The NBA season is upon us once again, bringing its usual blend of excitement and anticipation. As teams finalize their rosters and strategies, the recent release of the Top 100 players list has sparked discussions around the league, especially with some notable inclusions and omissions.
Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets did not make the Top 100 players list this season. While his exclusion might be surprising to some, it’s important to note that Brooks remains an impactful player, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. As Jasmyn Wimbish observed, "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."
On the other hand, young talents like Andrew Nembhard of the Indiana Pacers have made their way into the rankings. Securing the 94th spot, Nembhard’s presence is crucial for the Pacers' strategy. James Herbert aptly notes, "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."
Moving slightly up the ranks, Nic Claxton holds the 91st position. Known for his impressive handles in transition and touch around the basket, Claxton still has areas to improve. "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 comments.
The rankings continue with Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers at 78th. His ranking comes amidst questions about his financial worth to the team. Brad Botkin queries, "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?"
Isaiah Hartenstein of the New York Knicks is ranked 73rd. A darling of defensive metrics, Hartenstein was rated the second-best defender in basketball last season by D-EPM, just behind Jonathan Isaac. Sam Quinn highlights his value, noting, "He's a defensive metrics darling."
Khris Middleton of the Milwaukee Bucks finds himself at 61st. Middleton’s career is transitioning into a different phase, where he is becoming a solid third option for the Bucks. Jack Maloney explains, "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks."
Just a notch above Middleton, Herbert Jones is ranked 60th. Known for his unique style of play and defensive prowess, Quinn states, "There isn't another Herb Jones out there."
Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors holds the 56th spot. Green, traditionally known for his defense, has also shown a surprising offensive facet recently. Brad Botkin points out, "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game."
One of the most remarkable rises in the rankings comes from Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks, who is positioned at 13th. Brunson recently secured a four-year, $156.5 million extension, underscoring his value to the team. His playoff performance was 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."
Finally, reigning supreme at the top of the list is Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets. His dominance on the court is unrivaled, and his unique demeanor adds to his mystique. Brad Botkin captures this essence perfectly: "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 we embark on another thrilling NBA season, these rankings and the stories behind them offer a glimpse into the dynamic landscape of the league. Whether it's the established stars or the rising talents, each player's journey adds to the rich tapestry of basketball history.