The NBA Season Preview: Ranking and Insights on Top Players
As the much-anticipated NBA season tip-offs, fans and analysts alike are diving into the latest player rankings and roster changes. Notably absent from the Top 100 list is Dillon Brooks of the Rockets, who, despite being a defensive standout, didn't quite make the cut. As Jasmyn Wimbish commented, "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."
Meanwhile, the Pacers' Andrew Nembhard finds himself at the 94th spot. His role is crucial for a team looking to build around star guard Tyrese Haliburton. James Herbert noted, "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."
Ranking at 91st, Nic Claxton of the Nets has shown promise, particularly with his ball-handling and touch around the basket. However, his limited usage rate has kept him from climbing higher on the list. "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%," Herbert observed.
The Trail Blazers' Jerami Grant secured the 78th spot but faces questions about his future with the team. "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?" pondered Brad Botkin, reflecting on the financial commitments the team has made.
At 73rd, Isaiah Hartenstein of the Knicks is recognized for his exceptional defensive contributions. Sam Quinn highlighted his prowess by stating, "He's a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac."
Moving up the list, Khris Middleton of the Bucks takes the 61st spot as he transitions into a new phase of his career. "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks," noted Jack Maloney.
One spot ahead of Middleton, Herb Jones of the Pelicans has solidified his reputation as a unique defensive talent. As Quinn succinctly put it, "There isn't another Herb Jones out there."
Draymond Green of the Warriors, ranked 56th, continues to make his mark, not just with his defense but also with an improved three-point shot. "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game," Botkin mentioned, emphasizing Green's evolving role.
Among the standout players pushing towards the top, Jalen Brunson of the Knicks has surged to 13th on the Top 100 list. Fresh off a four-year, $156.5 million extension, Brunson is proving to be a cornerstone for the franchise. His playoff performance last May was historic, as Herbert pointed out: "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."
Ultimately, reigning supreme at the very top of the list is Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets. His unassuming demeanor contrasts sharply with his dominance on the court. "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," Botkin observed, capturing the essence of what makes Jokic exceptional.
As the season progresses, these rankings will undoubtedly spark discussions and debates among fans and analysts. Each player's journey and contributions will shape the narrative of what promises to be an exciting NBA season.