Ranking the top 100 NBA players (2022)
38. . C. Orlando Magic. Wendell Carter Jr.. 75. player
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 75. Wendell Carter Jr., Magic
Wendell Carter Jr. emerged in a big way for the rebuilding Magic last season. He not only expanded his offensive skill set — from a reliable 3-point shot to acrobatic footwork in the post — but he really locked in on defense. He’s a genuinely high level two-way anchor now, and he should be right at the forefront of Orlando’s long-term plans.
player. 170. . PF. Charlotte Hornets. Miles Bridges. 74
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 74. Miles Bridges, Hornets
Miles Bridges went from cool bench wing to a 20-point scorer and a central figure in Charlotte’s high-octane offense. His dunks have gathered him a cult following, but he’s making the leap to potential max player. He’s more consistent from 3-point range and more dynamic attacking his man off the dribble, using his strength and unique athleticism to score in various ways at the rim. The defense is a work in progress, but he has all the tools for success under a new coaching regime.
player. 89. . C. Milwaukee Bucks. Brook Lopez. 73
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 73. Brook Lopez, Bucks
Brook Lopez missed most of the season to injury but immediately reasserted his importance to Milwaukee’s success upon his return. He’s a knockdown 3-point shooter and one of the NBA’s most underrated rim protectors. His rock-solid presence in the lane makes it a whole lot easier for Giannis Antetokounmpo to do what he does as a DPOY-caliber roamer.
. C. Indiana Pacers. Myles Turner. 72. player. 100
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 72. Myles Turner, Pacers
Myles Turner will probably lead the NBA in blocks whenever he’s healthy for enough games. The Pacers have a lot of tough decisions to make this offseason, chief among them being Turner’s future with the franchise. Is he a true building block, or someone you exchange for younger players and picks? Either way, Turner’s impressive shot-blocking acumen and versatility as a scorer should allow him to thrive in any situation.
. PF. New York Knicks. Julius Randle. 71. player. 27
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 71. Julius Randle, Knicks
Julius Randle fell back to earth after his breakout 2021-22 season. He’s not All-NBA caliber, and the Knicks probably won’t go far with him as the centerpiece. Even so, there aren’t many bigs who can do what Randle does offensively. He’s not always efficient, but he’s a great tough shot-maker who poses a threat at every level. He’s also a great passer for his position and a genuine offensive hub working from the elbow or out of the post. He can fill up the stat sheet any day of the week.