The 2023-24 NBA season has been a whirlwind, delivering numerous surprises and standout performances. As we delve deeper into the season’s highlights, we focus on the power forward (PF) position, analyzing the players who shined, those who faltered, and the newcomers who made their mark.
Herbert Jones: A Defensive Dynamo
Herbert Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans emerged as one of the league’s premier defenders this NBA season. With an All-Defensive first-team nod, Jones quickly became a fantasy favorite.
His impressive defensive stats, coupled with efficient shooting splits of 50/42/86, catapulted him into the top 70 despite being drafted in the 11th round. If Brandon Ingram moves in the offseason, Jones could see an increase in offensive responsibilities, making him an intriguing prospect for next season.
Tobias Harris: Consistent but Controversial
Philadelphia 76ers’ Tobias Harris continues to be a reliable, if not flashy, fantasy player. Despite his hefty salary and middling real-life performance, Harris delivered solid stats, finishing within the top 50 in category leagues. With Harris entering free agency, his fantasy value next NBA season will heavily depend on his new team’s dynamics. A departure from Philadelphia could significantly alter his role and production.
John Collins: Rebounding Renaissance
John Collins found new life with the Utah Jazz, significantly boosting his fantasy value by averaging his highest rebounds per game in four NBA seasons. Although his tenure as a key player may be short-lived due to emerging young talent, Collins’ resurgence this season was notable. Fantasy managers should watch for potential roster changes in Utah that could impact Collins’ future value.
The Disappointments: Jaren Jackson Jr. and Jerami Grant
Jaren Jackson Jr.: Inconsistent Blocks
Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies had a mixed NBA season. While he played 66 games amidst numerous injuries on the team, his blocks per game dropped significantly from previous years. His scoring improved, but it came at the expense of efficiency, and with the Grizzlies’ roster likely to return to full strength, Jackson’s fantasy value may see a regression next season.
Jerami Grant: Unfulfilled Potential
Portland Trail Blazers’ Jerami Grant has been a frustrating player for fantasy managers, with his value plummeting post-trade deadlines due to injuries and inconsistent performance. Despite a high usage rate, Grant’s defensive stats declined, making him a risky pick moving forward. His performance this NBA season did not justify his seventh-round draft price, and his future fantasy prospects remain uncertain.
The Breakouts: Jalen Johnson and Naz Reid
Jalen Johnson: A Star in the Making
Atlanta Hawks’ Jalen Johnson proved to be a sleeper pick this NBA season, showcasing his potential as a dynamic 3&D wing. Despite injuries hindering what could have been a Most Improved Player campaign, Jalen Johnson’s performances suggest a bright future. His playmaking and defensive abilities make him a valuable asset, and he is expected to be drafted in the early rounds next season.
Naz Reid: Sixth Man Sensation
Minnesota Timberwolves’ Naz Reid had a breakout NBA season, earning the Sixth Man of the Year award with career-best stats in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. Reid’s performance was particularly strong in the latter part of the season, making him a reliable fantasy contributor. With potential roster changes in Minnesota, Reid’s fantasy outlook remains promising, especially if Karl-Anthony Towns is traded.
Jonathan Kuminga: Late-Season Surge
Golden State Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga demonstrated his potential as the season progressed, becoming a full-time starter and significantly improving his stats. Kuminga’s leap from nine to 16 points per game signifies his growing role and value in the Warriors’ lineup. As the team undergoes a roster overhaul this summer, Kuminga is expected to continue his upward trajectory, making him a valuable pick in upcoming drafts.
2023-24 NBA Season
The power forward position has been a mixed bag this season, with standout performances, surprising letdowns, and promising breakout stars. As we look ahead to the next season, players like Jalen Johnson and Naz Reid are poised to take their game to new heights, offering exciting prospects for fantasy managers.
