Ranking 76ers’ James Harden and the top 30 NBA point guards
. PG. Boston Celtics. Marcus Smart. 18. player. 18
The reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart is the rare guard who can competently check 4-5 positions depending on the matchup. His brute strength at the point of attack, combined with ceaseless effort and preternatural instincts, make Smart a nightly game-changer on that side of the ball. He’s also a timely shot-maker and effective set-up man.
PG. Detroit Pistons. Cade Cunningham. 17. player. 64.
The former No. 1 pick has been plagued by injuries and inefficiency to start his NBA career, but the talent is obvious. At 6-foot-7, he has tremendous size for his position. Cunningham’s penchant for pull-up jumpers and his passing wizardry all suggest future stardom if he’s ever able to stay on the court and build up rhythm over time.
. PG. Denver Nuggets. Jamal Murray. 16. player. 73
Jamal Murray hasn’t returned to the level of production he achieved prior to tearing his ACL. Not that long ago, Bubble Murray looked like the NBA’s next superstar guard, on the same level as Donovan Mitchell and (pause for a reminiscent chuckle) Ben Simmons. He may yet reach that level again, but even in his currently diminished form, Murray is a consistent, efficient 20-point scorer who can oscillate roles depending on the personnel on the floor.