The NBA season is upon us, and the excitement is palpable as players gear up to showcase their talents on the grandest stage. While the Top 100 players list always garners significant attention, several rankings and notable omissions have sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike.
Surprising Omissions and Rising Talents
Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets did not make the Top 100 players list this year. Despite this, Jasmyn Wimbish notes that, "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." His defensive prowess remains an essential asset for the Rockets, even if his offensive contributions haven't been enough to secure a spot among the elite.
On the other hand, young talents are beginning to make their mark. Andrew Nembhard of the Indiana Pacers has secured the 94th spot on the list. James Herbert believes that, "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 potential to grow alongside Haliburton could be a game-changer for the Pacers.
Climbing the Ranks
Nic Claxton is another name generating buzz. Ranked 91st, he has shown flashes of brilliance. As James Herbert points out, "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%." As his role with the Brooklyn Nets expands, fans eagerly await his next steps.
Further up the ranks, Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers sits at 78th. However, his position comes with questions about the team's financial commitment. Brad Botkin raises a crucial point, asking, "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?"
Key Contributors
Isaiah Hartenstein of the New York Knicks, ranked 73rd, has been a defensive standout. Sam Quinn praises him, saying, "He's a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac." This recognition underscores Hartenstein's significance to the Knicks' defensive schemes.
Khris Middleton of the Milwaukee Bucks occupies the 61st spot as he transitions into a new phase of his career. Jack Maloney observes, "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks." This shift in his role reflects the evolving dynamics within the Bucks' roster.
Draymond Green, ranked 56th, continues to defy expectations. Brad Botkin notes that Green, "Quietly... shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game." This improvement in his shooting adds another dimension to his already versatile game.
Unrivaled Talents
Herbert Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans, ranked 60th, has garnered admiration for his uniqueness. Sam Quinn succinctly states, "There isn't another Herb Jones out there." His distinctive play style and impact make him a valuable asset for the Pelicans.
At the top end of the spectrum, Jalen Brunson's meteoric rise lands him at 13th on the list, and rightfully so. His postseason performance has been nothing short of extraordinary. James Herbert highlights Brunson's historic feat, noting, "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." Additionally, Brunson recently secured a four-year, $156.5 million extension, solidifying his importance to the New York Knicks.
The Pinnacle of Excellence
Topping the list is none other than Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets. His dominance on the court is undeniable, yet his humility sets him apart. As Brad Botkin eloquently puts it, "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 selfless approach and unparalleled skill make him a worthy number one.
As the NBA season unfolds, these rankings will undoubtedly be scrutinized and debated. Players will rise, some may fall, but the thrill of the game remains constant. Every dribble, pass, and shot contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of the sport we love.