2020 NBA Free Agency: Top 10 Players Available

After last year's monumental free agency period, it's understandable that the impending start (tampering period starts tomorrow at 6:00 PM EST, signings can become official on Sunday starting at 12:01 PM EST) of the headlining act of the NBA offseason feels unusually free of major stakes. There's no franchise-altering superstars or even true max deals to be had for anyone that's not a lock to go back to where they played last season. However, what we do have hitting the open market is a very deep collection of role players of different ages and skill sets. While signing somebody like Davis Bertans or Jerami Grant may lack the visceral excitement of landing Kawhi Leonard or LeBron James, these are the type of players that often help quietly shift the balance of power throughout the entire league. Here are the 10 guys that I believe should be the most sought after in the 2020 free agency class.  

Note: Players who are expected to re-sign with their current team (Anthony Davis, Brandon Ingram) or have a pending player option (Gordon Hayward, Enes Kanter, Javale McGee) have been excluded from inclusion.

10.Jordan Clarkson, shooting guard (2019-20 teams: Cleveland Cavaliers/Utah Jazz)

While Clarkson might not be on the level of Lou Williams or Jamal Crawford, he's a classic spark scorer off the bench who can hit shots from anywhere on the floor with solid efficiency and reliably produce 13-18 points in 22-25 minutes per game.

Possible Destinations: Utah Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, Charlotte Hornets, New York Knicks 

9.Serge Ibaka, power forward/center (2019-20 team: Toronto Raptors)

Ibaka has done a terrific job of altering his game to adapt to the modern NBA by developing a reliable outside shot without totally abandoning his roots as a defensive virtuoso who can cause problems in the paint with his physicality. That old school meets new school hybrid game paired with his loads of playoff experience should allow him to attract a busy market among contenders.

Possible Destinations: Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Boston Celtics

8.Christian Wood, power forward/center (2019-20 team: Detroit Pistons)

There's no denying that Wood is the biggest question mark among the top free agents. He's bounced around the league since he signed with the 76ers as an undrafted free agent ahead of 2015-16 season and wasn't able to stick on an NBA roster full time until he signed with the Pistons last offseason. Despite his relative inexperience in the pros, Wood flashed dynamic athleticism and legit floor-stretching ability at the 4/5 spot (particularly after he was inserted into the starting lineup following the Andre Drummond trade) all year long that indicates he could very well be on the cusp of turning into a Pascal Siakam/Domantas Sabonis-type force.     

Possible Destinations: Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder  

7.Danilo Gallinari, small/power forward (2019-20 team: Oklahoma City Thunder)

While his well-documented durability concerns are now heightened even further at 32, Gallinari's positional versatility, lethal shooting stroke and solid defense should make him an excellent sixth man as he stares down the final act of his career. 

Possible Destinations: Brooklyn Nets, Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers    

6.Joe Harris, small forward (2019-20 team: Brooklyn Nets)

Outside shooting is the single most important thing in the NBA right now and Harris is an elite sniper from range that could help boost a number of bubble teams into full blow contenders.   

Possible Destinations: Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, Detroit Pistons  

5.Jerami Grant, small/power forward (2019-20 team: Denver Nuggets)

Grant's offense has finally caught up with his defense over the past few seasons and at just 26, there's no reason to believe that his diverse scoring arsenal won't expand further over the length of this deal he's about to ink. 

Possible Destinations: Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks, Charlotte Hornets, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks 

4.Goran Dragic, point guard (2019-20 team: Miami Heat)

One of the biggest takeaways from the Heat's improbable Finals run in the Bubble was the revelation that Dragic still has plenty of gas left in the tank. He's a reliable playmaker who is willing to pass or score depending on the game situation and is equally effective as a starter or off the bench. That type of versatility and unselfishness is incredibly rare in the modern NBA, which should makes Dragic a sneakily coveted asset.   

Possible Destinations: Miami Heat, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets   

3.Davis Bertans, power forward (2019-20 team: Washington Wizards)

Bertans was the top deadline target for contenders last season and that enthusiasm likely hasn't dampened at all 9 months later. The Latvian Laser has gotten better every single year he's been in the league and has turned him into a premiere offensive threat with the rare size/unlimited shooting range combo that opponents often have no answer for.  

Possible Destinations: Washington Wizards, Miami Heat, Denver Nuggets, Charlotte Hornets, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder    

2.Montrezl Harrell, power forward/center (2019-20 team: Los Angeles Clippers)

A poor playoff performance isn't likely to prevent the 26-year old Harrell from getting his first massive payday. He's a defensive menace with a deceptively strong scoring touch that brings energy, athleticism and a willingness to handle any assignment to the floor every single night. 

Possible Destinations: Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, Denver Nuggets, Charlotte Hornets, Houston Rockets, New Orleans Pelicans, Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics 

1.Fred VanVleet, point/shooting guard (2019-20 team: Toronto Raptors)

Guards who can play both spots, create their own shot, distribute and play sound defense are like unicorns-particularly when they're still a couple years away from hitting their prime. Expect any team with the cap space and an unsettled backcourt to make a legit push to try and lure VanVleet away from Toronto.    

Possible Destinations: Toronto Raptors, Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, New Orleans Pelicans

Other Notable Players Available (* indicates a restricted free agent):

Carmelo Anthony, small forward (2019-20 team: Portland Trail Blazers)

Aron Baynes, center (2019-20 team: Phoenix Suns)

Malik Beasley*, shooting guard (2019-20 teams: Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves)

Bogdan Bogdanovic*, shooting guard/small forward (2019-20 team: Sacramento Kings)

Chris Boucher, small/power forward (2019-20 team: Toronto Raptors)

Alec Burks, shooting guard/small forward (2019-20 teams: Golden State Warriors/Philadelphia 76ers)

Michael Carter-Williams, point guard (2019-20 team: Orlando Magic)

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, shooting guard (2019-20 team: Los Angeles Lakers)

Wilson Chandler, small forward (2019-20 team: Brooklyn Nets)

DeMarcus Cousins, center (2019-20 team: Los Angeles Lakers)

Jae Crowder, small forward (2019-20 teams: Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat)

Kris Dunn*, point guard (2019-20 team: Chicago Bulls)

Yogi Farrell, point guard (2019-20 team: Sacramento Kings)

Derrick Favors, power forward (2019-20 team: New Orleans Pelicans)

Bryn Forbes, shooting guard (2019-20 team: San Antonio Spurs)

Maurice Harkless, small/power forward (2019-20 teams: Los Angles Clippers, New York Knicks)

Juan Hernangomez, small/power forward (2019-20 team: Denver Nuggets)

Willy Hernangomez, power forward/center (2019-20 team: Charlotte Hornets)

Justin Holiday, shooting guard/small forward (2019-20 team: Indiana Pacers)

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, small forward (2019-20 team: Toronto Raptors)

Rodney Hood, shooting guard/small forward (2019-20 team: Portland Trail Blazers)

Dwight Howard, center (2019-20 team: Los Angeles Lakers)

Langston Galloway, shooting guard (2019-20 team: Detroit Pistons)

Marc Gasol, center (2019-20 team: Toronto Raptors)

Reggie Jackson, point guard (2019-20 teams: Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers)

Tyler Johnson, point/shooting guard (2019-20 teams: Phoenix Suns/Brooklyn Nets)

Derrick Jones Jr., small forward (2019-20 team: Miami Heat)

Furkan Korkmaz, shooting guard/small forward (2019-20 team: Philadelphia 76ers)

Robin Lopez, center (2019-20 team: Milwaukee Bucks)

Kyle Korver, shooting guard (2019-20 team: Milwaukee Bucks)

Wesley Matthews, shooting guard/small forward (2019-20 team: Milwaukee Bucks)

De'Anthony Melton*, point/shooting guard (2019-20 team: Memphis Grizzlies) 

Paul Millsap, power forward (2019-20 team: Denver Nuggets)

Marcus Morris, small/power forward (2019-20 teams: New York Knicks, Los Angeles Clippers)

Markeef Morris, power forward (2019-20 teams: Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Lakers)

Emmanuel Mudiay, point guard (2019-20 team: Utah Jazz)

Nerlens Noel, power forward/center (2019-20 team: Oklahoma City Thunder)

Mason Plumlee, center (2019-20 team: Denver Nuggets)

Jakob Poeltl*, center (2019-20 team: San Antonio Spurs)

Glenn Robinson III, small forward (2019-20 teams: Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers)

Austin Rivers, point/shooting guard (2019-20 team: Houston Rockets)

Rajon Rondo, point guard (2019-20 team: Los Angeles Lakers)

Dario Saric*, power forward (2019-20 team: Phoenix Suns)

Jeff Teague, point guard (2019-20 teams: Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks)

Tristian Thompson, power forward/center (2019-20 team: Cleveland Cavaliers)

Noah Vonleh, power forward (2019-20 teams: Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets)

Brad Wanamaker, point/shooting guard (2019-20 team: Boston Celtics)

Dion Waiters, shooting guard (2019-20 teams: Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers)

Hassan Whiteside, center (2019-20 team: Portland Trail Blazers)

2020 NBA Mock Draft

After numerous COVID-driven delays, the NBA Draft will be finally be held tonight. Here's a quick look at how I expect all 60 picks to go.

1.Minnesota Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards, shooting guard (Georgia)

2.Golden State Warriors: James Wiseman, center (Memphis)

3.Charlotte Hornets: LaMelo Ball, point/shooting guard (United States)

4.Chicago Bulls: Patrick Williams, small forward (Florida State)

5.Cleveland Cavaliers: Obi Toppin, power forward/center (Dayton)

6.Atlanta Hawks: Issac Okoro, small forward (Auburn)

7.Detroit Pistons: Killian Hayes, point guard (France)

8.New York Knicks: Kira Lewis, point guard (Alabama)

9.Washington Wizards: Onyeka Okongwu, center (USC)

10.Phoenix Suns: Deni Avdija, small/power forward (Israel) 

11.San Antonio Spurs: Tyrese Haliburton, shooting guard (Iowa State)

12.Sacramento Kings: Saddiq Bey, small forward (Villanova)

13.New Orleans Pelicans: Tyrese Maxey, shooting guard (Kentucky)

14.Boston Celtics: Precious Achiuwa, power forward/center (Memphis)

15.Orlando Magic: Devin Vassell, small forward (Florida State)

16.Houston Rockets: R.J. Hampton, shooting guard (United States)

17.Minnesota Timberwolves: Aaron Nesmith, shooting guard/small forward (Vanderbilt)

18.Dallas Mavericks: Aleksej Pokusevski, power forward/center (Greece)

19.Brooklyn Nets: Tyrell Terry, point guard (Stanford)

20.Miami Heat: Isaiah Stewart, power forward/center (Washington)

21.Philadelphia 76ers: Malachi Flynn, point guard (San Diego State)

22.Denver Nuggets: Jalen Smith, center (Maryland)

23.Utah Jazz: Cole Anthony, point guard (North Carolina)

24.New Orleans Pelicans: Jaden McDaniels, power forward (Washington)

25.Oklahoma City Thunder: Theo Maledon, shooting guard (France)

26.Boston Celtics: Leandro Bolmaro, shooting guard (Spain)

27.New York Knicks: Vernon Carey, center (Duke)

28.Oklahoma City Thunder: Xavier Tillman, power forward/center (Michigan State)

29.Toronto Raptors: Desmond Bane, shooting guard (TCU)

30.Boston Celtics: Cassius Winston, point guard (Michigan State)

2nd round:

31.Dallas Mavericks: Josh Green, shooting guard (Arizona)

32.Charlotte Hornets: Zeke Nnaji, power forward/center (Arizona)

33.Minnesota Timberwolves: Tyler Bey, small/power forward (Colorado)

34.Philadelphia 76ers: Isaiah Joe, shooting guard (Arkansas)

35.Sacramento Kings: Jordan Nwora, small forward (Louisville)

36.Philadelphia 76ers: Jahmius Ramsey, shooting guard (Texas Tech)

37.Washington Wizards: Nico Mannion, point guard (Arizona)

38.New York Knicks: Immanuel Quickley, shooting guard (Kentucky)

39.New Orleans Pelicans: Tre Jones, point guard (Duke)

40.Memphis Grizzlies: Robert Woodard, small/power forward (Mississippi State)

41.San Antonio Spurs: Payton Pritchard, point guard (Oregon)

42.New Orleans Pelicans: Daniel Oturu, center (Minnesota)

43.Sacramento Kings: Udoka Azubuike, center (Kansas)

44.Chicago Bulls: Devon Dotson, point guard (Kansas)

45.Orlando Magic: Cassius Stanley, shooting guard (Duke)

46.Portland Trail Blazers: Paul Reed, power forward/center (DePaul)

47.Boston Celtics: Skylar Mays, shooting guard (LSU)

48.Golden State Warriors: Elijah Hughes, shooting guard/small forward (Syracuse)

49.Philadelphia 76ers: Sam Merrill, shooting guard (Utah State)

50.Atlanta Hawks: Reggie Perry, power forward/center (Mississippi State)

51.Golden State Warriors: Yam Madar, point guard (Israel)

52.Sacramento Kings: Grant Riller, point/shooting guard (Charleston)

53.Oklahoma City Thunder: Nick Richards, center (Kentucky)

54.Indiana Pacers: Kaleb Wesson, center (Ohio State)

55.Brooklyn Nets: Ashton Hagans, point guard (Kentucky)

56.Charlotte Hornets: Josh Hall, small forward (Morvarian Prep)

57.Los Angeles Clippers: Mason Jones, shooting guard (Arkansas)

58.Philadelphia 76ers: Paul Eboua, small forward (Italy)

59.Toronto Raptors: Marko Simonovic, center (Serbia)

60.Milwaukee Bucks: Adrian Bogucki, center (Poland)   

Week 10 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers: 2020 Edition

 Quarterback

MVP: Tom Brady (Buccaneers)

A huge bounceback after last week's historic faceplant was essentially a lock for Brady. He diced up the Panthers youth-driven defense with ease-throwing for 341 YDS and 3 TD's while also adding a TD Run from the goal line. The Rams sneakily excellent defense await Brady next week.

Honorable Mentions: Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers), Kyler Murray (Cardinals), Josh Allen (Bills)

LVP: Jared Goff (Rams)

Not too many QB's who throw for over 300 YDS (302 to be exact) and only turn the ball over once (a lost fumble) end up in the least valuable player section, but Goff failure to reach the endzone in an otherwise pretty productive game against the Seahawks horrid defense earned him this unfortunate distinction. Goff is arguably the most aggravating useable QB in all of fantasy and his truly unpredictable output on a week-to-week basis will continue to keep him on the start/sit fringe. He'll be on the sit end of the equation in Week 11 when the Buccaneers physical, blitz-happy defense comes to LA.   

Dishonorable Mentions: Russell Wilson (Seahawks), Joe Burrow (Bengals), Carson Wentz (Eagles)

Running Back

MVP: Alvin Kamara (Saints)

Once again, the electric playmaking wizardry of Kamara bailed out a Saints offense that was otherwise startlingly unproductive. The veteran back put up 98 scrimmage YDS (15 rushing, 83 receiving) and 3 TD's on just 15 touches in a victory. Even with Drew Brees out indefinitely, Kamara should continue to sit atop the weekly RB rankings. 

Honorable Mentions: Josh Jacobs (Raiders), Ronald Jones (Buccaneers), D'Andre Swift (Lions)

LVP: Leonard Fournette (Buccaneers)

Heading into this week, all signs seemed to be pointing to Fournette taking over for Ronald Jones in the RB1A slot of the Bucs committee. Then Forunette got completely stuffed against the Panthers (30 scrimmage YDS on 10 touches) while Jones ran for nearly 200 YDS and a TD. While he's still worth rostering (for now), Fournette should stay out of lineups unless you're in absolutely dire straits at RB.  

Dishonorable Mentions: James Conner (Steelers), Duke Johnson (Texans), Jonathan Taylor (Colts)

Wide Receiver

MVP: DeAndre Hopkins (Cardinals) 

Week 10 was nothing but W's for the best wideout in the league. In addition to making one of the greatest catches in league history to clinch an improbable Cardinals win over the Bills, his 7 REC/127 YDS/1 TD line put him atop the receiver leaderboard. Expect more good things to happen for D-Hop in Week 12 when he goes up against a wretched Seahawks secondary that he lit up for 10 catches/103 YDS/1 TD in their earlier meeting this season. 

Honorable Mentions: Diontae Johnson (Steelers), Chase Claypool (Steelers), Marvin Jones Jr. (Lions)

LVP: A.J. Brown (Titans)

Brown was in line for a dud after scoring in 5 straight games and his 1 REC/21 YD performance against the Colts certainly qualified as that. He'd been superb regardless of matchup since returning from injury in Week 5 prior to this misstep and it wouldn't be at all surprising if he returned to form against a tough Ravens secondary in Week 11.
Dishonorable Mentions: D.K. Metcalf (Seahawks), Michael Thomas (Saints), Travis Fulgham (Eagles)

Tight End

MVP: Rob Gronkowski (Buccaneers) 

Everybody was eating well in the Bucs receiving corps on Sunday and Gronkowski got his time to shine even with a low target share (3)-securing 2 catches for 51 YDS and a TD. Gronk will remain a boom-or-bust TE1 against the Rams in Week 11. 

Honorable Mentions: Hunter Henry (Chargers), Logan Thomas (Washington Football Team), Mark Andrews (Ravens)

LVP: Jared Cook (Saints)

As I mentioned earlier, the entire Saints offense aside from Kamara was terrible on Sunday against the 49ers. Cook's no show arguably topped the list-as he failed to catch either of his targets on a day where Drew Brees and Jameis Winston combined for just 129 YDS through the air. Things should be trending up for Cook and the rest of the Saints pass catchers as they enter a very soft portion of their schedule (Broncos, Falcons x2, Browns, Eagles) with the potential of the notorious gunslinger Winston taking over for Brees for at least the next few games.

Dishonorable Mentions: T.J. Hockenson (Lions), Austin Hooper (Browns), Evan Engram (Giants)

Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Saints 

A large part of the reason the Saints offense could get away with being so ineffective and still come away with a win is because the defense balled out for a 2nd straight week. Dennis Allen's group got 2 sacks and 4 takeways (2 INT's, 2 FUM REC's) while allowing just 13 points against a depleted 49ers offense that seems to be getting sloppier by the week. They'll look to keep their hotstreak going against a Falcons offense that hasn't surrendered a ton of fantasy points to opposing defenses of late (8 sacks, 4 turnovers, 22-40 points scored in their last 4 games). 

Honorable Mentions: Steelers, Bears, Colts

LVP: Ravens

The feared Ravens group that has teed off on the Colts, Bengals and Eagles in recent weeks didn't make it to Foxboro for Sunday Night Football-getting 1 sack, 0 takeaways and allowing 23 points to a vulnerable Patriots offense. They'll be a questionable play in Week 11 against a Titans offense that doesn't turn the ball over much or allow a lot of sacks.

Dishonorable Mentions: Eagles, Titans, Chargers 

2020 NFL Power Rankings: Week 11

 ()=previous ranking

1.(1) Kansas City Chiefs (8-1) Week 11 opponent: Las Vegas Raiders

2.(2) Pittsburgh Steelers (9-0) Week 11 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars 

3.(4) Green Bay Packers (7-2) Week 11 opponent: Indianapolis Colts

4.(5) New Orleans Saints (7-2) Week 11 opponent: Atlanta Falcons

5.(3) Baltimore Ravens (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Tennessee Titans 

6.(10) Indianapolis Colts (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Green Bay Packers

7.(11) Arizona Cardinals (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Seattle Seahawks 

8.(8) Buffalo Bills (7-3) Week 11 opponent: Bye

9.(9) Miami Dolphins (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Denver Broncos

10.(13) Los Angeles Rams (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

11.(12) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-3) Week 11 opponent: Los Angeles Rams

12.(7) Tennessee Titans (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Indianapolis Colts

13.(6) Seattle Seahawks (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Arizona Cardinals

14.(14) Las Vegas Raiders (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs

15.(15) Cleveland Browns (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles

16.(17) Minnesota Vikings (4-5) Week 11 opponent: Dallas Cowboys

17.(24) New England Patriots (4-5) Week 11 opponent: Houston Texans

18.(16) Chicago Bears (5-5) Week 11 opponent: Bye

19.(25) Detroit Lions (4-5) Week 11 opponent: Carolina Panthers

20.(19) San Francisco 49ers (4-6) Week 11 opponent: Bye

21.(18) Philadelphia Eagles (3-5-1) Week 11 opponent: Cleveland Browns

22.(23) Atlanta Falcons (3-6) Week 11 opponent: New Orleans Saints

23.(28) New York Giants (3-7) Week 11 opponent: Bye

24.(22) Carolina Panthers (3-7) Week 11 opponent: Detroit Lions

25.(20) Cincinnati Bengals (2-6-1) Week 11 opponent: Washington Football Team

26.(21) Denver Broncos (3-6) Week 11 opponent: Miami Dolphins

27.(26) Los Angeles Chargers (2-7) Week 11 opponent: New York Jets

28.(27) Houston Texans (2-7) Week 11 opponent: New England Patriots

29.(29) Washington Football Team (2-7) Week 11 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals

30.(30) Dallas Cowboys (2-7) Week 11 opponent: Minnesota Vikings

31.(31) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-8) Week 11 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers

32.(32) New York Jets (0-9) Week 11 opponent: Los Angeles Chargers  

Kristen Stewart Ranked

Welcome to the latest edition of "Ranked"-where I rank a franchise or filmography from worst to best and hand out related accolades. This week, I'm profiling the work of Kristen Stewart-whose latest project "Happiest Season" debuts on Hulu on November 25th. 

Kristen Stewart's Filmography Ranked:

13.Snow White and the Huntsman (C) 

12.JT Leroy (C+)

11.Panic Room (C+)

10.Still Alice (B-)

9.Charlie's Angels (B)

8.Jumper (B)

7.Seberg (B)

6.Camp X-Ray (B)

5.Underwater (B)

4.Cafe Society (B)

3.Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk (B)

2.Adventureland (B)

1.American Ultra (B+)

Top Dog: American Ultra (2015)

A stoner comedy meets legitimately sweet romance meets frantic, bloody action movie had the potential to be a historic mess, but thanks to a game cast and the surprisingly organic blending of its vastly different genre ingredients, American Ultra ends up being a unique, awesome ride that ranks among the 2010's best B movies. 

Lowlight: Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

If mediocrity had a physical form, it might look like Snow White and the Huntsman. Tremendous visual effects and a reliably charismatic turn from Chris Hemsworth as the Huntsman get canceled out by a pair of abysmal performances on polar opposite ends of the emotional acting spectrum (a mannequin-esque Stewart as Snow White, a shamelessly overacting Charlize Theron as the evil Queen Ravenna) and a script that never convincingly sells the darker version of this classic story.   

Most Underrated: Underwater (2020)

William Eubank's sci-fi horror flick finally saw the light of day in January nearly three years after it completed filming and it once again proved that a prolonged shelving doesn't always spell doom for a movie's quality. Through its brisk storytelling and claustrophobic, dimly-lit submarine/ocean floor settings, Underwater establishes itself as a tense, atmospheric thriller that never lets up over the course of its very efficient 95-minute runtime.   

Most Overrated: Still Alice (2014)

Still Alice is a classic case of great actors elevating middling material. Without the spirited efforts of Stewart, Alec Baldwin and particularly Julianne Moore-who received an Oscar for her work here- this would've been nothing more than a bland, soapy melodrama about a successful middle-aged woman succumbing to Alzheimer's and even with them, it's just a half decent "prestige" drama.   

Best Example of Her Slept-On Acting Ability: Seberg (2019)

Like many biopics, Seberg is a compelling yet blatantly underdeveloped dramazation of a fascinating story (American actress Jean Seberg's involvement with civil rights activist Hakim Jamal and subsequent donations to groups like the NAACP and Black Panthers that made her a target in an illegal, covert FBI surveillance program known as COINTELPRO). That being said, a career-best turn from Stewart as Seberg makes the film's narrative shortcomings a lot easier to swallow. Stewart does a tremendous job of gradually detailing Seberg's tragic descent from respected, fearlessly confident global superstar to a paranoid, broken woman whose life and career are upended by the shady and downright evil actions of a government agency that went to extraordinary lengths to demonize anyone that was even somewhat prominently involved with the Civil Rights movement.  

Biggest Reinforcement of the Perception That She's A Bad Actor: Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

The Twilight franchise has perpetuated a narrative that Stewart is a robotic screen presence with no acting ability. Her first lead role post-Twilight wasn't exactly a compelling argument against that popular take. It was easy to question whether or not she was even fully awake during filming as she turned in a stiff performance as the reimagined warrior version of Snow White that was a big part of why this "gritty" live action reboot of the iconic fairy tale fell flat. 

Popular Target of Right Wing Trolls That's Actually A Pretty Solid Movie: Charlie's Angels (2019)

The latest reboot of Charlie's Angels had the audacity to be more overtly feminist than the previous iterations, so naturally this made it open season for right wing clowns who view women trying to empower other women as a lethal threat to the sanctity of their worldview (if you're in a self-loathing mood, head over to IMDb and read some of the dozens of rage-fueled 1-star reviews). While I'm not going to pretend like Charlie's Angels is some kind of a revelatory entry into the cinematic space or that it doesn't have very notable problems (the attempts at humor are largely weak and the villains all kind of stink) that hold it back, its a perfectly competent action flick with a lot of energy, solid fight scenes and well-matched leads (Stewart, Naomi Scott, Ella Balinska) that do a good job of selling this iteration's versions of the Angels as colleagues put together by chance whose relationships slowly blossoms into a strong friendship as the story unfolds. 

Vince Vaughn Ranked

Welcome to the latest edition of "Ranked"-where I rank a franchise or filmography from worst to best and hand out related accolades. This week, I'm profiling the work of Vince Vaughn-whose latest project "Freaky" hits theaters on Friday and on demand video services on December 4th. 

Vince Vaughn's Filmography Ranked:

21.Be Cool (F)

20.The Dilemma (D+) 

19.Mr. and Mrs. Smith (C)

18.Wake Up, Ron Burgundy (B-)

17.Unfinished Business (B-) 

16.Clay Pigeons (B-)

15.The Lost World: Jurassic Park (B-)

14.Delivery Man (B-)

13.Swingers (B-)

12.Fighting with My Family (B)

11.The Internship (B)

10.The Watch (B)

9.The Binge (B)

8.Brawl in Cell Block 99 (B)

7.Starsky & Hutch (B+)

6.Wedding Crashers (B+)

5.Old School (B+)

4.Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (B+)

3.Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (A-)

2.Hacksaw Ridge (A-)

1.Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (A+)

Top Dog: Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

Anchorman is a high watermark for comedy that has aged impeccably. Only a handful of movies can compete with the level of wall-to-wall hilarity, inspired stupidity and massive smiles that this classic '70s news satire delivers in 90 minutes. Everyone involved should take pride in the role they played in birthing this valuable contribution to the world of comedy for the rest of their careers.   

Lowlight: Be Cool (2005)

Be Cool is a crime against cinema that should be burned from whatever databases it still exists on. No comedy that I've ever laid eyes upon has served as a bigger insult to jokes or the cathartic act of laughing than this remarkably star-studded (John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Harvey Keitel, Dwayne Johnson, Vaughn, Cedric the Entertainer, Danny DeVito, Andre Benjamin) pile of overwhelmingly pungent manure. 

Most Underrated: Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (2013)

I strongly believe that the relatively significant degree of venom Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues was met with upon its release is unwarranted. Considering the 9-year layoff and rare legacy the original built, Anchorman 2 went about as well as it possibly could've. All of the returning cast eagerly dove back into their iconic characters, the signature gleefully absurd humor remained in tact and the laugh/quotable dialogue ratio wasn't too far from the original. Sounds like the right formula for a worthwhile comedy continuation to me. 

Most Overrated: Swingers (1996)

Swingers is a fine enough raunchy buddy comedy that was integral in launching the careers of both Vaughn and Jon Favreau. However, the whole time I was watching it, I couldn't help but view it as nothing more than a 90's version of Entourage with a collection of less amusing and entertaining  loudmouth douchebags.

Best Dramatic Effort: Brawl in Cell Block 99 (2017)

Vaughn is very much like Adam Sandler in that he's a comedic actor that has an almost secret knack for delivering outstanding dramatic performances. His signature moment in this space came in the prison action thriller Brawl in Cell Block 99. As an imprisoned drug mule who is blackmailed into performing a string of murders by the same treacherous cartel members that landed him behind bars, Vaughn does a masterful job of slowly turning into a ruthless, deranged monster that's awakened by a brutal culture of  violence that drives the barbaric maximum security prison he's locked up in.     

Biggest Mess: The Dilemma (2011)

Ron Howard is as hit-or-miss as any director working today and The Dilemma is very high on his list of whiffs. Howard wastes the respectable enough buddy rapport of Vaughn and Kevin James on an overlong movie that frequently weaves between clashing genres (slapstick comedy/dark comedy/relationship-based melodrama) with zero confidence or cohesion. 

Week 9 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers: 2020 Edition

 Quarterback

MVP: Kyler Murray (Cardinals)

While he may have come out on the wrong side of a riveting shootout with the Dolphins, Murray was able to narrowly outduel Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers for the title of Week 9's top fantasy QB. He did ample damage with his arm (283 YDS/3 TD/0 INT) and legs (106 YDS/1 TD) in what was one of the most impressive performances of his young career to-date. Murray has made the leap many people expected from him in his sophomore season and should now be considered a top 5 QB option on a nearly weekly basis.  

Honorable Mentions: Josh Allen (Bills), Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs), Aaron Rodgers (Packers)

LVP: Tom Brady (Buccaneers)

The biggest difference between 43-year old Tom Brady and his prime era is that he actually puts up really notable clunkers in his advanced age. Brady succumbed to the ineptitude of his mortal running mates in Tampa-displaying questionable decisionmaking and horrific touch on the football that resulted in a repulsive statline (206 YDS/0 TD's/ 3 INT's) all-time against a Saints team that needed overtime to beat the quickly sinking Bears last week. A stat sheet-stuffing explosion from Mr. Pliability against the Panthers next week wouldn't be at all surprising.   

Dishonorable Mentions: Matthew Stafford (Lions), Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Ryan Tannehill (Titans)

Running Back

MVP: Dalvin Cook (Vikings)

Did the Lions even bother watching film from Cook's monster performance against the Packers?  Even if they did, the lessons from that tape study didn't translate to the field on Sunday because the Vikings back somehow managed to IMPROVE upon his earth-shattering Week 8 performance-picking up 252 scrimmage YDS (206 rushing, 46 receiving) and 2 TD's in another easy W for the Vikes. A Bears defense who just stuffed Derrick Henry for 4 quarters have the best possible chance (Translation: Decent, but far from a lock) of putting an end to Cook's absurd run of dominance. 
Honorable Mentions: Christian McCaffery (Panthers), James Robinson (Jaguars), Josh Jacobs (Raiders)

LVP: James Conner (Steelers)

The undefeated Steelers trip to Dallas to take on a struggling Cowboys team that had ex-AFL signalcaller Garrett Gilbert under center was far less pleasant than expected and arguably no player had less fun in their narrow comeback victory than Conner. The 4th year pro was completely bottled up by the lowly Cowboys defense-registering just 20 yards on 11 touches. Despite this unexpected faceplant, Conner's status as a low-end RB1 remains in tact heading into a plus Week 10 matchup with the Bengals.    
Dishonorable Mentions: Ronald Jones (Buccaneers), JaMycal Hasty (49ers), David Montgomery (Bears)

Wide Receiver 

MVP: Tyreek Hill (Chiefs)

It was another overwhelmingly pass-happy game for the Chiefs against the Panthers on Sunday, so naturally their top wideout had another strong performance. Hill put up season-highs in both catches (9) and YDS (113) while hauling in 2 TD's for a 2nd consecutive game. Hill has been one of the most consistent top-end fantasy receivers of 2020 thus far and considering the Chiefs enhanced focus on the pass in recent weeks, that status will likely hold up when the Chiefs return to action in Week 11 against the Raiders.    

Honorable Mentions: Davante Adams (Packers), D.K. Metcalf (Seahawks), D.J. Chark Jr. (Jaguars)

LVP: DeAndre Hopkins (Cardinals)

It was a stunningly quiet game for Hopkins in a plus matchup with the Dolphins as he was only targeted 3 times- all of which of were caught for a grand total of 30 YDS- while Kyler Murray turned to Christian Kirk and Larry Fitzgerald to lead the charge in the passing game. Hopkins will look to get back on track against the Tre'Davious White-led Bills secondary on Sunday. 

Dishonorable Mentions: D.J. Moore (Panthers), Corey Davis (Titans), Adam Thielen (Vikings)

Tight End

MVP: Travis Kelce (Chiefs)

Only the Chiefs could make having a pair of 100+ YD receivers in the same game feel like business as usual. While Kelce failed to find the endzone, he did lead the team in receptions (10) and YDS (159) for the 2nd consecutive game. Kelce is just ridiculous and with George Kittle sidelined indefinitely, no one at this position can even touch him right now.  

Honorable Mentions: Jimmy Graham (Bears), Evan Engram (Giants), T.J. Hockenson (Lions)

LVP: Rob Gronkowski (Buccaneers)

Gronkowski wasn't afforded the same luxury that Mike Evans and Chris Godwin received in the form of getting just enough garbage time yards to avoid the absolute bottom of the fantasy barrel-finishing with just 1 catch for 2 YDS in the Bucs heinous loss to the Saints. This is Gronk's first dud since Week 4 against the Chargers, so he'll continue to be weekly starting option for now at this always fun to manage position.    

Dishonorable Mentions: Robert Tonyan (Packers), Jared Cook (Saints), Mark Andrews (Ravens)

Defense/Special Teams

MVP: Saints

Congrats to every single dice-rolling S.O.B. that started the Saints D this week. This well below average group came out of nowhere to completely terrorize the Bucs upstart offense-picking up 3 sacks and 3 INT's in a 31-3 victory. Feel free to fire them up for their Week 10 tilt with the Nick Mullens-led 49ers that might also be without top playmakers Deebo Samuel, Raheem Mostert and Brandon Aiyuk once again.

Honorable Mentions: Ravens, Titans, Giants

LVP: Chiefs 

The up-and-down Panthers offense gave the Chiefs D more than they bargained for as they surrendered 31 points while only registering 2 sacks and 0 takeaways in a narrow victory on Sunday afternoon. This group will always be trick or treat, but despite the degree of volatility that's attached to them, they'll be worth rostering for a stretch run that includes solid matchups with the Broncos, Falcons and Dolphins.

Dishonorable Mentions: Patriots, Cardinals, 49ers