Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 90. Jakob Poeltl, Spurs
Jakob Poeltl is one of the best defensive centers in the NBA, and he doesn’t get nearly enough credit for it. The Spurs are at an organization crossroads, leaving Poeltl’s future very much in doubt, but a wise contender would swipe him up expeditiously on the trade market. He’s just rock-solid protecting the rim. He also dominates on the glass and provides a nice mixture of complementary skills on offense, headlined by his efficient finishing inside.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 89. Kristaps Porzingis, Wizards
The Wizards’ last-ditch effort to appease Bradley Beal may or may not work, but Kristaps Porzingis isn’t the difference-making star we once thought him to be. That said, he’s still a dynamic offensive 7-footer who can lace 3s and block shots at a high clip. He makes the Wizards better, if not all that more frightening in the broader scheme of the Eastern Conference.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 88. Harrison Barnes, Kings
Harrison Barnes has been an anchor for the wayward Kings, both on the court and off the court. He’s consistently praised for his leadership in the locker room and he continues to produce admirably in the 3-and-D role that once made him integral to Golden State’s dynasty. He’s efficient, he plays within himself, and he competes on both sides of the ball.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 87. Seth Curry, Nets
Seth Curry might be the best spot-up shooter in basketball. That alone makes his value difficult to overstate. He commands constant defensive attention as he weaves in and out of screens, staying in constant motion off the ball and forming a deadly two-man game with just about any offensive star. The defense is a problem late in the season, but Curry’s prodigious offensive skill covers up a lot of flaws.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 86. Terry Rozier, Hornets
Terry Rozier is a classically trained bucket-getter and I enjoy watching him. Once erratic and inefficient as Boston’s sixth man spark plug, Rozier has since transformed himself into a legitimate starting guard. He’s an elite 3-point shooter and a great maker of tough shots. The Hornets’ complete lack of defense can be partially attributed to Rozier, but he can straight-up win you a game with his offense.