The NBA season is upon us once again, and the excitement in the air is palpable. As always, the Top 100 players list has generated discussion and debate among fans and analysts alike. While some familiar names have secured their spots, there are surprises and notable omissions that have caught the eye of many.
Dillon Brooks Just Misses the Cut
One such omission that stands out is Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets. Although he didn’t make the Top 100 players list, his impact on the court, especially on the defensive side, hasn’t gone unnoticed. 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."
Rising Stars Make Their Mark
Meanwhile, young talents are making their presence felt. Andrew Nembhard of the Indiana Pacers has secured the 94th spot. His significance to the team is clear. As James Herbert points out, "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."
Similarly, Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets has landed the 91st spot. Despite his impressive handles and touch around the basket, Claxton still has room to grow. As Herbert mentions, "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 suggests that Claxton has untapped potential that could be harnessed in the coming seasons.
Veterans Holding Their Ground
Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers, ranked 78th, remains a crucial piece for his team. However, there are financial considerations at play. Brad Botkin raises a pertinent question, "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?"
On a defensive note, Isaiah Hartenstein of the New York Knicks, ranked 73rd, has been lauded for his defensive prowess. Sam Quinn praises him, stating, "He's a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac."
Exploring Mid-League Positions
Khris Middleton of the Milwaukee Bucks is another player whose rank, at 61st, reflects his shifting role within the team. "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks," says Jack Maloney. This marks a significant transition for Middleton, who has been a pivotal figure for the Bucks over the years.
Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors, ranked 56th, continues to showcase his versatility. Brad Botkin highlights one of Green's lesser-known skills, noting, "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game." This impressive stat underscores Green's value beyond his well-known defensive acumen.
Herbert Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans, ranked 60th, has carved out a unique niche for himself. Sam Quinn succinctly states, "There isn't another Herb Jones out there," underscoring Jones's distinctiveness and importance to his team.
Star Players and Unprecedented Achievements
Reaching the upper echelons of the list, Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks is ranked 13th. His recent performance in the playoffs has been nothing short of historic. As 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." Brunson's excellence was further rewarded with a substantial four-year, $156.5 million extension, cementing his status as one of the league's elite.
The Unquestioned Best
At the pinnacle of the list is Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets, holding the number one spot. Jokic's dominance is unquestioned, yet it's his humility that sets him apart. Brad Botkin encapsulates this sentiment, saying, "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."
As the NBA season unfolds, these rankings and individual stories will surely evolve. Players will rise and fall, and new narratives will take shape. For now, the Top 100 players list offers a snapshot of the talent and potential that make the NBA such a captivating league to follow.