Projecting the top 125 NBA players for 2022-23 season
player. 64. . G. Detroit Pistons. Jaden Ivey. 115
Ranking NBA players — 115. Jaden Ivey, Pistons
Jaden Ivey is going to feast next to Cade Cunningham. And, after spending his college career in a slow-paced, big man-oriented offense, he’s going to look drastically more comfortable in the pace-and-space NBA game. He has drawn premature and mildly unfair comparisons to Memphis MVP candidate Ja Morant, but Ivey does have the burst and athleticism to become immediate must-watch television.
Phoenix Suns. Jae Crowder. 114. player. 66. . F
Ranking NBA players — 114. Jae Crowder, Suns
Jae Crowder continues to supply grit and competitive spirit wherever he goes. He’s built like a tank and he takes pride in his stalwart presence on defense. On offense, he’s a useful complementary piece who makes 3s and doesn’t hog the ball. His winning attitude and strong postseason track record are hard to deny.
Keegan Murray. 113. player. 84. . F. Sacramento Kings
Ranking NBA players — 113. Keegan Murray, Kings
Keegan Murray is the oldest lottery pick and should be able to contribute right away for the lowly Kings. He was the best offensive player in college basketball last season and he’s ready to step right into a key starting role with Sacramento. Murray can score in a variety of ways with his strong frame, soft shooting touch, and polished footwork.
156. . F. Cleveland Cavaliers. Kevin Love. 112. player
Ranking NBA players — 112. Kevin Love, Cavaliers
Kevin Love was my pick for Sixth Man of the Year last season. He did a little bit of everything for a very good (if unlucky, injury-wise) Cavaliers team. His 3-point shooting, passing, and rebounding in the frontcourt were of great importance. The versatility of his offensive skill set also allows him to fit within several different lineup configurations — important when you have two young stars in the frontcourt like Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley.
player. 211. . F. Memphis Grizzlies. Brandon Clarke. 111
Ranking NBA players — 111. Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies
Brandon Clarke was one of many unsung heroes on a deep and dynamic Grizzlies team last season. It’s easy for anyone to get buried beneath on that depth chart, but Clarke shined as an ultra-efficient rim runner who can defend in space, protect the rim, and clean the glass despite his slender 6-foot-8 frame.