25. Bennedict Mathurin, Pacers
After being one of the better sixth men in the NBA last season as a rookie, there’s little reason why the Indiana Pacers shouldn’t start Bennedict Mathurin next season. The 6-foot-6 guard is pretty one-dimensional in terms of his overall game, but there’s no denying he’s a very good three-level scorer.
24. Jaden Ivey, Pistons
Jaden Ivey had a very good rookie season with the Detroit Pistons, but there are areas for him to improve. The 6-foot-5 combo guard’s best skills are his scoring and playmaking, both areas need improvement if he wants to live up to his lottery selection. If he does, then the Pistons have a chance to start winning more games.
23. Herbert Jones, Pelicans
There’s no denying that Herbert Jones is one of the best defenders in the NBA, but a lack of a consistent out has held him back in terms of getting more minutes with the New Orleans Pelicans. If the 6-foot-8 wing can improve his outside shot then there are no issues, but if not then Trey Murphy III could potentially take his spot.
22. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Nuggets
It’s hard to believe that Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has not just one but two NBA titles. This second one came with the Denver Nuggets this past season. The 6-foot-5 shooting guard has established himself as one of the better 3-and-D wings in the NBA.
21. Jordan Clarkson, Jazz
It appears that the former Sixth Man of the Year has become the full-time starting shooting guard with the Utah Jazz. The 6-foot-4 is a score-first type of player and a veteran leader on the rebuilding Jazz. It doesn’t hurt he had a career-high scoring this past season.