24. Deni Avdija & Kyle Kuzma & Kristaps Porzingis, Wizards
Kristaps Porzingis is the primary swing factor when it comes to Washington’s success this season. Can he relocate some of his past magic, or will he continue to struggle with injuries and inconsistency. At his best, Porzingis is a commanding rim protector who can shoot effortlessly over the defense. At his worst, Porzingis is a defender who gets burned in space and an offensive player who settles for bad shots. Kyle Kuzma proved his mettle as a full-time starter and it’s not hard to imagine him even outshining Porzinigs when all is said and done. As for Deni Avdija, his blend of defensive versatility and complementary skills on offense should make him the perfect glue guy on the wing.
23. Gordon Hayward & P.J. Washington & Mason Plumlee, Hornets
Charges of domestic violence brought against Miles Bridges are hanging over the Hornets franchise right now. For the purposes of this article, he will not be included. P.J. Washington is next in line — a more than adequate replacement who can work from multiple areas of the court on offense while supplying multi-positional defense. Otherwise, Charlotte’s roster is pretty much the same. Gordon Hayward will try to stay healthy and Mason Plumlee will continue to be a rock-solid (yet exceedingly vanilla) option at the five spot.
22. Dorian Finney-Smith & Christian Wood & JaVale McGee, Mavericks
Dallas’ offseason was fairly simple: Jalen Brunson left, and Christian Wood arrived. The latter figures to look quite good next to Luka Doncic. He’s one of the most versatile and dynamic offensive bigs in the game. He can step out behind the 3-point, face-up and use the in-between game, or get out and run the floor in transition. Next to him is Dorian Finney-Smith, who emerged as a premier defensive wing last season. JaVale McGee has been billed as the starting five. His ability to play above the rim is suited to a Doncic-led offense.