Top 100 NBA players: Updated rankings for 2023
A jack-of-all-trades big, Wendell Carter Jr. remains an important piece of the puzzle for Orlando. Health issues aside, his mix of interior force, playmaking, and floor-spacing on offense is critical connective tissue for the Magic offense. He’s also one of the best post defenders in the game, with enough lateral quickness to switch onto the perimeter when needed.
A difficult start to the season has led some to cool on Scottie Barnes, but the reigning Rookie of the Year won’t stay quiet for long. A special defender, jumbo-sized playmaker, and gradually improving shooter, Barnes is tailor-made for the modern NBA.
Aaron Gordon looks right at home on the healthy Nuggets, supplying them with play finishing on offense and elite, multi-positional defense. He was asked to do too much last year; in a simplified role, he’s really hammering home his unique value.
Clint Capela can still anchor a defense with nimble feet and first-rate instincts around the rim. His offensive repertoire is limited as ever, but he stays in his lane and excels in that lane.
John Collins has sacrificed a lot for the Hawks’ offense, and struggled under the weight of those sacrifices. But the talent is transparent. A high-flying athlete who can operate out of screen-and-rolls or face up and score off the bounce, Collins brings a lot of dynamism to the offensive end. He can inhabit different roles depending on personnel and he’s active on the glass.