Philadelphia 76ers: Where J.J. Redick ranks among all starting shooting guards
6. DeMar DeRozan, San Antonio Spurs
DeRozan has varying levels of support among NBA analysts. Some recognize his elite offensive talent, while others point to his deficiencies. He doesn’t shoot well and tends to lean heavily on isolation scoring and mid-range jumper, almost in the Kobe Bryant vein.
There are definitely downsides to his play style, and the Spurs’ lack of spacing is concerning. But DeRozan is still an elite scorer who improved his playmaking and shooting last season. If he can become a 35 percent three-point shooter, he might move up a few spots in these rankings.
5. Victor Oladipo, Indiana Pacers
Oladipo finally had his breakout campaign, with the former No. 2 pick emerging as the Pacers’ bell cow last season. He’s a decisive slasher who can handle playmaking duties, leading Indiana to a top-five seed last season. They almost beat LeBron and the Cavs in round one.
In addition to his offensive growth, Oladipo is an excellent defender, earning All-Defense honors at his position. He led the league in steals, using his quickness to burst into passing lanes and force turnovers, which often lead to transition opportunities.
4. Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards
Continuing his improvement as a playmaker and defender last season, Beal might be the Wizards’ best player now. He’s already a knockdown shooter, but can now score off the dribble and create for others with consistency.
Beal’s efficiency suffered last season, but that was partially due to taking over the primary scoring and playmaking roles in John Wall‘s absence. He also averaged a career-high 4.5 assists per game, something he can build on.