15. Patrick Beverley, Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers’ rotation induces jealousy. It’s irritatingly well balanced, with a strong starting five and the NBA’s best bench. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are the main attractions, but the whole rotation is comprised of strong NBA players — Patrick Beverley included.
Now signed to a three-year extension, Beverley will again provide his typical grit to the Clippers’ backcourt. He’s undersized, but defends as hard as anyone and tends to irritate opposing ball handlers as a result. He also shot 39.7 percent from deep, his fourth straight season hitting 38+ percent of his 3-point attempts.
14. Malcolm Brogdon, Indiana Pacers
How Malcolm Brogdon performs in an expanded role will be interesting. There’s part of me that agrees with Milwaukee’s decision to not pay him, as Brogdon’s value was rooted in spot-up shooting, situational passing and sturdy defense. Not star-level creation skills.
In Indiana, however, Brogdon will eventually spend his time next to Victor Oladipo, which will relieve some of that burden. Brogdon is prolifically efficient. Last season, he joined the 50-40-90 club — 50.5 percent from the field, 42.6 percent from deep and 92.8 percent at the line.
13. Eric Bledsoe, Milwaukee Bucks
Eric Bledsoe was an All-Star snub last season, perhaps by his own teammate in Khris Middleton. He found a nice groove in Mike Budenholzer’s system, providing dribble penetration and a staunch on-ball defender.
Due to his strength, lateral quickness and ability to fight over screens, Bledsoe sits among the premier lead guard defenders in basketball. That alone provides tremendous value, with Giannis Antetokounmpo providing a catch-all backstop. He can also use his strong frame to get downhill and finish inside.