With a new NBA season upon us, it’s only right that our Elite 100 list makes a comeback before the 2024-25 campaign tips off on Tuesday, October 22. Each year, there are players who always at the top of the list when you think of “the best” and then there’s another side: Players who are making it very known that they also worthy of being a part of the conversation with the growth of their game.
This time around, Matt Moore and Brandon Anderson share their top 100 players as they factor in a variety of reasons why the listed players found themselves lucky enough to make the cut. Whether it’s from their performance, the effect of their age (young or old), how health comes into play, and the main one of them all: their impact on racking up wins.
Father Time may be taking a toll on some, while a new chapter is unfolding right in front of our eyes in the Association.
So without further ado, find out which players are in this season’s rankings and also, see where Matt Moore and Brandon Anderson respectively rank each player on their own scale.
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”1. Nikola Jokic” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 1 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 1″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/725847_nba_den_150x150.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
What’s left to say about the guy that’s been the best player in the world for four years running? Over 80 games, Jokic averaged 27.7 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 7.5 assists on 53/39/84 with a 124 ORTG. Pretty good season, right? Wrong. That’s Jokic’s entire playoff career. His 29.2 PER and 10.8 BPM rank first and second all time, along with some guy you may have heard of named Michael Jordan.
Jokic continues to check every box. He’s won three of four MVPs, he’s done it in the playoffs, he’s done it for the Serbian national team. He is the greatest basketball player in the world, full stop. Number one with a bullet, in a tier all alone by himself. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”2. Luka Doncic” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 2 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 2″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/dal.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The One Man Army. Luka Doncic made his first Finals appearance last year ironically in a postseason when he struggled in three of four series. But his overall season was simply magnificent. No one does more for their team night to night than Doncic. He scores 30-plus per game, handles the ball the most, throws 10 dimes per game, and grabs nine boards per game. He bodies you in the post. He burns you with crossovers and stepbacks. He’s unbelievable in finishing at the rim and his 3-point shot skyrocketed last season.
Doncic’s impact in terms of how much his team wins by doesn’t match the level of contribution he puts in, but there’s nothing you can point to to say Doncic limits his team in any regard offensively. And he’s just entering his prime. For all the talk about Victor Wembanyama, this is going to be Luka Doncic’s league for at least the next half-decade. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”3. Giannis Antetokounmpo” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 3 | Matt Moore’s Ranking. no. 4″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mil.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Antetokounmpo is coming off arguably his most efficient offensive season ever. Even though Damian Lillard didn’t have a great season by his standards, his presence meant fewer Giannis isos and jumpers with more opportunities finishing in the paint where he’s so lethal. That’s great, but that reality also underlines the limitation in team building with Antetokounmpo, and while Dame’s presence made the Greek Freak even more valuable offensively, it also cratered the defense, where Giannis can no longer play at a DPOY level in the regular season.
The truth is that Antetokounmpo tops out around 65 games these days and has trouble staying healthy for playoff runs too. At his best, he’s still as good as anyone. But we’re seeing his best less often these days as Antetokounmpo hits his 30’s. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”4. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 3 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 6″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/okc.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Everyone knew SGA was good. But last year he showed he could be the best player on a serious contender with a brutally young squad and compete at an MVP level. The MVP runner-up took everything to another level last season. There is a narrative that he’s a free throw merchant, but his adaptation after the NBA adjusted officiating post-All-Star — after he recovered from an injury — proves that’s not the case.
SGA finished as the best pick-and-roll scorer minimum 400 possessions league-wide, and 11th in pull-up jumpers. He showed he could go toe to toe with Luka Doncic in the playoffs as the best player on the floor and should be set for an even better 2025 campaign with a more seasoned team. SGA’s encore to stepping on stage last year should be something no one will want to miss. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”5. Joel Embiid” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 4 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 6″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/philadelphia-76ers-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Embiid was on track to go back-to-back as the MVP last season before injuries once again derailed his year. He’s become nearly automatic from mid-range in pick-and-roll sets, can throw his weight around down low vs. most opponents, and had his best passing season last year thanks to some Nick Nurse adjustments to the offense. But the most impressive thing before his injuries last year was his defense. He not only contained in his usual drop coverage in pick and roll but made dozens and dozens of huge defensive plays.
Embiid swears this is the year where he puts regular season stuff aside to be healthy in the postseason, but that’s going to take some discipline to not destroy the weaker teams on his schedule which his squad can beat so he can get the night off. Is this finally the year it comes together for Embiid? — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”6. Tyrese Haliburton” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 7 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 8″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/ind.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
This will ruffle some feathers, but hear us out. Haliburton led the league in assists per game and orchestrated the most explosive offense. The Celtics had the best offense because of their floor, but if you need 150 to win a game, you want Haliburton’s Pacers offense. He was the best player on a team that made the conference finals regardless of circumstance.
Haliburton’s efficiency dipped because of a midseason injury he tried to play through so he could get to the 65-game minimum. I expect a full return to 50-40 splits for him and maybe a 50-40-90 season while leading the league in assists. Haliburton is Evolutionary Nash. Get on board that he’s as impactful as the results show he is. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”7. LeBron James” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 8 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 9″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/758536_Lakers.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The King stays the King. There are not enough words to describe how great James was last year in his 21st NBA season at age 39. There’s nothing left for him to do in this league that he hasn’t done and yet here he is, playing some of the best ball in the league for the love of the game and the desire to capture Ring No. 5.
You can see the end of the best NBA career of all time coming up fast. We need to hold on and appreciate these moments with him before they’re gone, because there will never, ever, be anything close to another LeBron James. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”8. Victor Wembanyama” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 5 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 14″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/sas.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
However good you think Victor Wembanyama is right now — he’s already better. Wembanyama got notably better every couple months last season, improving at a remarkable rate. From January 1 forward, he leapt to 25% assist rate and 58% true shooting with a top five BPM among all players. After the All-Star Break, he put up 24/12/5 with 4.5 blocks a game and outlandish, historically great defensive metrics, leading the league in blocks by 34% over his nearest competitor.
Wemby is still working on the offensive package, hit or miss from game to game. And that’s what’s scary, because even with the fluctuating offense, Wemby is already a top 10 player — top five for me — because he’s an elite NBA defense all unto himself, like no one else in modern NBA history. He’s all of those things already at age 20 with just one NBA season under his belt — and he’s still only just barely scratching the surface. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”9. Stephen Curry” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 9 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 11″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/759063_Warriors.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The Summer Olympics were a perfect encapsulation of where Curry’s career is at. When the games mattered most, Curry had two of the games of his life. He hit nine 3s to lead a comeback win over Serbia in the semis, then hit four 3s in the final three minutes of the gold medal game to tell the frenzied French fans “nuit nuit.”
When the shot is falling, few athletes in the world can capture the hearts of fandom and melt opponent dreams like Steph Curry. Of course, the Olympics were more than just two games. And while Steph scored 60 on 17-of-26 3s in the two games that mattered most, he scored 29 in the other four games combined with just five 3s. And that’s exactly where we’re at on the Steph Curry journey at this point. The magic is absolutely still there — he just can’t reach that level quiiiite as often anymore. But man, when he does… — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”10. Jayson Tatum” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 7 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 13″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/boston-celtics-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Everyone agrees Jayson Tatum is not a top-five player in the NBA despite being the best player on one of the best teams we’ve seen from a regular-season performance standpoint and winning the title and despite his long-sustained success since he entered the league. Everyone agrees he’s not outside the top 15. (Most agree that he’s not outside the top 10, but Brandon is not most people.)
The question is if you have him closer to 5 or closer to 15, and that depends on too much nitpicking that ignores that he’s an absolutely elite defender while being a three-level scorer who has led deep playoff runs every year. Tatum sacrificed last season to help the Celtics win the title and had a down pull-up shooting year. There are better seasons and the respect he should already have in his future. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”11. Jalen Brunson” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 5 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 18″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-york-knicks-updated-logo-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I have Brunson 5th, where he finished in MVP voting last season, Brandon sees him somewhere between great and “replaceable star point guard.” Brunson is, in my opinion, the scariest playoff player, apart from LeBron James and Steph Curry.
He doesn’t have the lows of Nikola Jokic or Joel Embiid, and when you need a tough bucket in the tough moments, Brunson has the skill set to make it happen. There will be a white-hot spotlight on the Knicks this season, but Brunson has proven he’s made of the stuff that only gets better when the bright lights are on. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”12. Kevin Durant” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 12 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 12″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/875040_Suns.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Still KD after all these years. Last season, at age 35, Durant shot 74.4 percent at the rim (97th percentile), 50.9 percent from mid-range (!!!) (94th percentile), and 41.3 percent from 3 (89th percentile). A 50-40-87 shooting season for the Slim Reaper, he was un-freaking-believable. But after not making a conference finals since the 2019 Warriors fiasco, there are real questions about why Durant doesn’t raise his teammates up more.
But if the Suns make a run this year, it’ll provide the certification of what we’ve known since Durant was a rail-think teenager: he’s one of the best to ever play the game. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”13. Anthony Davis” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 10 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 15″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/758536_Lakers.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
If you know you’d get the best version of Anthony Davis every night for 82 games, he’d be higher up this list — maybe as high as third or fourth. At his best, Davis is an absolute menace defensively, the most impactful defender in the league. He’s a Swiss army knife that can protect the rim, switch onto smaller guys, and do everything else on that end, sometimes all on one play.
The offense has never been consistent, especially as the jumper has betrayed him, but Davis is about as great a complementary championship second banana as you can draw up in the modern NBA. The problem is we never get that Davis for 82 games. There are still far too many where he leaves early with a nick, goes invisible for halves at a time, or wasn’t healthy enough to play in the first place. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”14. Donovan Mitchell” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 10 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 17″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-cleveland-cavaliers.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I have Mitchell in my top ten. His numbers continue to reflect an absolutely elite offensive monster at 27 points, 5 boards, and 6 assists per game. His efficiency and scoring output struggled amid the Cavaliers injuries and overall offensive struggles. Still, new coach Kenny Atkinson and more continuity could return Mitchell to being the player who can go for 50 any given night. He’s playoff certified, too, having had big moments and games in multiple series across multiple teams. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”15. Anthony Edwards ” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 13 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 15″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-minnesota-timberwolves.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
You already know Ant has that “it” factor, complete with that lovably cocky smile, the silky smooth jumper, and that star appearance in Hustle. It sounds blasphemous, but Edwards has that MJ mystique about him. And that’s held up in the playoffs, where Edwards has been a veritable star. When it’s mattered most, Ant’s usage spikes to carry-the-whole-offense levels at 28.5 PPG on somehow increased efficiency, all while finding another gear defensively, even taking the top assignment at times.
Now at age 23, we need to see Playoff Edwards show up more consistently from night to night in the regular season. He may also need to continue to grow into a bigger playmaking role to reach his peak value, especially as Mike Conley ages out further. But Ant-Man is the future, and the future might already be here. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”16. Kawhi Leonard” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 11 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 20″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/los-angeles-clippers-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I ranked Kawhi nine spots ahead of Matt at No. 11 and maybe I’m just betting on a player that doesn’t exist anymore. Leonard played his most regular season games in seven seasons and had his worst career in that stretch — probably not a coincidence — and he’s effectively missed the last three playoffs. Perhaps the magic is gone at age 33 with all the injury history.
But even if there’s 20% chance of getting a healthy Kawhi in the playoffs, history says he consistently turns into modern-day Michael Jordan when he gets there, a true top-five player that can still be the best player on a championship team. That alone is worth all the hassle and risk. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”17. Ja Morant” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 16 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 18″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mem.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
In the past 18 months, Morant has suffered through a humiliating episode of looking unhinged while waving a weapon on Instagram, getting trounced by the Lakers, sitting out due to suspension for aforementioned nonsense, and then immediately getting hurt upon his return.
All of this has led to his falling from an MVP candidate to this spot due to uncertainty about his reliability. But when he takes the floor, he’s arguably the most spectacular player in the league and has led young teams to top-3 seeds and won playoff series. It’s time for Morant to put the foolishness behind him and take his place as an annual top-ten talent. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”18. Devin Booker” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 16 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 20″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/875040_Suns.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Booker was solidly in the top 10 for most lists the past two seasons, and his spot here reflects more about how the team has disappointed than him. Booker suffered through an injury-plagued, slightly dysfunctional 2024 season before the Wolves swept Phoenix. With Mike Budenholzer more likely to optimize the offense, Booker could be in for a season that reminds us why he has flirted with elite status the last four years. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”19. Jimmy Butler” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 14 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 23″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mia.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Butler saw a drop in play last season. The question is whether that’s all those miles adding up at age 35, or if it was mostly just the after effects of a long Finals run the previous summer. I’m banking on the latter and ranked Butler top 15 accordingly. He hasn’t topped 65 regular season games since leaving Chicago but has played at least 52 every season. That’s enough Butler to get to the playoffs, and history tells us he turns into LeBron Lite once he gets there. That’s good enough for me even with the injury concerns and lack of shooting. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”20. Damian Lillard” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 21 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 24″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mil.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
This is almost definitely the wrong ranking for Lillard — either 10 spots too high or too low. At age 34, he’s now had two poor years out of three. His scoring efficiency is way down in Milwaukee, and his defense was exposed taking the place of Jrue Holiday.
Lillard was not close to a top 25 player last season. But at his best, Dame Time is still as lethal as any player in the clutch and an absolute scoring machine on high volume 3s and free throws, and if that Dame is still in there, Matt and I agreed he’s still the one guy outside our current top 15 most likely to leap into next year’s top 10. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”21. Paul George” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 21 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 24″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/philadelphia-76ers-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
For the first two months of last season, Paul George was the best player on the Clippers, even with the marvelous season Kawhi Leonard had. That says something. By the end, George was once again trying and failing to hold up the team with Leonard on the shelf.
His acrimonious exit from his native LA has led to maybe his best shot at a title as the third option in Philly. If he keeps doing PG things and stays healthy, he might have the last laugh vs. his old squad who said they don’t need him. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”22. Trae Young” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 19 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 29″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/atl.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Like him or not, Trae Young has become underrated. Young is one of the best creators in the entire league, and though his teammates don’t seem to love playing with him, he sure gets them a lot of easy, efficient buckets. Trae isn’t the 3-point bomber he was once expected to be, but he’s become a poor man’s Luka Doncic with the way he carries the offense and single-handedly raises the team’s offensive floor.
He’s also due for a bounce-back season with Dejounte Murray gone since Murray was mostly mucking up the spacing and taking touches away from the superior Young. The defense is horrendous, but few men on the planet are capable of carrying an entire top-10 NBA offense like Trae. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”23. Lauri Markkanen” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 25 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 26″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/4868_jazz.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
A top-level scorer with great size, efficiency, and an adaptable playstyle, it’s no wonder the Warriors coveted him so much in trade talks before the season. The questions are how to build a winning team round him and if there’s anything he can add to his game to get Utah into the playoffs. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”24. Chet Holmgren” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 25 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 31″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/okc.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
It’s easy to forget considering the rookie season Victor Wembanyama just had, but it’s certifiably insane that a rail-thin Holmgren is already a top 25 player after just one season on an NBA court. Chet is a true unicorn. He does everything you want defensively as a rim protector with elite hand placement and timing, and he’s still just starting to crack into abilities as a floor spacing big who made 37% of his 4.3 3-point attempts and who can put the ball on the court and attack space or transition too.
Holmgren also played all 82 games even with that frame. He changed absolutely everything for the Thunder last season and looks like a championship-winning complementary star and the absolute perfect pairing with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”25. James Harden” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 27 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 30″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/los-angeles-clippers-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
What’s left to say about Harden at this point? There are real warning signs that Harden might be cooked with his 2s and free throws falling off last season as the defense faded further, and maybe that hero iso ball version of Harden is gone — at least in the regular season. But for all the admittedly fair focus on his disappearing act in the very biggest games, Harden has always been an excellent playoff performer overall and still gets to that level even at this stage of his career. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”26. De’Aaron Fox” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 17 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 40″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/348219_kings.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Fox made a huge jump in scoring last season, finishing 9th in points per game and shooting a career high 37% from 3-point range. Fox is only 26, if he benefits from the addition of DeMar DeRozan and continues his high level defensive play, big things could be on the horizon for the man they call Swipa. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”27. Domantas Sabonis” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 27 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 36″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/348219_kings.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The new triple-double king put in a monster season in 2023-24, garnering an MVP vote (and a… DPOY… vote…?). Sabonis led the league in rebounds last season while finishing sixth in assists per game. His struggles in matchups vs. playoff teams keep a lid on him but he feels up the box score in efficient ways for a good team in the West. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”28. Kristaps Porzingis ” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 30 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 34″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/boston-celtics-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Porzingis has quietly become a perfect complementary star as he’s aged into his career. What was once a back-to-basket post game has become a beautiful all-around game, spacing defenses out and using his size to shoot over opponents or dominate a smaller player in the post. Add in the versatile defense and rim protection and you can make a real case that Porzingis is the one most irreplaceable player on the defending world champions. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”29. Tyrese Maxey ” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 28 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 38″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/philadelphia-76ers-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Is Maxey second or third-best in Philadelphia now, with Paul George in tow? The Sixers couldn’t care less if they get the Maxey we saw with Joel Embiid on the court last season. He was the league’s Most Improved Player with a clear breakout into the league’s top scorers, and that continued into the playoffs as Maxey scored nearly 30 PPG and looked every bit the part of the costar Philly sees in him. What’s next? — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”30. Pascal Siakam” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 26 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 41″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/ind.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Siakam had a clear role shift in Indiana, playing less on the perimeter and without as much of the ball in his hands. That made Siakam a more efficient scorer but that added value was offset by getting less of him overall. Siakam is a versatile player who can defend, dribble, and pass, making him a solid building block that fits most rosters. We’ll see how his game ages into his 30s as his athletic advantage starts to wane. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”31. Jamal Murray ” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 29 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 40″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/725847_nba_den_150x150.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Murray hit two monster shots in the playoffs vs. the Lakers. The rest of the time in the postseason, he was awful until Game 7 vs. the Wolves where he had a bounce-back, but then Denver gave up a 20-point second-half lead.
Murray has struggled with staying healthy, prompting questions about his conditioning, which honestly isn’t fair for a player as tough as he is. But he also hasn’t ever made the regular season jump to All-Star or All-NBA, boosting the idea that Nikola Jokic doesn’t have enough help. But when Murray is on, he’s an incendiary scorer and a sneakily high-level playmaker. You never want to see the ball in his hands with the game on the line if you’re the opponent. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”32. Jaylen Brown” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 22 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 47″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/boston-celtics-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The reigning Finals MVP has a whopping 25-point gap in our respective rankings for some reason. The reality is that while Tatum is Boston’s best player, Brown had the best season of any Celtic in their title run, even before the Finals.
He made huge strides defensively where he had been a little bit of a liability two seasons ago. He developed incredible chemistry with Kristaps Porzingis last year to help the integration, and took it to teams in the playoffs. Brown could be the guy for a playoff team but instead chooses to play Robin for the best team in the league. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”33. Bam Adebayo” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 19 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 50″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mia.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I consider Adebayo to be the best overall, situation-to-situation defender in the NBA. Rudy Gobert protects the rim better, and Jalen Suggs locks down guards better. But there’s no defensive situation where Adebayo is at a disadvantage.
He used to struggle with bigger bodies like Nikola Jokic but he’s improved there. His offensive game is expanding as a playmaking hub and perimeter shooter. We’re approaching “Should the Heat do the right thing and trade Bam to a contender?” — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”34. Kyrie Irving” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 23 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 48″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/dal.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
As just a player on a basketball court, Irving has become quite underrated, as seen by Matt more than doubling my ranking of №23. He’s still an elite shooter and scorer with the ability to play on or off the ball, the slickest handle in the league, awesome getting to and finishing at the rim. Irving has also shown an ability to defend effectively in the biggest moments. Love him or hate him, Kyrie Irving has quietly become one of the league’s leading second bananas. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”35. Scottie Barnes” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 32 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 39″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/tor.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Barnes is difficult to place — not just in our rankings but also in a team context. Barnes would’ve had my vote as Most Improved Player last season. He saw improvement on assists, rebounding, free throw rate, and shot blocking and managed to get more efficient as a scorer despite the increase in usage.
Barnes is a glue and culture guy too, and a valuable defender. But what exactly is Barnes on a good NBA team? It remains to be seen whether his versatility is a feature or a bug that will make team building difficult, and an early breakout from 3 dropped to 26% from January 1 forward. The jury may still be out, but the upside is clear at age 23. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”36. Zion Williamson ” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 35 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 37″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-orleans-pelicans-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Please stay healthy. Please. Please. Zion’s advanced numbers were boosted by his defensive performance last season, which was 50% luck and 50% skill. New Orleans is still at its best when they play Point Zion with four shooters. There’s no way to optimize Zion with Brandon Ingram on roster.
Will Zion finally take his place as an elite force this season? Will he finally stay healthy all year? Too many questions against too much talent make him a tough player to get an accurate read on. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”37. Derrick White” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 34 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 42″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/boston-celtics-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
White’s a killer, through and through. He manages to infect the opposing team with stifling defense, not just shutting down driving lanes but disintegrating passing lanes. He doesn’t need the ball to score efficiently but he can also create when given it. A Swiss Army knife that was pivotal to the Celtics winning Banner 18. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”38. Karl-Anthony Towns” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 31 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 46″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-york-knicks-updated-logo-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
That little C (in center) makes all the difference. There’s no question Towns is limited defensively, but all of his offensive superpowers are unleashed as a center. That’s where KAT can space the defense out as one of the best shooting big men ever and it’s also where he can uses his athletic advantage to score in the post. This may be the most space Towns has operated in offensively. Could KAT remind everyone why he was such a valuable center? I would have ranked him 30 spots lower as a four. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”39. Jalen Williams” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 22 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 56″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/okc.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
JDub is the perfect modern NBA wing, a plus defender with size that can handle, create, and knock down shots at an elite rate. Williams does everything, and he does it all efficiently. He rarely turns it over despite his youth and role, and he’s a career 40% 3-point shooter. What we need now is more from JDub offensively, and we’ll get it this season.
Williams had a 20.8% usage with Josh Giddey on the court last season but a 28.5% usage with Giddey off. With Giddey gone, Williams is ready to step into a much bigger role as both a scorer and creator. He’s my №4 small forward ahead of Paul George for this season, and I ranked him 22nd in the NBA, a full 34 spots ahead of Matt. And I’ll rank him even higher next year after he wins Most Improved Player. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”40. Alperen Şengün” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 33 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 45″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/hou.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Not many appear to have noticed yet, but Sengun is quietly one of the league’s best youngsters. He had a huge breakout last season with an uptick in scoring and playmaking with far more usage, while also acting as the anchor for the league’s most improved defense.
Sengun has nifty footwork in the post and an old man’s game at age 22. The question is whether he’s closer to Domantas Sabonis or Nikola Jokic, especially when it gets to the postseason. Max this man, Houston. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”41. Cade Cunningham ” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 37 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 42″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/343538_pistons.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Bold take: This is the last time Cunningham will appear outside the top 25 on this list. Cunningham figured out his shooting last season, which was step one in opening up his offense. He’s already a great passer and defender.
He struggled at the rim because it seemed oftentimes like the Pistons wanted him to simply test the best defenders to figure them out. (Either that or Monty Williams simply didn’t care enough to build better sets. Seriously, get Cade a screen every once in a while!) With actual NBA player on roster this season, expect a breakout even if Detroit might not smell .500 by season’s end. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”42. Desmond Bane” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 32 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 49″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mem.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Bane could have had an absolutely monster 2023-24 season if the Grizzlies’ pets’ heads hadn’t fallen off with injuries. He was the best player on the team in EPM, shooting 62% at the rim and 38% from 3 with a 27.3 assist percentage. I’m not sure people are ready for how good he’ll be with a Memphis team that actually has a full roster of NBA talent again. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”43. Jaren Jackson Jr.” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 28 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 53″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mem.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Jackson has expanded his offensive game broadly in the last two seasons, with last year’s “lost season” for Memphis a little bit of a blessing in disguise for him. A lighter workload in terms of games and more time to refine things.
When he’s able to play the 4, as he should this season next to Zach Edey, he’s one of the best rim protectors in the game and hugely impactful. Don’t be surprised if he’s back in DPOY conversations after winning the award in 2023. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”44. LaMelo Ball” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 43 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 44″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/charlotte-hornets-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I had LaMelo too low last season at 86. Even after a bad injury-plagued season (and his availability is a huge issue), I bumped him because his offensive creation borders on elite. I still think his shot selection and defense leave a lot to be desired, but you can build a strong offensive engine with him, and he has a lot of runway ahead. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”45. Fred VanVleet” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 35 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 55″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/hou.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
It’s easy to focus on what VanVleet can’t do at his size, particularly the disastrous 2-point percentage, but he does so much to help his teams win. He’s a good shooter on huge volume, he takes care of the ball well, and he defends hard and racks up steals.
FVV made my top 35, just a winner at every level who takes nothing off the table and does all those little things to help a team, a true culture setter in Houston. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”46. Evan Mobley” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 38 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 54″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-cleveland-cavaliers.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Mobley feels a little disappointing on the surface, failing to break out as a former №3 pick, but he quietly improved quite a bit over the back half of last season. Mobley has added strength and saw it pay off with more rebounds and trips to the line, and he’s also starting to add a 3-pointer and flashing his passing skills. Mobley is already one of the very best help defenders in the league, a great rim protector. He still has championship-level second-banana upside at age 23. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”47. Mikal Bridges” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 44 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 48″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-york-knicks-updated-logo-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
If there are any doubts to how valuable Bridges is, just check the trade history. Bridges fetched a whopping five first rounders from the Knicks, and he was already the centerpiece of a Kevin Durant trade, too.
An elite perimeter defender, Bridges saw his defense slip taking on a bigger offensive role in Brooklyn. He should be more valuable in an appropriately smaller role, the exact sort of scoring 3-and-D wing building block every single NBA team would want. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”48. Paolo Banchero” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Playoff Ranking: No. 33 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 64″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/orl.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Banchero is a budding star, and how he chooses to improve his game as he gets closer to his prime will determine a lot. He needs to improve his efficiency shooting. Period. Point blank. But if that comes around, he profiles as Carmelo Anthony if Melo was a way better passer and cared more about defense.
Rebounding was a concern for Banchero and he’s been great on that end. If Banchero resists becoming an inefficient gunner, he’s going to have MVP potential down the line. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”49. Brandon Ingram” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 41 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 57″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-orleans-pelicans-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Ingram is in extension limbo as the team has still not granted him the big-money extension he’s seeking. Ingram really took a step forward as a passer last season and is a certified bucket-getter.
But his ability to shape the game positively for teammates is still limited, his usage holds back New Orleans’ ability to play wrecking ball with Zion at point, and he doesn’t take enough threes. Still, his production is enough to justify him here, even if it’s hard to find a way to build around him. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”50. Rudy Gobert” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 36 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 62″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-minnesota-timberwolves.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Brandon and I have a 26-point differential between us on Gobert, as I have him just outside the top 35 at 36th. Here’s why: If you surround Gobert with almost any level of competent defense on the perimeter, you’re going to have a top-10 defense. If you surround him with elite defenders like Minnesota has, you’ll have the No.1 defense.
Gobert still bobbles passes and misses layups. But from Game 1 to 82 and many of the playoff matchups, he’s the most impactful defender possession to possession in the NBA. If you don’t believe me? Just ask the coaches he goes up against. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”51. Franz Wagner” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Playoff Ranking: No. 43 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 58″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/orl.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I’m lower on Wagner after an awful year shooting the three, because I can’t be sure that will regress. But he’s a great point forward with tremendous feel for the game and able defender with size and length. If the shooting bounces back, watch out, because Wagner has been just below star level for three years. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”52. OG Anunoby” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 47 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 54″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-york-knicks-updated-logo-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
It wasn’t a lot of minutes due to injury — a constant concern with Anunoby — but when he was on the floor for New York last season, the Knicks were a rampaging dragon, setting the fields on fire. He’s a quality floor spacer with some on-ball bounce, but his real strength is defensively where he has entire games where he turns gameplans to debris on the floor of the World’s Most Famous Arena. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”53. Jarrett Allen” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 49 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 53″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-cleveland-cavaliers.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Not many would instinctively consider Allen a top 50 player, but that’s right about where we both ranked him. Allen is a good rim protector and a valuable offensive rebounder, and he’s an efficient scorer and rim runner. Think of him as a younger, lesser version of Rudy Gobert, the sort of guy that adds plenty to your team without really taking much off the table. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”54. Draymond Green” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 46 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 57″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/759063_Warriors.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Green is impossible to properly rate, both here and historically. No box score will ever capture just how much Draymond does defensively, and the truth is that he was still about as good as ever last season, even DPOY caliber.
He also unlocks much of how Golden State operates offensively because of his synergy with Steph Curry. The antics are always part of the package, but you either get all of Draymond Green or none of him at all. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”55. DeMar DeRozan” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 39 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 67″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/348219_kings.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The old head mid-range king goes to Sactown. DeRozan shot 46% from mid-range last season, that’s 77th percentile. (That’s still 0.92 points per possession, or 9.2 points for every 10 shots, so the efficiency still isn’t good but it is what it is.)
He’s become a top level passer and his veteran savvy and strength have made him a better defender than he was. It’s hard to build successful teams around him, but individually, DeRozan is as skilled a player as you’ll find below the superstars. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”56. Jrue Holiday” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 45 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 64″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/boston-celtics-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
A player considered one of the best people, let alone players, in the league won his second title and shot a career-high 43% from 3-point range last season. That’s likely to regress some, and at age 34 after a title run and Olympic Gold Medal run, Holiday may be facing a season where things start to slow down for him. But when healthy and engaged, he’s still a menace defensively and a gifted floor general point guard who doesn’t need the ball in his hands to make an impact. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”57. Trey Murphy III” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 55 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 60″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-orleans-pelicans-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Crazy that both of us ranked Murphy top 60 but the Pelicans can’t even find a spot in the starting lineup. Trey is everything you want from a modern role player wing. He’s an outstanding shooter on great volume and he gets to the line well, considering.
He can be an efficient 20+ PPG scorer and is a plus defender, too. The question now is if he’s just a 3-and-D wing or if he has another level, a la Mikal Bridges. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”58. Julius Randle” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 52 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 65″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-minnesota-timberwolves.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Did you know Julius Randle is a two-time All-NBA selection? Randle’s had a really good career for a guy largely dismissed and then tossed aside by New York. He’s a really good playmaker as point forward, a bully inside with some range as well. There are real limitations because of his wingspan and agility, but Randle is a real force. Now, can he fit in with Minnesota? — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”59. Jalen Suggs” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Playoff Ranking: No. 50 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 69″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/orl.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Arguably the most disruptive ball-handler defender last season, Suggs has got not just that dog in him, but Cerberus, the three-headed dog that guards hell. On top of that, I was stunned to find he shot 39% from 3-point range last season. (I assumed every Magic player shot worse than league average.) With a bigger offensive role, Suggs is set to build on a breakout season. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”60. Herbert Jones” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 51 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 70″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-orleans-pelicans-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
“NOT ON HERB” is the social media cry as Jones shuts down another attempt at doing anything useful on a basketball court. Jones is an annual DPOY contender and last season took real strides offensively, shooting 42% from 3-point range. If you can’t sag off him to make him unplayable, you’re about to have a bad night, every night, when Jones is on the floor. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”61. Khris Middleton” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 60 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 62″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mil.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Middleton is 33 this season, still able to give good games, but he hasn’t made it over 60 games in two years. He had his second-best season in eFG% last year and remains consistent as a passer. I had to drop him 23 spots for durability concerns, but Mid remains anything but. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”62. Darius Garland” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 51 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 72″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-cleveland-cavaliers.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Garland has one of the biggest drops in my rankings. That might not be fair after one bad, injury-plagued season. But Garland struggled to mesh with Donovan Mitchell, his defense was a little worse, and he just looked uncomfortable the whole season. There’s a lot of bounce-back opportunity for Garland this season, but I’m not sure Cleveland is the best environment for him to thrive. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”63. Bradley Beal ” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 61 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 66″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/875040_Suns.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Both of us talked a big talk about leaving Beal out of our Elite 100 altogether after a horrendous playoff run, but the truth is that Beal’s shooting and scoring are still pretty valuable in a league badly lacking quality twos.
They’re less valuable with two better versions already in Phoenix, though. Beal has never been optimized. He may need to become more of an off-ball scorer, with more 3s and fewer turnovers increasing his efficiency. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”64. Myles Turner” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 56 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 73″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/ind.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Turner was a beast for a team that made the conference finals so of course I’ve dropped him double digit spots in my ranking. But Turner’s defensive impact was almost nothing last year for a guy who was a DPOY candidate at one point.
His rebounding and shooting were down across distances, and he posted less than two blocks per game for the first time in five seasons. Turner made the Pacers better but needs to return to being a defensive force or improve his scoring efficiency and rebounding to jump back into top 60. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”65. Dejounte Murray” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 63 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 68″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-orleans-pelicans-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
There are a dozen data points that indicate that Murray was a big part of the problem with the Hawks’ defense last season. That doesn’t make much intuitive sense, but it’s possible he’s just fallen off as a defender.
But he should thrive with the Pelicans if they can figure out usage balance with Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. If the roster gets sorted out, Murray could be in for a big bounceback season. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”66. Aaron Gordon” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 63 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 68″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/725847_nba_den_150x150.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The Nuggets are the team that’s probably tilting towards underrated given the narrative about their disappointing-to-bad offseason. Gordon is a prime example of a player being overlooked. He’s a monster defender, and the way he compliments Nikola Jokic matters a lot for maximizing Denver’s synergy around the most synergistic superstar.
Gordon’s free throw and shooting struggles matter which is why he’s not higher, but he’s morphed from being a fake superstar in Orlando to being a guy who does the things that help you win championships in the Mile High City. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”67. Mike Conley” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 52 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 96″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-minnesota-timberwolves.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Conley was hugely impactful for a Western Conference Finalist last season. When he missed time in the playoffs, the Wolves were rudderless. But he’ll be 37 this year and it takes more and more treatment to get him ready to go.
He managed 76 games last season but it’s reasonable to expect a dip in that figure. That said, he was still 46% from the field and 44% from 3-point range last season with six dimes per game. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”68. Miles Bridges” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 69 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 79″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/charlotte-hornets-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Bridges put his significant other in the hospital two years ago and I will continue to make that the first line in any commentary on him. But the Hornets paid him a huge new contract and he’s an important player on an NBA team, so here he is. Bridges is a quality scorer and rebounder. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”69. Isaiah Hartenstein” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 65 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: 92″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/okc.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Hartenstein’s advanced impact is a little ahead of his actual but he’s still the exact perfect kind of center for OKC. He’s a monster rebounder (98th percentile in offensive rebound pecentage, 87th defensive rebound percentage), hyper-efficient, low usage, a great screener, and capable passer.
He unlocked a lot of what made the Knicks so successful last season. He’s set to play a major part for what is considered to be the best team in the West. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”70. Jalen Johnson” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 73 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: 87″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/atl.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Johnson’s leap didn’t get covered enough last season as he was a worthy Most Improved Candidate (and probably should have won). At 16 points on 9 boards (!!!) per game on pretty good splits, his versatility is at a premium in the league. Will Atlanta be able to get its collective stuff together to better showcase how good he’s become? — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”71. Devin Vassell” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 72 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 89″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/sas.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Vassell’s stock has wavered a bit over the past two seasons but last year’s campaign was better than it may have seemed. The consensus was basically that San Antonio was just Wemby and some other schmoes, but Vassell averaged 19.5 points and 4.1 assists last season on good efficiency.
With Chris Paul and Stephon Castle to help with playmaking, there’s a good chance Vassell could benefit from less focus but a big scoring role. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”72. Alex Caruso” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 79 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 84″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/okc.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The text messages I got from various personnel people when the Thunder acquired Caruso for Josh Giddey without giving up a single draft pick were not allowable on FCC airwaves. Caruso has been one of the best defenders in the league and shot 40 percent from 3-point range last season.
He’s malleable and consistent, but he’s also never played over 30 minutes and has had some injury issues. Still, he’s a big reason why OKC is expected to repeat as the 1-seed in the stacked Western Conference. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”73. Keegan Murray” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 77 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 88″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/348219_kings.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Murray’s trajectory has been just what you want for a player to develop into a sub-star role player. He’s great defensively, he shot 41 percent from 3-point range, and he makes winning plays. He fits perfectly next to the Kings’ two stars, DeAaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis.
I am concerned, however, that the addition of DeMar DeRozan will cause Murray to get lost. Players like him have not thrived next to DeRozan. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”74. Jonathan Isaac” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Playoff Ranking: No. 78 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 88″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/orl.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
If Isaac can just stay on the floor, he’ll skyrocket up next year’s rankings. When he played, he was one of the most impactful defensive players in the league, while shooting 51% from the field and 37% from 3-point range.
He averaged 1.92 stocks (steals plus blocks) per game and finished 1st in defensive EPM (Estimated Plus Minus) via DunksAndThrees. The Magic committed a big new contract to Isaac, and if he can stay on the floor, he’s set to be one of the most feared defensive players in the league this season. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”75. Jonathan Kuminga” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 78 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 89″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/759063_Warriors.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Did Kuminga make a leap last year or did he just have two good months? This is the quandary. The good stretches from Kuminga were terrific and he jumped in scoring 11 points per game in November to 14 points per game in December and then 20.6 points per game in Januaxry on 59% from the field and 40% from 3-point range.
What’s interesting is that Kuminga’s impact metrics slid in that January stretch when the Warriors were surging. Maybe Kuminga has really turned the corner and is set to become the star he’s talked about himself being. But he needs consistency before he climbs any higher here. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”76. Zach LaVine ” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 61 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 107″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/chi.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I was genuinely shocked Matt left LaVine off his Elite 100. Maybe LaVine’s knees are cooked, and he really fell off last year, but a healthier LaVine with more of the ball could have a real bounce-back. He quietly suffered sharing the ball in similar spots with DeMar DeRozan but should be featured more here and could end up back on the trade block if he looks healthy enough and the athleticism pops again. Still only four playoff games in his career, a real bummer. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”77. Brook Lopez” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 81 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 87″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mil.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Lopez dove 37 spots on this year’s list and I gotta tell you, I don’t feel great about it. But the reality is that Brook’s 32, the defensive impact fell quite a bit, and I’m projecting a bit more of a slide this year. Splash Mountain is still a guy you can win with, but I am concerned he may be approaching the cliff of impact. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”78. Donte DiVincenzo” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 84 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 85″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-minnesota-timberwolves.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Villanova Superfriend turned Minnesota sharpshooter DDV finished third in total 3-point makes last season at 40 percent. He’s a good playmaker, a plus defender, and a low-mistake player. He helps you win.
There’s a non-zero chance he winds up starting for a team that made the conference finals last season. They won’t admit it, but there’s a good chance DDV was the real reason the Wolves agreed to the KAT trade. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”79. Klay Thompson” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 85 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 86″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/dal.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
It pains me to have a Splash Brother this low, but Father Time catches everyone eventually. Thompson’s defense fell off a cliff last year and his offense feels like nothing but very high or very low points. He’ll pour in 30+ as he did four times last season and then go 0-10 like he did in the Warriors’ play-in exit.
But in Dallas, his role is simplified and he’s still a net-plus impact player. Thompson gets to play in a less taxing offensive system (“Just stand there and shoot”) as a third option. If he manages to win a title, you can bet he’ll let Golden State know about it until the end of his days. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”80. Immanuel Quickley” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 77 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 98″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/tor.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Quickley takes a dip here after struggling with efficiency and impact when moved into a starting role with the Raptors. He’s still a great firebug starter and could see a jump this year if the Raptors stay healthy and find a way to a. make shots and b. defend a little bit. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”81. Dereck Lively II” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 59 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 118″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/dal.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I’m taking a strong position on Lively. In Year 1, he established that he’s the rim runner that Luka’s been looking for, he has some touch from floater range and around the rim, might have long-term stretch potential, and can protect the rim with his length and shot-blocking instincts enough to help the Mavericks go form categorically awful defensively to really good.
Lively in a vacuum isn’t as good as many of the players behind him. But for me this list incorporates what they’re capable of doing in the specific position and role that they’re in.
Lively is set to be 1/2 of the best pick and roll combination in the league over the next five years outside of only maybe Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, and he’s better defensively than any of those. Lively isn’t just the guy who gets Luka lobs. He’s the guy who makes everything easier for Doncic. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”82. Chris Paul” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 81 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 97″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/sas.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
This hurts. The Point God at 82. Father Time’s a real jerk. But CP3 turns 40 in the spring and 40 is 40, unless you’re LeBron. If it weren’t for the King, we’d all be amazed that CP is as good as he still is at this age, but from defense to burst, he’s not the same. Still, Paul held up the Warriors’ 2nd unit to start the season and should continue to pour in assists on lobs to Wemby. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”83. Malik Monk” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 71 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 107″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/348219_kings.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Monk would have won Sixth Man of the Year had he not suffered a late-season injury. His overall efficiency isn’t great, but he has the ability to torch teams and change momentum in a heartbeat. His assist rate is good; he’s more than a pure gunner. Monk and DeMar DeRozan should have a lot of fun together this season. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”84. Michael Porter Jr.” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 74 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 108″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/725847_nba_den_150x150.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Matt was conservative in his Nuggets rankings, but MPJ may have become underrated. He also may be playing out of position. Porter is a great rebounder and a genuinely elite shooter for his size, but those strengths are somewhat muted in Denver. Could he be a Lauri Markkanen type weapon at the four, warping the defense and scoring more? He’s miscast and overpriced as effectively a role player in Denver. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”85. Coby White” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 66 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 116″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/chi.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
White jumped 167 spots on my list year over year and while the scoring jump that put him in the Most Improved ballot is obvious, it was how he learned to play point guard that impressed me most.
Chicago is facing a transition season with veterans who need to be traded still on roster and younger players to implement, but White will be given the keys and allowed to grow. If he can bump up his good-not-great efficiency, he has real star potential. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”86. Bogdan Bogdanović” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: 80 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 104″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/atl.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Bogdanovic is 32, but the Olympics showed what he still has as a scorer and creator. As good as Atlanta’s offense is, Bogdanovic stands out as a player that fits within it but doesn’t seem to need the mechanisms around it. He’s plug and play and hopefully will get a chance to play meaningful basketball this season…. one way or another. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”87. Jusuf Nurkić” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 86 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 99″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/875040_Suns.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Nurkic had his best season since 2019 by impact metrics and was vital in building successful Suns lineups. He’s the only quality screener the team has, and his rebounding was elite. New coach Mike Budenholzer is either going to get the best out of Nurkic or the Suns will be shopping his contract at the deadline. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”88. Josh Hart” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 93 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 94″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-york-knicks-updated-logo-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
All heart, grit grind. The lovable motorhead forward for the Big Apple’s Blessed is a huge difference maker on the glass, on defense, and in transition. His jumper leaves a lot to be desired, but he finds a way to make an impact anyway. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”89. T. J. McConnell” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 83 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 105″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/ind.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The consummate backup point guard. Everything you need in a floor general with three-level scoring as well. McConnell finished 71st percentile at the rim, 91st percentile from mid-range at an outrageous 50 percent, and 87th percentile from 3-point range (40.9%) with the fourth-best assist rate in the league. You want McConnell on your side. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”90. Nic Claxton” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 90 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 99″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/brooklyn-nets-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Last one in for Nic Claxton who took a big tumble in these rankings. It’s not that Claxton didn’t play well last year, but his efficiency took a tumble and he continues to be a sub-30-minute player. He’s just re-signed with a team that will likely win fewer than 20 games this season. It’s hard to see him having an impact this season with the team he’s on. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”91. Collin Sexton” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 58 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 134″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/4868_jazz.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
I’m exclusively responsible for Sexton making this list, ranking him at 58 with Matt leaving him nearly a full Elite 100 behind. Sexton took a real leap last season as a playmaker, and his shot looks real and is proven at this point while his free throw rate is on its way up too. He’s become a serious weapon offensively, even as the defense lags horribly behind. When some team eventually comes calling for Lauri Markkanen, I’d want to be the second team swooping in after for Sexton. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”92. Naz Reid” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 67 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 126″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-minnesota-timberwolves.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
The reigning Sixth Man of the Year was exceptional last year in making plays that helped his team win: key buckets, big rebounds, defensive stops. Reid has various weaknesses, but fans love him, and he contributes in both box-score and non-box-score ways. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”93. RJ Barrett” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 82 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 113″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/tor.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Was not expecting to have Barrett in the Elite 100, honestly, at any point. Barrett turned a real corner last season, not just with career highs in points and assists, but in efficiency with increased usage. Barrett’s numbers spiked even higher after the trade to Toronto and if the Raptors can be in the playoff hunt this year, Barrett has a real chance at Most Improved Player. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”94. Jaden McDaniels” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 70 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: Not Ranked” center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/08/nba-updated-logo-minnesota-timberwolves.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
McDaniels defines this range as a specialist with viability in other areas. McDaniels’ offense leaves a bit to be desired but he’s also in the conversation for the best perimeter defender in the NBA. He’d be a DPOY candidate if he didn’t play next to Rudy Gobert. He has trouble with bigger opponents and can get himself in foul trouble, but he’s still hugely impactful. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”95. Brandon Miller” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 74 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 123″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/charlotte-hornets-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Miller’s 10,000-foot view was “OK, not great.” He’s a player that you needed to spend time watching to understand how polished and good he’ll be in his career. He’s a three-level scorer with great control.
His finishing numbers were poor but on clips you can see his command on english off the glass and his explosiveness on dunks. There’s a path where he makes a quiet jump this season for a team totally under the radar and sets up a Most Improved Player campaign in 2025. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”96. Mitchell Robinson” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 97 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 104″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-york-knicks-updated-logo-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
We took availability into account, and the unfortunate fact is that Robinson is rarely available with a long injury history. When he’s on the court, the Block Ness Monster is a behemoth protecting the rim, and he’s quietly huge offensively for New York with 4.2 offensive rebounds a game over the last four seasons affording the Knicks valuable second chances. New York badly needs his defense with its new roster construction. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”97. Jose Alvarado” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 75 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: Not Ranked” center=”false” logo1url=”https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2023/07/new-orleans-pelicans-logo-updated-2023.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
This will probably ruffle some feathers but you need to understand that I genuinely think Alvarado helps his team win more than any other bench player.
You’d rather have Malik Monk or Naz Reid for any number of reasons, but every lineup with Alvarado for multiple years running absolutely cooks. The Pelicans were +12 in net rating when Alvarado played and +2 when he sat. — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”98. Andrew Nembhard” subtext=”Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 76 | Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: Not Ranked” center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/ind.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Am I overreacting to one playoff run? Absolutely! But when teams worked to disengage Tyrese Haliburton in his first playoff run, Nembhard stepped up and delivered. He shot 75 percent at the rim and 48 percent from 3-point range. He was tasked with difficult defensive assignments night after night and held up (to a better degree than the overall terrible Pacers defense at least). — (Moore)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”99. Marcus Smart” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 98 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 105″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://static.sprtactn.co/teamlogos/nba/100/mem.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
What exactly is Marcus Smart? He’s fallen off the radar after being traded away from Boston and missing most of his first season in Memphis injured, but he could be more valuable in the Dillon Brooks SF role as a defensive stopper with less of the ball in his hands, less decision making and shooting. The former DPOY can be so disruptive on that side of the ball and changes games that way. — (Anderson)
[subheader sizedown=”true” text=”100. Deni Avdija” subtext=”Brandon Anderson’s Ranking: No. 96 | Matt Moore’s Ranking: No. 109″ center=”false” logo1url=”https://assets.actionnetwork.com/312105_Blazers.png” link1=”” link1follow=”true” logo2url=”” link2=”” link2follow=”true” trailinglogourl=”” trailinglink=”” trailinglinkfollow=”true”][/subheader]
Avdija was the only player with good impact stats for the Wizards, a feat that is almost impossible given how much they suck collectively. He shot 65% at the rim (68th percentile) and 38% from 3-point range (65%). At 23, he might be entering a breakout. If he played for a team trying to win, he’d be a certified MIP candidate coming into the year. — (Moore)
Honorable Mentions
Austin Reaves | Buddy Hield | Lu Dort | Al Horford | Kentavious Caldwell-Pope | Daniel Gafford | Bennedict Mathurin | Tyler Herro | Jalen Smith | Jerami Grant | CJ McCollum | Cameron Johnson | P.J. Washington | Malcolm Brogdon | Lonzo Ball | Tobias Harris | Brandin Podziemski | Terry Rozier | De’Anthony Melton | Jabari Smith Jr. | Anfernee Simons | Jakob Poeltl | Aaron Nesmith | Kyle Anderson | Josh Giddey | Amen Thompson | John Collins | Walker Kessler | D’Angelo Russell | Harrison Barnes | Kevin Love | Russell Westbrook | Scoot Henderson