6. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
On the heels of a historic rookie campaign, Simmons will look to take the next step in year two. He’s already an elite passer, using his unique blend of size, quickness and vision to torture defenses.
The biggest key in Simmons’ development will be diversifying his scoring profile — doing more off the ball and adding some shooting range, even if it’s just the occasional mid-range jumpers. He needs to prove to opposing defenses that he can become a go-to scoring threat.
Simmons is a transcendent talent whose ceiling lies among the NBA’s elite. He’s already an impactful defender at all five positions, while his passing chops were the key that ignited the Sixers’ offensive engine last season.
If can make some important improvements, Simmons might rise a few spots on this list before the 2019-20 season.
5. Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers
For now, it’s still Dame Time in Portland. The Blazers seem committed to competing with their current core, featuring Lillard at the helm. He’s on the verge of perennial All-Star status in a cutthroat Western Conference, which speaks to his talent.
With limitless range and elite scoring chops, Lillard is one of the primer go-to scorers at his position. He also grew significantly as a playmaker and defender last season, although he still has room to grow in the latter department.
4. Kyrie Irving, Boston Celtics
Irving has dealt will several injuries in recent seasons, but he remains the Celtics’ best player when healthy. He could push them over the top in a LeBron-less Eastern Conference next season, giving them another go-to scoring punch late in games.
Like Lillard, Irving’s defense improved greatly last season, potentially due to the change in scenery. He also showed some growth as a playmaker, willingly setting up teammates and spearheading Brad Stevens’ egalitarian offensive system.