The NBA season is upon us, and player rankings have sparked considerable debate. While some players are basking in their placements, others find themselves just missing out. One noticeable absence from the Top 100 players list is Dillon Brooks of the Rockets. According to Jasmyn Wimbish, "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." His defensive prowess, however, hasn't gone unnoticed despite not making the list.
In contrast, Andrew Nembhard of the Pacers finds himself comfortably in the 94th spot. 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." This strategic advantage should bode well for the Pacers as they navigate the competitive season.
Nic Claxton, ranked 91st, has shown flashes of brilliance, especially in transition. "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%," noted Herbert. His ranking, while modest, reflects his potential for future growth if given more opportunities.
One player whose ranking might raise a few eyebrows is Jerami Grant, sitting at the 78th spot. Brad Botkin questions his value to the Trail Blazers, asking, "Can the Blazers find a trade that works after committing way too much money to Grant last summer?" It is clear that Grant has a point to prove this season, both on the court and in justifying his contract.
Isaiah Hartenstein of the Knicks comes in at 73rd. Known for his defensive chops, Sam Quinn describes him as "a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac." With such a sterling defensive reputation, Hartenstein is sure to be a key asset for the Knicks.
Meanwhile, Khris Middleton is making a significant transition in his career. "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks," observed Jack Maloney. Ranked 61st, Middleton's evolving role will be crucial for the team's dynamics.
Draymond Green of the Warriors, ranked 56th, continues to defy expectations. Even as he fine-tunes his game, Botkin revealed, "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game." His improved shooting adds another arrow to his quiver and another layer to his multifaceted game.
Herbert Jones, rated 60th, remains irreplaceable in his unique role. Sam Quinn sums it up aptly, stating, "There isn't another Herb Jones out there." His distinct contribution to the team sets him apart from his peers, making him invaluable.
Jalen Brunson, ranked 13th, is rapidly ascending the NBA hierarchy. He recently secured a four-year, $156.5 million extension from the New York Knicks, underlining his value. Herbert reminisces, "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 are a testament to his burgeoning stardom.
Finally, perched at the pinnacle of the list is Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets. Brad Botkin astutely notes, "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 selfless and team-oriented approach cements his status as the premier player in the league.