Ranking the top 100 NBA players (2022)
PF. Memphis Grizzlies. Jaren Jackson Jr.. 50. player. 211.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 50. Jaren Jackson Jr., Grizzlies
Jaren Jackson Jr. will be in the DPOY conversation for the next decade. He’s the highest volume shot-blocker in the NBA, with next-level instincts and great mobility for his size. Jackson still fouls too much, which can cut into his playing time, but he should only get better from here. He’s also a bomber from 3-point range who has shown steady improvement as a face-up scorer. He’s edging mighty close to star territory.
49. player. 64. . SG. Detroit Pistons. Cade Cunningham
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 49. Cade Cunningham, Pistons
The No. 1 pick proved why he was the rightful No. 1 pick. It took him a few months to get situated, but by season’s end, Cunningham was performing at a level well above his fellow rookies. He’s a true jumbo-sized point guard, running the show at 6-foot-7 while rounding into form as a dominant t pull-up scorer. He can hit tough shots, the 3-point percentage is going to skyrocket next season, and he’s super crafty on drives to the rim. Expect his first All-Star appearance to come sooner than later.
29. . PG. San Antonio Spurs. Dejounte Murray. 48. player
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 48. Dejounte Murray, Spurs
Dejounte Murray took his game to another level following the departure of DeMar DeRozan. He smoothed over many of the warts in his game, embraced a heftier shot diet, and still played magnificent guard defense for the feisty Spurs. He’s one of the premier triple-double threats in the league right now, and he still has room to grow with his jumper.
66. . SF. Phoenix Suns. Mikal Bridges. 47. player
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 47. Mikal Bridges, Suns
Mikal Bridges didn’t ultimately win DPOY, but one could argue that he’s the best perimeter defender in basketball. He shuts people down one-on-one. There weren’t many players who came close to Bridges’ level of success guarding in isolation last season. He’s also excellent when stationed off the ball, where he’s allowed to use his long arms and quick hands to terrorize passing lanes. On offense, Bridges has grown substantially over his first few NBA seasons. He is becoming more than a simple 3-and-D star.
100. . PG. Indiana Pacers. Tyrese Haliburton. 46. player
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 46. Tyrese Haliburton, Pacers
The Pacers struck gold with the Tyrese Haliburton trade. Immediately upon arrival, he looked comfortable in a larger role. He’s doing more and more to create his own offense, and he’s quickly rising up the ranks of great NBA playmakers. His lengthy 6-foot-6 frame affords him ample versatility on the defensive end too, and he’s comfortable playing with or without the ball depending on which lineup he’s on the floor with.