It has been a struggle at times this season for the former No. 1 pick, but we know what Deandre Ayton is capable of. He should find some new life with Kevin Durant drawing so much attention in tandem with Devin Booker and Chris Paul. Ayton is a singular athlete in the paint, still a dominant rim protector and explosive interior finisher who is slowly expanding his scoring repertoire each season.
Perhaps the most forceful and exciting lob target in the NBA, Jarrett Allen has no shortage of highlight reel plays on his résumé. He’s an excellent pressure-release valve for Cleveland’s All-Star ball-handlers. He also happens to be a credible DPOY candidate and one of the league’s top rebounders.
Rudy Gobert’s transition to Minnesota has been shakier than expected. It’s fair to wonder if his massive contract will hold up, and yes, the Timberwolves likely regret giving up the mountain of picks they sacrificed to get him. That said, Gobert remains a singular defensive force who completely changes the calculus of opposing offenses. He’s not as bad as certain corners of the NBA discourse would have you believe.