Top 30 NBA power forwards — 27. Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies
Brandon Clarke was a quiet revelation during the Grizzlies’ postseason run. The former Gonzaga star was always billed as NBA-ready and hyper-efficient coming out of college. The draft analysts were right. Despite his small frame, Clarke is an absurdly gifted finisher at the rim. He’s also a smart passer off the short roll and a generally aware, well-rounded contributor on the offensive end. He plays his role at a very high level and provides useful versatility in the frontcourt defensively.
Top 30 NBA power forwards — 26. Patrick Williams, Bulls
Injuries have made it difficult to lay eyes on Patrick Williams for an extended time period. Even so, what we have seen from the former top-four pick suggests a promising NBA future. He’s built like a truck and can defend all over the court. On offense, he can bulldoze his way to the paint or slay the defense with his polished mid-range game. He needs to put together a full season of development, but Williams is already very good.
Top 30 NBA power forwards — 25. Jarred Vanderbilt, Jazz
Jarred Vanderbilt should have been more seriously considered in the All-Defense conversation. He’s an absolute menace on that side of the ball — a tornado of length and energy. His relentless motor and penchant for mucking up possessions was an important part of Minnesota’s transition from mediocrity to postseason threat. The Wolves needed that dog mentality and Vanderbilt brings it in spades every night.