Power Rankings #3 (Feb)

The third and final round of power rankings (released on February 8, 2009) included the following analysis: Valentine (who's delivered the goods more times than not?); Heartbreaker (who's stood up their team on more than one occasion?); Potential Keeper (analysis of next year's team); Franchise Grade (how did each head coach perform over the long haul?); Playoff Prediction (thoughts on the last three weeks of the season). Whether you love 'em or hate 'em... here they are!

Team #10: Maria Koppen (2-10)

Valentine: DeJuan Blair, Pittsburgh… Despite only five starts on the year, Blair remains in the Top 35 for overall points scored. This is a staggering figure, considering his last start was Week 9. It’s truly a shame that Blair was a non-factor for most of the season. He is the heart and soul of the Pittsburgh team, and could have easily been a “Blake Griffin” type of player. What a waste…

Heartbreaker: Maria Koppen, Team Owner… Like a broken record, the blame falls squarely on the shoulders of Maria Koppen. The players did all they could, and performed admirably when given a chance. But you can’t coach effort: a quality found at the top of every successful franchise, with a trickle-down effect. Maybe you should find some heart on Valentine’s Day – how fitting.

Potential Keeper: Ty Lawson, North Carolina… Though it’s doubtful Maria Koppen will be asked back next year, there are some solid players not named DeJuan Blair up and down the roster. If North Carolina doesn’t cut down the nets, I could definitely see Lawson coming back next year for another run at the title as a senior.

Franchise Grade: The league could do some addition by subtraction, if you know what I mean… F

Playoff Prediction: Unfortunately, Maria Koppen waved bye-bye to the playoffs around Week 5. There isn’t much to say, except that this was one of the more pitiful displays of effort I have seen in quite some time. But that probably doesn’t bother you, as both your wins came against Hunter. Coincidence? …or just the proper motivation?

Team #9: Booo Joel (3-9)

Valentine: Earl Clark, Louisville… The leading scorer for Booo Joel has done a little bit of everything this season. He has averaged more than 25 FCHP over his last three starts, and has delivered double-doubles in two of Booo Joel’s three wins. Considering three of Booo Joel’s top four picks were busts, Clark lived up to heavy expectations, but it just wasn’t enough in the end.

Heartbreaker: Robbie Hummel, Purdue… The injury bug plagued the Preseason Big Ten POY all season. With only one double-double on the year (Week 5) and zero games with 20+ points, the bad luck has snowballed for Hummel. His effectiveness for the remainder of the season is unknown.

Potential Keeper: JaJuan Johnson, Purdue… It would be nearly impossible to see this coming at the beginning of the season. From last round pick to potential keeper? Some might think it would be more beneficial to forfeit the opportunity and start fresh next year. But Johnson got better as the season progressed. Hummel’s injuries forced him into a leadership role, which dramatically accelerated his development. With Earl Clark and Jarvis Varnado likely to leave early, Johnson might be the only viable option to consider for next year’s squad.

Franchise Grade: A poor draft led to a slow start, which led to carelessness, which led to loss of interest, which nearly led to last place. I know Booo Joel possesses unmatched pride at times, but he struggled with consistent dedication all year. Something to think about during the off season… D+

Playoff Prediction: Booo Joel still has something to look forward to... the “Toilet Bowl” against Maria Koppen in the season finale. Call it what you will, but this battle of incompetence could end up as a scoreless draw. You couldn’t draw up a better end to the regular season.

Team #8: Gordon Bombay (4-8)

Valentine: Jeff Adrien, Connecticut… With double-doubles in five of his last seven starts, Adrien has been a fantasy owner’s dream. From the moment the ball is tipped, you can tell he is one of those guys that plays mad the entire game. He is the emotional enforcer, similar to Darnell Jackson on last year’s Kansas squad. Adrien has been the lone player for Gordon Bombay to consistently deliver every week.

Heartbreaker: James Harden, Arizona St… Arguably the best prospect for the next level, Harden has put up some monster games this year. But when Gordon Bombay needed his star to shine, he practically disappeared. When the final playoff spot was his for the taking (Week 9), Harden posted 3.50 FCHP, and has struggled ever since. To make matters worse? The super sophomore will likely be a top 10 pick in the upcoming NBA draft.

Potential Keeper: Chase Budinger, Arizona… I know he nearly declared after last season. And it would have been easy for Budinger to abandon a new coaching staff and bolt for the NBA. But he didn’t… and he still might come back for more. I could see Budinger and Jordan Hill making a co-decision on their collegiate future. But if they both return, they would be the nation’s best frontcourt duo hands down.

Franchise Grade: Not a bad season for the rookie head coach… but hopefully some lessons were learned along the way. Sitting James Johnson and Levance Fields for most of the season was a head-scratcher. Though active in free agency, some questionable decisions were made each week. It will be interesting to see if this year whets his appetite for more, or if he gives up on the dream for next year… C-

Playoff Prediction: There isn’t even a possibility of Gordon Bombay making the playoffs this year. So let’s not beat a dead horse. The most important thing on your plate is your decision on a keeper.

Team #7: Chalmers Chiefers (4-8)

Valentine: Taj Gibson, Southern Cal… After so many impressive performances, Gibson lived up to the hype. He has consistently delivered monster point totals and almost singlehandedly carried Chalmers Chiefers to a playoff spot. His teammates still struggle to feed him the ball, but his incredible shooting percentage and shot-blocking ability make him one of the most dangerous players in the league.

Heartbreaker: Scottie Reynolds, Villanova… The surprisingly low production from the Wildcats’ leader is baffling. After averaging less than 20 FCHP per start, it is quite obvious that Reynolds has been a bust. And the few games where Reynolds lights it up, Chalmers Chiefers rarely had him in. It is tough to figure out such a streaky player, who used to be the face of the potent Villanova offense.

Potential Keeper: Cole Aldrich, Kansas… Assuming he comes back, Aldrich arguably could be the first overall pick in next year’s draft. He will only improve the more he plays, and you have to be foaming at the mouth at the thought of having him for another year. But will he come back? We shall see… Is he worth the risk? Probably…

Franchise Grade: I liked Chalmers Chiefers’ passion all year. You could tell this wasn’t his first rodeo. But he clearly drafted with too much heart, and not enough smart. But you know he’ll be back next year, and with some offseason preparation, he’ll be ready to fix his mistakes… C

Playoff Prediction: The secret to winning a fantasy league is starting fast and ending strong. Unfortunately, neither of those happened for Chalmers Chiefers. Losing 3 of 4 to start the season digs a hole. But then losing 3 of 4 during the homestretch of the season with a playoff spot up for grabs… that’s just playing with fire. Too many things have to come together, and I just don’t see it happening. Although stranger things have happened… like Maria Koppen turning in a lineup.

Team #6: Boilers (6-6)

Valentine: Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina… The #1 overall pick has quietly taken care of business. Although only posting three double-doubles thus far, Hansbrough has been in the Top 10 in scoring for most of the season. Expect him to continue to feast on weak ACC opponents, as the catalyst for Boilers’ run at the finals.

Heartbreaker: E’Twaun Moore, Purdue… Boilers’ hometown boy has been a major disappointment this year. After averaging less then 12 FCHP in the first 7 weeks, he has not seen the floor since. It takes a lot to give up on one of your own, but it might prove to be the best decision you could have made for your team’s chances.

Potential Keeper: Greivis Vasquez, Maryland… This team is full of senior leadership: Tyler Hansbrough, Terrence Williams and Marcus Thornton. So picking a keeper might not be all that critical. But you have to look at Vasquez’ body of work. He does nearly everything well, and rarely has a bad game. It’s hard to imagine him going in the first round, but it might be better if you didn’t let another team take a chance on him.

Franchise Grade: You have to be impressed with Boilers’ consistency. This is the only franchise I didn’t ever beg a lineup from. His dedication from the start made the difference in his ultimate playoff birth. His knack for trash-talking has also thrown a few of his opponents off their game on occasion… B-

Playoff Prediction: This team is difficult to figure out. They switch their lineup nearly every week. Unless you get really lucky, you’ll end up outthinking yourself. This was the only team in danger of losing their playoff spot, but they managed to hold on.

Team #5: Bill Self (7-5)

Valentine: Toney Douglas, Florida St… The sharpshooting Seminole has averaged 24+ in his last four starts. His emergence as a consistent point-producer has given the Bill Self roster a much needed shot in the arm. His overachievements have more than made up for a few early round draft busts.

Heartbreaker: Tyler Smith, Tennessee… Speaking of early round busts… What happened to Tyler Smith? After his triple-double in Week 3, he has yet to break 25 FCHP. Even worse, he hasn’t scored more than 10 FCHP in his last two weeks. He’s picking the worst time of year to struggle. And you have to wonder if he’ll be on the playoff roster.

Potential Keeper: Luke Harangody, Notre Dame… Harangody is undeniably the best player in our league. He is the only player averaging more than 40 FCHP per start (44.29) and he has double-doubled in five straight weeks. The Fighting Irish have been struggling, losing 7 in a row. Their chances of making the NCAA Tournament are all but gone. But this should guarantee that Harangody will be back next year.

Franchise Grade: It took a while for Bill Self to find an identity. At 3-4 going into Week 8, they hit their stride… winning 3 of 4 and solidifying their postseason plans. The three ACC guards: KC Rivers, Jack McClinton and Toney Douglas are finally pulling their weight. With a strong keeper in Harangody, the future looks bright for this franchise… B+

Playoff Prediction: Barring a miracle from Booo Joel, the scrappy Bill Self squad will punch their postseason ticket. They are extremely heavy on streaky guards, but I would never count out a team with Harangody.

Team #4: Aids (7-5)

Valentine: DeMarre Carroll, Missouri… The high profilers for Aids have struggled recently. But "The Junkyard Dog” simply put the entire team on his back, averaging more than 30 FCHP over his last 6 starts. With so many underachievers on this team, Carroll could end up being a one-man show for Aids’ improbable run at the title.

Heartbreaker: Manny Harris, Michigan… Thanks to two sub-zero games, Harris has averaged less than 5 FCHP over his last three starts. Will Manny be able to handle the pressure with so much riding on him? If the answer isn’t a resounding ‘Yes’, then Aids’ playoff run will be over before they know what hit them.

Potential Keeper: Greg Monroe, Georgetown… Assuming Manny Harris declares for the draft, the next best option for Aids’ keeper should be Monroe. He was solid all season, and never hit the “freshman wall”. You have to think he’ll stick around for at least one more year. An offseason in the weight room would him transform him into a dominant Big East big man.

Franchise Grade: I’ll admit, I thought Aids would be the team everyone else makes fun of all season. Boy was I wrong… Despite one of the ugliest drafts, Aids managed his team to the playoffs. They are also built for the long haul, with numerous keepers to evaluate. It might have taken a while for Aids to find his groove, but this team could be dangerous next year… B

Playoff Prediction: With playoff birth in hand, Aids has to be thinking “What if?” There were so many close losses, he can’t think about how close he actually was to a 1st round bye. Simply put, Jodie Meeks and the Harris brothers need to find their form. If not, the playoffs could be uglier than Aids’ draft, believe it or not…

Team #3: WGP (7-5)

Valentine: Blake Griffin, Oklahoma… Easily the player most NBA-ready player in the country, Griffin is a beast in the box score. His improved athleticism displayed some highlight reel dunks, and his physical nature has led to consistent double-doubles. As the home stretch of the season draws near, Griffin can’t afford to let off the gas.

Heartbreaker: Arinze Onuaku, Syracuse… Injuries have derailed the Orange's tank. You had to wonder if his mammoth frame just took a toll on his body after such a long season. If Onuaku is a nonfactor in the playoffs, someone else will need to fill his size 18 shoes.

Potential Keeper: Jordan Hill, Arizona… With only two double-doubles in his last five weeks, Hill is in a “slump”. The junior from Atlanta, GA could still leave early, which would be a disaster for WGP’s ‘keeper’ possibility. The more ‘Zona struggles, the greater the chances of Hill coming back for his senior campaign.

Franchise Grade: Unfortunately, this team wasn’t built for the long haul. With so many players on this team potentially leaving early, WGP will more than likely have to start from scratch. Although, that didn’t turn out so bad for him this year. Just find another Blake Griffin. Piece of cake, right? …B+

Playoff Prediction: WGP should be able to squeeze his way into the finals. And now that Da’Sean Butler and Dante Cunningham are peaking at the right time, WGP is no longer a two-headed monster.

Team #2: Crimson & Bluebloods (10-2)

Valentine: Craig Brackins, Iowa St… The Cyclone big man has been playing out of his mind. Brackins has been the most consistent performer for Crimson & Bluebloods since being picked up in Week 9. Hopefully the recent ankle injury is only a minor setback, as his added pop to the starting lineup was just what the doctor ordered.

Heartbreaker: Sam Young, Pittsburgh… Another early round bust for Crimson & Bluebloods created some cause for concern. After averaging slightly over 10 FCHP in his last three starts, Young has been on the bench since Week 10. Failing to score more than 20 FCHP since Week 4 is a red flag.

Potential Keeper: Gani Lawal, Georgia Tech… Early departures of Patrick Patterson, Craig Brackins, Jonny Flynn and Al-Farouq Aminu are strong possibilities. And Lawal has been one of the most consistent point-scorers for Crimson & Bluebloods all year. Although he could also declare early. It looks like Crimson & Bluebloods will have quite a dilemma choosing a keeper for next year.

Franchise Grade: The preseason draft, typically the strength of every Ace-coached team, didn’t go according to plan. But some brilliant moves in free agency (i.e. Aminu, Lawal and Brackins) have transformed this team into a contender. Veteran instincts should keep Crimson & Bluebloods at the top of the standings… A-

Playoff Prediction: With a first round bye, Crimson & Bluebloods should be thankful for a shot at the title. The team with no true superstars has been at the top of the league rankings since Week 3, and hasn’t looked back. We’ll see if they have enough grit to keep pace with the other big dogs.

Team #1: Smurphs (10-2)

Valentine: Jerel McNeal, Marquette… McNeal has averaged 28+ FCHP over his last 8 starts, and been one of the most consistent players in the entire league. Along with fellow Smurphs’ backcourt teammate Nick Calathes, these two are the highest scoring guards overall.

Heartbreaker: Curtis Jerrells, Baylor… The midseason 1st team All American has looked like a completely different player in the last three weeks, averaging 11 FCHP. With Smurphs already assured a spot in the finals, they can afford for Jerrells to stumble a bit. But he needs to return to form if they want to continue their steamroll of the competition.

Potential Keeper: Nick Calathes, Florida… There are so many choices on such a deep team. But Calathes has proven to be the most valuable guard in the country. With three double-doubles and one triple-double posted this year, Calathes is a complete player. With a nose for the basket, Calathes is always in the middle of the action.

Franchise Grade: Smurphs might be one-and-done in this league, but their presence and competitive spirit have been much appreciated. With the most talented roster by far, they have been the obvious favorite from the beginning. If they can bring home the title as rookie co-owners, it would be quite a story as they head off to college… A

Playoff Prediction: It’s hard to see any team in the league keeping pace with Smurphs’ scoring ability over the course of two weeks. The championship appears to be theirs for the taking. It won’t be easy, as a couple other teams are peaking at the right time. But if Smurphs continues to play this well, the only battle in the playoffs will be for 2nd place.