Two of fantasy’s best young stars play on the same team. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
It’s the first of the month, and we’re just over 20% of the way through the fantasy basketball season. I did my first fantasy basketball power rankings this time last month, so let’s run it back!
Which teams bring the most fantasy value? Which teams are on tank watch and could hinder their production?
Let’s dive into the latest fantasy basketball power rankings — from worst to first.
30. Detroit Pistons
Previous rank: 28
The Pistons are on the fast track to Tankville, losing a franchise-record 16 straight games. As part of that losing streak, there have been injuries and random shake-ups in the starting lineup, making it increasingly difficult for fantasy purposes. Ausar Thompson looked like a steal, but if he continues to come off the bench, that could be a problem. Cade Cunningham is better for points leagues and Jalen Duren has missed seven games already. Yikes.
29. Washington Wizards
Previous rank: 30
Kyle Kuzma is hooping, but Jordan Poole, not so much. He’s outside the top 170 in nine-category leagues and the top 100 in points leagues. His ADP was in the 50s, so poor play to start the year has been frustrating. Daniel Gafford has been better lately, but averaging under 10 points and seven boards with two stocks is better for category formats than points leagues. This team is also heading nowhere fast.
28. Memphis Grizzlies
Previous rank: 16
Desmond Bane is carrying a lot of weight on his shoulders, and after a six-block performance on Wednesday, hopefully, Jaren Jackson Jr. is on the verge of living up to his second-round ADP. Outside of those guys, it’s been a revolving door of injuries and short-term waiver adds with limited staying power.
27. Portland Trail Blazers
Previous rank: 29
Injuries are delaying the development efforts in Portland, as their backcourt of Anfernee Simons, Malcolm Brogdon and Scoot Henderson have missed a combined 30 games thus far. Deandre Ayton has been decent ranks-wise because of his rebounding and stocks, but averaging a career-low 13.3 points per game is a considerable drop off offensively….
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