The upcoming NBA season is generating a buzz as fans and analysts dissect the newly released Top 100 players list, evaluating the players' positions and envisioning how each team will perform. One notable omission from the list is Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets. Despite not making the cut, Jasmyn Wimbish emphasizes Brooks' impact: "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." Such defensive prowess could prove critical for the Rockets as they look to rebuild.
Andrew Nembhard of the Indiana Pacers clinches the 94th spot. James Herbert notes Nembhard's value in fitting alongside Tyrese Haliburton: "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." This dynamic could be pivotal for the Pacers' strategy heading into the season.
Just a few spots ahead, Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets is ranked 91st. Although his usage rate is relatively low, Claxton's skills are undeniable. Herbert highlights his strengths: "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%." The potential for increased involvement in the Nets' offensive schemes remains an enticing prospect.
Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers is positioned at 78th on the list. His ranking poses questions about the Blazers' financial decisions. Brad Botkin queries, "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?" This will undoubtedly be a storyline to watch as Portland navigates the season.
Isaiah Hartenstein of the New York Knicks occupies the 73rd spot, recognized for his defensive contributions. Sam Quinn underscores Hartenstein's defensive prowess: "He's a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac." This defensive capability is a strong asset for the Knicks.
Substantial attention is given to players who slightly missed higher rankings, like Khris Middleton at 61st. Jack Maloney observes Middleton's evolving role: "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks." This transition phase could alter the dynamics of Milwaukee's game plan.
Herbert Jones, ranked 60th, and Draymond Green, placed 56th, are both players of significant interest. Sam Quinn straightforwardly states, "There isn't another Herb Jones out there," emphasizing Jones' unique style of play. Meanwhile, Botkin offers an intriguing insight into Green: "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game." This shooting accuracy could be a game-changer for the Golden State Warriors this season.
Amongst the top names, Jalen Brunson stands out, ranked 13th on the list, fresh from signing a four-year, $156.5 million extension. Highlighting his recent achievements, James Herbert recalls, "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." Such performances underline why Brunson is deemed so valuable.
At the pinnacle of the list is Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets, reigning as the number one player. Brad Botkin insightfully describes Jokic's approach to the game: "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." This humility, coupled with Jokic's unmatched skills, sets a fascinating backdrop for the upcoming season.
As the new NBA season approaches, the narratives formed by these rankings and insights will surely evolve, ensuring excitement and anticipation among basketball enthusiasts worldwide.