Are you already looking forward to next season?

Last week my partner-in-crime Sergio Gonzalez broke down the potential keepers at the center position. From Shaquille O'Neal falling off to the emergence of Mehmet Okur, the center rankings will be drastically different heading into next season.

The forward position is no different. Players such as Gerald Wallace and Charlie Villanueva have stepped up while veterans such as Tim Duncan have seen a decline in numbers.

Every league has different rules and regulations regarding keepers. I'm not going to insult the intelligence you, the reader, by saying perennial superstars such as LeBron James and Shawn Marion deserve to be kept. If you're allowed to keep whoever you want, you don't need me pointing out the elite. However, many leagues don't allow owners to keep early round picks. Here is a breakdown of some worthy players that should be keeper eligible in most formats.

Caron Butler has found a home in Washington. His average draft position in CBS SportsLine Fantasy leagues was No. 85 overall this season. You can bet he won't last that long next year after breaking out with 17.2 ppg, 6.0 rpg and 1.6 spg. Three years removed from knee surgery that temporarily halted his development -- Butler is better than ever. He's actually gotten stronger as the season has progressed, averaging 21.8 ppg over his last 12 games. He has the skills and the ability to score at this rate over an entire season if given the chance and will be a hot commodity on Draft Day 2006.

David West has been amazing this season after going undrafted in many leagues. The third-year forward has increased his scoring from 6.2 ppg last season to 17 ppg. He's been consistent all season and resembles Zach Randolph, only West shoots a respectable 51 percent from the field, opposed to Randolph's miserable 44 percent. There is no reason to think he can't keep it going next season and will probably be a trendy pick heading into Draft Day.

Atlanta rookie Marvin Williams is starting to show the world why scouts loved him so much coming out of North Carolina. He's averaging 15.6 ppg over his last three contests and should continue to improve as the season winds down. Owners in long-term keeper leagues should make it a priority to grab Williams, as he could be a superstar in the making.

The aforementioned Gerald Wallace has been a Fantasy monster when healthy this season. His average draft position was No. 155 overall -- that's just bonkers, plain and simple. His ability to block shots and pile up steals makes him one of the most productive players in the association for Rotisserie leagues. He's currently averaging 15.1 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 2.5 spg and 2.1 bpg. His reputation for being injured might scare off some owners next season, but he's clearly a second or third round talent when he's able to suit up. Owners lucky enough to have him on the cheap in keeper leagues have a nice advantage heading into next season.

Villanueva went crazy on Sunday, dropping 48 points on 20-of-32 shooting with six 3-pointers and nine rebounds. Head coach Sam Mitchell hasn't been consistent with the rookie's minutes and his overall numbers reflect that, but it's obvious he has the ability to light up the scoreboard. Toronto was criticized for selecting the UConn star No. 7 overall in last year's NBA Draft, but the critics have been silenced. It's clear he can play at this level and he'll be a Fantasy stud for years to come. Villanueva and Chris Bosh -- who, by the way, is a no-brainer keeper in any league -- should actually make the Raptors resemble a respectable basketball team next season. You'll want them on your Fantasy roster when it happens.

Villanueva's former high school teammate is also making some noise in the NBA. Chicago's Luol Deng has been sensational, averaging 16.7 ppg and 8.5 rpg over his last 15 contests. His average draft position was No. 125, but you can bet he'll crack the Top 75 next season if he maintains this pace down the stretch. The Bulls have a good, young nucleus and should continue to improve next season. Deng is s a great player to target in long-term keeper leagues.

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