12. Buddy Hield, Sacramento Kings
Buddy Hield played a major role in the Kings’ ascension last season, averaging 20.7 points on 45.8 percent shooting — including a stunning 42.7 percent 3-point clip. He’s one of the best shooters on the planet, plain and simple. That has inherent value.
Due to his range, Hield spreads the floor and commands significant defensive attention. When slotted next to De’Aaron Fox, a speedster who puts pressure on the rim, and Marvin Bagley, a premier rim-running athlete, it’s easy to project future success for the Kings.
- PG: De’Aaron Fox | Position Rank: 10th
- SG: Buddy Hield | Position Rank: 12th
11. Josh Richardson, Philadelphia 76ers
After serving as Miami’s top scorer in 2018-19, Josh Richardson will step into a vastly different role in Philadelphia. He’s essentially the Sixers’ fifth-best player — and, depending on how you slice it, between the fourth or fifth option on offense.
That should benefit Richardson. Once the inevitable adjustment period passes, Richardson should yield a more efficient shot chart in a role that will highlight open 3s and dribble handoffs. Even in a lighter role, Richardson will still carry great importance as one of Philadelphia’s primary weapons in the halfcourt setting.
Last season, Richardson averaged 16.6 points and 4.1 assists on an underwhelming 41.2 percent shooting. Given the upcoming role change, I would anticipate a rise in that number. Where Richardson’s value is rooted, of course, is defense.
Richardson is an elite point-of-attack defender who will be tasked with locking up opposing point guards in Philadelphia. The Sixers’ rotation is focused on length and defense. Richardson fits the bill — a 6-foot-6 wing who can aptly bottle up lead guards.
- PG: Ben Simmons | Position Rank: 5th
- SG: Josh Richardson | Position Rank: 11th
10. CJ McCollum, Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers cemented their backcourt this summer, signing CJ McCollum to a $100 million extension. While there have been periodic questions about the Damian Lillard-McCollum pairing, it continues to work. McCollum is a useful option-B, giving Portland two viable shot creators to fall back on.
We have seen growth from McCollum as a playmaker and defender in recent seasons. While he’s not spectacular in either area, he’s becoming passable — or perhaps a bit better than passable. He’s a well-rounded offensive threat and a deserving top-10 inclusion.
- PG: Damian Lillard | Position Rank: 2nd
- SG: CJ McCollum | Position Rank: 10th