Last Updated 6/26/25
Nobody asked for it, but here it is.
Post Draft comments and rankings courtesy of yours truly.
- Commish
Post Draft Power Rankings
Last Place Teams - Raptors , Sixers , Sonics, Bucks
These four teams are my post-draft, pre-season last place teams. I don’t necessarily think these teams or players are bad, I think this is a tough league and these four teams in my opinion will have a tough time getting going this season.
Raptors - 2024 RT Electric Conference 9 Seed
The Raptors returned no players in the original keeper league draft going in a new direction with Forwards Mike Ludwig and Antonio Luba. GM Wavy Davy Stockinger then moved his first round pick for star Guard Noah Grabar. A reach in the second on incoming rookie Henry Bickerstaff didn’t help their need at the Guard position. The Raptors also brought back Levi Taberski from last season's team giving the team additional length at the wing.
Sixers - 2024 Empire Electric Conference 8 Seed
The Sixers used both keepers on Forwards Jake Ritts and Brian Woods. Chase Kline with the 18th overall pick shocked many in attendance. John Borton will be a nice physical presence inside for the team. The question here is spacing. A lot of big bodies that will be clogging the lane could be a recipe for disaster. Young guards in Dax Bengert and former Wolves GM Tyler DePreta will hope to add some scoring as well. I don’t know who the point guard or the center is on this team.
Sonics - 2024 RT Electric Conference 7 Seed
The Sonics traded away their star babyface Conor Foley and turned that pick into rookie Takeylo Burts. Kelo didn’t participate in the combine due to injury but attended in good spirit so the pick here could raise some questions as to what he brings to a team. The Sonics added Roy Wallace with their second pick in the first round adding one of the best pure Center’s in the league. The Sonics drafted Kian Bennett to come back to the team after suffering a season ending injury in the 2024 season and they added Will Lindstrom who brings some college experience with him.
Bucks - 2024 Empire Electric Conference 9 Seed
We didn’t hear a word from the Bucks until the fourth round of the draft. This was all a part of GM Liam Stanton’s “master plan”. Trading away his first, second, and third round picks rewarded him with former league MVP Jack Bickerstaff from the Lakers, reigning league MIP Gavin Borrello, and reigning 6th Man of the Year recipient Nolan Edwards. A move in the keeper league draft brought in the big for the team in Connor McDonnell. Pat Stanton in his rookie year and veteran Matt Gorski fill this team's vacant roster spots. Good luck to the Bucks in what looks to be a loaded division.
8 Teams I could see in the play-in games at the end of the season…
Wolves, Celtics, Grizzlies, Kings, Nets, Magic, Heat, Bulls
Everyone but the bottom two teams in each conference qualifies for playoffs. Teams seeded 7,8,9,10 will participate in a play-in game for the final two spots left in the playoffs for their respective conferences. These 8 teams need to win the games they should win in order to stay off this list.
Wolves - 2024 RT Electric Conference 8 Seed
No first round pick. That’s a tough start but it’s the start New GM Davon Rodgeway is going with. Keeping only Jarmani Cooper going into the draft, the Wolves constructed a team of Erik Hibit, Chris Bourne (trade with Lakers), Aweso Noor, Kyle Mackowiak, Jordan Ernest, and Vinnie Monaco. For those of you that don’t know these names, these guys are all hustle and grit players. I see a team 8 deep that will all have to buy in for 40 mins each week if they want to pull out some wins. This is a team I can see being in more single possession games than many other teams. Keep an eye on the Wolves.
Celtics - 2024 Empire Electric Conference 1 Seed
Three first round picks but three late picks as well. Winter sensation Jack Bernstein 3rd overall, combine standout Nani Rivera, and Winter League Rookie Tino Mancabelli filled those picks. Great picks to go with Forward Ahmet Merzihic right? Guess GM Tony B was thinking other as he sent Ahmet to the Mavs for the pick that turned out to be Brandon B Dubs Williams. Putting that roster with Patrick Connolly, Todd Tomaselli, and Ed McCarthy on the bench will be the team this season's Celtics will go to war with.
Grizzlies - 2025 Expansion Team
In my opinion, Jack Harper won pre-season GMOTY with his level of preparation coming into this draft. Notes and stats and a level of preparedness I haven’t seen from many rookie GMs. Started the season kind of small with Guards CJ Moore and Conrad Ring as his keepers but flipped the script drafting 6’4’’ Forward Matt Larusch. Nashiem Harris versatility to go with returning Guard Nate Gonsiorek, Tommy Alleca, and rookie Joe Blackwell will be a sight to see.
Kings - 2024 Empire Electric Conference 4 Seed
From the back 9 to the Draft in time, Kyle Okie got himself a squad fit for a King. Losing out on Trent Cordone this season is a serious bummer for the Kings but keepers Mario Quattrucci and Chad Gloss start this team off with some serious perimeter scoring. The Kings wasted no time going right after a Center in Mike Borton. Speed with the second round pick in Malikye Ridgeway and Veteran Guard Sean Dobrick make good options for this team this summer. Brennan “Chet” Scarsella reunites with Mario and Sonic legend Mikey Brown finishes out this royal team.
Nets - 2024 RT Electric Conference 1 Seed
Year One without Al Hiam. The dynasty comes to an end. Two time summer champion Alex Hiam was sent packing to Houston this offseason and now the Nets look to bounce back this season with newly re-acquired Guard Conor Foley. Using a keeper pick on Nick Reeb and selecting Kavon Rogers gives this Nets team a new big three. Artis Green had a great combine catching the eye of Ethan Wells, Nets player representative to GM BG. A vet in Darius Embry adds depth to the backcourt adding Cam Danner and Adam Burke as integral culture pieces make this Nets team whole. BG has made less work is all I’m saying.
Magic - 2025 Expansion Team
A Huge addition early has this Magic team hoping to spell their way into August basketball this summer. Tyree Coble joining Pat Hart, Admir Merzihic, and Luke Ingrando gives the Magic a unique look this season. Danny Emma had a good combine contribution on both ends throughout his time there and Brett Hall gives this Magic team some much needed charisma. The BusinessMan Peter Morgante returns from his knee injury in the 2023 season hoping to give a spark to the Magic offense.
Heat - 2024 Empire Electric Conference 7 Seed
We saw the Heat almost accomplish the unthinkable last season, upsetting the 2 Seed Suns and 6 Seed Clippers on their way to what almost was a Empire Electric Conference Championship. The Big Rig Trevor Govenettio is back with keepers Ryan Merz and Jemery Clark. The Heat join a conference loaded with talent making this season's task of winning the championship a tough feat. Jeriah Williams joins the Heat in the first round and Joe Ciocca out of John Carroll by way of Canisius High School gives them guard depth in the second. League liability BBM will hope to step it up this season on the defensive end of things for this Heat team.
Bulls - 2025 Expansion Team
The Bulls entered Sunday’s draft with one goal in mind and that was to add a lethal weapon and they’re hoping Rookie Daryl Haynes can be that guy. First time GM KMD joins upper management this season as a member of the GMs. Keeper picks used on reigning Summer Champion Skylar Szymanski, former Bucks teammate Aidan Brunner, and Mr Beast, Trevor Willard, started out this new look ball club. Three late picks secured returning guard Leyton Roberts, and rookies Jorden Moore-Graves and Julius Shaw. The Bulls will have to battle all season long if they plan on playing ball this upcoming August.
12 - Spurs
2025 Expansion Team
The Spurs land 12th on the Commissioner’s post-draft power rankings. GM Ben Bill started his season off by trading his keeper picks away and acquiring extra draft picks. He starts the 2025 Season off with player rep Michael Nolan, a 6 '4 bruiser of a player. With the second overall pick in the draft, Bill selected Sean Weisansal as the Spurs first ever drafted player. He’s pairing Sean with Winter League Champion Danny the Vet Carrig, Lackawanna legend LeSean Braxton, a young athletic guard trio in Jaylin Rose, Gavin Roberts, and Xross Edwards, and he secured some additional size late with Ben Osborne. This will be a physical, in your face type of team that I expect to lock in a top 6 seed for playoffs this August.
11 - Suns
2024 Empire Electric Conference 2 Seed
The Suns brought back last summer standout Jason Martin and had plans on seeing Kyle Ebert return to action. But plans fell through so their consolation prize is Brady Gleason. Pretty good prize in my opinion. Trading for Zach Garland is a smart move securing a guy that can handle the ball and hit perimeter shots and then GM Kyle Rubeck went size, size, size with his first three picks. Winter League Rookie Chris Griner in the first round with Matteo Duennebacke and Bill McKeever beefed up this frontcourt. The Suns will look to prove that they’re a plug and play type team. As long as Beck is at the helm, the Suns will never be an easy out.
10 - Wizards
2024 Empire Electric Conference 3 Seed
Any team with Tony Gualla on it is a tough team to beat. I do not care who the other 5 guys are on the floor going against him, Gualla alone is enough to make you leave that 40 minute game absolutely exhausted. Unfortunately for the league, I fear they got Gualla some help. Adding 6’5 forward Kevin Zabawa with the 15th pick fresh off the waitlist the morning of the draft was big for this team. AJ Turner adds a scoring threat opposite of Gualla to this team and in my opinion what was the steal of the draft is the Wizards getting Mike Davis in the third round. This Wizards team will battle for 40 minutes each week.
9 - Pistons
2024 RT Electric Conference 4 Seed, 2024 Summer League Champions
How do I have the Pistons at 9? This is a Sadowy injury ranking. With a healthy Sadowy, this team would be a top 3 team no questions. Fish retained First Team Defender Kevin Marcinkowski to pair with Sadowy for the Pistons title defense. Fish then added long time buddy and Men’s League Teammate Alex Warren, a serious threat from the perimeter with Mike Bass, a veteran guard in Brian Cleary, and some young size with Hayden Mumbach and Sean Bob. This is a final 8 team in my opinion with a healthy Matt Sadowy.
8 - Clippers
2024 Empire Electric Conference 6 Seed
My choice to win the division. Any team with Nate Hoellig and Tyler Bailey are set up for immediate success. The Clippers made a keeper draft move for Matt Geary with the Knicks, used a first and second round pick on Kameron Williams and Putter Brown, and brought in some guys that know the system with Brett Borowski and Ethan Dinse. I think this is the first team this season to score 100 points. I do worry this team might also give up 100 points this season too having almost no interior presence. Lots of shot attempts coming from this LA team.
7 - Knicks
2025 Expansion Team
Richie Sotero in his first season as Knicks GM got everything he wanted at the draft. Trading away his keeper picks rewarded him with 7 total picks in the draft. He took Kalon KD Kimble fourth overall and paired that with Devin Redden and Ru Molson in the second. He then shouted out his former ECC Teammate Colin Hart with his next pick before rounding out his team with Meech Reed, Derek Pfohl, and Marquel Wilson. Richie got his boys and his boys are alright. Team chemistry at its highest entering this summer season.
6 - Nuggets
2025 Expansion Team
The highest rated expansion team and for good reason. Entering Sunday’s draft, the average height of the Nuggets was 6’4’’. Between team GM Ajay Cubulski and keepers Charlie Sobieraski and Alex Davis, this team only really needed one piece and they got it. Enter Devon Darrell, the fifth pick in the draft. DD coming in hot off an MVP season overseas. In his short stint in the winter league he was 5th in scoring behind the names of Justin Allen, Clark Brueckl, Noah Grabar, and Trent Cordone. Some more serious guard play with Marky Kulczyk and Reggie Spearman, this team is poised for August basketball.
5 - Mavs
2024 RT Electric Conference 5 Seed
GM Steve Heather opted out of playing this upcoming summer but will remain head of basketball operations in the Maverick’s front office. Austin Coon will be Steve’s player rep and he’ll be alongside reigning ROTY Aaron Jones and the Handyman Andy Strug. If this team can beat the rumor mill of players wanting out, this team will be scary down the stretch. The MAvs traded for Ahmet Merzihic in the draft and used their first round pick on incoming rookie Zak Ciezki, who had a favorable combine. Ed Stephens will make his debut in the summer league as a member of the Mavs which adds valuable ball handling experience. Mavs need to not self implode and they’ll make some teams quit early for sure.
4 - Lakers
2024 RT Electric Conference 3 Seed
A first round exit for the Lakers led to a change in scenery for Laker All-Star Jack Bickerstaff this season. In his time as a Laker, he saw one finals appearance, a league MVP, multiple first team all-league accolades, but no ring. Enter, Clark Brueckl. A proven winner. A former Winter League champion, E8 Champion, Town of Hamburg Champion, ect…this guy wins. At the first overall pick in the draft it was a no-brainer to team up Clark with Laker keeper and brother, Jay Brueckl. With the original Laker pick, GM Commish Bob selected Winter League teammate and Champion Derick Simpson. The theme here is clear. Target winners and that's what Nick Bob plans to achieve this summer.
3 - Thunder
2024 Empire Electric Conference Champion, League runner up, Conference 5 Seed.
Jones balled out in his debut season as a GM and he did it with the help of the reigning DPOY, Austin Peach, and all-league player Tyler Kittinger. Jones moved a second round pick for defender Kaleb O’Hara and used his first round pick on Yaw Osei. Yaw had a good combine playing physical on both ends. This teams 1-5 lineup is locked in and ready to go in Week 1 when they face the Rockets. 2024 Champ Zach Caito is switching teams this summer and he’ll hope to add some outside scoring for the Thunder this summer.
2 - Rockets
2024 RT Electric Conference 2 Seed
You can’t find a more all-in team this year than the Rockets. GM Dan Ham put his eggs all in one basket in landing 2024 MVP finalist and brother Alex Ham. This was the move that secured key returning keeper Jay Bergmann and motivated other MVP finalist Derek Dorr. This team has put together a big 3 that this league has not seen yet. The back half of the Rockets can compete too. Trenton Domanowki-Ellis had himself a noticeable Winter season and Zahmere Simmons adds significant size inside. Is Alex Hiam the answer to getting the Rockets name etched in league history?
1 - Bobcats
2024 RT Electric Conference 6 Seed
Okay, this team had no business being a 6 seed last year. Two missed games from reigning league MVP Eric Geisler will do that. You give the league MVP another run at the throne with returning big man and highlight reel Coan Relya and add 6 '4'’ Eddie Cogrove out of Canisius to the mix, this teams stacked! The Bobcats are in a prove it conference and will have to outshine the Celtics, Mavs, and Nuggets to get to that game they so desperately seek to get to this August. Mike Q adds a perimeter option for this team and Nye drafted himself a workhorse in Jahmal Garner.
3 Things
My preseason MVP is Devon Darrell. I think he is in the best position currently to be the most valuable player in the league.
The Hornets will score the most team points through the ten regular season games they’re scheduled.
The Clippers, Hornets, Rockets, and Lakers are my Division winners.
See you Week 1!
Week 1 Rankings
4 Last Place Teams (One from each division)
Raptors, Wizards, Nuggets, Sixers
Sixers (1-0)
This is going to sound like hate but it is what it is. Lets start with the anomoly here, the Sixers. The only team to win their W1 game. So why last place? First, the Sixers have an scoring issue. They scored the least amount of points for any team with a win. They didn't have anyone score more than 10 points either. Yes they beat the Lakers, however, the Lakers were without top lottery pick Clark Brueckl and first round pick Derick Simpson showed up half way through the contest. Great win for the Sixers, but they will need to figure it out on offense if they plan to keep winning games.
Raptors (0-1)
Grabar had 32 in the loss to the Heat and it wasn't enough. Keeper Mike Ludwig took a few technical fouls, and nobody else scored double digits outside of Ludwig. This Raptors team in my opinion is better 1-8 than last years team, but they will need to find the lineup that best suits them moving forward.
Wizards (0-1)
Slow start led to a large defecit which resulted in a lopsided loss for the Wizards. Tony Gualla looked like he was trying to hold onto a wetball out there, AJ Turner showed up late, and the 3 ball wasn't falling for the Wiz. It looks like this team will struggle to find its identity early on and I fear that if they don't figur eit out soon, pieces could be on the move.
Nuggets (0-1)
I don't know what happened that led to a 50-30 defecit late in the 2H. The Bucks got what they wanted all game on this team. I like the Nuggets, I still like the Nuggets but its evident that they were missing knowledge and veteran leadership from their keeper, the Husband, Alex Davis. This teams not slower, smaller, or worse than any other team on paper. They just got out worked for 40 mins, and they cannot allow it to happen again.
Play-In Teams
Nets, Magic, Wolves, Bucks, Clippers, Sonics, Lakers, Bulls
Nets (0-1)
No Kavon Rogers resulted in 19 made baskets inside the arc for Kalon Kimble of the Knicks in W1. Nick Reeb did his his best to contain Kimble but it wasn't enough. Conor Foley needs to be better as he only added 10 for the Nets. 3 Year Guard Darius Embry looked good in his Nets debut as well. One thing about the Nets is they will not quit. They played the Knicks until the final whistle and cut a 20 point lead to 10 to end the game. I expect a better result with Rogers in the paint for the Nets.
Magic (0-1)
Get out of Coble's way when he's got the ball on the block. Easily one of the toughest matchups for any player or team. Sitting 6'5'' and 330+ , this MAN is a problem in a good way. In a bad way, the Magic need more from Guard Luke Ingrando. He's shaking off some overseas rust. Too many dives off the boat and not enough shots in the gym during his time in Italy. Rookie Danny Emma looks promising scoring 13 in his debut. If Coble is on the floor, the Magic will be in the game. Late game execution will be a thing for this Magic team.
Wolves (0-1)
Probably the best loss of W1. This Wolves team looks better than they eye test projected. It is a well balanced team. The have bigs, they have scorers, they can rebound, and they can run. The issue? They played Aaron Jones and Andy Strug. The Wolves scored 70 in a loss which is the most for a tesm with a loss in the week. Jarmani Cooper looked great scoring just under 30 on almost all floaters. Rookie Chris Bourne added in some peremiter scoring as well for the Wolves. They don't want to hear it but it really was a good loss in W1.
Bucks (1-0)
Ladies and Gentlemen, MVB is back. Jack Bickerstaff looked great in his Bucks debut scoring 29 on his way to a big W1 win. Nolan Edwards added 21 in the win to go along with a double-double from Connor McDonnell. The Bucks still have a lot to prove as its GM Liam Stanton's 3rd win in 2 seasons in the front office. Bonus points for their jerseys, they look awesome.
Clippers (0-1)
The Clippers need to get healthy asap. Nate Hoellig can do a lot but he cant do it all. Rookie Kam Williams had a great season opener finishing some tough drives and adding a few from distance. Other rookie standout Putter Brown shot the 3 ball well as well for the team. Getting Forward T Bailey back will be crucial for this teams success as he has one of the highest career RPG averages in league history.
Sonics (0-1)
The Sonics have to play through Roy Wallace. The 6'5 Center sees the floor best for the team. Between him and Kelo, they need to play a half-court offense that results in either a Roy assist off an off-ball screen and cut, or a post entry to him for a easy 2. The Sonics also have to hit shots. Growing pains will be real in the Sonics locker room but I think they can figure it out enough to see a play-in game.
Bulls (0-1)
Tough to start the season while watching your opponent be awarded with their championship banner reveal. Even tougher when your W1 opponent is the Pistons. The Bulls showed signs of optimism however behind rookie Daryl Hanes and returning guard Aidan Brunner. I'd like to see more of a KMD impact in the coming weeks for this team.
Lakers (0-1)
This is a temporary placement, hopefully for this team. Offense looked rough but the defense looked more than fine. A tough day from the field from team captain Jay Brueckl and GM Nick Kryszak. The team isn't going to blame the missing pieces from W1 for thier loss either. A rookie debut in W2 will show us what this Laker team really looks like.
The Top 12
12 - Suns (0-1)
The Suns looked good. Unfortunately they played the preseason favorites in game 1. Jason Martin looks tougher than last season and will prove to be a serious problem this upcoming season. Chris Griner battled on the glass for them and Zach Garland secured 11 boards as well. A tough game 1 for the Suns but plenty of season left.
11 - Grizzlies (1-0)
The team with the most points scored after W1 are your AllPlay Grizzlies. If Jack Harper has a season that somewhat mirrors his W1 performance, this team might see themselves in that mid-August conversation. The leagues first 30 ball came from a GM. That makes me happy. Matt Larusch will look to get more comfortable on the team which could make this team scary in the weeks to come.
10 - Spurs (1-0)
Sean Weisansal took last Sunday by storm showing the gym what he's really made of. He has the ability to go off for 12 points in a minute at any given moment. His explosiveness through the frontcourt will open up looks for the Vet Danny Carrig and rookie Jaylin Rose (not from Michigan). Big Mike Harris looks good down low for them as we'll see him battle all summer long. Good W1 win for Rookie GM Ben Bill.
9 - Kings (1-0)
Kings World moving on up following their W1 win. Malikye Ridgeway looks like he'll be a problem for everyone this summer as he fills literally every stat box for his team. The Kings drafted Mike Borton in the first round and his size proved to be an issue for the Sonics in their win last weekend. Mario will text me after this gets posted saying the Kings are number 1. Keep winning and maybe one day we'll see it.
8 - Celtics (1-0)
If you only counted lefty floaters from the Celtcs W1 game, I think they still would've won. This team looked fast, poised, and committed to the goal of winning. Jack Bernstein and Nani Rivera in the front court are a scary sight to see. The Celtics only looked out of place in pre-game warmups. If they're going to keep goofin before the game, they better keep floating during the game into the win column.
7 - Mavs (1-0)
A battle in W1 saw the Mavs come out as the winners. Aaron Jones is looking for that MVP trophy this season but the Mavs want team hardware too. A tough W2 matchup with the Bobcats will show us how good this team can be. The Handyman Andy Strug will have his hands full this week with the 2 big lineup coming his way. I expect a lot of chippiness from this team next game.
6 - Rockets (0-1)
A loss in the game of the week has this team down a few spots from their preseason ranking of 2. Probably one of the best W1 teams that lost. Rockets Center Derek Dorr is used to a slow start during his time in the Rockets orginazation. This team will be back and they will be tough all season long. A W2 matchup with the Sixers should be a fun way to end W2.
5 - Knicks (1-0)
The leagues high scorer from W1 comes from the Knicks. 42 points for Kalon Kimble in the Knicks 10 point win over the Nets. Rookie Devin Redden added double digit numbers into the stat sheet and GM Richie Sotero looks to have himself a nice little squad. The Knicks schedule gets tougher over the next couple weeks. If the Knicks can string together a few more wins before July, they could be sitting real pretty for playoffs.
4 - Pistons (1-0)
I'm sorry Pistons. I should've ranked you higher in the offseason. I thought the absence of Matt Sadowy would have this team looking slow on both ends. I forgot that the Pistons don't care about what I think and that they're just here to win games. First to 50 points in their games usually wins. The issue with that for other teams is that they hardly give up 50 ever. This team is finding their groove on offense but on defense they look as good as ever.
3 - Heat (1-0)
I'm going to glaze a little bit here for a hot second. The Heat's jerseys look fantastic, Ryan Merz looks faster and stornger than last season, Jemery looked good W1, and so did Rookie Jeriah Williams. This team handled business W1 taking down the Raptors. They did it without 2nd round pick and overall nice guy, Joe Ciocca. This team looks good early on, they play fast and they play aggressive.
2 - Thunder (1-0)
Manty Jones owes TK and AP a thank you after the work they put in W1 against the Rockets. Great performances from both keepers to go along with some 3s from Zach Caito to secure the first win of the season for the Thunder. Rookie Yaw Osei looks to be the perfect role player for this team as well. The Thunder will be tough all season long.
1 - Bobcats (1-0)
14 points was the win margin for this Bobcat team in W1. They did this without reigning MVP Eric Geisler. Rookie Foreard Eddie Cosgrove did not disappoint dropping 29 in his season debut and Forward Coan Relya added an almost 20-20 game too. I think only the stomach flu could stop this team from playing at a high level all season.
Week 2 Rankings
4 Last Place Teams (One from Each Division)
Nets, Wolves, Wizards, Bulls
Nets (0-2)
So we saw what the Nets look like with 1st round pick Rogers. The Nets got out to a big lead on the Spurs in W2, and then they blew the lead, and eventually the game. Nets G Conor Foley shot much better this game. Nick Reeb looked a little lost out there with Rogers playing inside the paint. The Nets hope to turn things around this week against the Magic.
Bulls (0-2)
The Bulls have an offense problem and its evident. A league low with 85 points through 2 games and a net negative of -56 is a not a winning combination. Darly Hanes looked good for the Bulls. That's about it right now.
Wizards (0-2)
The second worst offense in the league also scoring less than 100 total points through 2 weeks. Wizards GM Jawyan Clark is looking to blow it up early. Wizards Guard Tony Gualla has had a slow start to the season as well. The Wiz gotta start clicking or they'll be looking up in the standings all season long.
Clippers (0-2)
It almost seems like a century ago when we would talk league best teams and we would have to include the Clippers by any means necessary. The absence of Joey Ingrando III has placed a serious strain on 2x MVP Nate Hoellig. Add on a T Bailey injury, this team is just battling to put a healthy 5 out there currently. Prayers for the Yacht Club.
Play-In Teams
Sixers, Knicks, Pistons, Raptors, Wolves, Suns, Sonics, Celtics
Sixers (1-1)
The W1 win over the Lakers looked like the team was headed in the right direction. It was ugly but a win is a win. The Rockets loss was really bad, Another team that has its offensive struggles. Gotta score the ball to win games. Lucky for the Sixers the Nets are in their division.
Knicks (1-1)
I don't know what happened. If it was the floor or missing Ru Molson and their vocal coach Nicc Johnson, but the Knicks looked awful last week, No disrespect to the Magic, the Magic are a solid team, but you cannot go down 16-0 to start a game and think that a comeback will be easy. The Knicks need to have a better start this week if they want to keep things from spiraling. Unfortunately, they get the Rockets this week.
Pistons (1-1)
I don't think the Pistons are a play-in team in my heart. However, they are still without C Matt Sadowy and they play in a loaded division. A close loss to the Heat and games left with the Thunder and Lakers, the 3 teams that prevail from this divison will all be tough playoff teams this August.
Raptors (0-2)
The good is Noah Grabar scoring 30ppg. He also seems to be shooting at an efficient clip also. The Raptors have had back to back difficult games against the Heat and Thunder. I firmly believe this team is better than last seasons Raptors still.
Wolves (0-2)
A loss to the Mavs by 3 and the Nuggets without star guard Jarmani Cooper has this team sitting at 0-2. Their record does not indicate how tough this team is to beat. Rookie Chris Bourne looks extremely promising for this team. A healthy and full Wolves team won't be counted out.
Suns (0-2)
The 3 guard lineup with Gleason, Martin, and Garland was an experiment Suns GM Kyle Rubeck was confident in heading into this summer. I just don't know if the Suns have enough size to compete down the stretch. Jason Martin needs to get hot for this teams success.
Sonics (1-1)
A good bounce back win after a disappointing W1 loss, Center Roy Wallace looks comfortable inside the pain facilitating for the Sonics. Rookie Guard Keylo Bradberry (Burts?) had Suns defenders touching earth last week. This team however is very young and will have to proove they belong, Keylo if you're reading this please inform commish on the whole name thing please.
Celtics (1-1)
What a disappointing loss for the Celtics in W2. Commish was laughed at pre-season for putting this team in the play-in category. A lack of interior presence and a 2-3 zone looks to be this teams kryptonite. 5 points from 3rd overall pick Jack Bernstein isn't the winning formula either. Figure it out Celts, it doesn't get easier in W3 either (Mavs).
The Top 12
12 - Nuggets (1-1)
Looks like the Nuggets benefited from Forward Keeper Alex Davis. His box score doesn't account for his leadership and mentorship for the teams success. The Nuggets rebounded the ball well in their win in W2 and DD looked like DD. No Cap Sobieraski is a monster inside. Excited to see this team progress as the season continues.
Shoutout the Husband, Alex Davis, on his first JDL/APA victory in his second season
11 - Magic (1-1)
Welcome home Luke Ingrando. 30 points is a way to welcome new Magic GM Pat Hart with his first win as well. The Magic have a very strong half-court offense, especially when they play through Tyree Coble. A 1 point loss in W1 is the difference between 1-1 and 2-0.
10 - Lakers (1-1)
So the rumors are true. The Lakers need Clark Brueckl to be good. That makes sense, he was the number 1 pick in the draft. Not only did he make an immediate inpact, the Lakers scored the most points of any team in W2. They also won the 2H of their game 48-15. The Lakers are so back.
9 - Bucks (2-0)
Welcome to the Top 12 Bucks. What a way to enter as well coming off a dominant 2H performance heloing them secure a big upset win against the Celtics. Oh, and they did it without star Guard and first Team Defender Gavin Borrello. Reigning 6MOTY Nolan Edwards looks extremely comfortable in his new threads and Jack Bickerstaff is looking in MVP form. Commish is eating his crow on this Bucks team.
8 - Bobcats (1-1)
A lot of peoples pick to win it all this season. The Bobcats had the Mavs game locked up but they fell apart in the final moments. Eddie Cosgrove is proving to be a real problem for other teams averaging just shy of 30ppg. The Bobcats will be just fine, there's no need to worry.
7 - Grizzlies (2-0)
This team is shockingly clicking sooner than anticipated. They have weird success. What I mean by weird is not a single player scored more than 12 points in their W2 win. Jack Harper followed up his W1 masterpiece with 5 points in W2. This team plays team defense, 997 is that glue guy for this team doing all the dirty work, and Matt Larusch can rebound, facilitate, and score from all over. CJ Moore hits shots, this team keeps winning.
6 - Rockets (1-1)
No movement here, they beat the Sixers without the Sixers keeper and 1st round pick. The Rockets get the Knicks this week. A big win for the Rockets here could have the wheels turning down in Houston.
5 Spurs (2-0)
Rookie of the year candidate Sean Weisansal has this team looking extremely tough. Sean is one of the toughest matchups for any team in the league, If Sean is on the court, this team has a chance in every game they play. GM Ben Bill starts his career 2-0 in league play. Good stuff happening over with the Spurs. Sorry about your jerseys :(
4 - Kings (2-0)
Malikye Ridgeway is looking like the best 2nd round pick in league history, He makes an impact on both ends and hustles for 40 minutes with incredible energy and effort. Kyle Okie hit on his 1st round pick Mike Borton as well. A true interior presence rebounding and defending the paint. Kings are hot!
3 - Heat (2-0)
Rookie Joe Ciocca made his presence known this past weekend in his debut. The Heat look great. They took down the defending champions. The real test for the Heat comes this weekend when they face the Lakers in a huge divisional game.
2 - Mavs (2-0)
The Mavs just came back and won in OT in whats already being talked about as game of the year. Sophmores Andy Strug and Aaron Jones are as tough as any duo in the league, Can the Mavs keep it rolling this week against a pissed off Celtics team? We'll see. Sitting atop their conference, the Mavs looks good out the gate.
1 - Thunder (2-0)
It's been and will always be FTK as long as Forward Tyler Kittinger wears Thunder across his chest. A 35 point performance in W2 to follow up his clutch performance in W1 was exactly what GM Jones ordered. DPOY AP2 fills all the boxes in the stat sheet proving to be one of the toughest on-ball defenders in the league. The Thunder look good so far earning them the #1 ranking in this weeks Power Rankings,
Week 3 Rankings
4 Last Place Teams (One from each division)
Bulls, Nets, Suns, Wolves
Bulls (0-3)
Nobody has arguably had a more difficult schedule to open a season than this years Bulls team. Loses against the defending champion Pistons, the Lakers with a debut from 1.1, and the Thunder. Talk about a gauntlet. The Bulls remain optimistic as the Raptors come next. GM KMD believes that getting Big Sky back this week on top of adding B Dubs from the Celtics as well as Embry from the Nets could be what the team needs to finally get themselves in the win column.
Nets (0-3)
The Kavon Rogers experiment lasted all of 2 games for the BG led Nets. He's on his way to the Wolves in exchange for Rookie Foreward Chris Bourne. Conor Foley started finding the bottom of the basket in W2 but struggled again in W3. This teams success will heavily rely on his shoulders as Forward Nick Reeb looks absolutely lost out there. I expect more moves to be made in the near future.
Suns (0-3)
Unsure if it's time to hit the panic button in Kyle Rubeck's front office but it doesn't look good early on. The bright side of things is Guard Jason Martin and Forward Matteo Duennebacke have been playing well. That's about it so far. The 3 Guard lineup hasn't worked yet but Rubeck seems confident this team can change things around moving forward.
Wolves (0-3)
Probably the best, worst team. A 3 point loss to the Mavs and Bucks and a loss to the Nuggets in a game they were very well in has this team at 0-3 in a loaded division. Securing a top 3 spot within the divison for this team seems impossible but they could certainly make some noise in the play-in rounds. Center Kavon Rogers is on the way to give Guard Jarmani Cooper some much needed help.
Play-In Teams
Rockets, Grizzlies, Raptors, Pistons, Sixers, Clippers, Wizards, Sonics
Rockets (1-2)
A preseason favorite to win it all has found themselves struggling early. Do I think this is a play-in team? No. However, it doesn't matter what I think. Yoiu have to win games and the Rockets have dropped 2 out of 3 early. Guard Jay Bergmann will be nursing a lingering lower extremity issue on a short week with the hungry Nets looking to get into the win column. Everyone remembers what happened last year when Conor Foley took a underdog team under his wing against the Rockets. Let's see if history repeats itself or if the Rockets can get back to their winning ways.
Grizzlies (2-1)
Normally a 2-1 team would be higher regarded but due to unfortunate circumstances the Grizz find themselves sliding this week in the PR. A tough loss to the Kings isn't the reason they're down here. Losing the second leading rebounder in the league and your lottery pick Forward in the same game are enough reason to slide the Grizz down here. A winable game this week could get them back into the top 12 but it'll certainly be a uphill battle moving foreard.
Raptors (0-3)
The Raptors would be a last place team if they didn't share a basement bunk bed with the Bulls. Winner of this weeks Raptors - Bulls game gets top bunk, one spot closer to the play-in game. A handful of moves for GM WavyDavey sends Henry Bick and Korey G to other teams while bringing in Jahmal Garner from the Cats and Jore "Twin" from the Suns. Whatever Gzz needs to win is what GM Wavy is going to do it seems.
Pistons (2-1)
Another tough placement for a team deserving of more. The issue here is a game against the Lakers and Thunder remaining on the schedule with a loss to the Heat already. A cheeky win last week against the Raptors in OT has this team looking a littlle sus. Some absences this week for the team will be tough to overcome as they have the Lakers this upcoming Sunday.
Sixers (1-2)
Remember when I said that the Sixers win against the Lakers meant more for them then the loss did for the Lakers? Well it seems all but true. Back to back belts from the Rockets and Spurs has the Sixers near the bottom of the rankings. It's wild what could happen when you're missing your important players (Kline, Ritts). It doesn't get easier either with Coble, Ingrando, and the Magic up next.
Clippers (1-2)
BIG DUBSSSSS in W3 got the Yacht Club out the basement and into the play-in scenario. Nate Hoellig had a greta game in W3 and the Bioweapon Ethan Dinse scored 16 in the win. This team has aura and they look good, especially in transition, when healthy. Congrats on getting a big W Clippers. Keep it rollin! #YachtClub
Wizards (1-2)
BIG DUBSSSSSSS WITHOUT Tony Gualla. The Wiz were locked in last week against the Suns on both ends. Mike Davis is one of the better on-ball defenders in the league and Kevin Zabawa had a 18P 18R game in the teams win. This team is getting back Gualla this week fresh off a 7 day water fast, The Wiz are locked and loaded and ready to roll. They get Mario and the Kings. It should be a fun one!
Sonics (1-2)
Sonics IDK fam. Last week yall balled out and looked good and this past week it looked like you just couldn't buy a basket. Mitch Middlebrooks had a greta game in the big loss. This team is very reliant on Keylo Bradberry and Roy Wallace. If those two can get cookin early, the rest of the team will feed off that energy and hopefully get things going smoothly again.
The Top 12
12 - Bobcats (1-2)
How many Overtimes do we want to play Bobcats? 3 OT periods in their last 2 outings and 2 loses to go with it. Eddie Cosgrove looks promising and Coan Relyea has been an absolute force on the glass. MVP Eric Geisler looks like he's still figuring out how to make a positive impact on this team. This has to be the worst, best team or best, worst team. Regardless of what it is, they have the undefeated Bucks next.
11 - Knicks (2-1)
The Knicks beat a Jay Bergmann-less Rockets team this past weekend. Richie Sotero had 12 dimes to go with Meech Reed's 23 points. The Knicks out in transition look good but they will have their hands full with ROTY front runner Sean Weisansal and the Spurs this Sunday. Winner of this one will claim first in the divison.
10 - Heat (2-1)
The gym was ice cold when the Heat showed up to play the Lakers last week. After a great 2-0 start the Heat found themselves down 35-9 at the half. Things for the Heat don't get easier either with the Thunder this weekend. The Heat will need more from Ciocca, Merz, and BPD if they plan on getting back into the win coiumn.
9 - Nuggets (2-1)
What a game against the Bobcats last weekend. Devon Darrell made multiple tough shots to keep his team in the game and even had the game winning dime to GM Ajay Cybulski right before the OT buzzer. The Nuggets should've won handednly if they hit their FT's. Anothe big test this weekend against the Mavs.
8 - Celtics (2-1)
A 14-0 run is a pretty good way to bounce back from a bad loss the previous week. It's even better to get a game up on Aaron Jones and the Mavs. Jack Bernstein found the bottom of the nylon after scoring just 5 points in their loss. GM Tony B did however trade Center and league favorite B Dubs following a big win. We'll see how new addition Mr. Beast meshes with this Celtics team.
7 - Magic (2-1)
Luke Ingrando is playing some of thebest ball we've ever seen him play and he's getting everyone involved. Better shot selection as well as more patience has his game looking smooth in back to back wins. Center Tyree Coble showed up late in their recent win but it really didn't matter because this team was firing on all cylinders. Rookie Danny Emma is also contributing significantly on both ends and Center Admir Merzihic played one of his best games thus far in his 2 year tenure.
6 - Mavs (2-1)
Mavs got out slow against the Celtics in their lone loss on the season. Guard Aaron Jones still scored north of 30 proving to be one of the most prolific scorers we've ever seen. The HandyMan was running late and entered the game without a warmup. Forward Ahmet Merzihic needs to make more of an impact as well fopr this team. One bad loss does not make or break a team, a big test this week against the Nuggets will show us what the Mavs are made of.
5 - Lakers (2-1)
2-0 with 1.1 in attendence with wins of 47 and 24. The defense in LA looks terrifying allowing a league low 42ppg. This team rebounds well, plays smart basketball, and they play both ends of the floor. The bench production has been great as well for this team with guys like Jack Jarz and LeJon G coming in and playing big minutes and hitting big time shots. The Lakers are 6 starters deep depending on their matchup. They can go big and start Commish or they can push pace and start Conrad Gawronski. Either way this Laker team is not what people saw Week 1.
4 - Bucks (3-0)
The Bucks have proven me and many other wrong about their team. GM Liam Stanton is looking like Brad Pitt in Moneyball following the moves he made to acquire the talent he has. Jack Bickerstaff is playing at a MVP level and Nolan Edwards looks like the perfect Robin to his Batman. The Electrician Matt Gorski has been a pest on the rebounds and this team hasn't gotten its best version of Gavin Borrello yet. The Bucks are the real deal. Prove it week against the Bobcats this Thursday.
3 - Spurs (3-0)
GM Ben Bill has his Spurs team dialed all the way in. Sean Weisansal has a good support around him and a team willing to do whatever it takes to ensure victory,. A good balance of old and young has been the receipe for success early into the season for the Spurs. The Knicks stand in their way from starting 4-0.
2 - Kings (3-0)
The Kings are hot. Mario Quttrucci is hot. Malikye Ridgeway is hot. This team is hot. One of the most fun offenses in the entire league. It's Kings World currently in the APA.
1 - Thunder (3-0)
The team to beat. This team was tested in Week 1 and came out on top. Back to back wins against the Raptors and Bulls are not entirely something to brag about but the handled their business. The Heat will try their luck this week to dethrone the Thunder. TK and AP2 are rolling, Lets see if it continues.
Week 4 Rankings
4 Last Place Teams (One from each Division)
Suns, Raptors, Nets, Wolves
Suns (0-4)
Another loss for the Suns this past week has the team at the bottom of the conference and second last in the league. The 3 guard rotation with Martin, Gleason, and Garland hasn't worked for the Suns. Matteo Duennebacke has played well for this team through the first 4. This team turns the ball over and it's proving to be one of the many issues they're having come game day. Big tilt with the Grizz this weekend to hopefully turn things around.
Raptors (0-4)
GM WavyDavy Stockinger finds himself in another hole early this season. The Raptors have struggled to find wins through two seasons of league play. Making a move for Star Guard Noah Grabar in the offseason was the vision but the vision is blury now. The vision is about 12 Gin and Tonics deep as the Raptors have made significant roster changes while also dealing with team chemistry issues. It doesn't get easier for the Raptors as they'll face the leagues best defense and league powerhouse Laker team this weekend.
Nets (0-4)
The least scary team with a lead in the entire league. Newely acquired Forward Chris Bourne brought some versatility to the team and then GM BG decided to move on from keeper Nick Reeb for rookie Guard Gavin Roberts. He tells us to "trust the process". If trusting the process is blown leads and 4 straight loses, we'll believe in the 2 time Champion Nets GM.
Wolves (1-3)
The most recent team to finally secure their first win of the season. A great performance from Guard Jarmani Cooper and newly acquired Center Kavon Rogers in the teams big upset win over the Celtics. The issue with the Wolves is they play in a loaded division. They find themselves behind the Bobcats, Nuggets, Bucks, Celtics, and Mavs still. The Wolves got some work to do still in order to get themselves into that play-in situatiion comfortably.
Play-In Teams
Rockets, Sixers, Nuggets, Celtics, Wizards, Sonics, Bulls, Pistons
Rockets (2-2)
If the rankings had a top 13 the Rockets would be placed there. A minor scare from the Nets this past week had them down at half before an explosive 2H turnaround. This team would like to see Guard Jay Bergmann return to action as they face the hot Magic this weekend. The Rockets need a win as they have loses to the Thunder and Knicks so far, both teams ahead of them in the conference standings.
Sixers (1-3)
A win against the Lakers in W1 is looking more like a fluke as the weeks progress. GM GM is doing his best to find a rotation that works for this Sixer team. This team has yet to have a full team in attendence as that poses a matchup issue each week. Unfortunately, they get the Spurs and Sean Weisansal coming off a last minute loss. I expect a belt in this one.
Nuggets (2-2)
Two good wins and Two really bad loses has this team in the middle of the pack. In that loaded Hoaks Lakeshore Division, wins do not come easy. The absence of the Husband, Alex Davis, proves to be the difference in the teams success early on. Nuggets vs Sonics this week could be the bounce back game this team needs to get back on track.
Celtics (2-2)
Another Hoaks Division team finds themselves on the wrong side of a belt this past week. Trailing for almost the entirety of the game was not what GM Tony B had in mind facing a winless Wolves team. This team has underperformed through 4 games and will have their hands full this week against a scorching hot Kings team.
Wizards (1-3)
Another reciepent of a belt, courtesy of the Kings, the Wizards find themselves just clinging onto a play-in spot. Without that Suns win this team looks sus. Jawyan is in trade talks to try to get his team back on track. A rematch of the first round of last seasons playoff game with the Clippers is slated for this weekend. A much needed win for both teams.
Sonics (2-2)
After spotting the Grizzlies a 12-0 lead, this team absolutely battled behind the efforts of Guard Mitchell Middlebrooks. Center Roy Wallace is still looking to find his groove on this team that somehow sneaks away with another win. A huge test against the Nuggets this Sunday will reveal if this team is contender or pretender.
Bulls (1-3)
OUT THE GUTTER! Bulls GM KMD is thrilled to get that first win under his reign as Bulls GM. Newly acquired Guard Darius Embry and Center Brandon BDubs Williams have this team looking a little tougher than they were before. Daryl Hanes continues to be the hot hand on this team. The Bulls need to see Aidan Brunner get going so they can snowball effect last weeks win into more team success.
Pistons (2-2)
A tough matchup last week without team GM or Rookie Fireard Al Warren found the Pistons in the L column headed into W5. The bright side is this team only lost by 7 to the Lakers. Mike Bass is starting to find the bottom of the basket from all 3 levels and this team is in every game they play in. Pistons are tough, with or without Center Matt Sadowy,
The Top 12
12 - Grizz (2-2)
A devestating loss last week saw this Grizz team drop a game to the Sonics on a last second FT. Nwely acquired Nate Neudeck looks to be a huge addition for this team after the losses of Matt Larusch and Conrad Ring. A little team chemistry building is what the Grizz could benefit from in order to get some more wins in the next few weeks.
11 - Clippers (2-2)
And for the first time in the 2025 season, the Clippers are back in the top 12! Back to back wins for the Yacht Club got this team moving in the right direction. Unbselfish, team basketball is what this team is doing and it is working. Each week a different player steps up. Whether its the BioWeaapon Ethan Dinse, Kam Williams, or 2X MVP Nate Magic Hoellig, everyone is stepping up on this team. League favorite Putt Brown is going to get going soon and really take this team to a new level.
10 - Heat (2-2)
A loss in last weeks game has this team only dropping one spot. The reason for that is the loss came to the 1st ranked team by a possession. A significantly better outing for this team this week shows promise for the Heat. I don't know if they can catch the Lakers or Thunder but a huge early season win against the Pistons will be crucial come playoff seeding. The Heat will be alright.
9 - Bucks (3-1)
A belt for the Bucks first L of the season was truly humbling for Center Connor McDonnell and the Bucks team. They lost to a really good Bobcats team that asserted their dominance inside for all 40 minutes. 3-1 through the first 4 games is a great start for a team that only had 2 wins last season.
8 - Bobcats (2-2)
Two OT loses seperates this team from being undefeated, Still regarded as one of the favorites to win it all, the Bobcats took care of business last week handing the Bucks their first loss of the season. Rookie Forward Eddie Cosgrove has no issue putting the ball through the hoop and Coan Relyea is making a pretty good case for DPOY blocking shots and securing over 10 DRB per game. The MVP hasn't gotten hot yet either. This teams still dangerous.
7 - Spurs (3-1)
The Spurs went wire to wire with the Knicks in their thrilled last Sunday. A late Tech for Guard Xross Edwards helped the Knicks get a late lead to help them give the Spurs their first loss. Rookie Sean Weisansal still looks like the ROTY. I expect last weeks loss to fuel the fire he'll need to throttle the Bulls this upcoming Thursday.
6 - Knicks (3-1)
The Knicks had their best win of the season last week handing the Spurs their first loss of the season. Devin Redden, Kalon Kimble, and Meech Reed have combined for about 50ppg. The Knicks look to stay hot against a struggling Sixers team next.
5 - Magic (3-1)
Three straight wins after dropping W1 by 1 point. Luke Ingrando and Danny Emma have been clicking in the backcourt for the Magic while Tyree Coble and Admir Merzihic have done a great job protecting the rim and securing the rebounds. The Magic are 1 of 4 teams that average a double digit win margin (11.5ppg) which is third best in the league.
4 - Lakers (3-1)
The leagues best defense comes in at number 4 this week. Only allowing 42.8ppg, this Lakers team is historically setting records as a team on defense. Their leading scorer is Rookie Tommy Michael, the first overall pick in the league, Clark Brueckl, is third on the team in scoring, and Captain Guard Jay Brueckl leads the league in assist per game (7apg). The Lakers have the second best win margin in the league at 17.5ppg.
3 - Mavs (3-1)
The Mavs suffered an embarassing, un-Mavs like loss last week against the Celtics. They bounced back this week by putitng belt to the Nuggets 66-41. The leaders in a stacked Hoaks Lakeshore Division, the Mavs looked good in their big win. 3rd in the league in points scored (70.8ppg), the Mavs look hot to start the season. They have the Bucks next who they share the division lead with.
2 - Kings (4-0)
The leagues highest scoring team through the first 4, the Kings are scorching hot behind Mario Quattrucci and Malikye Ridgeway. The Kings just dismantled the Wizards and they're a league best +78 point differential has them winning games by just shy of 20 points per game. Mike Borton has held down the middle of the defense well for the team as the backcourt of Ridgeway and Mario comibine for a league best 49.3 ppg for a duo.
1 - Thunder (4-0)
The Thunder hold onto the 1st spot this week in the rankings. It will be theirs to lose for the forseeable future. A matchup with the Pistons this week separate them from a huge matchup with the Lakers in W6, a game that very well could be for the 1 seed in the conference. Tyler Kittinger is playing like a MVP candidate and Austin Peach is looking to be a front runner for DPOY yet again.
Week 5 Rankings
Last Place Teams (One per Division)
Nets, Raptors, Suns, Wolves
Nets (0-5)
Another game where the Nets had a lead and couldn't finish. This Nets team believe it or not controls their own postseason destiny. Games against the Sixers, Suns, Pistons, and Bulls on their schedule as those teams combine for a 5-15 record before finishing the season against the Lakers.
Raptors (0-5)
The other team without a win still this season is the 0-5 Raptors lead by second leading scorer Noah Grabar. A tough battle last Sunday with the Lakers but the Raptors lacked the late game ability to to stay in it. They have the Magic, Knicks, and Spurs left on the schedule to go with games against the Wizards and Sixers as well. The Raptors will need to play near perfect team ball if they want to play in August.
Suns (1-4)
The SUNSSSSSSSSS getting on the board with a huge win in W5 against the Grizz. Suns Guard J Mart had a season high, 28, in the contest helping the Suns get that first win under their belt. The Suns have one of the toughest schedules to end the season featuring games against the Kings, Bucks, Nuggets, and Mavs within their conference.
Wolves (1-4)
The Wolves went to battle with the Bobcats on Sunday falling just short of a miracle. Jarmani Cooper, Jordan Ernest, and Kavon Rogers did their best scoring 56 of the teams 62 points. If the Wolves want to make the playoffs, they'll have to win some games against the Wizards, Clippers, Grizzlies, and Sonics.
Play-In Teams
Bucks, Celtics, Nuggets, Grizzlies, Wizards, Sixers, Pistons, Bulls
Bucks (3-2)
Losers of 2 straight, both by 30 plus, this team has lost its defensive identity. Allowing 80 points is not going to get you far. Jack Bickerstaff clearly needs more fire power so GM Liam Stanton made a culture change sending Guard Gavin Borrello to the Sixers for Forward Brian Woods. The Bucks hope the Woods addition can give them the much needed spark they need to get back to their winning ways.
Celtics (2-3)
I had the Celtics as play-in team preseason and everyone laughed. 3 picks in the top 10 for Tony B and 3 loses through the teams first 5 games. Do they play in the toughest division in the APA Summer League? Yes. However, they have 2 loses to division teams and still have a matchup with the Bobcats and Nuggets coming up. They could get themselves out that play-in if they can snag both those games and maybe one more.
Nuggets (2-3)
Losing is tough, losing with your best player scoring 37 is tougher, losing on a full court pass with 4 seconds left that led to a Mitch Middlebrooks game winner is superrrrrr tough. This Nuggets team dropped a loss in fantastic fashion. That big Double OT win weeks ago against the Cats seems meaningless after dropping back to back confernece games. The Nuggets too will have their work cut-out for them as they face the teetering Celtics this week.
Grizzlies (2-3)
What started as a promising season for the Jack Harper Grizzlies team has since turned into a nightmare. Losing your keeper and lottery pick to injury is not what this team had invisioned. This team lost to the Kings and Suns in some bad loses and to make it worse, they just dropped one to the Suns, allowing the Suns to get their first win as a team. This team is trending in the wrong direction.
Wizards (1-4)
The Wiz are on thin ice. The Wolves and Suns are now on their heels trying to also stay out the basement. A statement game this weekend for the 3AP Wiz against the Wolves should help shed light on a more clear playoff picture in the conference.
Sixers (1-4)
A game in which they were leading at half quickly turned ugly for the Sixers last week. Brian Woods is gone and Gavin Mages is hoping newly acquired Gavin Borrello is the missing piece the Sixers need to get another win. Sixers have a game with the Nets and this weekend and will face the Raptors and Bulls as well. The script is written, will the Sixers have enough to get to the playoffs is a queston only time could tell.
Pistons (2-3)
Victims of unfortunate scheduling has the Pistons losers of 3 straight. They beat both teams below them within the division almost ensuring them safety for a play-in opportunity. The team will get GM Shawn Fisher back this week as they they'll face a tough Knicks team.
Bulls (1-4)
The Bulls are here only because they beat the Raptors. An uphill climb still remains for the Bulls as they have to avoid falling behind the Nets, Raptors, and Sixers within the conference. Their schedule will figure that out as matchups with the Sixers and Nets are on the horizon.
The Top 12
12 - Magic (3-2)
This team did everything right except cover Damani Washington with 21 seconds left this past Sunday. The Magic dropped a hardwood classic to the Rockets in a game that left the gym speechless for what seemed like an eternity. As the shot went in, hands went on heads, jaws dropped, and the Magic couldn't believe what they saw. A tough out none the less is this Magic team and they come in just outside the play-in scenario.
11 - Sonics (3-2)
Roy Wallace did his best Josh Allen on Sunday sending Mitch Middlebrooks on a go route with under 5 seconds left. A perfect dime into Middlebrook's bread basket lead to a easy layup and a 2 point win in dramatic fashion. The Sonics have scraped together 3 wins through their first 5 games earning them a spot in the Top 12.
10 - Rockets (3-2)
The Rockets keep winning games without Guard Jay Bergmann. Al Hiam has really stepped up in Bergmann's absence and Derek Dorr put an end to the Dorr Stopper allegations last Sunday limiting Tyree Coble's impact on the game. A massive shot from Damani Washington put the Magic to sleep and gave the Rockets their 3rd win this season.
9 - Clippers (3-2)
Winners of 3 straight, the Yacht Club is cooking. T Bailey looks back to himself after suffering an injury in the early portion of the season. Kam Williams and Nate Hoellig have carried the scoring load for the Clippers as Putt Brown continues to make an impact on the defensive side of things. Once Putt gets going the Clippers will have scorers all around the perimeter. Yacht Club on a roll!
8 - Heat (3-2)
2 loses to the Thunder and Lakers came in back to back weeks but the Heat got their footing back last week after a bounce back win against the Nets. 4 double digit scorers on this team adds versatility and matchup issues for opposing teams. A modest schedule to end the season including matchups with the Spurs and Magic most notably.
7 - Bobcats (3-2)
One of the leagues best offenses coming in at number 7 this week. No Cosgrove? No problem for Jake Nye and his Cats team. Coan Relyea caught a body last week in a good win against a tough Wolves team. Cats and Sonics this weekend. Two completely different looking teams both sitting at 3-2.
6 - Spurs (4-1)
Adding Sean Weisansal's son Nick Reeb was a big culture move for the Spurs organization. This team sits in a 3 way tie for the 2 seed in their conference with the Lakers and Knicks. Must see TwitchTV this weekend as the Spurs go toe to toe with the Rockets, looking to also stay hot.
5 - Knicks (4-1)
2 Names Johnson is off the waiver wire and he made an immediate impact this past weekend in the Knicks 2H domination of the Sixers. NGJ makes this Knicks team faster in transition and allows GM Richie Sotero to play more of a true PG role. The Knicks schedule gets tough with matchups against the Lakers, Kings, and Thunder.
4 - Lakers (4-1)
Still the leagues best defense only allowing 45ppg, the Lakers have strung together 4 straight wins ahead of their massive showdown with the Thunder this upcoming Sunday. Derick Simpson put together his most complete game last week in a win against the Raptors. Everything comes down to Sunday at 8.
3 - Mavs (4-1)
Aaron Jones and Andy Strug have this time rolling. Massive back to back wins for the Mavs over the past two weekends has this team at the top of a loaded divsion. The Mavs will look to stay hot ahead of their matchup with the Clippers this weekend, who have put together 3 straight wins themselves.
2 - Kings (5-0)
The Kings are looking more legit as the weeks commence. What looked like a watered down schedule has quickly turned into a more respectable one. Wins over the Clippers, Sonics, Grizz, and now Celtics has the Kings looking like a favorite to win it all. No Mavs on the horizon yet but matchups with the Knicks and the Bobcats seem to be formidable test for the Kings moving forward.
1 - Thunder (5-0)
Prove it week for GM Jones and the Thunder. MVP Candidate TK and DPOY candidates Kaleb OHara and Austin Peach have done a tremendous job this season getting the Thunder off to a blazing hot start. All eyes are on the Thunder this Sunday as they face the Lakers for the 1 seed in their division and possibly conference.
Week 6 Rankings
4 Last Place Teams (One per Division)
Nets, Raptors, Wolves, Suns
Nets (0-6)
One of the two remaining winless teams left in the league. This team looks significantly different than what they started with. Conor Foley, Nick Reeb, Kavon Rogers, Artis Green, Darius Embry, and Adam Burke are all gone. Leyton and Gavin Roberts, Jorden Moore-Graves, Chris Bourne, John Vallone, and Noah Grabar now fill those voids. A 0-6 team struggling to close out games gets another bottom dweller this weekend in the Suns.
Raptors (0-6
The other winless team in the league, also looks much different now that it did on draft night. Grabar, Luba, Ludwig, Henry Bickerstaff, Levi Taberski, and Korey Gegenfurtner are all elsewhere. Derick Simpson, Conrad Gawronski, Kevin Zabawa, Jahmal Garner, Twin Jorgen, and Dennis Cannon now make up this team. They said Grabar was shooting too much, now they'll have no more excuses and the touches should be distributed amongst this new look team hopeful for a win in W7.
Wolves (1-5)
A shed of light with their win against the Celtics seemed like a turning point for this team but it's been darkness since. A loss to the Wizards and the Bobcats since has the Wolves at the bottom looking up. Jarmani Cooper is gone so is Erik Hibit and Chris Bourne. The Wolves play in the leagues most competitive division and wins are not easy to come by. .500 teams or better the rest of the way for the Wolves.
Suns (1-5)
At the basement of the Interlace Digital division, the Suns struggle to find wins. They've been in games but struggle closing them. A close loss to the Kings last week was J Mart's best performance up to this point in the season. A game vs the Nets could have the Suns hopeful for a late season turnaround.
Play-In Teams
Bulls, Sixers, Wizards, Nuggets, Bucks, Pistons, Celtics, Grizzlies
Bulls (1-5)
Beating the Raptors keeps the Bulls away from the basement of their division but they are still lingering. Luckily both winless teams are within conference. The Bulls can lock in a play-in game opportunity with a win against the Sixers or Nets. They'll need Daryl Hanes and Aidan Brunner to have big games in order for them to see extra games this August.
Sixers (2-4)
The Sixers got their second win last week vs the Nets. It was Gavin Borrello's first game with the team after sending Brian Woods to the Bucks. A win against the Raptors or Bulls should all but secure a post-season bid for the Sixers.
Wizards (2-4)
Teetering near the basement last week, the Wizards got off the elevator at the lobby of the APA standings following their win against the Wolves. Sonics, Mavs, and Bobcats coming up within conference for the Wiz pose difficult tasks for a team clinging onto a play-in game scenario.
Nuggets (2-4)
A team that very easily could be 4-2 finds themselves also in the lobby of the standings. A last second loss to the Sonics and a bad blown lead against the Celtics last week put this Nuggets team near the bottom of the play-in standings. Rumor has it Rookie Standout Devon Darrell is a game time decision in a crucial must win game this weekend against the Pistons.
Bucks (3-3)
A team going in the wrong direction. After starting 3-0 and having one of the leagues better zone defenses, the Bucks have lost games by 30 twice, and only scored 33 in their blowout loss last week to the Grizz. They packaged Nolan Edwards and Star Forward Jack Bickerstaff and got Ed Cosgrove and Tom Gannon in return. Many league top executives are calling this a highway robbery but GM Liam Stanton loves what he sees in one of the leages top scoring forwards Ed Cosgrove.
Pistons (3-3)
Comfortably in a play-in situation, this Pistons team is Matt Sadowy away from seriously being a title contender. They've played every team tough so far and they secured probably their best team win last week against the Knicks. If Sadowy does return, watch out for the Pistons.
Celtics (3-3)
A come from behind win against the Nuggets has the Celtics even at .500 for the season. Zone defenses have proven to be a thorn in the ass for the Celtics. Jack Bernstein is one of the better facilitating forwards in the league and Nani Rivera constantly creates extra chances for the Celtics with his pesky defense. The Celtics have one of the leagues toughest schedules to finish the season with games against the Lakers, Bobcats, Sonics, and Clippers left.
Grizzlies (3-3)
The Grizz have rebounded well since losing Conrad Ring and Matt Larusch. They lost a bad one against the Suns and bounced back with a big win against the Bucks. Free agent Nate Neudeck has played big for the Grizz since joining the team in Week 4. The Grizz would like to see themselves get another win or two heading into post season play.
The Top 12
12 - Clippers (3-3)
The Yacht Club comes in right at the cut-off following an Overtime thriller loss against the Mavs. The Clippers are playing tough team basketball the last month of action and everyones buying in. The mission on the Yacht is clear, keep sailing forward. Gabe Mcgovern is the Captain and the Ship is still afloat. This team has been fun to watch.
11 - Rockets (3-3)
The Rockets dropped a tough one to the Spurs last weekend in another contest without Jay Bergmann. It's clear thay his presence is significantly missed and will be necessary for post season success. They have one of the best guard and big combos in the league but need more production from the wing. Dan Hiam made a move to bring back Nick Tumpaloff again this season hoping he can bring the enery this Rockets team seeks.
10 - Bobcats (3-3)
Gm Jake Nye just moved his teams best scorer, Ed Cosgrove, for Jack Bickerstaff. This move hopefully is the misisng piece the Cats need in order to get back into the leagues title contender role. They let Jarmani Cooper and Kelo Bradberry piece them up last week and now have to face the Rockets in the cross-conference game. The Cats will have their hands full with the Rockets Big Cat.
9 - Knicks (4-2)
"We want the main court" Knicks Forward NGJ posted on the Commish facebook page going into their W6 matcup against the Pistons. NGJ got what he asked for and now he's wishing he didn't following a 12 point loss to the Pistons. GM Richie Sotero and his Knicks team has their hands full this weekend against the undefeated Kings team which, from the sounds of things, will be short handed.
8 - Heat (4-2)
An ugly win last week but a win is a win. The Heat come into W7 with 4 wins under their belt but they have the Pistons on their heels. Currently in the playoffs, the Heat will likely need to win 2 out of their last 4 games to secure a playoff spot. The Spurs, Sixers, and Magic stand in their way within the conference to lock in that playoff position.
7 - Lakers (4-2)
A 26-12 lead against the Thunder had the Lakers feeling fantastic last week. Then they collapsed in the 2H giving up a big lead and eventually the game. Still the leagues best defense statistically, the Lakers have held every team significantly under their teams average. They also sent Derick Simpson and Conrad Gawronski to the Raptors and brought in Mike Ludwig and long time league participant and Hall of Fame Deadeye Shooter Conor Foley. The hope is that Foley can add to the offense in a way the Lakers have struggled with so far this season.
6 - Magic (4-2)
The Magic have loses to the Rockets and the Spurs, both will-be playoff teams. Both loses also were by single digit margins. Tyree Coble does a real solid job inside for the Magic and Admir MErzihic has also played well this season. The IC Champ, Brett Hall, has absolutely locked in this season on the defensive end of the floor allowing Luke Ingrando and Danny Emma to be a solid 1-2 punch in the backcourt. This Magic team is 8 deep and they play as a team making them a tough out in any game.
5 - Sonics (4-2)
Started at the bottom now they're here! It took them a bit but they figured it out and got red hot this past weekend against the Cats. The Sonics saw themselves down double digits quickly and for most of the 1H. A script flip in the 2H saw newly acquired Guard Jarmani Cooper pull out his flamethrower and go on for 17 straight points tieing up the game and eventually taking the lead. Kelo Bradberry and Mitch Middlebrooks, who are also having fantastic rookie seasons, also contributed heavily as the Sonics went on to upset the favored Bobcats. This team is solid inside with Roy Wallace amongst leage leaders in blocks and rebounds. The new look Sonics look tough.
4 - Spurs (5-1)
MVP and ROTY Candidate Sean Weisansal is one team tech away from possibly having a 6-0 record. GM Ben Bill has done a fine job assembling this expansion team and the Spurs are another example of a team buying in for the greater good. Already clinching a playoff spot, the Spurs have their sights on the Thunder, a battle that will most likely set the top seeding in their conference for August.
3 - Mavs (5-1)
40 ball for the leagues highest scorer last week in a come from behind OT win against the Clippers. The Mavs find themselves only trailing the Kings in the conference. They clinched a playoff spot going 4-1 within the division. They have a chance to do something no other team could do so far, and that's beat the Thunder. MVP hopeful Aaron Jones will make this a legacy game, I promise you that.
2 - Kings (6-0)
The 6-0 Kings have taken the league by storm this Summer. Winners of 6 in a row, clinched the division, and now theyr're clinging onto a 1 game lead for the 1 seed in the conference. GM Kyle Okie has put together a formidable force behind Keeper and Sharpshooter Mario Quattrucci and the greatest 2nd round pick in league history, MVP Candidate and ROTY candidate Malikye Ridgeway.
1 - Thunder (6-0)
Coming off their teams biggest win in franchise history, the Thunder have another tall task this upcoming weekend. A redemption game with the Mavs. The Thunder control their own destiny from here on. They play both ends of the floor well, they're willing to sacrifice personal statistics for team wins, and they are the most complete team the league has seen. They're up there with the 2024 Pistons and 2023 Clippers in terms of overall team success and if they continue playing the way they are, next summer could could potentially kick off with a banner raising of their own.