactions were made.

Another narrow loss has got to be painful for a team with such dynamic players. The biggest concern is the low per game average from the starters this week. The bench looked good but the injuries were also uncharacteristically low. With the injuries finally clearing up, the best starting lineup may still be forming for this team.

9. MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich (2-6)

Week Total: 9

Per Game: 7

Bench Scoring: 9

Injuries: 10

Transactions: 5

Standings: 9

Week 8 Total: 65

Season Average: 67.5 (11th)

Slipping two spots this week, MAMA Said Knock You Out scored 807 points at nice rate of 26 points per game. Rich's bench mustered 206 points and the team missed 4 games due to injuries. Rich did not complete a transaction and MAMA Said Knock You Out had the added bonus of having last week's tie be updated to a victory this week.

Poor point totals from both the bench and the starting lineup while missing very few games is a bad look. The saving grace is the quality per game pace from the starting lineup. To me, those are signs of a team with a good core that needs more depth.

8. RIM JOBS - Monty (4-4)

Week Total: 11

Per Game: 10

Bench Scoring: 6

Injuries: 1

Transactions: 2

Standings: 5

Week 8 Total: 56

Season Average: 53.8 (8th)

Down three spots from last week, RIMS JOBS could only put together 630 points on 24.2 points per game in a rough loss to Draymond Green Tornado Kick. Monty's bench added in a cool 241 points while the team was struck by the most missed games this week with 23. Monty added on 4.2 points per game by bringing on Garrett Temple and Tim Hardaway Jr to replace Wayne Ellington and Willie Cauley-Stein.

The starting lineup had a tough time but that was most likely due to the unusually high amount of missed games. The bench put together another good performance and the transactions were solid once again. If the injuries clear up, this team will likely bounce right back.

7. Admiral Kryptonite - Gus (4-4)

Week Total: 5

Per Game: 8

Bench Scoring: 1

Injuries: 12

Transactions: 5

Standings: 5

Week 8 Total: 49

Season Average: 48.6 (6th)

Rising three spots, Admiral Kryptonite scored 915 points at a pace of 25.4 points per game in a win over MAMA Said Knock You Out. My bench lead the league with 341 points with my team missing a league low of 3 games this week. I did not make a roster move.

A nice point total on a soft per game average is reasonable but it is my bench that is the real winner here. My injuries were lowest this week so some of these numbers are likely to dip going forward but it was still a quality showing overall.

6. Make It Nashty - Danny (4-4)

Week Total: 7

Per Game: 4

Bench Scoring: 10

Injuries: 2

Transactions: 5

Standings: 5

Week 8 Total: 44

Season Average: 50 (7th)

Jumping five spots this week, Make It Nashty tallied just enough with 851 points on a brisk rate of 27.5 points per game in a close win over Pippen Aint Eazy. Danny's bench provided 171 while the team missed 18 games due to inactivity. Danny made no transactions this week.

We still have not seen this team at full strength so it is hard to blame the below average bench. The high per game average by the starters, however, indicates that there is capable talent on this team. If the injuries ever clear up and give way to solid depth, this team may become consistently good.

5. Balls to the Wall - Brett (5-3)

Week Total: 4

Per Game: 5

Bench Scoring: 12

Injuries: 5

Transactions: 5

Standings: 3

Week 8 Total: 43

Season Average: 46.5 (5th)

Slipping one spot this week, Balls to the Wall threw up 986 points on 27.4 points per game in a honorable loss to Team Penetration. Brett's bench could only chip in 122 with them missing 9 games this week. No transactions were made.

Balls to the Wall has subtly become one of the more consistent teams around. The starting lineup has been providing strong numbers for over a month now and it is beginning to show in the standings. As usual, the main thing holding this team back in the rankings is the poor bench. I believe resolving that issue will be the difference-maker for this team.

4. All-NBA 5th Team - Matt (5-3)

Week Total: 6

Per Game: 6

Bench Scoring: 3

Injuries: 6

Transactions: 1

Standings: 3

Week 8 Total: 37

Season Average: 38 (3rd)

Down one spot this week, All-NBA 5th Team scored 875 points at a pace of 27.3 points per game in a win over TimAint Duncan. Matt's bench was strong with 303 points while the team missed 8 games due to inactivity. Matt added 4.4 points per game this week by bringing on Courtney Lee to replace James Ennis and receiving Kyrie Irving in a trade for Avery Bradley. Unfortunately for All-NBA 5th Team, due to stat updates last week's tie was changed to a loss.

Matt's starting lineup was a bit down but MDUB still got the dub. The bench looked elite this week and All-NBA 5th Team topped the transaction market by acquiring Kyrie Irving in a trade, making this a strong week overall. Matt's squad has become a real finals threat.

3. Blow Me - Tyler (4-4)

Week Total: 2

Per Game: 3

Bench Scoring: 4

Injuries: 8

Transactions: 4

Standings: 5

Week 8 Total: 31

Season Average: 43.6 (4th)

Flying up five spots from last week, Blow Me dropped 1060 points on 29.4 per game scoring in a surprise win over Team Nipple. Tyler's bench added in 285 points while the team missed 8 games this week. Adding on Kelly Oubre Jr. to replace Dario Saric currently brings no change to Blow Me's per game average.

A big win from a team that is proving to be capable of big things. Blow Me put in elite scoring across all categories and toppled one of the top dogs. It will be interesting to see how often this can be replicated but, at the very least, Tyler's squad is clearly knocking on the championship contender door.

2. Team Nipple - Chris (6-2)

Week Total: 3

Per Game: 1

Bench Scoring: 8

Injuries: 6

Transactions: 3

Standings: 2

Week 8 Total: 27

Season Average: 26.3 (2nd)

Relinquishing the top spot this week, Team Nipple put up 1030 points on a league leading 31.2 points per game but it was not enough in a tough loss to Blow Me. Chris' bench added in 222 points of their own while the team missed 8 games due to inactivity. Team Nipple gained 0.8 points per game by picking up Luol Deng for Andrew Harrison. 

Another excruciating loss for the team that is still producing the highest per game average by the starting lineup. Maybe it is an issue of depth, maybe it is the nature of having so many must-start guys, maybe there is no issue at all and it a result of rotten luck. Regardless, this team is still elite and has the best core in the league. It will be interesting to see if that is ultimately enough.

1. Team Penetration - Michael (8-0)

Week Total: 1

Per Game: 2

Bench Scoring: 2

Injuries: 8

Transactions: 5

Standings: 1

Week 8 Total: 22

Season Average: 23.9 (1st)

Taking back the top spot, Team Penetration lead the league with 1133 points at a rate of 30.6 points per game. Michael's bench was also strong with 323 points while the team missed 6 games due to inactivity. Michael did not make a transaction this week.

At this point, we know where this team stands and it stands very tall. The bench and starting lineup alike are to tier and the undefeated record shows it. Team Penetration his the team to beat.

2017 Power Rankings (Week 7)

Who has been rising in the rankings?

Hi everyone and welcome to the seventh week of Power Rankings. Skip ahead to the rankings if you want but in case you are curious, here's how the scoring works...

Each team was ranked in six categories for the week:
-Total fantasy points scored.
-Fantasy points averaged per game by starters.
-Total amount of points produced by the bench.
-Games missed due to inactivity (doubled for starters).
-Fantasy points per game gained or lost through transactions (using last 30 averages)
-The standings.

Then, each team was given points depending on where they were in the rankings. The better a team performed in the rankings, the less points I gave them.

I doubled the scores in the weekly total and per game categories as a final touch because this game is ultimately about scoring fantasy points.

From there, I totaled each team's score across the six categories and used those final scores to sort my power rankings. 52 points would be average with the lower scores being above average.

I also added everyone's season average (and ranking) beneath their week's score. Just another way to consider how things are shaking out.

Here are my results:

12. TimAint Duncan - Nick (2-5)

Week Total: 11

Per Game: 12

Bench Scoring: 12

Injuries: 3

Transactions: 2

Standings: 9

Week 7 Total: 72

Season Average: 70 (12th)

Dropping one spot to the bottom, TimAint Duncan tallied 814 points at a pace of 22 points per game in a tough loss to Draymond Green Tornado Kick. Nick's bench could only chip in 79 points due to the team missing 19 games due to inactivity. The squad added on 16.5 points per game by bringing on Sergio Rodriguez and Dwight Powell to replace Andre Roberson and the inactive Michael Carter-Williams. 

Weak numbers from both the starting lineup and the bench will put a team here, no matter how many games were missed. The transactions were nice and there is still room for improvement if this team ever gets healthy. Nick's team is better than the scoring numbers would suggest, but how much better is the real question.

11. Make It Nashty - Danny (3-4)

Week Total: 12

Per Game: 11

Bench Scoring: 3

Injuries: 11

Transactions: 6

Standings: 6

Week 7 Total: 72

Season Average: 50.9 (7th)

Sliding a spot for the second week in a row, Make It Nashty put up 803 points on 23.6 points per game in a pivotal loss to RIM JOBS. Danny's bench posted a cool 271 points and the team missed 9 games due to inactivity. Like six other owners, Danny did not complete any transactions this week.

A poor week from the starting lineup and very few missed games to explain it. The silver lining here is a superb showing from the bench. Ultimately, I think Danny's squad is better than this but these poor weeks are beginning to pile up.

10. Admrial Kryptonite - Gus (3-4)

Week Total: 10

Per Game: 10

Bench Scoring: 8

Injuries: 2

Transactions: 6

Standings: 6

Week 7 Total: 62

Season Average: 48.6 (6th)

Falling three spots this week, Admiral Kryptonite put together 855 points at a rate of 25.1 points per game in a blowout loss to Team Nipple. My bench added in 225 points of their own while my team missed 21 games due to inactivity. I made no transactions this week.

Not a very good output from my starting lineup or my bench. The high amount of missed games can account for some of the blame but my team is also a bit inconsistent. I am optimistic that my team will bounce back but I definitely don't like to see weeks like this.

9. Draymond Green Tornado Kick - Nathaniel (1-6)

Week Total: 3

Per Game: 9

Bench Scoring: 11

Injuries: 5

Transactions: 5

Standings: 12

Week 7 Total: 57

Season Average: 57.4 (10th)

Slipping three spots, Draymond Green Tornado Kick totaled a big 1044 points at a pace of 25.5 points per game as the team cruised to their first win of the season. Nathaniel's bench contributed 173 points despite the team missing 16 games due to inactivity. Nate Dogg added 2 points per game by replacing Chris Bosh with Mario Hezonja.

A very strong weekly total but the per game average was not nearly as strong. Also, the bench was not able to do as much with a flood of missed games. It is definitely nice to see the win and the high week total but the rest of the numbers are not quite as exciting. Despite that, Nathaniel's team has had two good weeks in a row and might be coming back from the dead.

8. Blow Me - Tyler (3-4)

Week Total: 9

Per Game: 8

Bench Scoring: 2

Injuries: 9

Transactions: 6

Standings: 6

Week 7 Total: 57

Season Average: 45.4 (4th)

Dropping four spots this week, Blow Me posted 885 points on 26 points per game in a difficult loss to Team Penetration. Tyler's bench continued their strong play with 282 points while the team missed 12 games due to inactivity. Tyler made no transactions this week.

A pretty flat week from a starting lineup that has proven to be better than this but the bench came in big once again. It is nice to still see value somewhere on the team, even in a down week. I'm sure this team will bounce back soon enough.

7. MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich (1-5-1)

Week Total: 5

Per Game: 5

Bench Scoring: 9

Injuries: 12

Transactions: 3

Standings: 11

Week 7 Total: 55

Season Average: 67.9 (11th)

Rising two spots, MAMA Said Knock You Out scored their season high with 969 points at an impressive rate of 27.7 points per game in a surprise tie with All-NBA 5th Team. Rich's bench provided 219 points of their own and the team missed only 6 games due to inactivity. 4.9 points per game were added by swapping in Tim Frazier for Tony Parker.

A strong showing from the starting lineup is definitely nice to see and the addition of my main man, Tim Frazier could help out with the flat bench. This was the healthiest team this week so the numbers may be inflated a bit but, either way, Rich's squad is showing signs of life.

6. Pippen Aint Eazy - Freddy (2-5)

Week Total: 8

Per Game: 7

Bench Scoring: 4

Injuries: 1

Transactions: 6

Standings: 9

Week 7 Total: 50

Season Average: 53.9 (9th)

Jumping six spots this week, Pippen Aint Eazy put up 918 points on 26.2 points per game in a tough loss to Balls to the Wall. Freddy's bench had their best week yet with 255 points while the team led the league with 22 missed games. Freddy made no transactions.

The starting lineup put up quality numbers and the bench looked good, all while missing the most games this week. The loss was an tough one but it nice to see that this team can put up solid points even when plagued by injuries. If this team ever gets completely healthy, we may see a jump in these rankings.

5. RIM JOBS - Monty (4-3)

Week Total: 7

Per Game: 4

Bench Scoring: 10

Injuries: 7

Transactions: 6

Standings: 5

Week 7 Total: 50

Season Average: 53.4 (8th)

Elevating three spots back up, RIM JOBS tallied 958 points at an elite rate of 29 points per game in nice win over Make It Nashty. Monty's bench added in 183 points and the team missed 13 games due to inactivity. No transactions were made this week.

Solid all around numbers but it is the per game average that has my attention. There have been strong weeks from both the starting lineup and the bench this year. It seems like this team has gotten better with each week and is establishing itself as a true contender.

4. Balls to the Wall - Brett (5-2)

Week Total: 4

Per Game: 6

Bench Scoring: 4

Injuries: 10

Transactions: 6

Standings: 3

Week 7 Total: 43

Season Average: 47 (5th)

Continuing the climb up with one spot this week, Balls to the Wall dropped 1007 points on 26.5 points per game in a big win over Pippen Aint Eazy. Brett's bench was strong as well with 255 points while the team missed 10 games due to inactivity. No transactions were made.

One of the best starting lineups in the league also had a big week from their bench. At the very least, it seems that the bench is better than before. If this keeps up, Brett's squad should stay near the top of these rankings.

3. All-NBA 5th Team - Matt (4-2-1)

Week Total: 5

Per Game: 3

Bench Scoring: 4

Injuries: 6

Transactions: 6

Standings: 4

Week 7 Total: 36

Season Average: 38.1 (3rd)

Sliding one spot this week, All-NBA 5th Team posted 969 points with a 29.4 per game average in the tie with MAMA Said Knock You Out. Matt's bench put up 255 points of their own while the team missed 14 games due to inactivity. Matt completed no transactions this week.

The tie is unfortunate for a team that came in third in points per game but all the scoring numbers still look good. The bench is strong and the record is still one of the best. Matt's squad has really separated itself from the heard and become the clear third best team in the league. Everything about this team is above average.

2. Team Penetration - Michael (7-0)

Week Total: 2

Per Game: 2

Bench Scoring: 1

Injuries: 7

Transactions: 4

Standings: 1

Week 7 Total: 21

Season Average: 24.1 (1st)

Unseated after a month on top, Team Penetration put up 1073 points at a pace of 30.7 points per game as they remain undefeated with a victory over Blow Me. Michael's bench dropped 341 points while the team missed 13 games due to inactivity. 4.4 points per game were added by bringing in Tony Allen to replace PJ Tucker.

There is nothing to dislike about this team. The best record, the best bench, and the second best starting lineup are all killer qualities. Michael's squad even missed a good amount of games this week so I can stop bringing that up. So far this season, Team Penetration has been the most consistently great team.

1. Team Nipple - Chris (6-1)

Week Total: 1

Per Game: 1

Bench Scoring: 7

Injuries: 3

Transactions: 1

Standings: 2

Week 7 Total: 17

Season Average: 26.1 (2nd)

Bouncing back with a two-spot jump to the top this week, the defending chamions totaled 1148 points on 31 points per game in an easy win over Admiral Kryptonite. Chris' bench added in 234 points while the team missed 19 games due to inactivity. The team picked up 20.2 points per game by adding Evan Turner to replace Alec Burks.

It is good to see a solid performance from the bench while also missing a high amount of games and Evan Turner is a big immediate upgrade from Alec Burks. However, the main reason this team is here is due to the efforts of the starting lineup. After four weeks, the defending chamions have reclaimed the highest weekly total while retaining the highest per game average. Whoever holds those two titles will most likely hold this top spot. A nice bounce back week from the defending chamions.

2017 Power Rankings (Week 6)

Which team turned a corner this week?

Hi everyone and welcome to the sixth week of Power Rankings. Skip ahead to the rankings if you want but in case you are curious, here's how the scoring works...

Each team  was ranked in six categories for the week:
-Total fantasy points scored.
-Fantasy points averaged per game by starters.
-Total amount of points produced by the bench.
-Games missed due to inactivity (doubled for starters).
-Fantasy points per game gained or lost through transactions (using last 30 averages)
-The standings.

Then, each team was given points depending on where they were in the rankings. The better a team performed in the rankings, the less points I gave them.

I doubled the scores in the weekly total and per game categories as a final touch because this game is ultimately about scoring fantasy points.

From there, I totaled each team's score across the six categories and used those final scores to sort my power rankings. 52 points would be average with the lower scores being above average.

I also added everyone's season average (and ranking) beneath their week's score. Just another way to consider how things are shaking out.

Here are my results:

12. Pippen Aint Eazy - Freddy (2-4)
Week Total: 12
Per Game: 12
Bench Scoring: 7
Injuries: 2
Transactions: 4
Standings: 9
Week 6 Total: 70
Season Average: 54.5 (9th)

Falling four spots to the bottom, Pippen Aint Eazy could only muster 483 points at a snail's pace of 21 points per game in a blowout loss to Team Penetration. Freddy's bench scored 198 points while his team missed an outrageous 30 games due to inactivity. No transactions were made.

The lowest score at the lowest pace will usually land a team in this spot. Freddy's squad is clearly dealing with a lot of injuries and it impacted the starting lineup this week. Amongst the ugliness, it is nice to see the bench put up respectable numbers. I doubt this poor showing will be a common occurrence.

11. TimAint Duncan - Nick (2-4)
Week Total: 8
Per Game: 11
Bench Scoring: 12
Injuries: 6
Transactions: 4
Standings: 9
Week 6 Total: 69
Season Average: 69.7 (11th)

Dropping one spot this week, TimAint Duncan scored 793 at the rate of 22 points per game in a nice win over Make It Nashty. Nick's bench had the league low total of 67 points while the team missed 16 games due to inactivity. No transactions were made.

A lukewarm output landed TimAint Duncan a solid win over a good team. However, the per game output remains suspect and the bench has been demolished by injuries. It is difficult to know what to make of this team since it has never been at full strength.

10. Make It Nashty - Danny (3-3)
Week Total: 10
Per Game: 9
Bench Scoring: 8
Injuries: 4
Transactions: 4
Standings: 5
Week 6 Total: 59
Season Average: 47.3 (6th)

Sliding six spots this week, Make It Nashty could only total 706 points at 23.5 points per game in a surprise loss to TimAint Duncan. Danny's bench chipped in 192 points of their own while the team missed 20 games due to inactivity. Like six of his fellow owners, Danny made no transactions this week.

Make It Nashty's inconsistency resulted in a costly loss here. The injuries are beginning to clear up and I expect that to at least curb these inconsistencies going forward. How high this team climbs depends on how much those inconsistent qualities can be curbed.

9. MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich (1-5)
Week Total: 5
Per Game: 7
Bench Scoring: 10
Injuries: 11
Transactions: 3
Standings: 11
Week 6 Total: 59
Season Average: 70 (12th)

Rising two spots this week, MAMA Said Knock You Out boasted 866 points at a strong rate of 26.2 points per game in a big win over Draymond Green Tornado Kick. Rich's bench contributed 136 points while the team missed 6 games due to the inactivity. This squad added on 10.2 points per game with the addition of John Henson in lieu of Justin Hamilton.

The victory was well deserved as this week's starters put out rather healthy numbers. The main thing holding this team back is the low bench total and lack of missed games to explain it. At the very least, if the starters can continue this output, we may see a rise in Rich's squad.

8. RIM JOBS - Monty (3-3)
Week Total: 11
Per Game: 10
Bench Scoring: 2
Injuries: 7
Transactions: 2
Standings: 5
Week 6 Total: 58 
Season Average: 54 (8th) 

Dropping five spots this week, RIM JOBS put 649 points on the board at a pace of 23.2 points per game in a though loss to Balls to the Wall. Monty's bench dropped 291 points of their own while the team missed 15 games due to inactivity. This team added 13.5 points per game by bringing on Wayne Ellington and James Johnson to replace JR Smith and Jeff Green.

A weak showing from the starters resulted in a sobering loss. However, there is still a lot to like here. The bench put up big numbers and positive waiver transactions have been made. Furthermore, the low point total could have been impacted by the high amount of missed games. Even on a down week, this team is clearly on the favorable side of the playoff discussion.

7. Admiral Kryptonite - Gus (3-3)
Week Total: 6
Per Game: 5
Bench Scoring: 6
Injuries: 8
Transactions: 12
Standings: 5
Week 6 Total: 53
Season Average: 46.3 (5th)

Dipping one spot this week, Admiral Kryptonite posted 836 points at a good pace of 27.9 points per game. My bench added in 227 points and my team missed 11 games due to inactivity. My squad lost 2.9 points per game by letting go of Tim Frazier for Larry Nance Jr.

Weaker total numbers from previous matches were just high enough eek out a win over a team fighting through injury issues. The risky waiver move pushes me back in the rankings but I am definitely happy to see a high per game average that got me through the week.

6. Draymond Green Tornado Kick - Nathaniel (0-6)
Week Total: 7
Per Game: 8
Bench Scoring: 1
Injuries: 5
Transactions: 4
Standings: 12
Week 6 Total: 52
Season Average: 57.5 (10th)

Jumping six surprising spots this week, Draymond Green Tornado Kick totaled 815 points on an average of 24 points per game in a loss to MAMA Said Knock You Out. Nathaniel's bench dropped 343 points while the team missed 18 games due to inactivity. Nate Dogg made no transactions this week.

This looks crazy but Draymond Green Tornado Kick actually had decent numbers this week. Also, the bench exploded to have the highest output by a long shot. If the injuries clear up and that bench strength can be transferred to the starting lineup, this team might start collecting some wins.

5. Balls to the Wall - Brett (4-2)
Week Total: 4
Per Game: 6
Bench Scoring: 9
Injuries: 10
Transactions: 4
Standings: 3
Week 6 Total: 46
Season Average: 47.7 (7th)

Jumping two spots this week, Balls to the Wall scored 929 points at cool rate of 27.3 points per game in a victory over RIM JOBS. Brett's bench contributed 174 points while the squad missed only 7 games due to injuries. No transactions were made.

Ever since that weak first week, Balls to the Wall's starting lineup has been putting up strong numbers. The only thing still holding this team back is the below average bench. If that can be rectified, this team will rise even further.

4. Blow Me - Tyler (3-3)
Week Total: 9
Per Game: 4
Bench Scoring: 4
Injuries: 3
Transactions: 4
Standings: 5
Week 6 Total: 42
Season Average: 43.5 (4th)

Rising one spot, Blow Me posted only 784 points on an elite per game rate of 29 in a tough loss to Admiral Kryptonite. Tyler's bench added in 261 points while the team missed 21 games due to inactivity. No transactions were completed this week.

A low weekly total is surrounded by surprisingly strong numbers. The bench played well and the per game average of the starters was pretty beastly. The team was struck by some inopportune injuries and still managed to keep the score close. Tyler's squad is beginning to stand out.

3. Team Nipple - Chris (5-1)
Week Total: 3
Per Game: 1
Bench Scoring: 11
Injuries: 1
Transactions: 11
Standings: 2
Week 6 Total: 33
Season Average: 27.7 (2nd)

Sliding one spot this week, the defending chamions scored 953 points at an insane rate of 41.4 points per game in a surprise loss to All-NBA 5th Team. Chris' bench could only put together 108 points with the team missing a season record of 32 games due to inactivity. Chris added Sam Dekker and Andrew Harrison to replace Seth Curry and Jerami Grant, losing 1.3 points per game in the process.

The surprise loss may have caught some attention but it is the low bench total that is dragging the this team down in the rankings. The risky waiver moves further exemplify the issue with this squad: a lack of depth. However, I do not think this is time to panic for Team Nipple. I expect this starting lineup to go far, even with a weak bench and a fair amount of injuries.

2. All-NBA 5th Team - Matt (4-2)
Week Total: 2
Per Game: 3
Bench Scoring: 5
Injuries: 11
Transactions: 4
Standings: 3
Week 6 Total: 33
Season Average: 38.5 (3rd)

Elevating seven spots this week, All-NBA 5th Team dropped 1099 points at a brisk pace of 30.5 points per game in a giant win of Team Nipple. Matt's bench added in 247 points of their own while the team missed 6 games due to inactivity. Matt did not make any transactions this week.

This strong victory on good numbers has shown what kind of damage Matt's team can do. This is a scary team considering the bench put in good work as well. Comparing the numbers here with those of the team below, they actually look very similar. If All-NBA 5th Team can continue to post these kinds of numbers, they will be able to compete with any team in our league.

1. Team Penetration - Michael (6-0)
Week Total: 1
Per Game: 2
Bench Scoring: 3
Injuries: 9
Transactions: 1
Standings: 1
Week 6 Total: 20
Season Average: 24.7 (1st)

In the top spot for the fourth week in a row, Team Penetration topped the scoreboard once again with 1101 points at a rate of 32.4 points per game, continuing the win streak over Pippen Aint Eazy. Michael's bench produced 267 points and the team missed 8 games due to inactivity. This team added 17.3 points per game by bringing on PJ Tucker.

And then there was one. The final undefeated team has posted the best weekly total for fourth week in a row. However, the per game title still belongs to the defending chamions and the best bench still seems to be up for grabs. It will be interesting to see just how long this win streak will last.

2017 Power Rankings (Week 5)

Who took a leap forward this week?

Hi everyone and welcome to the fifth week of Power Rankings. Skip ahead to the rankings if you want but in case you are curious, here's how the scoring works...

Each team was ranked in six categories for the week:
-Total fantasy points scored.
-Fantasy points averaged per game by starters.
-Total amount of points produced by the bench.
-Games missed due to injuries (doubled for starters).
-Fantasy points per game gained or lost through transactions (using last 30 averages)
-The standings.

Then, each team was given points depending on where they were in the rankings. The better a team performed in the rankings, the less points I gave them.

I doubled the scores in the weekly total and per game categories as a final touch because this game is ultimately about scoring fantasy points.

From there, I totaled each team's score across the six categories and used those final scores to sort my power rankings. 52 points would be average with the lower scores being above average.

I also added everyone's season average (and ranking) beneath their week's score. Just another way to consider how things are shaking out.

Here are my results:

12. Draymond Green Tornado Kick - Nathaniel (0-5)
Week Total: 12
Per Game: 12
Bench Scoring: 9
Injuries: 1
Transactions: 4
Standings: 11
Week 5 Total: 73
Season Average: 58.6 (10th)


Falling two spots this week, the newly named Draymond Green Tornando Kick debuted with 700 points at a league low rate of 22.6 points per game in a rough loss to Team Nipple. Nathaniel's bench added in 158 of their own while the team missed a league high 22 games due to injuries. No transactions were made this week.

Draymond Green Tornado Kick has certainly been going through some injury woes and the numbers will certainly go up if those injuries ever clear up. However, with league low scoring numbers and a below average bench to boot, the losses are beginning to pile up.

11. MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich (0-5)
Week Total: 11
Per Game: 10
Bench Scoring: 7
Injuries: 9
Transactions: 4
Standings: 11
Week 5 Total: 73
Season Average: 72.2 (12th)


In the same spot as last week, MAMA Said Knock You Out scored 736 points on 23 points per game in a loss to Make It Nashty. Rich's bench put up 194 and the team missed 5 games due to injuries. No transactions were made this week.

The numbers are getting warmer and the bench seems to be both serviceable and consistent. However, the lack of injuries implies that this team just is not producing a strong starting lineup at the moment. As we enter the second quarter of the season, it may be time to see a change of plans for MAMA Said Knock You Out.

10. TimAint Duncan - Nick (1-4)
Week Total: 10
Per Game: 11
Bench Scoring: 12
Injuries: 3
Transactions: 4
Standings: 10
Week 5 Total: 71
Season Average: 69.8 (11th)


Rising two spots, TimAint Duncan posted 775 points at a pace of 22.8 points per game in a close loss to Balls to the Wall. Nick's bench could only muster 59 points though 18 games were missed due to injuries. Like seven other franchises, no transactions were made this week.

TimAint Duncan put up flat numbers across the board but there are a good amount of injuries to point to. It will be interesting to see what this team can produce if the injuries ever clear up. If this team hopes of making the playoffs, that needs to happen sooner rather than later.

9. All-NBA 5th Team - Matt (3-2)
Week Total: 8
Per Game: 7
Bench Scoring: 4
Injuries: 9
Transactions: 4
Standings: 3
Week 5 Total: 50
Season Average: 39.6 (3rd)


Dropping six spots this week, All-NBA 5th Team racked up 818 points on a 25.6 per game basis in tough loss to Blow Me. Matt's bench contributed 261 points of their own while the team missed 5 games due to injuries. No transactions were made this week.

A rather dramatic drop for a team that performed only slightly below average. The fact that All-NBA 5th Team could fall this far is more of a testament to how competitive the middle of our league is. I'm sure this squad will bounce back quickly.

8. Pippen Aint Eazy - Freddy (2-3)
Week Total: 9
Per Game: 5
Bench Scoring: 8
Injuries: 1
Transactions: 4
Standings: 8
Week 5 Total: 49
Season Average: 51.4 (8th)


Down one spot from last week, Pippen Aint Eazy scored 817 points at a brisk pace of 26.4 points per game in a big loss to RIM JOBS. Freddy's bench chipped in 181 points even though the team lead the league with 22 missed games due to injuries. No transactions were made.

Pippen Aint Eazy scored a low total but had a strong per game average. The bench is still not great but that is probably related to the high amount of injuries. This is a dangerous team, especially if the injuries clear up.

7. Balls to the Wall - Brett (3-2)
Week Total: 7
Per Game: 6
Bench Scoring: 11
Injuries: 5
Transactions: 1
Standings: 3
Week 5 Total: 46
Season Average: 48 (7th)


Falling two spots, Balls to the Wall tallied 853 points on 25.8 per game scoring in a win over TimAint Duncan. Brett's bench scraped together 116 points while the team missed 15 games due to injuries. No transactions were made.

Balls to the Wall did not produce quite like weeks past but the team was still able to get the win on decent scoring. The bench did not have a good week but a slew of injuries could explain both that as well as the down numbers by the starters.

6. Admiral Kryptonite - Gus (2-3)
Week Total: 3
Per Game: 7
Bench Scoring: 2
Injuries: 11
Transactions: 4
Standings: 8
Week 5 Total: 45
Season Average: 45 (5th)


Holding the same spot as last week, Admiral Kryptonite racked up 999 points at 25.6 points per game in a tough loss to Team Penetration. My bench posted 338 points with my team missing only 4 games due to injuries. No transactions were made.

A strong scoring week was overshadowed by a stronger opponent but the bench and starting lineup produced nice numbers. The per game rate continues to be a weak point for my team and the lack of injuries implies that my numbers could be a bit inflated.

5. Blow Me - Tyler (3-2)
Week Total: 5
Per Game: 7
Bench Scoring: 5
Injuries: 8
Transactions: 4
Standings: 3
Week 5 Total: 44
Season Average: 43.8 (4th)


Dropping one spot from last week, Blow Me posted 971 points at a rate of 25.6 points per game in a nice win over All-NBA 5th Team. Tyler's bench contributed 207 points of their own while the team missed 10 games due to injuries. No transactions were made.

Another strong showing from a team that has consistently put up playoff stats. Good numbers across the board and a quality win are what we can come to expect from Tyler's squad.

4. Make It Nashty - Danny (3-2)
Week Total: 4
Per Game: 4
Bench Scoring: 10
Injuries: 6
Transactions: 3
Standings: 3
Week 5 Total: 38
Season Average: 45 (5th)


Up four spots from last week, Make It Nashty dropped 989 on a 26.7 per game basis in a win over MAMA Said Knock You Out. Danny's bench added in 126 points while the team missed 14 games due to injuries. This squad added 2.3 points per game by adding Bismack Biyombo to replace Amir Johnson.

A bounce back week for the bounce back team. The bench is still a concern which may contribute to the Make It Nashty's inconsistency but that should clear up a little with Reggie Jackson set to return soon.

3. RIM JOBS - Monty (3-2)
Week Total: 6
Per Game: 3
Bench Scoring: 6
Injuries: 4
Transactions: 4
Standings: 3
Week 5 Total: 35
Season Average: 53.2 (9th)

Jumping six spots this week, RIM JOBS erupted for 947 points at a hot pace of 29.6 points per game in a good win over Pippen Aint Eazy. Monty's bench scored 202 points of their own while the team missed 17 games due to injuries. No transactions were made this week.

This was a big week for RIM JOBS. Monty's entire team put up good numbers despite a significant amount of injuries. It is the per game average that is truly impressive. If these numbers continue, the playoffs will be an inevitability.

2. Team Nipple - Chris (5-0)
Week Total: 2
Per Game: 1
Bench Scoring: 3
Injuries: 7
Transactions: 12
Standings: 1
Week 5 Total: 29
Season Average: 26.6 (2nd)


In the same spot as the last two weeks, the defending chamions scored a cool 1211 points at an insane rate of 37.8 points per game in a win over Draymond Green Tornado Kick. Chris' bench posted 283 points with the team missing 13 games due to injuries. Alec Burks was brought on to replace Matthew Dellavedova, which is currently a net loss of 17.1 points per game.

While Team Nipple has come in second in the overall scoring for three weeks in a row, their per game average has been in a league of their own all season. That coupled with the fact that Chris' bench has gotten better each week and it is looking like the defending chamions are priming to retake the top spot.

1. Team Penetration - Michael (5-0)
Week Total: 1
Per Game: 2
Bench Scoring: 1
Injuries: 12
Transactions: 2
Standings: 1
Week 5 Total: 22
Season Average: 25.6 (1st)


On top for the third week in a row, Team Penetration lead the scoreboard with 1258 points on 34.9 points per game, continuing the undefeated season with a victory over Admiral Kryptonite. Michael's bench posted 415 points of their own while the team did not miss a game due to injury. This squad added 4.9 points per game by replacing Matt Barnes with Jeremy Lamb.

The point total and per game average are head and shoulders above a majority of the league. The bench came in first for a third week in a row. The waiver moves continue to inch this team even further forward. It will be interesting to see what happens if injuries ever set in but, even then, Team Penetration should produce elite numbers.

2017 Power Rankings (Week 4)

Which teams are coming together as contenders?

 Hi everyone and welcome to the fourth week of Power Rankings. Skip ahead to the rankings if you want but in case you are curious, here's how the scoring works...

Each team was ranked in six categories for the week:
-Total fantasy points scored.
-Fantasy points averaged per game by starters.
-Total amount of points produced by the bench.
-Games missed due to injuries (doubled for starters).
-Fantasy points per game gained or lost through transactions (using last 30 averages)
-Their place in the standings.

Then, each team was given points depending on where they were in the rankings. The better a team performed in the rankings, the less points I gave them.

I doubled the scores in the weekly total and per game categories as a final touch because this game is ultimately about scoring fantasy points.

From there, I totaled each team's score across the six categories and used those final scores to sort my power rankings. 52 points would be average with the lower scores being above average.

I also added everyone's cumulative season score (and ranking) beneath their week's score. Just another way to consider how things are shaking out.

Here are my results:

12. TimAint Duncan - Nick (1-3)

Week Total: 12

Per Game: 12

Bench Scoring: 7

Injuries: 3

Transactions: 7

Standings: 10

Week 4 Total: 75

Season Total: 278 (11th)

Dropping to the bottom this week, TimAint Duncan scored a league low 616 points at a rate of 20.5 points per game in a loss to Pippen Aint Eazy. Nick's bench contributed a solid 229 points despite the team missing 20 games due to injury. No transactions were completed this week.

The lowest score at the lowest rate is concerning but there are silver linings here. For one, the bench is still looking solid. Meanwhile, the numbers are probably skewed by the high amounts of injuries that this team is facing. If the injuries clear up and the necessary transactions are taken, this team can rise.

11. MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich (0-4)

Week Total: 11

Per Game: 11

Bench Scoring: 9

Injuries: 7

Transactions: 2

Standings: 11

Week 4 Total: 73

Season Total: 288 (12th)

Rising one spot from last week, MAMA Said Knock You Out posted 679 points on an average of 21.2 points per game in a loss to Balls to the Wall. The bench added in 170 points while Rich's squad missed 11 games. Rich made a big acquisition this week, adding 14.9 points per game by bringing on Tony Parker to replace Dejounte Murray.

The numbers here are still not what you want to see but the skies are looking clearer. Horford has come back from a tough early injury and Parker will bring more immediate help to a team that is in need of more starters and less projects. It would be foolish to count this team out this early.

10. Por Favors - Nathaniel (0-4)

Week Total: 10

Per Game: 8

Bench Scoring: 12

Injuries: 1

Transactions: 3

Standings: 11

Week 4 Total: 63

Season Total: 220 (9th)

In the same spot as last week, the team formerly known as Por Favors scored 720 points at 24 points per game in a loss to Blow Me. Uncharacteristically, Nate's bench could only produce 104 points, which was the league low this week. Missing a season record of 28 games due to injury could explain these low numbers. 9.6 points per game were added to the roster by switching out Jakob Poeltl for Jon Leuer.

For the second week in a row, Nathaniel's squad put up a lower week total than their per game average would suggest. Meaning the guys are putting up good stats but they are not playing very often. The bonanza of injuries that this team is facing has battered both the bench and the starting lineup early on in the season.

9. RIM JOBS - Montgomery (2-2)

Week Total: 8

Per Game: 9

Bench Scoring: 11

Injuries: 5

Transactions: 7

Standings: 4

Week 4 Total: 61

Season Total: 231 (10th)

Dropping one spot from last week, RIM JOBS totaled 741 points at a clip of 23.9 points per game in a tough loss to Team Penetration. After three strong weeks, Monty's bench came up short with 105 points. This squad missed 12 games due to injury and no transactions were made this week.

The main reason this team dropped is because of something that is usually a strength for RIM JOBS, the bench. Kris Dunn, JR Smith and Willie Cauley-Stein did not provide much. Luckily, it didn't seem to negatively effect the starting lineup much, as this team continues to put up playoff contending numbers. I expect this was just a product of variance and that RIM JOBS will bounce back quickly.

8. Make It Nashty - Danny (2-2)

Week Total: 9

Per Game: 10

Bench Scoring: 8

Injuries: 2

Transactions: 4

Standings: 4

Week 4 Total: 56

Season Total: 187 (6th)

Falling three spots this week, Make It Nashty scored 729 points at a rate of 22.1 per game in a rough loss to Team Nipple. Danny's bench added in 176 points of their own while missing 21 games due to injuries. The team was able to add 4.5 points per game this week with the arrival of Trevor Ariza in exchange for Deron Williams.

This season has been a tail of two teams thus far for Make It Nashty. Danny's squad has ranked as high as third in these ranking but also been as low as eighth earlier in the season. After two straight weeks of scoring 900+ points, DeRozan and the crew posted a score in the low 700s. Still injuries have been a season-long deterrent here and the early season trade for Ariza is a good fit for a team that had too many point guards. 

7. Pippen Aint Eazy - Freddy (2-2)

Week Total: 7

Per Game: 7

Bench Scoring: 10

Injuries: 4

Transactions: 1

Standings: 4

Week 4 Total: 47

Season Total: 208 (8th)

Jumping two spots this week, Pippen Aint Eazy posted 790 points on 25.5 points per game in a win over TimAint Duncan. Freddy's bench mustered 179 points while the squad missed 18 total games due to injury. The addition of E'Twaun Moore through waiver wire brings 18 points per game.

After starting off the season strong, Pippen Aint Eazy has struggled to bounce back to where the team started. Fortunately, progress has been made for another week in a row. The starting lineup is getting better, even with more missed games than any other week. The addition of Moore will also be an improvement over an empty bench spot. Freddy is on the rise.

6. Admiral Kryptonite - Gus (2-2)

Week Total: 6

Per Game: 6

Bench Scoring: 3

Injuries: 9

Transactions: 7

Standings: 4

Week 4 Total: 47

Season Total: 180 (5th)

Dropping three spots this week, Admiral Kryptonite tallied 944 points on 26.2 points per game in a tough loss to All-NBA 5th Team. My bench scored 308 points and my squad missed only 5 games due to injury. No transactions were made this week.

An uncomfortable fall back to earth after blasting onto the scene last week, my team is far from the most consistent. Though, I am happy to see another strong showing from my bench. Hopefully that will bring enough stability to Admiral Kryptonite to compete with the top half of the league. I am also fortunate to be one of only four owners to miss single digit games due to injuries.

5. Balls to the Wall - Brett (2-2)

Week Total: 4

Per Game: 4

Bench Scoring: 5

Injuries: 9

Transactions: 11

Standings: 4

Week 4 Total: 45

Season Total: 194 (7th)

Rising one spot, Balls to the Wall finished the week with 972 points on a lofty 28.6 per game average, resulting in a dominate win over MAMA Said Knock You Out. Brett's bench added in 250 points of their own while missing 5 games due to injuries. The release of Joakim Noah for Alan Williams this week brings Balls to the Wall a net loss of 2.1 fantasy points per game.

Last week, this team posted above average stats for the bench and starting lineup alike. This week, all of those stats improved. The injuries were low and the waiver move was risky, but Brett's crew is undeniably one of the better ones around at the moment.

4. Blow Me - Tyler (2-2)

Week Total: 5

Per Game: 5

Bench Scoring: 2

Injuries: 5

Transactions: 12

Standings: 4

Week 4 Total: 43

Season Total: 175 (4th)

Jumping three spots this week, Blow Me scored 965 points at a pace of 26.8 per game in a big win over the team formerly known as Por Favors. Tyler's bench posted 338 points of their own while missing 12 games due to injuries. The acquisition of Deron Williams for Trevor Ariza brings a current loss of 4.5 points per game.

After a flat third week, Blow Me bounced back in a big way in week four. An above average starting lineup paired with an elite bench has this team in the mix for contender consideration. The numbers suggest that moves may still need to be made to reach the top of the standings but I think Tyler's squad is well equipped to do so. Already, Deron Williams may end up being a lucrative investment.

3. All-NBA 5th Team - Matt (3-1)

Week Total: 3

Per Game: 3

Bench Scoring: 6

Injuries: 9

Transactions: 6

Standings: 3

Week 4 Total: 36

Season Total: 148 (3rd)

Rising one spot, All-NBA 5th Team erupted this week with 1108 points at a rate of 29.9 points per game in a big win over Admiral Kryptonite. Matt's bench scored 237 points while the team missed 5 games due to injuries. Matt also gained 1.7 points per game by replacing Al Jefferson with Timofey Mozgov.

It looks like All-NBA 5th Team is beginning to make their case as the third titan of this league. 1100+ on nearly 30 points per game are both very rare marks to hit. If Matt's squad can keep those numbers up, this team won't drop much further than this and may even rise. This has been an extremely promising first month of the season for All-NBA 5th Team.

2. Team Nipple - Chris (4-0)

Week Total: 2

Per Game: 1

Bench Scoring: 4

Injuries: 8

Transactions: 10

Standings: 1

Week 4 Total: 29

Season Total: 104 (1st)

In the same spot as last week, The Defending Chamion threw down 1147 points on a league high 33.7 points per game as Team Nipple claimed another victim in Make It Nashty. Chris' bench scored 257 points and the team missed 10 games due to injuries. The triple swap of dropping Domantas Sabonis, Sergio Rodriguez and Andrew Bogut for the combination of Jerami Grant, Patrick Beverly and Seth Curry resulted in a net loss of 0.7 points per game for Team Nipple.

Much like last week, Team Nipple continues to have the best starting lineup in the league while the bench actually took a step forward. The constant waiver moves show that Chris is not quite happy while the end of his bench but it seems like he is pulling that together piece by piece. These top two teams are neck and neck.

1. Team Penetration - Michael (4-0)

Week Total: 1

Per Game: 2

Bench Scoring: 1

Injuries: 12

Transactions: 5

Standings: 1

Week 4 Total: 25

Season Total: 106 (2nd)

Holding the top spot for the second week in a row, Team Penetration scored a league high 1189 points at a rate of 33 points per game in a big victory over RIM JOBS. Michael's bench also lead the league with 404 points of their own. This team missed 2 games due to injuries and gained 2.9 point per game with Matt Barnes taking Arron Afflalo's spot.

Team Penetration pulled off the combo of highest bench score and highest starting lineup score for the second week in a row and, because of that, it is hard to argue for anyone else being in this spot. That being said, Michael's squad has yet to top the league in points per game while also experiencing the lowest amount of injuries so far this season. For these reasons, I believe this top spot is not locked down.

2017 Power Rankings (Week 3)

 

Who is this week's fantasy king?

 Hi everyone and welcome to a third week of Power Rankings. Skip ahead to the rankings if you want but in case you are curious, here's how the scoring works...

Each team was ranked in six categories for the week:
-Total fantasy points scored.
-Fantasy points averaged per game by starters.
-Total amount of points produced by the bench.
-Games missed due to injuries (doubled for starters).
-Fantasy points per game gained in the wavier wire.
-Their place in the standings.

Then, each team was given points depending on where they were in the rankings. The better a team performed in the rankings, the less points I gave them.

I doubled the scores in the weekly total and per game categories as a final touch because this game is ultimately about scoring fantasy points.

From there, I totaled each team's score across the six categories and used those final scores to sort my power rankings. 52 points would be average with the lower scores being above average.

I also added everyone's cumulative score (and ranking) beneath their week's score. Just another way to consider how things are shaking out.

Here are my results:

12. MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich (0-3)

Week Total: 12

Per Game: 11

Bench Scoring: 5

Injuries: 6

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 11

Week 3 Total: 72

Season Total: 215 (12th)

In the same spot for three weeks in a row, MAMA Said Knock You Out finished with 738 points on a 23.1 per game average in a tough loss to an emerging Pippen Aint Eazy squad. The bench chipped in a solid 234 points and the team missed 10 games, including Al Horford in the starting lineup. Like eight other owners, Rich did not complete a waiver move this week.

The starting lineup simply has not produced so far this season. Still, I remain optimistic that this team will turn things around. MAMA Said Knock You Out actually has a strong bench despite all the missed games and young guns, Klay Thompson seems to be rounding into form and, above all else, this is exactly how this team started last year and Rich ended up in the playoffs.

11. TimAint Duncan - Nick (1-2)

Week Total: 11

Per Game: 12

Bench Scoring: 7

Injuries: 6

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 7

Week 3 Total: 70

Season Total: 203 (11th)

In the same spot as last week, TimAint Duncan put up 750 points at a 21.4 per game rate in a close loss to RIM JOBS. The bench gave 211 points and the team missed 10 games. No waiver moves were completed.

The lowest rated team with a win because the numbers produced by the starters were well below average. However, with a solid bench and a high amount of missed games, there is plenty of hope that this team's numbers can improve sooner rather than later.

10. Por Favors - Nathaniel (0-3)

Week Total: 10

Per Game: 7

Bench Scoring: 11

Injuries: 1

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 11

Week 3 Total: 61

Season Total: 157 (8th)

Dropping one spot from last week, Por Favors put up 782 points on a surprisingly high clip of 26.1 points per game in a tough loss to Admiral Kryptonite. Nathaniel's bench was uncharacteristically below average with 158 points. This may be because his team suffered a season high, 17 missed games. No wavier moves were completed.

The high per game rate and amount of missed games say a lot about the low week total. Nathaniel's squad got smacked with injuries and it took a toll on a good team. I am absolutely positive that this team is better than their record shows.

9. Pippen Aint Eazy - Freddy (1-2)

Week Total: 7

Per Game: 8

Bench Scoring: 12

Injuries: 2

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 7

Week 3 Total: 55

Season Total: 161 (9th)

Rising one spot from last week, Pippen Aint Eazy put up a solid 825 points on 25 points per game in a solid win over MAMA Said Knock You Out. The bench added in a league low 95 points, though Freddy's squad did miss 16 games due to injuries. For a third week in a row, Freddy did not make a waiver move.

This team seems like it could be rounding into form though the injuries and the bench are a still concerns. But a good win on solid numbers is certainly a sight for sore eyes. I expect this team to be much more intimidating once the bench is addressed and both Paul George and Steph Curry reach their season peaks.

8. RIM JOBS - Monty (2-1)

Week Total: 9

Per Game: 10

Bench Scoring: 3

Injuries: 4

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 3

Week 3 Total: 52

Season Total: 170 (10th)

In the same spot as last week, RIM JOBS won a close one over TimAint Duncan with a score of 791 points on a 24 per game average. The bench was strong once again with 266 points even with 13 missed games due to injuries. No waiver moves were completed.

There is a lot to like about this team. The slightly below average output by the starters brings RIM JOBS down in the rankings but the good bench and high win total have this team in the early season playoff discussion.

7. Blow Me - Tyler (1-2)

Week Total: 8

Per Game: 9

Bench Scoring: 2

Injuries: 5

Waiver Additions: 3

Standings: 7

Week 3 Total: 51

Season Total: 132 (5th)

Dropping one spot from last week, Blow Me put up 823 points on a 24.9 per game average in a tough loss to Make It Nashty. Tyler's bench continued their strong play with 287 points, all while missing 12 games due to injuries. Being one of the few teams to complete a waiver move this week, Blow Me gained 3.1 points per game with the addition of Nick Young for Larry Nance Jr.

This was a somewhat weak showing for a team that should be much better than this as the season progresses. The combination of playing a good team and having a down week resulted in another slip in the rankings but I believe it is the season total ranking that is the better indication of where this team stands.

6. Balls to the Wall - Brett (1-2)

Week Total: 5

Per Game: 4

Bench Scoring: 6

Injuries: 9

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 7

Week 3 Total: 44

Season Total: 149 (7th)

Sliding one spot from last week, Balls to the Wall posted 923 points on a strong 27.1 per game average in a loss to Team Nipple. Brett's bench added in 220 while the squad missed 7 games. No waiver moves were completed.

Balls to the Wall becomes the highest ranked team with one win because the starters and bench are both above average in production. Despite the record, Brett's squad is putting up playoff numbers and this is beginning to look like a playoff team.

5. Make It Nashty - Danny (2-1)

Week Total: 6

Per Game: 5

Bench Scoring: 8

Injuries: 3

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 3

Week 3 Total: 40

Season Total: 131 (4th)

Sliding one spot from last week, Make It Nashty finished the week with 910 points at a rate of 26.8 points per game in a strong win over Blow Me. Danny's bench could only muster 185 points but the 14 missed games is a ready explanation. No waiver moves were completed.

 A two win team with above average production, all while battling a fair amount of injuries. Danny has put together a good team that is not even at full capacity yet. It will be interesting to see how high this team can climb.

4. All-NBA 5th Team  - Matt (2-1)

Week Total: 4

Per Game: 3

Bench Scoring: 9

Injuries: 12

Waiver Additions: 2

Standings: 3

Week 3 Total: 40

Season Total: 112 (3rd)

Dropping one spot from last week, All-NBA 5th Team had another strong week with 943 total points on a gaudy 28.6 per game average in a tough loss to Team Penetration. The bench contributed 159 points and the team missed 3 games due to injuries. Matt netted 3.8 points per game off of the waiver wire by adding Cody Zeller and Al Jefferson for DeMarre Carroll and Patrick Patterson.

That per game average has been consistently high for Matt's squad. Through trade or waiver wire, I think this team is one good acquisition away from being on the same level as Team Penetration and Team Nipple. I am putting All-NBA 5th Team on contender alert.

3. Admiral Kryptonite - Gus (2-1)

Week Total: 3

Per Game: 6

Bench Scoring: 4

Injuries: 10

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 3

Week 3 Total: 39

Season Total: 133 (6th)

Jumping four spots from last week, Admiral Kryptonite put up 1057 points on a 26.4 per game average in a big win over Por Favors. My bench contributed a solid 246 points while missing 6 games. I did not complete any waiver moves.

Definitely a promising week for my team and it feels good to be the third team to break a thousand points but this is probably more an indication of my ceiling than a standard to expect. The per game average was actually pretty middling. The season total is probably a better indicator of where this team is in relation to its peers.

2. Team Nipple - Chris (3-0)

Week Total: 2

Per Game: 1

Bench Scoring: 9

Injuries: 8

Waiver Additions: 1

Standings: 1

Week 3 Total: 25

Season Total: 75 (1st)

Dropping one spot this week, Team Nipple posted 1125 points on a league high 33.1 per game average in another smooth victory over a good team. The bench chipped in 159 points while missing 8 games due to injury. Chris added 14.6 points per game by picking up Domantas Sabonis off of the waiver wire.

Another dominate showing for the team with the best starting lineup and most active waiver wire owner. Chris' weakness still seems to be his bench but that can change very quickly as he is clearly very skilled on the wire.

1. Team Penetration - Michael (3-0)

Week Total: 1

Per Game: 2

Bench Scoring: 1

Injuries: 11

Waiver Additions: 4

Standings: 1

Week 3 Total: 23

Season Total: 81 (2nd)

Rising to the top this week, Team Penetration dropped a league high 1138 points at a beastly rate of 31.6 points per game in a easy win over the third best team in the league. Michael's bench also got the league high point total with 331, though he only missed 4 games due to injuries. No waiver moves were made.

Looking at these numbers, Team Penetration might be the best team in the league if you are considering all fifteen spots. For that reason, this team has to take the top spot in the rankings.

2017 Power Rankings (Week 2)

 

Who elevated in the rankings this week?

Hi everyone and welcome to a second week of Power Rankings. 

Each team was ranked in six categories for the week:
-Total fantasy points scored.
-Fantasy points averaged per game by starters.
-Total amount of points produced by the bench.
-Games missed due to injuries (doubled for starters).
-Fantasy points per game gained in the wavier wire.
-Their place in the standings.

Then, each team was given points depending on where they were in the rankings. The better a team performed in the rankings, the less points I gave them.

I doubled the scores in the weekly total and per game categories as a final touch because this game is ultimately about scoring fantasy points.

From there, I totaled each team's score across the six categories and used those final scores to sort my power rankings. 52 points would be average with the lower scores being above average.


I also added everyone's cumulative score (and ranking) beneath their week's score. Just another way to consider how things are shaking out.


Here is week two's results:


12. MAMA Said Knock You Out - Rich (0-2)
Week Total: 11
Per Game: 11
Bench Scoring: 8
Injuries: 5
Wavier Additions: 6
Standings: 10
Week 2 Total: 73
Season  Total: 143 (12th)

At the bottom once again, MAMA Said Knock You Out lost this week with a score of 712 for the week on 22.3 points per game. Rich's bench put up a much more promising 200 points and he did not add anyone off of the wavier wire. This squad missed 9 games due to injuries.

While the scoring categories all saw encouraging increases, Rich was hindered in this week's ranking by being boxed out of the wavier wire and losing a tough one to RIM JOBS. This week, MAMA Said Knock You Out will be looking for their first victory against another team with some early season struggles: Pippen Aint Eazy.

11. TimAint Duncan - Nick (1-1)
Week Total: 12
Per Game: 12
Bench Scoring: 11
Injuries: 2
Wavier Additions: 7
Standings: 4
Week 2 Total: 72
Season  Total: 133 (11th)

Dropping two spots this week, TimAint Duncan scored 686 points on a 22.1 per game average in a loss to Team Penetration. Nick's bench posted 160 points and the team lost 0.3 fantasy points per game with the drop of Terrence Ross for Andre Roberson.

These numbers may be misleading as TimAint Duncan suffered through 14 missed games due to injuries, including several in the starting lineup. That will certainly cause a significant dent into any team's numbers. As the injuries clear up, Nick's numbers are likely to rise.

10. Pippen Aint Eazy - Freddy (0-2)
Week Total: 8
Per Game: 8
Bench Scoring: 12
Injuries: 2
Wavier Additions: 6
Standings: 10
Week 2 Total: 62
Season  Total: 106 (9th)

Dropping four spots in the rankings this week, Pippen Aint Eazy posted 794 points on a 24.8 per game average in their second loss of the season. Freddy's bench mustered a league low 129 points and, once again, no waiver moves were made this week.

All of these pedestrian numbers can be explained by the same thing: 14 missed games due to injuries. Evans, Barton, Rubio, Valenciunas and Harris are all missing games. On top of all this, Freddy has yet to fill a vacant spot on his bench, which will certainly be a boost whenever he finds the perfect apple to pick. I doubt Pippen Aint Eazy will remain this low much longer.

9. Por Favors - Nathaniel (0-2)
Week Total: 9
Per Game: 9
Bench Scoring: 2
Injuries: 5
Wavier Additions: 6
Standings: 10
Week 2 Total: 59
Season  Total: 96 (7th)

Dropping five spots this week, Por Favors put up 794 fantasy points on a 24.2 per game average in a loss to the hot All-NBA 5th Team. Nathaniel's squad missed 9 games due to injuries and his bench dropped another bomb with 322. No wavier moves were made.

A very interesting week for this team as the starting lineup was weak while the bench remained strong. It seems to me that this team may have some positional issues as Dragic, Schroder, George Hill, and Kyrie all battle for two point guard spots while all outperforming any shooting guard this squad has. Regardless of how that situation resolves, I'm certain Por Favors will make a bounce back.

8. RIM JOBS - Monty (1-1)
Week Total: 10
Per Game: 10
Bench Scoring: 1
Injuries: 8
Wavier Additions: 4
Standings: 4
Week 2 Total: 57
Season  Total: 118 (10th)

Rising two spots in the rankings, RIM JOBS scored 739 points on a 22.4 per game average in a big time win over MAMA Said Knock You Out. Even more encouraging is the league leading 331 points scored by Monty's bench this week. RIM JOBS missed 5 games this week and added 8.7 fantasy points per game with the exchange of Domantas Sabonis for Tyson Chandler in the wavier wire.

Monty's squad is already proving to be a team that can build quickly. With a strong wavier presence and rising numbers, I suspect this team may finish the season much higher than I initially expected. Look out for RIM JOBS.

7. Admiral Kryptonite - Gus (1-1)
Week Total: 7
Per Game: 6
Bench Scoring: 9
Injuries: 4
Wavier Additions: 6
Standings: 4
Week 2 Total: 49
Season  Total: 94 (6th)

In the same spot as last week, Admiral Kryptonite posted 805 fantasy points on a 25.2 per game average in a tough loss to Make It Nashty. My bench scored a disappointing 180 points though my squad did miss 10 games due to injuries. I made no wavier wire moves this week.

My team continues to put up middling numbers while my bench heals from injuries. I think this team will hover around this spot in the rankings for awhile.

6. Blow Me - Tyler (1-1)
Week Total: 6
Per Game: 6
Bench Scoring: 3
Injuries: 8
Wavier Additions: 5
Standings: 4
Week 2 Total: 44
Season  Total: 81 (4th)

Dropping three spots this week, Blow Me threw up 807 fantasy points on a 25.2 per game average in a narrow loss to Balls to the Wall. Tyler's bench was elite, scoring 320 points. Blow Me missed 5 games due to injuries and added 3.3 fantasy points per game on the wavier wire this week.

An unfortunate loss after a fortunate victory, Tyler's squad has been involved in the closest matches of each week so far. Though his starting lineup was not as strong as last week, it was still above average. Meanwhile, the bench is top notch and ever-improving in the wavier wire. Because of this, I imagine that this is about the lowest Blow Me will ever drop in the rankings.

5. Balls to the Wall - Brett (1-1)
Week Total: 5
Per Game: 4
Bench Scoring: 6
Injuries: 8
Wavier Additions: 2
Standings: 4
Week 2 Total: 38
Season  Total: 105 (8th)

Rising six spots as our Jump of the Week, Balls to the Wall bounced back in a big way. Scoring 812 points on a 27.1 per game average, Brett's squad got a big win over a good team this week. Brett's bench also chipped in 250 points while missing 5 games due to injuries. Balls to the Wall added 13.8 points per game with J.J. Barea replacing Tony Parker.

After a flat first week, guys like Lowry and Harrison Barnes took steps forward while John Wall and LaMarcus Aldridge continued to play strong. These to numbers should be a better indicator of what to expect from Brett's squad going forward.

4. Make It Nashty - Danny (1-1)
Week Total: 4
Per Game: 5
Bench Scoring: 10
Injuries: 1
Wavier Additions: 1
Standings: 4
Week 2 Total: 34
Season  Total: 91 (5th)

Rising four spots this week, Make It Nashty put up some big numbers. Posting 925 points on a 26.4 average, Danny's squad is looked strong in a win over Admiral Kryptonite. The bench put together 174 points though this could be explained by a league leading 15 games missed this week due to injury. In addition, Danny made this biggest wavier wire addition by bringing on 21.2 points per game in C.J. Miles to fill an empty bench spot.

All of this is to say that Danny had a very good week. As the injuries clear up and the bench shapes out, the numbers are primed to improve. Dwight Howard and Rudy Gay have been great additions to this team. Make It Nashty is showing that they may have had the best Auction Draft this year.

3. All-NBA 5th Team - Matt (2-0)
Week Total: 3
Per Game: 3
Bench Scoring: 4
Injuries: 11
Wavier Additions: 6
Standings: 1
Week 2 Total: 34
Season  Total: 72 (3rd)

Rising two spots this week, All-NBA 5th Team notched 932 fantasy points on a 27.4 average in a strong win over Por Favors. Matt's bench also did well with 267 points this week. This squad missed 2 games due to injuries and no wavier moves were made.

Two strong weeks in a row is a very good sign for Matt's squad. All-NBA 5th Team will be facing a big test against Team Penetration this week. Regardless of the outcome, I expect Matt's numbers to remain strong.

2. Team Penetration - Michael (2-0)
Week Total: 2
Per Game: 2
Bench Scoring: 5
Injuries: 12
Wavier Additions: 3
Standings: 1
Week 2 Total: 29
Season  Total: 58 (2nd)

In the same spot as last week, Team Penetration continued their dominance with 1093 points on a 29.5 average, numbers significantly ahead of the majority of the league. Michael's bench provided 260 points in his second victory of the season. No games were missed due to injury and 10.3 points per game were added with the addition of Terrence Jones in the place of Mario Hezonja.

The only knock that can really be said about this team is their luxury of no missed games due to injury thus far. Though, I doubt that is even much of a knock  since it is possible that Michael has build his team with injury histories in mind. I think Team Penetration will be tough to knock from this spot.

1. Team Nipple - Chris (2-0)
Week Total: 1
Per Game: 1
Bench Scoring: 7
Injuries: 7
Wavier Additions: 8
Standings: 1
Week 2 Total: 27
Season  Total: 50 (1st)

Remaining on top, Team Nipple dropped 1114 fantasy points on the week with a 32.8 per game average as Chris got his second win of the season. The bench added 225 points and the team missed 7 games due to injuries. Team Nipple lost 2.8 points per game in the wavier wire this week, mainly because the addition of Jared Sullinger has yet to play a game this season.

T.J. Warren and Joel Embiid have been top notch surprise starters thus far and have filled some holes nicely. Despite this, Chris's bench is still pretty mundane and could be the only weakness this team really has. It will be interesting to see how Chris continues to handle that. That is, while he continues to stake victories.