In the world of fantasy basketball, dynasty rankings play a crucial role. They are based on long-term projections and should not be overly volatile due to short-term success or failure. However, there are scenarios where these rankings can change, and it's important to evaluate them regularly. We're over a month into the season, which makes this the perfect time to take a closer look at preseason dynasty rankings and understand why some players have seen their evaluations change.

Uncover the Hidden Gems in Dynasty Basketball

Jalen Johnson: The Rising Star

After an impressive season last year, Jalen Johnson was expected to continue his growth. And he has not disappointed. With averages of 19.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.1 blocks and 1.6 threes per game, he has reached career highs in multiple categories. Although his turnovers have increased with Dejounte Murray gone, he has become the team's secondary playmaker, inflating his overall stats. Despite shooting 37% of his shots in the restricted area, he only takes 3.2 free throws per game, indicating there is still room for further improvement. This is a player with a lot of potential and is definitely one to watch. 2: Jalen Johnson's game is a combination of scoring, rebounding and playmaking. His ability to score in different ways and his defensive prowess make him a valuable asset. He has shown that he can handle the increased responsibility and is likely to continue to rise in dynasty rankings.

Jalen Williams: Fantasy Superstardom

Since his rookie year, Jalen Williams has been an excellent 9-cat option. But this season, he has ascended to fantasy superstardom. With averages of 22.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.1 steals, 0.8 blocks and 2.1 threes per game, he has reached career highs across the board. His increased usage can be attributed to Chet Holmgren's absence, but his efficiency has only taken a small hit. Williams is a player with a bright future and will be a dominant dynasty player for a long time. 2: His ability to contribute in multiple categories makes him a valuable asset in fantasy basketball. He has shown consistency and has the potential to continue to improve. Williams is a player that fantasy managers should keep an eye on.

Tari Eason: The Young Defender

Eason's second year in the league was marred by injuries, which led to a slight drop in his rankings. But in limited minutes, he has reminded us of his potential. With averages of 11.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.1 steals, 1.0 block and 0.9 threes in just 22.9 minutes per game, he has been a top-50 player. His defensive skills are exceptional, and he forms a great bench duo with Amen Thompson. It won't be easy to keep them out of the starting unit for long. 2: Eason's value is based on his defensive abilities and his ability to contribute in limited minutes. He has shown that he can be a valuable contributor even when he doesn't play a lot. As he continues to develop, he has the potential to become an even better player.

Walker Kessler: The Double-Double Machine

Utah's decision to make Kessler a full-time starter in his third year has paid off. With averages of a double-double and three blocks per game while shooting 73.1% from the floor, he has been one of the most dominant players in the league. His impact is felt in multiple categories, and at 23 years old, he is already a force to be reckoned with. 2: Kessler's ability to provide consistent double-doubles and blocks makes him a valuable asset in dynasty leagues. He has shown that he can handle the increased minutes and is likely to continue to perform at a high level.

Jalen Suggs: The Steady Performer

Although Suggs' shooting has been off this year after a great last season, he has still taken a step forward. With averages of 16.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.9 blocks and 2.3 threes per game, he has reached career highs in multiple categories. His free throw shooting has also improved, giving us confidence that his deep-range shooting will return to last year's level. 2: Suggs is a steady performer who can contribute in multiple ways. His ability to handle the ball and his defensive skills make him a valuable asset. As Paolo Banchero returns, we'll get a better idea of his true value.

Cam Thomas: The Streaky Scorer

Thomas has been awesome this year, but he still has some questions. He is a streaky shooter, and it remains to be seen if he can maintain this level of production for a full season. His role on a playoff team is also in question. But over the course of the year, he has averaged career-highs of 24.7 points, 3.4 assists and 2.9 threes while shooting 46.1% from the floor. At 23 years old, his scoring ability is hard to ignore. 2: Thomas has the potential to be a great scorer, but he needs to work on his consistency. His ability to create his own shot and his scoring touch make him a valuable asset, but he needs to prove that he can be a reliable contributor in all situations.

Dyson Daniels: The Defensive Impact

Dyson Daniels is a player that is impossible to ignore. His streak of games with at least six steals and his incredible offensive performances have made him a force on the defensive end. His value mostly comes from his steals, but he has also been one of the most impactful defenders in the league. If he can maintain his production, he will make the first All-Defensive Team of his career. 2: Daniels' leap this year after being on the bench for the first two years of his career is encouraging. His defensive skills and his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor make him a valuable asset in dynasty leagues.

Gradey Dick: The Talented Shooter

After a hot start, Gradey Dick has tailed off a bit, but he has still been impressive in his second year. With averages of 17.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.9 steals and 2.5 threes in 32.5 minutes per game, he has solidified his place in the starting unit. There is room for growth in other areas, but at 21 years old, he has the potential to continue to improve. 2: Dick's shooting ability is his biggest strength, and when he has talent around him, he can really shine. With Toronto dealing with injuries this year, he has had the opportunity to showcase his skills.

Payton Pritchard: The Bargain

Boston's re-signing of Pritchard to a team-friendly deal was a smart move. He has taken a big step forward this year without a significant increase in his role. With averages of 16.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.0 steal and 3.7 threes in 28.2 minutes per game while shooting 48.7% from the floor, he has reached career highs in multiple categories. His value so far has been outstanding, and he is likely to continue to provide value for the team. 2: Pritchard is a player that can contribute in multiple ways and is a great value for the team. His shooting and playmaking skills make him a valuable asset, and he has shown that he can handle the increased responsibility.

Norman Powell: The Late-Bloomer

At 30 years old, Norman Powell's dynasty value may not rise too much, but he has been too good to be ranked this low. With Kawhi Leonard injured and Paul George now in Philly, Powell has had the best season of his career. With averages of 23.6 points, 2.5 assists and 3.8 threes per game, he has been a top-50 producer in 9-cat leagues. His shooting from beyond the arc has been exceptional, and although it may regress a bit, he has proven that he is a valuable player. 2: Powell is a player that can provide consistent scoring and 3-point shooting. His ability to step up in the absence of other star players makes him a valuable asset for win-now teams.