The NBA season is upon us, and the excitement is building as teams finalize their rosters and players gear up for the competition. This year’s Top 100 players list has been released, sparking discussions across the basketball community. Notably absent from the list is Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets, though his impact, especially on defense, remains respected. As Jasmyn Wimbish pointed out, "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."
One of the more surprising entries is Andrew Nembhard of the Indiana Pacers, who claimed the 94th spot. Nembhard's role alongside Tyrese Haliburton is critical for the Pacers, as noted by James Herbert: "He's the kind of player the Pacers need next to Tyrese Haliburton, so opposing teams think twice about simply daring everybody else to beat them." Nembhard’s influence on the court could be a game-changer for Indiana this season.
Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets secured the 91st position. Despite his potential, Claxton’s usage rate has yet to rise significantly, hovering around 15.6%. James Herbert again provides insight: "He has shown off his handles in transition, and he has kind of incredible touch around the basket, but Claxton's usage rate has yet to rise above 15.6%." This season could be pivotal for Claxton as he seeks to establish himself further.
The Portland Trail Blazers' Jerami Grant finds himself ranked 78th, amidst questions about his future with the team. Brad Botkin highlights a potential dilemma for the Blazers: "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 comes in at 73rd. Known for his defensive prowess, Hartenstein has become a vital part of the Knicks' rotation. Sam Quinn praised his defensive skills, saying, "He's a defensive metrics darling -- D-EPM rated him the second-best defender in basketball last season behind only Jonathan Isaac." Hartenstein’s ability to influence the game with his defense will be crucial for the Knicks this season.
Khris Middleton, the Milwaukee Bucks’ sharpshooter, is ranked 61st. As Jack Maloney notes, Middleton is transitioning into a new phase of his career: "Middleton is moving into a different phase of his career, one where he is firmly a third option for the Bucks." His experience and shooting acumen remain essential for the Bucks' championship aspirations.
Ranked 60th, Herbert Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans is another defensive standout. Sam Quinn succinctly captured his unique value: "There isn't another Herb Jones out there." His commitment on the defensive end makes him a player to watch this season.
Draymond Green, the heartbeat of the Golden State Warriors, finds himself at 56th. Green’s importance to the Warriors goes beyond his defensive capabilities; Brad Botkin notes, "Quietly, Green shot nearly 40% from 3 last season on over two attempts a game." This improvement in his shooting adds another layer to his already multifaceted game.
Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks has vaulted to the 13th spot, a testament to his stellar performances, especially during the playoffs. James Herbert highlighted Brunson’s historic playoff run: "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." Additionally, Brunson recently signed a four-year, $156.5 million extension, cementing his role as a cornerstone for the Knicks.
At the pinnacle of the Top 100 list is Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets. Jokic’s humility and focus on team success are what make him extraordinary. Brad Botkin eloquently stated, "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 ability to dominate the game while maintaining his grounded persona sets him apart in today’s NBA.
This season promises to be filled with excitement and intrigue as these players, and many more, take to the court to showcase their talents. From rising stars to established veterans, the NBA's landscape is rich with stories waiting to unfold.