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| Photo Credit: CBS Sports |
A couple weeks ago I rolled out my Top 50 NFL Quarterbacks, but now it's time to toss the football away and pick up the rock. Before we get started, a special thanks to readers Yoni F., Raj Leventhal, Chris L., Sam Y., DJ T. and Scott S. for stirring up some fun sports chatter on FB. Thanks for reading, gentlemen!
Okay, on to the next one...
(**Editor's Note: I started this piece on Monday, November 18, so statistics may have changed.)
Tier 5: Honorable Mention
65. Evan Fournier, SG, Magic: An efficient and smooth player who quietly goes about his business. At nearly 20 a game, Fournier is averaging more points than many players ranked ahead of him on this list. It's easy to forget about him in that Orlando abyss, though.
64. Bojan Bogdanovic, SG/SF, Jazz: No one ever talks about this guy - but he's kind of a stud. Over the past three years, his PPG have jumped from 14.3 to 18 to 21.5; he's aging like fine wine. He often showed flashes of brilliance with my Nets many years ago; he was a leader in many ways for the Pacers and now he's a top-shelf weapon for a good Utah team. He's currently shooting 46% from three, which is pure insanity for his volume (7 attempts per game). I'm tellin' ya, don't sleep on this dude.
63. Jaylen Brown, SG/SF, Celtics: Jaylen struggled with injuries and inconsistency last season, but he's bounced back in a major way this year, averaging career highs in points, rebounds and assists. He's one of the key contributors for this scrappy, successful Celtics squad.
62. Kelly Oubre Jr., G/F, Suns: Oubre lost some rhythm toward the end of his tenure with the Wizards, but he's found a real home in Phoenix, where he's been welcomed and valued alongside young leader Devin Booker. Oubre is fast, quick, creates some havoc in transition and can guard multiple positions with a high level of skill. He's currently having a very efficient season, averaging roughly 17 points and 6 rebounds while shooting 48% from the floor and 79% from the line.
64. Bojan Bogdanovic, SG/SF, Jazz: No one ever talks about this guy - but he's kind of a stud. Over the past three years, his PPG have jumped from 14.3 to 18 to 21.5; he's aging like fine wine. He often showed flashes of brilliance with my Nets many years ago; he was a leader in many ways for the Pacers and now he's a top-shelf weapon for a good Utah team. He's currently shooting 46% from three, which is pure insanity for his volume (7 attempts per game). I'm tellin' ya, don't sleep on this dude.
63. Jaylen Brown, SG/SF, Celtics: Jaylen struggled with injuries and inconsistency last season, but he's bounced back in a major way this year, averaging career highs in points, rebounds and assists. He's one of the key contributors for this scrappy, successful Celtics squad.
62. Kelly Oubre Jr., G/F, Suns: Oubre lost some rhythm toward the end of his tenure with the Wizards, but he's found a real home in Phoenix, where he's been welcomed and valued alongside young leader Devin Booker. Oubre is fast, quick, creates some havoc in transition and can guard multiple positions with a high level of skill. He's currently having a very efficient season, averaging roughly 17 points and 6 rebounds while shooting 48% from the floor and 79% from the line.
61. Marcus Morris Sr., F, Knicks: After their "splash" signing of Julius Randle and drafting of talented R.J. Barrett, who knew Morris would be the best player on the Knicks? Personally, I have to say I'm not too surprised. Morris has always been a big shot maker - he plays well at crunch time, with grit, toughness and no fear. His run as a Knick isn't going to last long, of course, because many teams will be looking to bolster their rosters for playoff positioning. Morris will really help a contending team (hopefully my Nets).
60. Devonte' Graham, G, Hornets: Initially I gave this spot to Terry Rozier, but the reality is that "Scary Terry" has been outshined by Graham, who has shocked many by averaging more points per game than Jimmy Butler, Kevin Love, Tobias Harris and many other established, all-star caliber players. One of Frascella Sports' Senior Analysts, Frank Valeriano, has compared Graham to Lou Williams, and I think that's a superb comparison. Devonte' has come off the bench to lead the way for the surprisingly competitive Hornets, particularly at crunch time.
59. Jabari Parker, F, Hawks: One of the most underappreciated players in the NBA. Since when is everybody so obsessed with defense? Jabari's "defensive deficiencies" played him out of favor in Milwaukee, then the same happened with Jim Boylan in Chicago. Is he that bad, as to completely ignore his incredibly efficient offensive production? For his career, Jabari is averaging 15 points and 6 rebounds per game while shooting 49% from the floor, despite averaging under 30 minutes of playing time. The guy is a microwave - put him in there and you get instantaneous offensive output. I think he's finally found a home in Atlanta, where his positives are being emphasized and negatives mostly ignored. He's averaging 17.2 points per game on 52% shooting, playing second fiddle to Trae Young's impressive performance on center stage.
58. Tristan Thompson, C, Cavs: Man, I hate to say it but...that "Kardashian Curse" really does seem to have some weight to it. Kris Humphries - who was a very solid backup power forward - basically played his way out of the NBA after Kim, and Tristan was a forgotten man throughout his tumultuous relationship with Khloe. Now, after undoing his Kardashian relationship through his own misbehavior, Thompson has re-established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the paint. Generally I steer clear of the analytics craze, but I do like the NBA's "Efficiency" stat. That said, Tristan is 29th in efficiency, ahead of big names in Ben Simmons, DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge (I guess that's a bad sign for Spurs fans). Thompson's currently averaging a double-double at around 15 and 10 on 53% shooting.
57. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, G, Thunder: A rising star; particularly in terms of scoring and efficiency. Shai has quite possibly exceeded expectations early in OKC, and I wholly expect him to be in my top 50 next time around. He's wise beyond his years on the court, and he doesn't miss when you give him any space in the mid-range. A real savvy 21-year old player.
56. Danilo Gallinari, F, Thunder: You know what you're gonna get with Gallo - his offensive repertoire is well-defined, and when healthy he's one of the craftiest one-on-one players in the game. Gilgeous-Alexander will probably pass him next time around; but for now, Gallo gets the nod as the proven veteran averaging over 19 points per game for the second straight season.
55. Chris Paul, PG, Thunder: Paul's albatross of a contract will be awfully difficult for GM Sam Presti to move, but in the meantime the former has been an effective mentor to Gilgeous-Alexander. Gone are CP3's days as a top-10 player, but he's still holding his own at 16 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals a game, despite load management and minutes restrictions. CP's a crafty sorcerer out there.
54. Spencer Dinwiddie, PG, Nets: My dude always finds his way back into a featured role. In 17-18 he was initially behind Jeremy Lin and D'Angelo Russell, but he worked his way up to become one of the three candidates for Most Improved Player in the league (along with Victor Oladipo and Clint Capela). He also won the Skills Challenge during All-Star Weekend. Last year he was behind Russell and Caris LeVert, but LeVert went down and Spence was again asked to step up in a major way. This year he began behind Kyrie Irving and LeVert, but again LeVert is down for the count (that's my fault; had him on my fantasy team both years), and Spence has re-emerged as a focal point of the Nets' offensive attack. He's a highly-skilled offensive player who is dangerous driving both left and right. He's also a big shot maker.
UPDATE: Kyrie also went down, so Spence has stepped into an even bigger role. He's been absolutely fantastic.
53. De'Aaron Fox, PG, Kings: The next two young guards are really neck-and-neck, because No. 52 is a better individual scorer and go-to-guy for a bucket, but Fox is possibly the better all-around performer, one who makes plays for his teammates and creates havoc on the defensive end. Fox is a sparkplug and lightning rod, but he's currently down for the count with a Grade 3 left ankle sprain.
52. Buddy Hield, SG, Kings: Buddy has emerged as one of the game's best scorers, averaging over 20 PPG last year, and nearly that again this season. He hasn't done much else, though, and when everyone is healthy in Sacramento, he can sometimes get lost in the guard shuffle with Fox and Bogdan Bogdanovic.
51. Zach LaVine, G, Bulls: LaVine has taken a major step back this year, after last season's breakout where he averaged roughly 24, 5 and 5. He looked like a go-to-guy on the rise, particularly in the weaker Eastern Conference. This year everything has changed - LaVine's field goal percentage has dropped from 46.7 to 40.9, and I have to blame the Bulls' Analytics Department for that. The Bulls asked LaVine to stop taking mid-range jumpers, which makes absolutely no sense with a player coming off the best season of his life. Why rattle his cage? You signed him to a four-year, $80 million deal and he delivered right out of the gate. LaVine has looked completely out of sorts, and his Bulls have struggled mightily to the tune of an ugly 5-10 record. So much for those three-point analytics.
50. Jayson Tatum, F, Celtics: I think he's a bit overrated, just in the sense that many expect him to be a front-line all-around superstar. His stats have improved a bit thus far this season, but he seems like a second fiddle kinda guy. Tatum helps his team in many ways on both ends of the floor, but I don't think he necessarily wants to be a ball-dominant go-to-guy. I think he projects as a (sometimes) all-star and solid No. 2 option going forward.
49. Fred VanVleet, G, Raptors: This dude went HAM in the NBA Finals. In the end, isn't that what it's all about? VanVleet's an unimposing little guy out there, but he has the heart of a lion with an aggressive attack mindset. The Raptors are currently 9-4 sans Kawhi Leonard, and VanVleet deserves a lot of the credit, averaging career highs in points, assists, steals and rebounds. He's emerged as an on and off-court leader for Nick Nurse - who also happens to be one of the best coaches in the NBA - especially when Kyle Lowry and OG Anunoby have missed time with injuries. VanVleet may not look the part, but he's a killer out there.
48. Jamal Murray, PG, Nuggets: Jamal played well in his first postseason, averaging 21, 5 and 5 while grinding through two hotly-contested series vs. the Spurs and Blazers. He's poised for a 22-year old floor general, but he needs to exert himself with more consistency during the regular season. You can see him coasting out there; leaning on Nikola Jokic and Denver's deep bench. Jamal's a talented point guard and young leader.
47. Ja Morant, PG, Grizzlies: The NBA's most impressive rookie has looked like a slightly better version of De'Aaron Fox thus far - lightning-quick and explosive on the move. The Grizzlies' 5 wins look a lot different than Chicago's - this was expected to be a tank year for Memphis, but they've been surprisingly competitive against some quality teams, thanks to Morant and promising rookie coach Taylor Jenkins. This isn't the Grizzlies' time yet, but Morant looks like an exciting young talent to build around.
46. Kristaps Porzingis, F/C, Mavs: Porzingis still looks gingerly some nights; nevertheless, he's served as a fine right-hand man to the incredible Luka Doncic, who has been absolutely setting the world on fire. When healthy, Porzingis has showcased his full arsenal of skills, averaging 18 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks per game. As he feels more and more secure in his health, we may see a slight bump in the point and rebound categories. The Mavs have a duo to build upon, here.
45. Montrezl Harrell, F/C, Clippers: One of the best pick-and-roll receivers in the game. Reminiscent of pick-and-roll duos of the past - namely Jason Kidd/Kenyon Martin and Steve Nash/Amare Stoudemire - Lou Williams and Harrell make beautiful music together on the basketball court. And you know what? Harrell is a Doc Rivers' kinda guy. He's mean. He's relentless. And he's not worried about anybody's feelings when smashing two-handed hammer dunks on their heads. Montrezl is an old-school big man who is extremely entertaining to watch.
44. Andrew Wiggins, G/F, Wolves: One of the NBA's great enigmas - Wiggins was emerging as an elite scorer in this league, before Tom Thibodeau and Jimmy Butler combined to completely destroy his confidence. Now, an NBA star shouldn't be so sensitive to a few harsh words; nonetheless, the negativity stunted Wiggins' growth as a pro. But things have changed quickly under young head coach Ryan Saunders; the Wolves are currently holding down the 8th seed in the crowded Western Conference, and Wiggins is 9th in scoring, ahead of studs like LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Joel Embiid. In short, Wiggins is back with a vengeance. If he keeps this up he'll contend for my top 30.
43. Clint Capela, C, Rockets: A steady force throughout James Harden's regular season run of dominance. Capela does everything Harden and Russell Westbrook need him to do - set screens, catch-and-finish, rebound, block shots and draw big defenders away from driving lanes - and he's currently 12th in overall efficiency, ahead of Trae Young, Nikola Jokic and even rising star Pascal Siakam. Yes, Capela is a "traditional" big (non-shooter), but he's absolutely one of the best.
42. Eric Bledsoe, G, Bucks: One of the elite defensive guards in the world; a brick-house bulldog who is rarely deterred by a blind-side screen. Bledsoe ignites the fast break with his tipped passes and steals, and he goes right after the rim in transition. He's recently stepped into an even bigger role for Milwaukee, with Khris Middleton sidelined by a thigh injury. Bledsoe is a good, solid all-around basketball player.
UPDATE: Middleton has since returned from injury.
41. Rudy Gobert, C, Jazz: Honestly, I'm never really too impressed by Gobert when I watch him play, but the Jazz are consistently good and he's often up for the Defensive Player of the Year award. What he provides is defensive stability and consistency for a team defined by grit and grind. He's far from flashy on the offensive end, but his impact comes steadily in defense and rebounding. Rudy's what you might call a "quiet" star.
40. Tobias Harris, F, 76ers: All right, so maybe that 5-year, $180 million contract was a little over the top, but Harris - like the recently-mentioned Bledsoe and Porzingis - is a Swiss army knife who helps his team in a variety of different ways. When asked, Tobias can rebound like a legitimate power forward. If needed, he scores like a go-to wing at the small forward position. He's flexible within the lineup and provides quality contributions on both ends of the floor, though he's better known for his offensive acumen.
39. Gordon Hayward, G/F, Celtics: So much for the "Luck of the Irish" - Gordon hasn't been able to catch a break since signing a lucrative deal with the Boston Celtics. Just as he was beginning to look like his old self, he went down again, this time with a broken hand. When healthy, he's a savvy all-around player who can shoot, drive, create for his teammates, rebound and defend. Hopefully he comes back better than ever.
38. Nikola Vucevic, C, Magic: A veteran double-double machine who is currently out with both a sprained ankle and "painful bone bruise." This is looking like a lost season for the lowly Magic.
37. Ben Simmons, G/F, 76ers: He simply isn't improving. Simmons was touted as the possible next coming of LeBron James, and we see the similarities - a big, long, hybrid guard who creates for his teammates and contributes on both ends of the floor - but the former is currently averaging just 12 PPG, even with Jimmy Butler out of the picture. I think Simmons is a very good defender, but he disappears offensively at closing time. I'm ranking him just slightly ahead of Tobias because of his all-around contributions, but it's awfully close, if not for the simple fact that Tobias can actually give you a bucket in the final two or three minutes of a tight game. It's obvious...Simmons doesn't have the killer instinct necessary to be an undisputed superstar.
36. Domantas Sabonis, F/C, Pacers: Right now, he's probably the most underrated basketball player in the world. Sabonis has the good basketball genes from his father, Arvydas, though he may already be a better player than his daddy ever was. Sabonis is a monster in the paint, but he also displays the finesse passing skills his father made famous. The prodigal son is currently averaging 19 points, 14 rebounds and 4 rebounds per game for Nate McMillan's scrappy Pacers team. For me? Sabonis is a top-five MVP candidate through 16 games. A 23-year old rising star.
35. CJ McCollum, G, Blazers: Portland's frontcourt is in shambles this season, but it can always count on CJ and Dame in the backcourt. Look at CJ's games played over the past 4 seasons: 70, 81, 81 and 80. This kid is durable, and he brings it every night. I'd like to see him use his scoring prowess to open up more easy opportunities for his teammates, but I'm not going to nitpick a steady scorer who stays healthy and fully earns his money.
34. Lou Williams, G, Clippers: Like Sabonis, "Lou Will" is absolutely one of the most underrated players in the NBA. He torched the Warriors in the postseason; and yeah, those were the big bad Warriors, not the 3-15 clowns of today. Sweet Lou is a savage in the pick-and-roll - he can come off the screen and finish all the way at the rim, bounce a pocket pass to Harrell for the slam or drain a jumper. There's no answer for him in the pick-and-roll. Lou is simply a joy to watch - he's crafty and deadly, despite being listed at just 6'1", 174 (which means he's really 5'10", 160). He's always had a killer's mentality on the court.
33. Brandon Ingram, F, Pelicans: Here's one of the most naturally gifted players in the game. At 6'7" with a center's wingspan, when I first saw Ingram's draft highlights, I quickly understood the wishful comparisons to Kevin Durant. Well, Durant's a one-of-a-kind talent, but guess what? Ingram, at just 22 years old, is already emerging as an all-star caliber performer at the game's highest level. He's currently among the league leaders at 26 PPG, to go along with 7 rebounds and an impressive 50.6% from the floor. Prior to injury last season, he played very well for the Lakers, too. Some scoffed at the Anthony Davis deal, but Ingram might be the real deal.
32. D'Angelo Russell, PG, Warriors: "D-Lo" is a really difficult player to rank; I mean, really, he led an overachieving team of misfits to the playoffs as the Nets' short-lived "franchise player." He looked like a legitimate, ball-dominant all-star as a Net. Now, with the Warriors, it's nearly impossible to judge him. He's currently out with a right thumb sprain, and it's blatantly obvious that Golden State is tanking. D-Lo isn't in the Warriors' long-term plans, either. I think as we go forward he'd be a great fit for the Knicks, Pistons, Bulls, Magic, Spurs, Thunder or T'Wolves. In the right landing spot, he'll thrive again.
31. Khris Middleton, G/F, Bucks: A glue player for one of the elite teams in the Eastern Conference. As previously mentioned, Middleton is currently down with a thigh injury; but on the whole, he's been asked to do a lot more for Milwaukee this season due to Malcolm Brogdon's defection to the conference-rival Pacers. Middleton's the right-hand man to one of the game's true megastars (Giannis, duh); a two-way player who is calm and collected on both ends of the floor. The Bucks will need Middleton to deliver in the playoffs this season.
UPDATE: Same one as before.
30. Jrue Holiday, G, Pelicans: It always seems to be a bumpy road with Jrue, doesn't it? Look at his games played in the past six seasons: 67, 81, 67, 65, 40 and 34. He simply isn't durable enough to be a star. On the bright side, he's a smart offensive player with some crafty moves - working his way around and behind screens - and he's a lights-out defender of both point and shooting guards. Jrue Holiday is a very talented two-way player, but you can't rely on him to remain healthy throughout the long grind of an NBA season.
29. Malcolm Brogdon, G, Pacers: These Pacers are flooded with underrated players. Brogdon opened his career as Rookie of the Year, then developed into a key piece on a rising Milwaukee Bucks squad. My gut tells me the Bucks aren't quite as dangerous without Brogdon, but the reality is that they are currently at 16-3 atop the Eastern Conference. Either way, Nate McMillan is awfully happy to have Brogdon, now. He's emerged as a true go-to player for Indiana, creating much more than Darren Collison ever could at the point guard position. Brogdon plays hard on both ends and continues to improve on a yearly basis. He displays effective leadership qualities, too.
28. Kyle Lowry, G, Raptors: Lowry got unlucky with a fractured thumb early this season, but that's exactly the type of injury he would get because he's constantly diving on loose balls and sticking his hand into tight passing lanes. Lowry's a grinder - an undersized point guard who has made a great career for himself by always playing hard and never backing down from bigger, more gifted opponents. I was happy he got his championship last year, after many years of coming up short with DeMar DeRozan as his running mate. Lowry sprinted out of the gate this season, relishing increased usage with Kawhi Leonard out of the picture. When Lowry returns soon, his impact won't be entirely about stats; it's the tone he sets - Nick Nurse, Lowry and Pascal Siakam are all about hustle, effort and winning those 50-50 balls. Lowry's a true leader and I love the way his Raptors compete on a nightly basis.
UPDATE: Lowry is expected back this week.
27. Kevin Love, PF/C, Cavs: Last season was one to forget for K-Love, but he's bounced back nicely this year; he looks like his old self - scoring, rebounding and creating matchup problems on the offensive end of the floor. The crafty vet is averaging 17 and 11, despite playing just 31 minutes per game. He's pacing 20 and 13 in a different situation; the Cavs will likely be tanking again, thus they are clearly managing his minutes. I wonder if a contender will take a chance on his hefty contract.
26. Klay Thompson, SG/SF, Warriors: One of the greatest shooters in the history of the NBA. Unfortunately, Klay went down with that devastating torn ACL in the playoffs, but perhaps we'll see him at some point during the second half of this season. It's a tough situation for the Warriors - do you keep Klay on the sidelines, even if he's ready to return in the coming months? It's tank time, all the way for Golden State. We'll see how they handle this potentially messy situation. Regardless, when he does return to the hardwood, I hope Klay will be as good as new. He's hit a ton of big shots in his career, and he's an elite defender of shooting guards and smaller small forwards.
25. DeMar DeRozan, SG/SF, Spurs: You know...I really don't understand these San Antonio Spurs. I've watched them play a handful of times this season, and they look decent enough - moving the ball, playing together and looking like a Popovich-coached team. And yet they are 7-13, behind even the Thunder, who aren't intending to win much. On paper, DeRozan's having another excellent season, averaging 22 PPG on outstanding 52% shooting. He's a durable guy. A reliable guy. Yet he simply can't seem to carry the load for an upper-echelon team. It's an intangible kind of thing. I can't quite put my finger on it. In my experience, if I had to guess, I'd say it's that he doesn't close tight games like the LeBron James', Kawhi Leonard's, or even the Damian Lillard's of the world. We know that was one of DeRozan's roadblocks in Toronto, and it certainly seems to be continuing in San Antonio.
24. LaMarcus Aldridge, PF/C, Spurs: A pro's pro. As consistent as they come. He's looking less spry in his 14th season in the NBA, but you still know what you're gonna get from him on a nightly basis. "LA" is one of the elite post players of the past 20 years. He rebounds and blocks shots, too (his blocks are actually up this season). Maybe we should blame the Spurs' youngsters - Dejounte Murray, Derrick White and Bryn Forbes - instead of the steady vets, DD and LA.
23. Kemba Walker, PG, Celtics: He hasn't looked as good as recent years, and you have to wonder if leading an ineffective Team USA took a physical toll on him prior to the NBA season. On the bright side, the Celtics seem to be getting along better with Kemba as their leader - as opposed to the increasingly controversial Kyrie Irving - as they have sprinted out of the gate to a comfortable 13-5 record. Kemba appears to be turning the corner now, anyway - he just dropped a monster game on my Nets, and his springy legs seemed to be coming back.
22. Russell Westbrook, PG, Rockets: Russ has provided a nice spark for the Rockets, after stumbling out to a slow start last year with Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony causing friction among the troops. The Rockets are 12-6 this time around, and Westbrook and James Harden continue to show that they know how to play together; they played together on the Thunder, Team USA and multiple all-star teams. This isn't their first rodeo. This experiment will become more and more interesting as the season progresses; without the Monstar-level Warriors, the West is anybody's best guess. The Lakers and Clippers are the frontrunners in the minds of most, but can we really count out a team with Harden and Westbrook? We haven't seen these versions of the Lakers or Clippers win in the playoffs yet, have we? If Westbrook can deliver in the postseason, he goes back into my top 15.
57. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, G, Thunder: A rising star; particularly in terms of scoring and efficiency. Shai has quite possibly exceeded expectations early in OKC, and I wholly expect him to be in my top 50 next time around. He's wise beyond his years on the court, and he doesn't miss when you give him any space in the mid-range. A real savvy 21-year old player.
56. Danilo Gallinari, F, Thunder: You know what you're gonna get with Gallo - his offensive repertoire is well-defined, and when healthy he's one of the craftiest one-on-one players in the game. Gilgeous-Alexander will probably pass him next time around; but for now, Gallo gets the nod as the proven veteran averaging over 19 points per game for the second straight season.
55. Chris Paul, PG, Thunder: Paul's albatross of a contract will be awfully difficult for GM Sam Presti to move, but in the meantime the former has been an effective mentor to Gilgeous-Alexander. Gone are CP3's days as a top-10 player, but he's still holding his own at 16 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals a game, despite load management and minutes restrictions. CP's a crafty sorcerer out there.
54. Spencer Dinwiddie, PG, Nets: My dude always finds his way back into a featured role. In 17-18 he was initially behind Jeremy Lin and D'Angelo Russell, but he worked his way up to become one of the three candidates for Most Improved Player in the league (along with Victor Oladipo and Clint Capela). He also won the Skills Challenge during All-Star Weekend. Last year he was behind Russell and Caris LeVert, but LeVert went down and Spence was again asked to step up in a major way. This year he began behind Kyrie Irving and LeVert, but again LeVert is down for the count (that's my fault; had him on my fantasy team both years), and Spence has re-emerged as a focal point of the Nets' offensive attack. He's a highly-skilled offensive player who is dangerous driving both left and right. He's also a big shot maker.
UPDATE: Kyrie also went down, so Spence has stepped into an even bigger role. He's been absolutely fantastic.
53. De'Aaron Fox, PG, Kings: The next two young guards are really neck-and-neck, because No. 52 is a better individual scorer and go-to-guy for a bucket, but Fox is possibly the better all-around performer, one who makes plays for his teammates and creates havoc on the defensive end. Fox is a sparkplug and lightning rod, but he's currently down for the count with a Grade 3 left ankle sprain.
52. Buddy Hield, SG, Kings: Buddy has emerged as one of the game's best scorers, averaging over 20 PPG last year, and nearly that again this season. He hasn't done much else, though, and when everyone is healthy in Sacramento, he can sometimes get lost in the guard shuffle with Fox and Bogdan Bogdanovic.
51. Zach LaVine, G, Bulls: LaVine has taken a major step back this year, after last season's breakout where he averaged roughly 24, 5 and 5. He looked like a go-to-guy on the rise, particularly in the weaker Eastern Conference. This year everything has changed - LaVine's field goal percentage has dropped from 46.7 to 40.9, and I have to blame the Bulls' Analytics Department for that. The Bulls asked LaVine to stop taking mid-range jumpers, which makes absolutely no sense with a player coming off the best season of his life. Why rattle his cage? You signed him to a four-year, $80 million deal and he delivered right out of the gate. LaVine has looked completely out of sorts, and his Bulls have struggled mightily to the tune of an ugly 5-10 record. So much for those three-point analytics.
Tier 4: Into the Top 50 with Potential All-Stars
50. Jayson Tatum, F, Celtics: I think he's a bit overrated, just in the sense that many expect him to be a front-line all-around superstar. His stats have improved a bit thus far this season, but he seems like a second fiddle kinda guy. Tatum helps his team in many ways on both ends of the floor, but I don't think he necessarily wants to be a ball-dominant go-to-guy. I think he projects as a (sometimes) all-star and solid No. 2 option going forward.
49. Fred VanVleet, G, Raptors: This dude went HAM in the NBA Finals. In the end, isn't that what it's all about? VanVleet's an unimposing little guy out there, but he has the heart of a lion with an aggressive attack mindset. The Raptors are currently 9-4 sans Kawhi Leonard, and VanVleet deserves a lot of the credit, averaging career highs in points, assists, steals and rebounds. He's emerged as an on and off-court leader for Nick Nurse - who also happens to be one of the best coaches in the NBA - especially when Kyle Lowry and OG Anunoby have missed time with injuries. VanVleet may not look the part, but he's a killer out there.
48. Jamal Murray, PG, Nuggets: Jamal played well in his first postseason, averaging 21, 5 and 5 while grinding through two hotly-contested series vs. the Spurs and Blazers. He's poised for a 22-year old floor general, but he needs to exert himself with more consistency during the regular season. You can see him coasting out there; leaning on Nikola Jokic and Denver's deep bench. Jamal's a talented point guard and young leader.
47. Ja Morant, PG, Grizzlies: The NBA's most impressive rookie has looked like a slightly better version of De'Aaron Fox thus far - lightning-quick and explosive on the move. The Grizzlies' 5 wins look a lot different than Chicago's - this was expected to be a tank year for Memphis, but they've been surprisingly competitive against some quality teams, thanks to Morant and promising rookie coach Taylor Jenkins. This isn't the Grizzlies' time yet, but Morant looks like an exciting young talent to build around.
46. Kristaps Porzingis, F/C, Mavs: Porzingis still looks gingerly some nights; nevertheless, he's served as a fine right-hand man to the incredible Luka Doncic, who has been absolutely setting the world on fire. When healthy, Porzingis has showcased his full arsenal of skills, averaging 18 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks per game. As he feels more and more secure in his health, we may see a slight bump in the point and rebound categories. The Mavs have a duo to build upon, here.
45. Montrezl Harrell, F/C, Clippers: One of the best pick-and-roll receivers in the game. Reminiscent of pick-and-roll duos of the past - namely Jason Kidd/Kenyon Martin and Steve Nash/Amare Stoudemire - Lou Williams and Harrell make beautiful music together on the basketball court. And you know what? Harrell is a Doc Rivers' kinda guy. He's mean. He's relentless. And he's not worried about anybody's feelings when smashing two-handed hammer dunks on their heads. Montrezl is an old-school big man who is extremely entertaining to watch.
44. Andrew Wiggins, G/F, Wolves: One of the NBA's great enigmas - Wiggins was emerging as an elite scorer in this league, before Tom Thibodeau and Jimmy Butler combined to completely destroy his confidence. Now, an NBA star shouldn't be so sensitive to a few harsh words; nonetheless, the negativity stunted Wiggins' growth as a pro. But things have changed quickly under young head coach Ryan Saunders; the Wolves are currently holding down the 8th seed in the crowded Western Conference, and Wiggins is 9th in scoring, ahead of studs like LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Joel Embiid. In short, Wiggins is back with a vengeance. If he keeps this up he'll contend for my top 30.
43. Clint Capela, C, Rockets: A steady force throughout James Harden's regular season run of dominance. Capela does everything Harden and Russell Westbrook need him to do - set screens, catch-and-finish, rebound, block shots and draw big defenders away from driving lanes - and he's currently 12th in overall efficiency, ahead of Trae Young, Nikola Jokic and even rising star Pascal Siakam. Yes, Capela is a "traditional" big (non-shooter), but he's absolutely one of the best.
42. Eric Bledsoe, G, Bucks: One of the elite defensive guards in the world; a brick-house bulldog who is rarely deterred by a blind-side screen. Bledsoe ignites the fast break with his tipped passes and steals, and he goes right after the rim in transition. He's recently stepped into an even bigger role for Milwaukee, with Khris Middleton sidelined by a thigh injury. Bledsoe is a good, solid all-around basketball player.
UPDATE: Middleton has since returned from injury.
41. Rudy Gobert, C, Jazz: Honestly, I'm never really too impressed by Gobert when I watch him play, but the Jazz are consistently good and he's often up for the Defensive Player of the Year award. What he provides is defensive stability and consistency for a team defined by grit and grind. He's far from flashy on the offensive end, but his impact comes steadily in defense and rebounding. Rudy's what you might call a "quiet" star.
40. Tobias Harris, F, 76ers: All right, so maybe that 5-year, $180 million contract was a little over the top, but Harris - like the recently-mentioned Bledsoe and Porzingis - is a Swiss army knife who helps his team in a variety of different ways. When asked, Tobias can rebound like a legitimate power forward. If needed, he scores like a go-to wing at the small forward position. He's flexible within the lineup and provides quality contributions on both ends of the floor, though he's better known for his offensive acumen.
39. Gordon Hayward, G/F, Celtics: So much for the "Luck of the Irish" - Gordon hasn't been able to catch a break since signing a lucrative deal with the Boston Celtics. Just as he was beginning to look like his old self, he went down again, this time with a broken hand. When healthy, he's a savvy all-around player who can shoot, drive, create for his teammates, rebound and defend. Hopefully he comes back better than ever.
38. Nikola Vucevic, C, Magic: A veteran double-double machine who is currently out with both a sprained ankle and "painful bone bruise." This is looking like a lost season for the lowly Magic.
37. Ben Simmons, G/F, 76ers: He simply isn't improving. Simmons was touted as the possible next coming of LeBron James, and we see the similarities - a big, long, hybrid guard who creates for his teammates and contributes on both ends of the floor - but the former is currently averaging just 12 PPG, even with Jimmy Butler out of the picture. I think Simmons is a very good defender, but he disappears offensively at closing time. I'm ranking him just slightly ahead of Tobias because of his all-around contributions, but it's awfully close, if not for the simple fact that Tobias can actually give you a bucket in the final two or three minutes of a tight game. It's obvious...Simmons doesn't have the killer instinct necessary to be an undisputed superstar.
36. Domantas Sabonis, F/C, Pacers: Right now, he's probably the most underrated basketball player in the world. Sabonis has the good basketball genes from his father, Arvydas, though he may already be a better player than his daddy ever was. Sabonis is a monster in the paint, but he also displays the finesse passing skills his father made famous. The prodigal son is currently averaging 19 points, 14 rebounds and 4 rebounds per game for Nate McMillan's scrappy Pacers team. For me? Sabonis is a top-five MVP candidate through 16 games. A 23-year old rising star.
35. CJ McCollum, G, Blazers: Portland's frontcourt is in shambles this season, but it can always count on CJ and Dame in the backcourt. Look at CJ's games played over the past 4 seasons: 70, 81, 81 and 80. This kid is durable, and he brings it every night. I'd like to see him use his scoring prowess to open up more easy opportunities for his teammates, but I'm not going to nitpick a steady scorer who stays healthy and fully earns his money.
34. Lou Williams, G, Clippers: Like Sabonis, "Lou Will" is absolutely one of the most underrated players in the NBA. He torched the Warriors in the postseason; and yeah, those were the big bad Warriors, not the 3-15 clowns of today. Sweet Lou is a savage in the pick-and-roll - he can come off the screen and finish all the way at the rim, bounce a pocket pass to Harrell for the slam or drain a jumper. There's no answer for him in the pick-and-roll. Lou is simply a joy to watch - he's crafty and deadly, despite being listed at just 6'1", 174 (which means he's really 5'10", 160). He's always had a killer's mentality on the court.
33. Brandon Ingram, F, Pelicans: Here's one of the most naturally gifted players in the game. At 6'7" with a center's wingspan, when I first saw Ingram's draft highlights, I quickly understood the wishful comparisons to Kevin Durant. Well, Durant's a one-of-a-kind talent, but guess what? Ingram, at just 22 years old, is already emerging as an all-star caliber performer at the game's highest level. He's currently among the league leaders at 26 PPG, to go along with 7 rebounds and an impressive 50.6% from the floor. Prior to injury last season, he played very well for the Lakers, too. Some scoffed at the Anthony Davis deal, but Ingram might be the real deal.
32. D'Angelo Russell, PG, Warriors: "D-Lo" is a really difficult player to rank; I mean, really, he led an overachieving team of misfits to the playoffs as the Nets' short-lived "franchise player." He looked like a legitimate, ball-dominant all-star as a Net. Now, with the Warriors, it's nearly impossible to judge him. He's currently out with a right thumb sprain, and it's blatantly obvious that Golden State is tanking. D-Lo isn't in the Warriors' long-term plans, either. I think as we go forward he'd be a great fit for the Knicks, Pistons, Bulls, Magic, Spurs, Thunder or T'Wolves. In the right landing spot, he'll thrive again.
31. Khris Middleton, G/F, Bucks: A glue player for one of the elite teams in the Eastern Conference. As previously mentioned, Middleton is currently down with a thigh injury; but on the whole, he's been asked to do a lot more for Milwaukee this season due to Malcolm Brogdon's defection to the conference-rival Pacers. Middleton's the right-hand man to one of the game's true megastars (Giannis, duh); a two-way player who is calm and collected on both ends of the floor. The Bucks will need Middleton to deliver in the playoffs this season.
UPDATE: Same one as before.
30. Jrue Holiday, G, Pelicans: It always seems to be a bumpy road with Jrue, doesn't it? Look at his games played in the past six seasons: 67, 81, 67, 65, 40 and 34. He simply isn't durable enough to be a star. On the bright side, he's a smart offensive player with some crafty moves - working his way around and behind screens - and he's a lights-out defender of both point and shooting guards. Jrue Holiday is a very talented two-way player, but you can't rely on him to remain healthy throughout the long grind of an NBA season.
29. Malcolm Brogdon, G, Pacers: These Pacers are flooded with underrated players. Brogdon opened his career as Rookie of the Year, then developed into a key piece on a rising Milwaukee Bucks squad. My gut tells me the Bucks aren't quite as dangerous without Brogdon, but the reality is that they are currently at 16-3 atop the Eastern Conference. Either way, Nate McMillan is awfully happy to have Brogdon, now. He's emerged as a true go-to player for Indiana, creating much more than Darren Collison ever could at the point guard position. Brogdon plays hard on both ends and continues to improve on a yearly basis. He displays effective leadership qualities, too.
28. Kyle Lowry, G, Raptors: Lowry got unlucky with a fractured thumb early this season, but that's exactly the type of injury he would get because he's constantly diving on loose balls and sticking his hand into tight passing lanes. Lowry's a grinder - an undersized point guard who has made a great career for himself by always playing hard and never backing down from bigger, more gifted opponents. I was happy he got his championship last year, after many years of coming up short with DeMar DeRozan as his running mate. Lowry sprinted out of the gate this season, relishing increased usage with Kawhi Leonard out of the picture. When Lowry returns soon, his impact won't be entirely about stats; it's the tone he sets - Nick Nurse, Lowry and Pascal Siakam are all about hustle, effort and winning those 50-50 balls. Lowry's a true leader and I love the way his Raptors compete on a nightly basis.
UPDATE: Lowry is expected back this week.
27. Kevin Love, PF/C, Cavs: Last season was one to forget for K-Love, but he's bounced back nicely this year; he looks like his old self - scoring, rebounding and creating matchup problems on the offensive end of the floor. The crafty vet is averaging 17 and 11, despite playing just 31 minutes per game. He's pacing 20 and 13 in a different situation; the Cavs will likely be tanking again, thus they are clearly managing his minutes. I wonder if a contender will take a chance on his hefty contract.
26. Klay Thompson, SG/SF, Warriors: One of the greatest shooters in the history of the NBA. Unfortunately, Klay went down with that devastating torn ACL in the playoffs, but perhaps we'll see him at some point during the second half of this season. It's a tough situation for the Warriors - do you keep Klay on the sidelines, even if he's ready to return in the coming months? It's tank time, all the way for Golden State. We'll see how they handle this potentially messy situation. Regardless, when he does return to the hardwood, I hope Klay will be as good as new. He's hit a ton of big shots in his career, and he's an elite defender of shooting guards and smaller small forwards.
25. DeMar DeRozan, SG/SF, Spurs: You know...I really don't understand these San Antonio Spurs. I've watched them play a handful of times this season, and they look decent enough - moving the ball, playing together and looking like a Popovich-coached team. And yet they are 7-13, behind even the Thunder, who aren't intending to win much. On paper, DeRozan's having another excellent season, averaging 22 PPG on outstanding 52% shooting. He's a durable guy. A reliable guy. Yet he simply can't seem to carry the load for an upper-echelon team. It's an intangible kind of thing. I can't quite put my finger on it. In my experience, if I had to guess, I'd say it's that he doesn't close tight games like the LeBron James', Kawhi Leonard's, or even the Damian Lillard's of the world. We know that was one of DeRozan's roadblocks in Toronto, and it certainly seems to be continuing in San Antonio.
24. LaMarcus Aldridge, PF/C, Spurs: A pro's pro. As consistent as they come. He's looking less spry in his 14th season in the NBA, but you still know what you're gonna get from him on a nightly basis. "LA" is one of the elite post players of the past 20 years. He rebounds and blocks shots, too (his blocks are actually up this season). Maybe we should blame the Spurs' youngsters - Dejounte Murray, Derrick White and Bryn Forbes - instead of the steady vets, DD and LA.
23. Kemba Walker, PG, Celtics: He hasn't looked as good as recent years, and you have to wonder if leading an ineffective Team USA took a physical toll on him prior to the NBA season. On the bright side, the Celtics seem to be getting along better with Kemba as their leader - as opposed to the increasingly controversial Kyrie Irving - as they have sprinted out of the gate to a comfortable 13-5 record. Kemba appears to be turning the corner now, anyway - he just dropped a monster game on my Nets, and his springy legs seemed to be coming back.
22. Russell Westbrook, PG, Rockets: Russ has provided a nice spark for the Rockets, after stumbling out to a slow start last year with Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony causing friction among the troops. The Rockets are 12-6 this time around, and Westbrook and James Harden continue to show that they know how to play together; they played together on the Thunder, Team USA and multiple all-star teams. This isn't their first rodeo. This experiment will become more and more interesting as the season progresses; without the Monstar-level Warriors, the West is anybody's best guess. The Lakers and Clippers are the frontrunners in the minds of most, but can we really count out a team with Harden and Westbrook? We haven't seen these versions of the Lakers or Clippers win in the playoffs yet, have we? If Westbrook can deliver in the postseason, he goes back into my top 15.
Tier 3: Rising Stars and [Very] Near Superstars
21. Pascal Siakam, F, Raptors: Two words: Player. Development. The Raptors' organization is just awesome. For years, I think a lot of us thought, in basketball, guys are who they are. Sure, they can work on their shooting and try to improve some of their individual skills, but how often do players really morph or jump to an unexpected level? Well, just a few years ago, Siakam was simply a hustle player known for attacking the offensive glass from the weak side - now? He's averaging 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists while shooting 80% from the foul line. I have never seen a player develop into a superstar this quickly. I honestly find it astonishing. Siakam deserves all the credit in the world for his willingness to listen and work tirelessly, and the Raptors' Player Development team is truly working miracles out here. My hat's off to everyone involved in this magical story.
20. Jimmy Butler, SG/SF, Heat: He's just a Pat Riley/Erik Spoelstra kinda guy, isn't he? Riley and Spo are old school, and we know Jimmy's exactly the same way - just ask Karl-Anthony Towns or Andrew Wiggins about their experiences with Mr. Butler. Jimmy has set the tone for this impressionable Miami team, and it's working out to the tune of a surprising 13-5 record. Butler was the right man for this leadership position, on both ends of the floor. The Heat are bringing it every night, and that's a testament to the three hard-nosed guys at the top.
19. Trae Young, PG, Hawks: Individually, Trae's been better than No. 19 this season, but his Hawks are 4-15 in the weaker conference and we don't know how long it'll be until we see him in a postseason game. When you get into the top 20 and we're talkin' superstars, winning when it matters is what separates the best of the best. Regardless, Trae has been a monster this season, averaging 28 points and 8.4 assists per game. His assists are third-best in the league, behind only LeBron and Luka. Trae's been a joy to watch, and I'm sure we'll be seeing him in my top 15 in the very near future.
18. Donovan Mitchell, SG, Jazz: Still just 23 years old, "Spida" is a sneaky good leader. How do the Jazz do it in the West? Two years ago they won 48 games. Last year they bumped up to 50, and this season they are solid again at 12-7, despite an especially crowded West. And yet, no one ever talks about the Jazz because they aren't flashy. They quietly go about their business, just like Mitchell and Gobert, their offensive and defensive leaders, respectively. Spida's already been in the postseason a couple times, and he's shown surprising poise for a youngster. He can slash, shoot, get to the line and facilitate for his teammates. His future burns brightly.
17. Andre Drummond, C, Pistons: This guy is just demolishing all comers in the paint. Andre is averaging an astonishing 17.1 rebounds per game - just completely out of this world. Capela's second best, yet he's nearly 3 RPG behind! Drummond's been one of the best players in the East for some time now, and finally everyone is taking notice. Eighteen points, 17 rebounds and 2 blocks per game...yikes. Beast. Plain and simple.
16. Bradley Beal, G, Wizards: One of the elite individual offensive players in the game. Playing alongside floor general John Wall, Beal was initially thought of as more of a shooter, but when Wall's not around, we all get to see Beal's beautiful all-around repertoire. He has fantastic footwork - Beal's never in a hurry out there, and it shows when he gathers himself coming off screens to knock down silky mid-range jumpers. Then, the next time, he comes off that very same screen and slips a nice bounce pass to a big down low. I'm not gonna lie - I thought these Wizards would be lucky to win 15 games, but Beal's a real leader who has his unproven guys playing pesky ball out there. If they really want to try - instead of tanking - I do think Beal could lead the Wizards to a shocking postseason berth. He's that good.
15. Devin Booker, SG/SF, Suns: A handful of years back, I specifically remember that LeBron tapped Booker as a star to watch in the coming years. And, let's be real - LeBron is a pure basketball savant. He knows talent when he sees it. A few years later, Booker is delivering on that promise to the tune of 25 PPG on 51% shooting - pretty damn impressive for a 23-year old kid who takes a lot of jumpers. Booker just has the look - like Beal, he doesn't rush through his moves. He controls his footwork and works his way into high-percentage looks. As a bonus, somehow, his Suns are holding down the 8-seed in the West. The sky's the limit for Booker; I'd just like to see him facilitate more, like LeBron, Luka or Harden - scorers who also look to feed their teammates and keep them happy, and in rhythm.
14. Nikola Jokic, C, Nuggets: His numbers have dipped this season, but "The Joker" remains an uber-talented big who makes everyone around him better. He's already one of the best passing bigs in the history of the game, and there's no ego to the way he plays out there. I think he'd be in the top 10 if he could exert any sort of dominance on the defensive end. He simply isn't there yet. For now, he's an all-around offensive machine who keeps the Nuggets' train chuggin'.
13. Joel Embiid, C, 76ers: A throwback to the days of Shaquille O'Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon and David Robinson, Embiid is one of the last of a dying breed: a true center. Yes, he likes to shoot threes and attempt long perimeter twos, but Jo-Jo has a legitimate, low-post, back-to-the-basket game. If he gets deep position, you're toast. You either have to put your hands straight up passively, or hack and risk the strong possibility of an and-1. When engaged defensively, he's an absolute eraser in the shotblocking department. We just need to see him take that next step as a leader and closer in the postseason.
13. Joel Embiid, C, 76ers: A throwback to the days of Shaquille O'Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon and David Robinson, Embiid is one of the last of a dying breed: a true center. Yes, he likes to shoot threes and attempt long perimeter twos, but Jo-Jo has a legitimate, low-post, back-to-the-basket game. If he gets deep position, you're toast. You either have to put your hands straight up passively, or hack and risk the strong possibility of an and-1. When engaged defensively, he's an absolute eraser in the shotblocking department. We just need to see him take that next step as a leader and closer in the postseason.
Tier 2: Superstars
12. Kyrie Irving, PG, Nets: At this point, he's probably become the most controversial player in the game; but the reality is this: prior to injury this season, he was playing the absolute best ball of his career. 29 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds and 3 threes per game? Say whaaaaat? We'll see if he can keep that up upon return. Again, when we get to the superstars, they have to have that track record. Kyrie is a Game 7 hero of the NBA Finals. We know he doesn't waiver under pressure; in fact, he relishes the moment. If the Brooklyn Nets ever get both Kyrie and Kevin Durant healthy, we know they will be one of the two or three frontrunners to win the East on a yearly basis. Kyrie's bottomless bag of offensive tricks make him a nightmare to defend at crunchtime.
11. Paul George, F, Los Angeles Clippers: It's the same ol' beef with me and PG - go look at his postseason numbers in critical make-or-break games. The Thunder could have worked, if he was better when it mattered (playing alongside Westbrook). He showed some strong clutchability in Indiana, but it's completely disappeared in recent years. Kawhi will take the ball in crucial situations for the Clips, but he better hope PG is ready, if and when he gets doubled. On the bright side, we all know the positives with Paul: he's a two-way machine who displays all-around ability on both ends of the floor. Ya just gotta do it when it matters most.
11. Paul George, F, Los Angeles Clippers: It's the same ol' beef with me and PG - go look at his postseason numbers in critical make-or-break games. The Thunder could have worked, if he was better when it mattered (playing alongside Westbrook). He showed some strong clutchability in Indiana, but it's completely disappeared in recent years. Kawhi will take the ball in crucial situations for the Clips, but he better hope PG is ready, if and when he gets doubled. On the bright side, we all know the positives with Paul: he's a two-way machine who displays all-around ability on both ends of the floor. Ya just gotta do it when it matters most.
10. Anthony Davis, PF/C, Lakers: I'm just tired of this guy being "hurt" all the time. Is he really "hurt" every, single time? I think we all know he's soft. If he was tougher and could stay healthy, he'd easily be a staple in the top five. There's nothing he can't do on a basketball court. He's one of the most spectacular two-way talents the NBA has ever seen. But ya know what? Put up or shut up. Stay on the court. Go out there and win a championship with LeBron...then maybe you can get to where you belong on this list.
9. Karl-Anthony Towns, C, T'Wolves: Young head coach Ryan Saunders has done a fantastic job building his offense around "KAT" - he's getting more touches and looks than ever before. And unlike Davis, Towns is a model of health and stability - 82 games, followed by 82, 82 and 77. That's unheard of in today's NBA full of "rest" and "load management". KAT is a two-way, all-around beast who deserves to be showered with praise for his consistency and unwillingness to sit out. He sets a great example for other young players around the league.
8. Damian Lillard, PG, Blazers: This poor guy can't get any help from his front office. The Blazers were so close! Getting to the Western Conference Finals and falling to the stacked Warriors; and how does management respond? With Kent Bazemore and Anthony Tolliver? GTFO. We talked about stability and durability with Towns, and we have it here again with Dame: 82, 82, 82, 75, 75, 73 and 80 in games played. That's a horse. That's a leader. Dame's a killer in the clutch, and I'd take him on my team any day of the week. Get this guy some help, Portland!
7. Stephen Curry, PG, Warriors: Like Klay, hopefully he'll come back better than ever. But, I'm not gonna lie...it's fun that the Warriors suck this season.
6. Luka Doncic, G/F, Mavs: He might be having the best start to a season in the history of the NBA. He's truly been THAT good. 31 points, 10 assists and 10 rebounds per game. What is that? I mean, seriously, what is that? Who does that? Luka is playing around in LeBron/Oscar Robertson Hall of Fame territory with those numbers, and watching him play is pure magic. I'm not going to jump the gun and put him in Tier 1 just yet, because we haven't seen him in the playoffs and it's still very early in his NBA career...but all signs point to Luka being one of the game's megastars for many, many years to come.
Tier 1: Megastars
5. Kevin Durant, F, Nets: He's better than James Harden, but he needs to come back healthy before I can move him off this spot.
4. James Harden, G, Rockets: What more can be said about "The Beard" at this point? We all know the deal - he's one of the greatest regular season players of all time, but he hasn't been able to deliver in the postseason, particularly at the end of tight games. Isn't that what being a true megastar is all about? He's probably top 2 in stats, but not in heart or crunchtime efficiency.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Plays Every Position Well, Bucks: "The Greek Freak" is right. Freak is the only word for this kid, who is averaging 31 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists on 56% shooting. Just. Frightening. Same story, here...if he can dominate all the way through the NBA Finals, he'll take over the No. 1 spot on my list. It's right there for the taking...
2. Kawhi Leonard, G/F, Clippers: Right now, he's probably the best all-around player in the world, but I'm sick and tired of this "load management" shit. He sat out an entire season and screwed the Spurs, the organization that drafted and cultivated him. He brought a miraculous championship to Toronto, then left them flat. Now he only plays half the games in a Clipper uniform. I'm tired of this soft shit. Kawhi is the best closer in the game, but families pay hundreds, if not thousands for tickets. Show up for the fans. Show up for your teammates. Play for someone other than yourself, for once. I'd want the ball in Kawhi's hands with the season on the line, but will he be there when The Moment arrives?
1. LeBron James, Also Plays Every Position, Lakers: This is his 17th season in the NBA. He's 34 years old. He's been through 15 long postseason runs. And yet...he's leading the league at 11 assists per game. He's still averaging 25 points on 50% shooting, despite playing a career-low 34.8 minutes per night. His Lakers are leading the way in the deeper and more difficult conference. LeBron James is a marvel. There's never been an athlete like him. He may not have always been the most clutch, or the most unflappable under the utmost pressure, but he's always been the most consistent. He's there, playing at an extremely high level, night in and night out. He's always shared the rock with his teammates, despite being the most talented player on the court at all times. LeBron James has always played basketball the right way, on both ends of the court. He's like Michael Jordan in that way.
LeBron deserves this No. 1 spot...because Kawhi Leonard is a punk. LeBron's a warrior, and the throne belongs to him.
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