Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 70. Tyrese Maxey, Sixers
Tyrese Maxey wasn’t terribly consistent in the playoffs and had several games where his impact felt minimal. Then, you look at the numbers, and they’re remarkable for a 21-year-old who spent large chunks of his rookie season out of the regular rotation. His speed and shot versatility is not common for a player at any age, and he’s only going to get better at running point and playing defense. The sky is the limit for Maxey.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 69. Michael Porter Jr., Nuggets
The 6-foot-10 Michael Porter Jr. is one of the best shooters in the NBA. Health is the biggest hurdle for him, but when he’s right, Porter has the makings of a future offensive superstar. He can get to his spots off the dribble and his high release point is borderline unguardable. He needs to get better on defense, and he needs to get better at handling physicality around the basket, but he’s a special talent. Hopefully he can get on the court and then stay on the court.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 68. Christian Wood, Rockets
The Rockets probably aren’t the best team for maximizing Christian Wood’s unique talent, but he’s certainly getting the reps offensively. And there aren’t many bigs who can do what Wood does offensively. His 3-point volume, nimble footwork, and dynamic transition game make him very difficult to fully contain. Not many 6-foot-10 guys have his shot-making talent.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 67. Jordan Poole, Warriors
Jordan Poole has erupted onto the scene for Golden State. He’s already one of the league’s most talented guard scorers. His footwork, touch, and confidence are unassailable. He’s a star on the offensive end. Is he a bad defender? Yes, but geez — look at the guy score. Good golly.
Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 66. Lonzo Ball, Bulls
Lonzo Ball missed most of the season to injury, derailing what looked like a very promising first year in Chicago. He’s not only the perfect “point guard” for that offense — all connective passes, spot-up shooting, and heady off-ball movement — but he’s one heck of a guard defender. And not in the traditional sense. He’s an elite roamer, living in passing lanes and using his length to muck up the opposing offense’s execution.