Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 80. OG Anunoby, Raptors
Injuries prevented OG Anunoby from taking the leap many expected him to, but he was still essential to Toronto’s top-five finish in the East. His blend of strength and control offensively is impressive to behold. He can absolutely demolish smaller defenders in the post, and he’s a good enough 3-point shooter to stretch out slower defenders and take advantage off the drive. On defense, he’s one of the best answers to bigger scoring wings in the NBA.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 79. Dorian Finney-Smith, Mavericks
Dorian Finney-Smith should probably get more love in the All-Defense conversation. He’s at the center of Dallas’ elite defense and is a big reason why Dallas made it so far in the postseason. At 6-foot-7, he’s basically a five-position defender. He can battle in the post, play free safety, guard the ball-handler — whatever’s asked of him. He’s an excellent complementary piece on offense too. He deserves more recognition around the league.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 78. Norman Powell, Clippers
Norman Powell has emerged as quite the secondary scoring threat. He’s remarkably efficient at all three levels, with a bankable pull-up jumper and underrated strength finishing through traffic at the rim. He’s a comfortable bet for 15-20 points every night and, at 6-foot-4, he’s surprisingly versatile. He can fit into various roles offensively and he’s comfortable guarding either wing spot.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 77. Alex Caruso, Bulls
Alex Caruso would’ve been in the Sixth Man of the Year conversation (and probably the All-Defense conversation) were it not for injuries. He was the heart and soul of Chicago’s team and really did a lot to elevate them on both sides of the ball. His ability to play the passing lanes and generate turnovers helped kickstart the Bulls’ transition offense, while his connective passing and selfless approach perfectly complemented Chicago’s two star guards.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 76. Jerami Grant, Pistons
Jerami Grant has proven he can play a complementary role offensively and a starring role. That kind of versatility should suit him well, be it next to Cade Cunningham in Detroit or elsewhere. He won’t do much winning at the No. 1 scorer, but he can attack mismatches with vigellence and he’s one heck of a defender. At 6-foot-9, he can guard all over the floor — protecting the weak side, switching onto guards, battling stronger wings. He’s the kind of two-way player contenders should covet.