Ranking every NBA young core — 22. New York Knicks
- R.J. Barrett, Mitchell Robinson, Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, Kevin Knox, Obi Toppin, Miles McBride, Jared Harper, Jericho Sims, Dwayne Bacon
The Knicks made the playoffs last season, in large part because of their young core. However, with Julius Randle no longer 25 or under, it’s hard to put New York much higher than this. R.J. Barrett made immense strides as a sophomore, and should look even better with New York’s improved spacing next season. Also, when healthy, Mitchell Robinson is an electric force in the middle.
Unfortunately for New York, Mitchell’s future is hazy, and Immanuel Quickley — while an absolute joy to watch — doesn’t move the needle far enough to crack the top 20. Obi Toppin was a mistake in the lottery, and Quentin Grimes was (in this writer’s opinion) not the best pick in this year’s first round. Miles McBride rules, on the other hand, and is probably New York’s best rookie.
Ranking every NBA young core — 21. Toronto Raptors
- O.G. Anunoby, Gary Trent Jr., Scottie Barnes, Malachi Flynn, Precious Achiuwa, Dalano Banton, Freddie Gillespie, Justin Champagnie
There is no player more universally underrated and underappreciated than O.G. Anunoby, who is a borderline top-60 NBA player and the biggest All-Defense snub from last season. He should look pretty, pretty good with expanded duties next season, stepping into a larger scoring role following Kyle Lowry’s departure.
The Raptors also re-signed Gary Trent Jr. to a pricey long-term extension. I’m not sure that was the best use of money — especially with a long rebuild ahead — but Grant is a dynamo from 3-point range. Scottie Barnes was the No. 4 pick, somewhat controversially so, and should provide excellent all-around production as a rookie. Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn don’t get much love, but are already rotation-level players in the NBA.