The NBA season is upon us, and with it comes the annual anticipation and ranking of the league's top performers. While some players secure their spots in the limelight, others find themselves just outside the coveted Top 100 list, sparking debates and discussions among fans and analysts alike.
Notable Absences and Surprise Inclusions
One name notably absent from the Top 100 players list is Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets. Despite missing the cut, Jasmyn Wimbish points out that Brooks remains "an impactful player, specifically on the defensive side of the ball." Brooks has earned a reputation for his defensive prowess, indicating that rankings don't always tell the full story of a player's value.
Meanwhile, Andrew Nembhard of the Indiana Pacers secured the 94th spot, a testament to his growing influence on the court. James Herbert emphasizes Nembhard's importance to the Pacers, noting, "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 role in balancing the team's dynamics is crucial as Indiana looks to make a mark this season.
Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets is another player who made the list, coming in at 91st. Claxton's game has shown promising development, as Herbert explains: "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 there is still untapped potential in Claxton’s game that could surface as the season progresses.
Mid-Tier Maneuvers
Moving up the list, Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers is ranked 78th. Grant's performance last season was notable, but Brad Botkin raises a critical point: "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?" The financial decisions surrounding Grant could impact Portland's strategy moving forward.
Isaiah Hartenstein of the New York Knicks secured the 73rd spot, proving himself as a valuable asset to his team. Hartenstein’s contributions go beyond typical statistics, offering depth and reliability to the Knicks' rotation.
Herbert Jones, who holds the 60th spot, has been praised for his defensive capabilities. "There isn't another Herb Jones out there," states Sam Quinn, highlighting Jones' unique strengths on the court. His ability to disrupt opponents' offensive plays makes him an invaluable asset for his team.
Seasoned Veterans
For the seasoned players, the rankings reflect not only skill but also evolving roles within their teams. Khris Middleton is ranked 61st and is transitioning into a new role with the Milwaukee Bucks. "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks," Jack Maloney explains. This shift signifies Middleton's adaptability and the Bucks' strategic adjustments.
Draymond Green, ranked 56th, continues to demonstrate his all-around capabilities. Not typically known for his shooting, Green made significant strides last season. "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game," notes Botkin. Green's improved shooting adds another layer to his already versatile game.
Top Tier Talent
The higher echelons of the list feature established stars who continue to set new standards. Jalen Brunson, ranked an impressive 13th, recently secured a four-year, $156.5 million extension, underscoring his value on the court. Herbert further elaborates on Brunson's historic scoring feat: "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 achievement solidifies Brunson's status as a clutch performer in critical moments.
And at the very top, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets claims the number one spot, recognized for his unparalleled impact on the game. Botkin captures the essence of Jokic's greatness, stating, "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 humility and focus have led to a dominant presence that elevates those around him.
As the NBA season kicks off, these rankings provide a snapshot of the league's current landscape. While numbers and positions offer insight, the true measure of these players will unfold in the dynamic and unpredictable theatre of the court.