The NBA Season Kicks Off: Key Players to Watch
As the NBA season kicks off, the hype and excitement around the Top 100 players list have fans buzzing. While it’s no surprise to see some familiar names making the cut, there are a few intriguing rankings and notable absences worth discussing.
Dillon Brooks: A Miss, But Not Forgotten
Despite making significant contributions on the defensive end, Dillon Brooks of the Rockets did not make the Top 100 players list. Jasmyn Wimbish captures his impact well: "Brooks might've just missed the cut in our Top 100, but he's still an impactful player, specifically on the defensive side of the ball." Brooks’ presence and tenacity will undoubtedly be felt throughout the season, even if he isn’t officially recognized in the rankings.
Rising Stars and Solid Contributors
Andrew Nembhard of the Pacers secured the 94th spot, a valuable addition to the team alongside Tyrese Haliburton. James Herbert highlights his importance: "He's the kind of player the Pacers need next to Tyrese Haliburton, so opposing teams think twice about simply daring everybody else to beat them."
Nic Claxton clinched the 91st spot, known for his remarkable touch around the basket and exceptional handles in transition. Herbert further elucidates, "He has shown off his handles in transition, and he has kind of incredible touch around the basket, but Claxton's usage rate has yet to rise above 15.6%."
Jerami Grant of the Trail Blazers, who is ranked 78th, finds himself at a crossroads. Brad Botkin questions whether the Blazers can find a beneficial trade after committing substantial money to Grant last summer: "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?"
Isaiah Hartenstein of the Knicks comes in at 73rd. Known for his defensive prowess, Sam Quinn notes, "He's a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac."
Established Players in New Roles
Khris Middleton of the Bucks ranks 61st, transitioning into a new phase of his career. Jack Maloney describes it succinctly: "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks."
Draymond Green, at 56th, continues to be a crucial element for the Warriors. Despite his defensive reputation, Green's offensive game showed promise last season. Botkin points out, "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game." Meanwhile, Herbert Jones, ranked at 60th, offers a unique skill set, with Quinn asserting, "There isn't another Herb Jones out there."
The Top Contenders
Sitting at the enviable 13th position is Jalen Brunson. His recent performance in the playoffs was historic, securing a four-year, $156.5 million extension. Herbert recounts, "In May, Brunson became the fourth player in NBA history -- and first since Michael Jordan in 1993 -- to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games."
At the pinnacle of the rankings, Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets holds the number one spot, solidifying his status as the best player in the world. His unparalleled skill set and team-first attitude set him apart. Botkin beautifully captures Jokic's essence: "The fact that he has zero interest in being recognized as the world's best player is, in part, what actually makes him the world's best player."
In Summary
As the new NBA season unfolds, it will be fascinating to witness how player rankings hold up and which narratives dominate the year. From promising young talents to seasoned veterans adapting to new roles, the league promises a thrilling season ahead. Fans and analysts alike will keep a close eye on these rankings, expecting both surprises and confirmations as the games progress.