The NBA season is upon us, and as anticipation builds, the latest Top 100 players list has sparked conversations and debates among fans and analysts alike. This year's rankings have seen some surprising entries and notable omissions.
Controversies and Surprises in the Top 100
One of the most surprising absences from the list is Dillon Brooks of the Rockets, who, despite his defensive prowess, did not make the cut. As Jasmyn Wimbish notes, "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." This exclusion has been a talking point, especially given Brooks' significant contributions on the court.
Meanwhile, Andrew Nembhard of the Pacers secured the 94th spot. James Herbert argues that Nembhard’s ranking is well-deserved: "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." Nembhard's presence on the list represents a bright spot for the Pacers as they look to build a more formidable lineup.
Nic Claxton of the Nets finds himself at 91st on the list. Claxton has been showcasing his skills, particularly with his impressive handles in transition. However, as Herbert points out, his usage rate remains low. "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%." This indicates that while Claxton has potential, there's still room for growth in his offensive responsibilities.
Mid-Tier Players Making Waves
Jerami Grant of the Trail Blazers comes in at 78th, a ranking that has raised some eyebrows, especially considering the hefty contract he received last summer. As Brad Botkin succinctly puts it, "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?" Grant’s performance this season will be crucial in determining whether his contract will be deemed worthwhile.
Isaiah Hartenstein of the Knicks is ranked 73rd and has been praised for his defensive capabilities. Sam Quinn remarked, "He's a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac." Hartenstein’s strong defensive presence is a significant asset for the Knicks as they aim for a successful season.
Khris Middleton, moving into a different phase of his career, is ranked 61st. Jack Maloney observes, "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks." Middleton's evolving role will be essential for the Bucks as they navigate the upcoming season with a focus on maximizing their championship window.
Herbert Jones, ranked 60th, stands out for his unique skill set. "There isn't another Herb Jones out there," Sam Quinn aptly summarizes. Jones' versatility on both ends of the court makes him a critical component for his team's success.
Draymond Green comes in at 56th, and despite some ups and downs in recent seasons, he continues to be a key player for the Warriors. Botkin again provides an interesting insight: "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game." Green's shooting ability, combined with his well-known defensive skills, keeps him relevant in the highly competitive landscape of the NBA.
Brunson and Jokic Stealing the Headlines
Jalen Brunson’s meteoric rise is captured by his 13th rank on the list and a significant contract extension, securing a four-year, $156.5 million deal. Brunson's playoff performance has been nothing short of spectacular. James Herbert highlights this achievement: "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." This remarkable feat underscores his value to the Knicks and the NBA as a whole.
At the pinnacle of the list sits Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets, ranked as the number one player. His dominance is unquestionable, yet what makes Jokic truly exceptional is his humility. Brad Botkin encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: "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." Jokic's all-around game and team-first attitude continue to set the standard in the league.
As the season tips off, the narratives surrounding these players will be closely watched. Whether it's an underdog like Nembhard proving his worth, seasoned veterans like Green adapting and excelling, or superstars like Jokic maintaining their dominance, this NBA season promises to be as exciting and unpredictable as ever.