10. F Kevin Durant, Suns
At this point in his career, it would make sense for Kevin Durant to save himself in the postseason by bringing down his usage during the regular season. He has two players who can carry an offense almost as well as he can. That being said, Durant is still the best pure scorer in the NBA, but for the sake of his health, he might not be the focal point of the Suns offense this season.
9. SG Devin Booker, Suns
The focal point of the Suns’ offense this year will be Devin Booker who’s proven over the past several seasons that he’s the best shooting guard in the NBA. He might not be the best player in Phoenix, but it’s his team and it’s not unreasonable to state that the Suns will go as far as he takes them this season. He’s in his prime and is more capable of being able to carry this team than the other two stars on this roster during the regular season.
8. PG Luka Doncic, Mavericks
The Mavericks have done everything they can in order to build a solid roster around superstar Luka Doncic. There’s no question that Doncic is one of the most well-rounded offensive players in the NBA but his defense is still lacking at this point in his career. If he and the Mavericks fail to make a deep playoff run again this season, then he might not want to stay in Dallas long-term.
7. PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
It’s true that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) isn’t as good as a shooter on offense, but he’s essentially on the same level as Doncic in all other offensive categories and he’s much better defensively. If he improves his 3-point shooting, nobody will be able to guard him. If that happens, the Thunder could be a problem in the West.
6. SF LeBron James, Lakers
Despite entering his 21st season, LeBron James is still one of the best players in the NBA. He may not be the defender he used to be when healthy, but he was still one of the best offensive players in the NBA. If that continues, then the Lakers will be a contender in the West.