21. Jonathan Isaac, Orlando Magic
Isaac should make serious strides in year two, emerging as one of Orlando’s core building blocks. He showed flashes in limited playing time last season, but his rookie campaign was largely lost to injury.
If he stays healthy, Isaac has the makings of an ultra-versatile 6-foot-11 defender. He also showed some upside as a go-to scorer in Summer League, though he’s probably a few years away from hitting his scoring peak. He’s part of an exciting defensive duo next to Mohamed Bamba.
20. Rudy Gay, San Antonio Spurs
Gay took a step back last season, but not necessarily in a bad way. He adjusted well to a sixth man role in San Antonio, offering Gregg Popovich shot-creation off the bench. That might not be the case this season, with Danny Green, Kyle Anderson and Kawhi Leonard gone.
DeMar DeRozan, the Spurs’ new star, already has chemistry with Gay from previous years in Toronto. There’s a very real chance that Pop rolls with Gay in the starting five this season, although Marco Belinelli is another option.
19. Kyle Anderson, Memphis Grizzlies
Speaking of Anderson, he comes in just one spot ahead of Gay. Slo Mo’s game doesn’t scream “modern NBA”, but he’s a skilled offensive player who fits the Grizzlies’ mold. With a fresh four-year contract, expect to see him in the starting five.