2017-2018 NBA Preview: Player Rankings 60-51
Once again, we are getting closer and closer to basketball season and thus we continue my top 100 NBA players list. It’s also the perfect time to continue this list because some major sports websites (ESPN, SI, Slam Magazine) started releasing their lists this week and they have stirred up some discussion. See are very own Connor Strayer’s take on Lonzo Ball. Remember, I am ranking these players on what I expect them to do this season. If you disagree, comment below. We’re about to hit the half way point on the list as we unveil players 60-51. Let’s begin.
60 Danilo Gallinari—LA Clippers—SF/PF: It finally appears that Gallinari has been able recover from his torn ACL. In his last two years in Denver, he posted career highs in points per game, field goal and three point percentage. Now in LA, Gallinari forms one of the better frontcourts in basketball with Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan.
59 Reggie Jackson—Detroit—PG: While last year wasn’t terrible, it was still a disappointing year for Jackson. Some of that was due to injury but still disappointing as his points and assists per game went down. If he and the Pistons can remain healthy, they could become a dark horse in the East.
58 Victor Oladipo—Indiana—SG: As the main piece coming back in the Paul George trade, Victor Oladipo has a lot to live up to. On his 3rd team in 3 years, Oladipo is hoping to finally have some stability with an organization. No one has ever doubted his talent, but he will now have to step up on the leadership standpoint.
57 Nicolas Batum—Charlotte—SG/SF: When Batum arrived in Charlotte, he was reborn. During his last year in Portland, Batum was reduced to a role player. But in Charlotte, he’s become a swiss-army knife that can do almost anything. He hopes to help lead the Hornets back to the playoffs.
56 Jeff Teague—Minnesota—PG: In all of the moves that were done in this crazy offseason, this has to be the most underrated move. Teague brings a consistency to the Timberwolves at point, which they were never able to get out of Ricky Rubio. By bringing his veteran presence to the young Wolves, he’ll be able to help Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns grow up fast.
55 Harrison Barnes—Dallas—SF: After signing a max contract to leave the Warriors, Barnes had a very impressive 1st year in Dallas. He averaged 19 points per game and shot very well from the floor, the 3, and the line. But he does seem a bit one dimensional as he doesn’t really excel in anything else. He’ll hope to change that this year.
54 Avery Bradley—Detroit—SG: Avery Bradley quietly had his best season in the NBA last year. He posted career highs in points, rebounds, assists, field goal and 3 point percentage. Now in Detroit, Bradley will have to adjust to a new team for the first time in his career. But considering how consistent and professional he is, it will be an easy transition for him.
53 Jrue Holiday—New Orleans—PG: After signing a massive contract in the offseason, Holiday has a lot to live up to. New Orleans is hoping he, Anthony Davis, and DeMarcus Cousins can form a big 3; so the Pelicans are taking a huge gamble on him. While Holiday has talent, staying healthy has always been his problem.
52 Myles Turner—Indiana—C/PF: With the Pacers moving on from Paul George, Myles Turner has now become the face of the franchise. Turner is just 21 years old and has already shown flashes of All-Star potential. He’s already a gifted offensive player and a fantastic shot blocker. Add 15 pounds of muscle and the Pacers may have found their replacement for George.
51 Zach LaVine—Chicago—SG/PG: Like Oladipo, LaVine was the main asset in a return for a superstar. So he has some expectations to live up to, but you can see the potential. He’s arguably the most athletic player in the league. He’s got the height and he can score. But he does need time to recover from his torn ACL.
Written By: Steven Santoro (SVS_1993)
IT stinks.
How’s Johnny doing?