HL Report by maxcowie: Power Rankings

HL Report

Hoops League Season 7 Power Rankings

The off-season is one of the most captivating moments in the HL and the Season 7 off-season lived up to the high standard. We witnessed the league transform in front of our eyes whether it was Thomas Shoffner heading to the Overdrive or the league completing its fourth expansion. In this article, I will be making Power Rankings based on Season 7 transactions and Season 6 performances. Anyway, enough of the talk, let’s get straight into it!

16. DC Brigade (Expansion Team)

Notable Additions: Pres Manu, Melo Hayes, Alex Garza

Notable Losses: N/A

We could tell DC was going young and wasn't trying to compete for a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference from the very first picks of the Expansion Draft. I think it was a wise choice! Because they are preparing for the future rather than attempting to compete now, since there are so many strong teams, this may benefit them. The Brigade won't shock the league in their first season, and I expect they'll ultimately tank for a top pick in the next draft. Due to the team's overall lack of offense, Melo Hayes or Pres Manu could have breakout seasons this year. Don't anticipate too much from the DC Brigade this season; this will be a good and much-needed year of development for them.

15. Arizona 122 (Last Season 6-33, Missed Playoffs)

Notable Additions: Beef Jerkey, Leo Lion, Scottie Thompson

Notable Losses: Felipe Santos, B.J Vandeventer, Ryan Young

Please, before you get overly excited about Jerkey heading to Arizona, keep in mind that this team was 6-33 last season and lost their starting backcourt during the offseason. Even though they added the # 2 overall pick Leo Lion and MIP contender Beef Jerkey, they will still be a bottom-feeder squad in Season 7. Leo Lion, Luke Johnson, and Ai Galloway were all selected by the 122 in the draft. However, it remains to be seen how these players perform in the Hoops League in comparison to the Hoops College and whether Leo Lion will start at point guard. The only thing that worries me is that Leo Lion is a little underdeveloped and might be better off the bench to begin with, but Arizona isn't trying to win games this year; rather, like DC, this is a season of development. But this season, Arizona will be a fun young squad to watch.

14. Vancouver Summit (Last season 14-25, Missed Playoffs)

Notable Additions: Aaron Fiedelak, Jamison Jay Lee

Notable Losses: Darren Taylor, Melo Hayes

James Murray, the Rookie of the Year, led Vancouver, one of the season's most exciting non-playoff teams. Murray was a phenomenal player that transitioned from Hoops College to the Hoops League, averaging 20.2 ppg and 5.7 rpg in his first season. Unfortunately, the Summit lost important players during the off-season, including Melo Hayes in the expansion draft and Darren Taylor to retirement. Both of them were regular starters. With their fourth pick, they were fortunate enough to choose Jamison Jay Lee. Aaron Fiedelak, a three-time All-HLA guard, was signed to a two-year, $7 million deal, which was the best move they made this offseason. Fiedelak, a fan favourite, played for the Summit throughout Season 3 before relocating to the Boston Charms during the off-season of Season 4. Fiedelak is likely to either start at point guard or serve as the sixth player off the bench. Overall, Vancouver has a fantastic young squad with fantastic young players like Murray, Covington, and Spencer. I can see them stunning everyone and making the playoffs, but it's more probable that they'll finish Season 7 at around the 6th seed in the West.

13. Houston Cosmos (Last Season 11-28, Missed Playoffs)

Notable Additions: Papa Johns

Notable Losses: Lamarcus Howard

Houston was perhaps the team with the least amount of off-season activity, but the changes they did make were significant. Jesus James, John Poland, Olo Fresh, Beef Supreme, and Lo Bot were all successfully re-signed. It's incredible that a team that had the second-worst record in the league at the end of Season 6 yet managed to re-sign every player they could. But drafting Papa John was the best thing they did. The centre, who many consider to be among the best players ever to emerge from Hoops College, is sure to make an impression during his first season. He'll possibly outperform James Murray's rookie statistics, in my opinion. With numerous outstanding franchise players like Shams Morant, Lukasz Morawski, and now Papa John to add to that, the Cosmos are in a wonderful situation. Houston, in my opinion, is now on the right route and, if they can maintain this young core together, they might be a contender in the coming years. Sham Morant, in my opinion, will transition from All-Star to All-HLA this season. I predict that Houston will narrowly miss the playoffs in Season 7.

12. San Diego Surf (Last Season 16-23, Playoff Appearance)

Notable Additions: None

Notable Losses: Pres Manu

In my opinion, San Diego got worse during the off-season. Pres Manu, a young and talented sharpshooter, was lost to the DC Brigade in the expansion draft, while Ryan Calleyway was the sole free agent they were able to sign to a two-year, $11.9 million a year contract. In conclusion, San Diego had a dismal off-season. They battled in every game in the Los Angeles series last season, demonstrating talent and creating the impression that a new generation is on the horizon. However, due to the expansion team, Denver Altitude, who picked up a number of win-now players in the expansion draft, I don't believe they will qualify for the playoffs in Season 7. The battle for the #4 seed in the West will be quite close, but I predict Denver will prevail. San Diego has the potential to be an incredible squad, but it might take them another year to reach their potential. Even though I think Aaron Ford has a lot of promise, I don't particularly enjoy the way he plays, and I don't think his style of play meshes well with the rest of the team. As a result, I'm still not convinced that he will be the team's starting point guard in the future. The Western Conference Postseason race will be exciting, but ultimately, I believe players like Ford and San Pedro will need to improve their game if San Diego wants to clinch that playoff spot.

11. Denver Altitude (Expansion Team)

Notable Additions: Cacio Way, Zay Kyten, Noel Stoner, Julius Carter, Randall Ta

Notable Losses: N/A

Denver put a lot of effort into winning the expansion draft, which might end up costing them. Vancouver did the same during their first season, and take a look at the results. Teams who draft for the future typically do better than teams that draft for the present. But with this Denver team, I have a sense that might just change. A fantastic combination of experienced players like Cacio Way and Julius Carter, as well as some bright young guys like Zay Kyten and Noel Stoner, can be found in the altitude. Zay Kyten, if eligible, may contend for the Most Improved Player honour this season because I believe he will really step it up in Season 7. Though teams like San Diego are a threat to steal the #4 spot in the West, Denver will have a difficult time making the playoffs. Though, Denver won't have any trouble making the playoffs if Cacio Way performs as well as he did against the Charms in the Season 6 Playoffs, in my opinion.

10. New York Empire (Last Season 16-23, Missed Playoffs)

Notable Additions: John Rodriguez, Paolo Smuc

Notable Losses: Brandon Billy

It's incredibly difficult for New York because I have no doubt that they would get to the playoffs if they were in the Western Conference, but given how strong the Eastern Conference is right now, I don't see that happening. John Rodriguez, former Miami Tides point guard who would probably serve as the Empire's backup point guard, was acquired by New York as they began their off-season. I like this addition for New York because they went for a starting-caliber point guard to serve as a backup in order to considerably increase their depth because they were about to (and did) lose their backup point guard, Brandon Billy, in free agency. New York could be capable of making the playoffs, but Guy Chug would certainly need to have a breakout year and be that guy for that to happen. Gib also needs to improve his shooting efficiency, but that will happen with effort and training.

9. Atlanta Activists (Last Season 20-19, Missed Playoffs) Notable Additions: King FlxmeGxd, Nasir Jones Notable Losses: Zach Vega, Randall Ta

One of the Eastern Conference teams who, in my opinion, would likely advance to the postseason if they were in the Western Conference is Atlanta. The Activists were fifth in the East last year after finishing with a winning record (20-19). Atlanta made some smart moves this off-season, including trading for King FlxmeGxd, a hot prospect point guard. The former Stars' guard FlxmeGxd, who averaged 10.3 points and 8.9 assists per game, came off the bench and had an immediate effect. King FlxmeGxd will significantly improve in Season 7 as a starter, in my opinion. The Activists acquired King FlxmeGxd through trade, and Dami Lee Pittman, Jr., the Season Six SMOTY, was also re-signed. Dami Lee Pittman Jr. undoubtedly demonstrated his deserving of a starting position in this league, and with Zach Vega's retirement, Pittman Jr should be assured of that. One concern I have is that standout player Antony King, whose offer sheet Atlanta matched and would have sent to San Francisco, already wants out. However, I truly admire what they are constructing over in Atlanta. Don't be surprised if you see the Activists in the playoffs in the upcoming years because all of their youthful pieces work so well together.

8. Indiana Overdrive (Last Season 12-27, Missed Playoffs)

Notable Additions: Thomas Shoffner, Darryl Stevenson, Koby Williams, Brandon Billy

Notable Losses: Syndor Drago, Nathan Mayhem, Jexx Uzamaki

Oh oh, I already hear the Indiana supporters after me for this one. Please keep in mind that Indiana was the worst team in the East last year with a record of 12-27. Now, Indiana had by far the best off-season of any team, in my opinion. Thomas Shoffner, the regular season and finals MVP for Season 6, was acquired in free agency and given a one-year contract. The Overdrive are now a significantly better squad solely based on that, but Indiana's magic is far from over. Darryl Stevenson, a former guard for the San Francisco Quakes, was also signed. Stevenson was a fantastic player with the Quakes, averaging 12.7 points per game and playing a significant role in their season 6 playoff push. Syndor Drago, the starting point guard for Indiana at the time, was traded to Miami in exchange for future first-round picks. Despite losing Drago, they immediately replaced him with Brandon Billy. Billy probably won't start, but it gives this Overdrive team a lot more depth. Despite everything, I still predict that Indiana will either miss the playoffs or finish as the East's #4 seed. The Eastern Conference currently has far too much skill. They must attempt to deny Yensid's Chicago, Jaos and Goodson's Boston, the young star squad of St. Louis, or the Bridges brothers Tides a playoff position. Not to mention the fact that Atlanta and New York might challenge for a postseason position. Clip in and get ready in advance since this postseason race will undoubtedly be unpredictable.

7. Portland Roses (Last Season 25-14, Playoff Appearance)

Notable Additions: B.J Vandeventer, Deandre Daniels,

Notable Losses: Beef Jerkey, Zay Kyten

If I'm being absolutely honest, this off-season I completely forgot that the Portland Roses were a team. It demonstrates how silent they were. The Roses' top aim this off-season was to trade Beef Jerkey because the young player was unhappy and obviously didn't want to be a part of the team after that awful playoff series against San Francisco. Point guard B.J. Vandeventer and several other future first-round picks were acquired from Atlanta in exchange. Time will tell if this agreement was beneficial or detrimental to either franchise, but it remains to be seen. Portland was severely hurt by the expansion draft because they lost young and talented point player Zay Kyten, who was selected by the Denver Altitude. In the event that Portland makes the playoffs, which I anticipate they will, one thing I wish they did was sign reliable forwards because I don't think the forward pairing of Jordan Frazier and Justin Taylor will hold up, particularly in the postseason. The possibility of Portland winning one more championship during the Jamon Alexander era will be intriguing to see. They have already travelled to the Promised Land once, during Season 3. Is there still enough gas in the tank for him? I don't believe so, but Jamon if you are reading this, please prove me wrong.

6. St. Louis Archers (Last Season 25-14, Playoff Appearance)

Notable Additions: Jerry Platinum

Notable Losses: Adrien Russell

What has changed in St. Louis? Unless you count the crazy Jerry Platinum trade or the ridiculous Demar Banks signing, nothing...absolutely nothing. Joey Bas, Francisco Gerbi, Pierre Brodeur, Jerry Platinum, and Kerry Edwards were all re-signed by St. Louis to long-term contracts during the off-season. Elite defender Adrien Russell, who was taken by the DC Brigade in the expansion draft, is the only piece they lost. I like that St. Louis is coming back with much the same team. Despite being swept by the Miami Tides in the first round, the Archers should be pleased with last season as they gained even more much-needed playoff experience. In Season 6, St. Louis managed to make the playoffs despite having such a young team. The Most Improved Player Of The Year Award went to Francisco Gerbi last season after he significantly improved his game. His three-point shooting was one of his remarkable improvements, and it was well earned. Gerbi's three-point percentage increased dramatically from 0% in Season 5 to 51% in Season 6, placing him fifth in the league. In terms of talent, the Archers are in a fantastic position; the question is whether they can then use that talent to contend.

5. Miami Tides (Last Season 25-14, ECF Appearance)

Notable Additions: Syndor Drago

Notable Losses: Alex Garza, Hazan Allen, John Rodriguez

Miami, like St. Louis, is returning with roughly the same roster as last year, which is certainly a good thing for this hard-working and talented group. Eddie Dale, who holds the record for all-time rebounds, and Austin Bridges, an all-star, were both re-signed by the Tides. The deal for Syndor Drago was one action that was very intriguing. The Tides traded their point guard John Rodriguez to the Empire State for Buckets McGee, who was the 20th overall pick in this year's draft, and Overdrive point guard Syndor Drago. I loved this trade because it gave the Tides a first-round pick as well as a player whose playstyle and skill level are exactly the same as Rodriguez's. The same question is relevant since Miami has an ageing star, much like Portland does. Will Anthony Bridges retire with just the ring he earned in Boston, or can the Tide finally win a championship? No, I do not think Miami will be able to win a championship with Anthony Bridges in charge, which is a very similar response to Portland's question. However, who knows? Austin Bridges might one day help Miami win a championship.

4. Los Angeles Stars (Last Season 30-9, Finals Appearance)

Notable Additions: Justin James, Hazan Allen, Raihan Rizky

Notable Losses: Sebastian Trident, King FlxmeGxd, Julius Carter

Ranking the Stars fourth in these Power Rankings is a bit of a stretch, I'll admit. Los Angeles lost by far the most this off-season of any franchise. Sebastian Trident, one of the greatest centers and defenders of all time, announced his retirement. Trident is a guy that statistics won't necessarily favour, so if you got to see him play, you were quite fortunate. Trident was a star player during his time in the league, and his retirement will likely be felt immensely in Los Angeles. King FlxmeGxd is the second player the Stars have lost. I don't really see why they traded a young prodigy point guard for a first-round pick (#6) and two second-round picks when they have a team that wants to win now, even though they got decent value out of him. Justin James, a fantastic defender coming out of college, was chosen with that choice. However, because he is still undeveloped, like most rookies, I don't see the advantages of dealing for a young, underdeveloped center for a team that needs to win now. When the expansion draft rolled around, the Los Angeles frontcourt took a significant hit once more as the Denver Altitude selected veteran win-now Julius Carter. Los Angeles consequently lost two of their quality front-court players in one off-season. For a squad aiming for a third championship, that is substantially worse. A two-man offence can only carry a team so far, and even if the Stars are able to reach the Western Conference Finals, I don't see Carl Joseph and Polan Stronk being able to advance this team farther than that.

3. Boston Charms (Last Season 27-12, League Champions)

Notable Additions: Anthony Flores, Notable Losses: Thomas Shoffner, Noel Stoner, Aaron Fiedelak

The Charms suffered a lot of losses this off-season, much like Los Angeles. As you are probably already aware, Thomas Shoffner, the Regular Season and Finals MVP, made the decision to leave Boston and join his hometown team, the Indiana Overdrive, during the free agency period. This stunned the entire league and undoubtedly brought a few Charms fans to tears. As a result, Boston's chances of winning a championship are considerably diminished, although they are still a contender. Aaron Fiedelak, a three-time All-HLA guard for Boston, who had just won their second title, was another important player they lost in free agency. Fiedelak was a vital veteran guard who provided the team with excellent leadership and demonstrated what it takes to succeed and win a championship to young players like Jason Garcia. The Denver Altitude's selection of Noel Stoner in the expansion draft was the third and last blow that seriously wounded Boston. Averaging 9.2 points per game for the Charms, Stoner was one of their top backup players. Even though they didn't entirely replace Stoner, they still signed Anthony Flores, who should serve as a quality backup and provide them with crucial minutes. Overall, Just Jaos will really need to excel if the Charms are to have any chance of repeating. Jason Garcia's move to the starting lineup will also be a great thing because he was outstanding off the bench in Season 6, scoring 10.4 points per game and coming in second place for the Sixth Man Of The Year award.

2. Chicago Blues (Last Season 24-15, Playoff Appearance)

Notable Additions: Renn Alex, Lyle Barr, Jah Rodriguez

Notable Losses: Scottie Thompson, Kwanzy Iceberg, Erasmo Mendoza, Cacio Way

Despite the Chicago Blues' relative inactivity this offseason, I don't think they really needed to do anything. The Blues could have improved their bench depth, but generally I think they had a good off-season. They were successful in re-signing Jalen Hood, Jaga C, De'Aaron Jackson and Zane Cruz. Three of these are good starters. De'Aaron Jackson and James Ketch, two young stars for the Blues, are most likely to get the start, or Chicago will alternate between the two. Of course, they also feature one of the league's top defensive pairings in Jaga C, who ranks first in total blocks all-time, and Tshaka Zoulou, the defensive player of the year for season six. Did I leave someone out of this list? Oh, and they also possess the greatest player to ever take the court in Hoops League. Walter Yensid is back in shape for Season 7 despite suffering setbacks last year. The Blues had the third-best record in the East (20-11) prior to Yensid's injury, but after Walter was sidelined for 10 games, they dropped to the fourth seed. It is absurd that a Chicago squad without Yensid forced the Season 5 champions to play five playoff games. What if Walter was available for every game of the series? Overall, I think the Blues will secure the #1 or #2 seed in the East, and Walter, who was terribly injured last season, will be out for blood.

1. San Francisco Quakes (Last Season 22-17, WCF Appearance)

Notable Additions: Felipe Santos, Kyron Hickman, Lauren Bird

Notable Losses: Tyrone Jackson, Darryl Stevenson, Renn Alex

This San Francisco team simply cannot lose, in my opinion. Many people believed that the Quakes would perform worse in Season 7 because everyone knew that Darryl Stevenson would leave in free agency. That won't happen, though, since San Francisco began their off-season by selecting Lauren Bird, an elite scorer out of Emory College who will offer them crucial minutes off the bench. That doesn't compare to the Quakes' signing of Felipe Santos, a great player, as well as the former all-star point guard Kyron Hickman to a two-year contract. One of the better free-agent signings of the off-season without a doubt as San Francisco continues to assemble a competitive team around superstar Darth Jor-El. Felipe Santos is recognized as one of the most injury-prone players in Hoops League history, so hopefully he can stay healthy in San Francisco. Before the season even begins, Darth Jor-El is, in my opinion, the favourite for MVP. Versus Jamon Alexander, a fellow superstar centre, and Beef Jerkey, a star, he really showed his dominance in the playoffs. Who is defeating this San Francisco team? After this off-season, the GM of the Quakes is most certainly getting a pay rise.