Top 12 Rookies: 11/2 Update

This ranking is meant as a current snapshot of how rookies are performing so far this season, not a long team ranking. Obviously I don't think Mike James will be better in a few years than Lonzo Ball. The ranking is obviously subjective and could easily be moved around as it pleases. I've tried to balance individual performance with how well the team plays with them on the floor as best I can
01. Ben Simmons, 76ers
Simmons has been everything expected of him (except those that thought he was the next LeBron) and has shown that all the concerns about his jumper (though he has made a few jumpers) just don't matter because he is just that good at making plays and getting to the basket. His level of feel and instinct is off the charts and Simmons hasn't been a "point forward" he's literally a point guard, running the offense in the halfcourt and playing without another point guard on the floor. He's comfortably settled in with Joel Embiid and is showing chemistry with all of his teammates. When Markelle Fultz returns to both the floor and form, it will be interesting to see how he and Simmons work together. In a rookie class that has been excellent so far, Simmons is still lapping the field.
Season Stats*
8 GP, 34.8 mpg, 18.5 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 7.9 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.4 bpg, 3.3 tpg, .530 FG%, 0-5 3P, .553 FT%
Advanced Stats
21.8 PER, 24.2 USG, .545 TS%, -0.8 Net Rating

02. Jayson Tatum, Celtics
After Gordon Heyward's unfortunate injury on opening night, Tatum has seen a lot more of the floor than originally expected and has been awesome on both ends, though somewhat unsustainably so. Tatum has been super efficient (.637 TS%) and has contributed to the Celtics revitalized (though also somewhat fluky) defensive renaissance. However, Tatum's production and efficiency (boosted by an absurd 49% three point shooting) is likely due to decline, not least of which because he hasn't really been as involved in the offense as his box-score stats might show. Tatum is using a mere 17.3% of the Celtics possessions, which is 185th out of 317 qualified players this season. Basically, Tatum is playing small role and is producing at a super high efficiency. Either he stays in the small role and his unsustainable shooting tails off  or his role increases, which will also likely lead to a dip in efficiency. I am not trying to sound too negative on Tatum, he has been really good this season, particularly defensively and on the glass, but there is also a lot of fluke in his offensive performance so far, which will ultimately be his calling card in the NBA.
Season Stats
8 GP, 32.3 mpg, 13.8 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 1.8 apg, 0.8 spg, 1 bpg, 1.9 tpg, .483 FG%, .490 3P%, .829 3P%
Advanced Stats
16.7 PER, 17.3 USG, .638 TS%, +8.4 Net Rating

03. Lauri Markkanen, Bulls
The lone bright spot in an (intentionally) awful Bulls season, Lauri Markkanen has shown that his offensive game has easily translated to the NBA game, as was expected. His shooting is obviously awesome, but his intelligence has also been on display, posting up and scoring on smaller defenders and playing more aggressive when his shot isn't falling. What has been most impressive about Markkanen is that he is doing this with no support and without a point guard to get him good looks. Once he has a good pick-and-roll lead guard to play with that defenses actually respect, Markkanen will be ever more of a threat. One of the most frustrating parts of watching the Bulls is seeing Markkanen get open and be missed by his teammates.
Season Stats
6 GP, 32.5 mpg, 17.2 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.5 spg, 0.5 bpg, 1.7 tpg, .447 FG%, .395 3P%, .783 FT%
Advanced Stats
17.6 PER, 21.5 USG, .598 TS%, -7.9 Net Rating

04. John Collins, Hawks
Collins has basically duplicated the player he was in college: a super-productive and efficient scorer and high volume rebounder. His per-36 stats are impressive 20.2 points, 13.5 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, though unfortunately that also includes averaging a robust 7 fouls per-36, which explains why he is only playing 19.4 minutes per game. Where Collins has shown improvement, fouls notwithstanding, is defensively. In college, Collins played very hard defensively but didn't have the feel and intelligence to be a good defender. Now, slowly but surely as a part of the Hawks excellent player development program Collins is getting there. It will still be a work in progress, but he's getting there. As a testament to how impactful he has been, the Hawks have been a slight net positive with Collins on the floor, despite the fact that his team is 1-7 and being outscored by 8.2 points a game.
Season Stats
8 GP, 19.4 mpg, 10.9 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 0.6 apg, 0.4 spg, 0.9 bpg, 0.9 tpg, .507 FG%, .704 FT%
Advanced Stats
21.7 PER, 23.9 USG, .551 TS%, +0.2 Net Rating

05. Mike James, Suns
After a terrible start to the season and Eric Bledsoe's exile, the Suns have turned things around nicely, going 4-1 including some tough East Coast road games. One of the biggest factors, surprisingly, in this turn around, along with firing their coach and actually trying on the floor, has been 27-year old  rookie Mike James. James, who has played all over the world after playing college Lamar, has taken over as starting point guard for the Suns and showed that he is a dynamic shot maker and scorer. The biggest impact he has had is to free up Devin Booker to play a more efficient style of basketball, which has really helped the Suns offense. James is more of a scorer than an true point guard, and perhaps his best role is off the bench in an ideal scenario. However, that is to take nothing away from just how good he has been so far this season.
Season Stats
8 GP, 23.9 mpg, 12.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 4 apg, 0.9 spg, 0.3 bpg, 2 tpg, .407 FG%, .423 3P%, .857 FT%
Advanced Stats
16.3 PER, 23.7 USG, .541 TS%, +4.4 Net Rating

06. Kyle Kuzma, Lakers
The biggest (positive) surprise from the 2017 draft has to be Kyle Kuzma, who's combination of offensive skill and never ending confidence has allowed him to ease right in to a productive NBA role. Kuzma is just a super skilled shot creator that fits so well into the space oriented modern NBA because of his ability to get to the basket and find himself open looks, which he is converting at a high level. He's also shown a natural feel as a playmaker and passer. As a three-point shooter, he could definitely become above-average, though he may have to clean up some of his shot selection for that to be the case. Defensively is where the concerns are with Kuzma, who has been really bad on that end and lacks physical upside. He'll need to improve defensively to become a full time starter, instead of simply a rotation player, which his offense should ensure he always is. At 22 there are also questions about just how much better he can become in the NBA. If this is it he is still good, though again without starter upside.
Season Stats
8 GP, 26.8 mpg, 15 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.5 spg, 0.1 bpg, 1.4 tpg, .543 FG%, .333 3P%, .692 FT%
Advanced Stats
18.1 PER, 21.6 USG, .614 TS%, -5.7 Net Rating

07. Dennis Smith Jr, Mavericks
Smith has missed time and been somewhat limited by an ankle injury so far this season, though his explosiveness has still been on display attacking the basket and getting up to finish. The Mavericks entire offense is malfunctioning a bit to start the season (they really miss Seth Curry's shooting) so it isn't surprising that Smith hasn't been super efficient so far, though some of that is still on him obviously. Smith's playmaking and passing has been awesome (32.8 assist rate) though he is turning the ball over 21% of the time, which is not unexpected (or even necessarily a bad thing). Where Smith is failing is as an efficient scorer, he has been particularly dreadful beyond the arc and okay inside the arc, though he should be better given his ability. Also dragging down his efficiency is awful free throw shooting. The offense should come around as the Mavericks start clicking, particularly when Seth Curry returns and gives Smith a super spaced floor that he can take advantage of. Defensively whether due to the injury or indifference, Smith has been bad and is back to not trying again. That will be crucial to monitor going forward, because he has the potential to be either very good or very, very bad on that end.
Season Stats
7 GP, 28.1 mpg, 12.3 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 5.1 spg, 0.9 spg, 0.1 bpg, .398 FG%, .259 3P%, .520 FT%
Advanced Stats
9.9 PER, 27.0 USG, .457 TS%, -19 Net Rating

08. Donovan Mitchell, Jazz
After a very rough start shooting the ball this season, Mitchell found his stride in the last three games, making 46% of his shots from the field. Mitchell is definitely a scorer first and foremost, but he has been a little too thirsty to start the season (29.3 usage, which is top 20 in the NBA) and needs to dial it back a bit and take better shots and gun a little less, which should help his overall efficiency. Part of the shots he needs to cut out are contested drives to the basket, which he is not as good at converting as you might suspect, given his inability to jump off of one foot. If he can learn to pass out of those situations, after the defense has collapsed on him Mitchell value will increase quite a bit. Likewise, he'll need to develop more of a floater game and draw more contact as well. There is a lot to like in Mitchell's game, he plays very hard, has tremendous defensive potential, can get anywhere he wants on the floor, and is completely unafraid of taking shots, he just might need to dial it back a bit and become more of a complimentary player for time being.
Season Stats
8 GP, 23.8 mpg, 11.6 ppg, 2 rpg, 2.5 apg, 1 spg, 0.5 bpg, 2.3 tpg, .351 FG%, .316 3P%, .867 FT%
Advanced Stats
9.1 PER, 29.3 USG, .449 TS%, +10.7 Net Rating

09. Lonzo Ball, Lakers
Leaving aside all the hype and silliness, Lonzo Ball has had one of the more interesting starts to as season that I can remember. He has been absolutely dreadful scoring the ball, but has also shown the flashes of passing and effort that have made people fall in love with his game. He has a ton to iron out even when it comes to playmaking and passing, but you cannot teach the kind of intelligence, instincts, and willingness that he has. I think he may always be a so-so scorer and not necessarily the type of player that you run your offense through, but his ability to pass and make winning plays should keep him on the plus side of the ledger for his whole career, even if it isn't always pretty. Basically, I think Ball will be a complimentary player, not a "star" whatever that really means, but one that makes his team better, though still somewhat reliant on his teammates. He isn't going to carry a team on his own, or even as a second banana, but for a team like the Lakers, that want LeBron and Paul George, Lonzo will work perfectly. I don't think he'll make a bad team good, but he'll make a good team great and a great team title contenders.
Season Stats
8 GP, 33.3 mpg, 9.1 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 6.6 spg, 1.1 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2.8 tpg, .326 FG%, .278 3P%, .556 FT%
Advanced Stats
9.8 PER, 18.4 USG, .393 TS%, -8.2 Net Rating

10. De'Aaron Fox, Kings
Like many rookies at this stage, Fox has shown big flashes but has yet to really be a consistent positive influence on the his team. Fox's speed is as advertised and his 33.1 assist rate is excellent. However, nothing he has been doing has helped Sacramento's woeful offense (they have a 96 offensive rating with him on the floor) and that is a concern, considering that Fox's lack of shooting means defenses will always be at an advantage against him in that respect. He's 3-9 from three on the season, but the jumper that will be most important for him to really lock down is the dribble pullup around the foul line/midrange, which defense will give him, fearing his speed to the basket, so he'll have to make them pay there.
Season Stats
8 GP, 27 mpg, 12.5 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 5.1 apg, 0.8 spg, 0 bpg, 1.9 tpg, .404 FG%, .333 3P,% .813 FT%
Advanced Stats

14.4 PER, 25.8 USG, .450 TS%, -12.3 Net Rating

11. Johnathan Isaac, Magic
Like Lonzo Ball, Jonathan isn't the type of player to put up huge scoring numbers, but his defense, rebounding, and ability to space the floor means that his team will be a lot better when he is on the floor. Even as a rookie, this has been the case. Isaac's 4.1 block percentage and +12.2 net rating show just how much impact he is able to have, despite the fact that he still finding his way as an offensive player and not nearly the level of defender he can be once he becomes stronger and more experienced. Isaac's role on offense is decidedly small, but he has been very efficient in that role, which is a good sign.
Season Stats
7 GP, 18.4 mpg, 5.6 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.9 apg, 1 bpg, 1 tpg, .500 FG%, .333 3P%, 8-8 FT
Advanced Stats:
13.7 PER, 12.7 USG, .619 TS%, 12.2 Net Rating

12. Malik Monk, Hornets
Monk is gonna Monk and that means making a ton of shots in a row then missing a ton of shots in a row. He's shooting 35% from the field on the season, yet he won the Hornets a game in the fourth quarter against the the Bucks, scoring 14 points in four minutes. That is what he does and until he either figures out a way to not be so hot and cold from three or he rounds out his game and get to the line more, he is going to continue like that, which has value, just not as much as his highlights might suggest.
Season Stats
8 GP, 21.9 mpg, 10 ppg, 2 rpg, 1.6 apg, 0.5 spg, 0.3 bpg, 1.5 tpg, .353 FG%, .333 3P%, 4-4 FT
Advanced Stats
8.3 PER, 24.4 USG, .461 TS%, -9 Net Rating

Markelle Fultz (Sixers) is rehabbing his injured shoulder, which will hopefully short out all his shooting issues and get him back near the top of this list once he his healthy and right. Josh Jackson (Suns) has disappointed lately, struggling to score with any level of efficiency and, most disappointingly, not contributing his usual high rebound, steal, and block numbers. OG Anunoby (Raptors) is much healthier than anyone thought he would be, though his offense is still a work in progress, he has the potential to be one of the best defensive wings in the league. Ditto for Semi Ojeleye (Celtics) who may always be limited to role player status, but could be very good at that. Dillon Brooks (Grizzlies) is in Memphis' rotation and he's been effective overall, despite his three not falling yet. Jordan Bell (Warriors) is sporting an absurd +40.6 net rating and even on the loaded Warriors, he is standing out as a member of their second unit and the best backup center on the roster. He's only played 64 minutes though. Frank Ntilikina (Knicks) has shown the kind of elite defensive flashes that was expected, it's also clear that the barely 19 year old isn't ready for big time NBA minutes, though the future looks bright. When health has permitted Jarrett Allen (Nets) to play, he's shown himself to already be a serious deterrent at the rim, though he'll need to learn the ins-and-outs of pick-and-roll offense. Bam Adebayo (Heat) has been the same dunk machine he was in college
while TJ Leaf (Pacers) is shooting the three-ball very well so far this year.

*All Stats as of 11/2
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2018 NBA Draft: Early Preview

Guards
Collin Sexton, PG Alabama (6-3, 190) Age: 18
Sexton is a scoring first guard with tremendous physical gifts. He is a highly competitive player on both ends of the court but has some rougher edges that do need smoothing out, which he will look to achieve in his likely one year at Alabama. The favorite at this point to be the first guard drafted, but not in the conversation for the top overall pick at this point, though that would definitely change with a big season.

Bruce Brown, PG/SG Miami (6-5, 190) Age: 21
Brown is combo/playmaking guard that radiates bounce and energy on his aggressive drives to the basket. He might not be a pure shooter or prototypical lead guard, but his ability to get the basket and make plays is a highly coveted skill in the NBA.

Shake Milton, PG/SG SMU (6-6, 205) Age: 21
One of the more underrated players in the college basketball the last two seasons, Shake Milton can play multiple positions, on or off the ball, shoot, pass, and defend. He might not be a potential star, but as a third guard type, there is a lot to like about Milton.

Trevon Duval, PG Duke (6-3, 186) Age: 19
At this point Duval is all athleticism, so it is a good thing that he is so explosive in the open floor and hard to stay in front of in the half court. This athletic ability, plus very long arms, also give him tremendous defensive potential. Skill-wise, he has a long way to go as a shooter, decision maker, and passer, however the upside here is tremendous, but so is the downside.

Lonnie Walker, SG Miami (6-4, 192) Age: 18
Walker is a very good athlete that can get to the rim and shoot from range, but as with most Freshman his decision making and overall offensive game needs polish. He has the skills, now he just needs to think the game as well as he plays it.

Troy Brown, SG Oregon (6-7, 215) Age: 18
Brown isn't a super athlete like a lot of the other players on this list, but he is versatile and intelligent. He can pass, plays defense, and has a good jumper, though he needs more consistent in this area. Not being an upper-echelon will defender will always be a issue, but his smarts makes up for that and more, the line is just a finer one to walk.

De'Anthony Melton, (6-4, 190) PG/SG USC Age: 19
Melton is a versatile player that is one piece away from breaking into top end consideration. He is one of the best, most impactful defensive players in the draft (averaging 1.9 steals and 1 block a game for a guard is special) as well as an unselfish passer and competent scorer. What he needs to improve is his three point shot, without that he is a potential backup, with it he could be monster.

Tyus Battle, SG Syracuse (6-6, 205) Age: 20
Similar to Brown, Tyus Battle is a versatile player both offensively and defensively but without special physical tools. In a bigger role this season the hope will be that he can stand out more as a scorer than he has in the past.

Forwards/Wings
Michael Porter Jr, SF/PF Missouri (6-10, 215) Age: 19
Last spring, Porter was considered by many to be the favorite for the number one pick, but with Marvin Bagley reclassifying and Luka Doncic breaking out over the summer, things are little more up in the air. Porter is a super skilled wing with a ton of offensive upside, will he dominate at Missouri like his talent suggests he should? If he does there is a good chance he is the top overall pick even still.

Luka Doncic, SG/SF Real Madrid (6-7, 185) Age: 18
Doncic confirmed this summer what watchers of Real Madrid have known for a long time: this kid is the real deal and a potential number 1 pick and star in the NBA. Despite being only 18 years old, Doncic more than held his own in Eurobasket and the ACB. He is a tremendously gifted pass and playmaker, he's skilled and can shoot. Are NBA teams willing to take an intentional player at #1 again? Time will tell.

Miles Bridges, SF/PF Michigan State (6-7, 225) Age: 19
Bridges could have been a lottery pick last year, but he surprisingly returned for his Sophomore season, with National Player of the Year type expectations. Bridges is a super athletic dunk machine with a good overall all around game. There is some question if Bridges shooting was for real last season, and his mechanics are not ideal, so that is definitely something to monitor.

Mikal Bridges, SF Villanova (6-6, 210) Age: 21
The other M. Bridges, don't sell Mikal short. He is a super athletic wing with long arms that filled the stat sheet nightly for Villanova and was a super efficient scorer. He'll take on a bigger role at Nova this season and could be in for a huge year.

Justin Jackson, SF/PF Maryland (6-7, 225) Age: 20
Jackson tested the waters up to the deadline last season, but decided instead to return for another season at Maryland. Jackson is a physically imposing combo forward with a sweet outside stroke, though he'll need to round out the rest of his game to project as more than a role player.

Dzanan Musa, SF Cedevita (6-9, 195) Age: 18
Musa is a tall wing from Bosnia and Herzegovina who plays in the Croatian ABA. He is good handling the ball and shooting from the outside, though he needs to improve inside the arc and defensively, which might be difficult consider his physical limitations.

Hamadou Diallo, SG/SF Kentucky (6-5, 198) Age: 19
Diallo blew up the combine last year with a 44.5 vertical leap, but decided to return to Kentucky, where he never actually played a game last season. Diallo is every bit that level of athlete and uses it to attack the basket, rebound, and defend. However, to reach his fairly high ceiling, Diallo need to become a more consistent shooter.

Rodion Kuracs, SF/PF Barcelona (6-8, 190) Age: 19
Kuracs is a skilled wing from Latvia that's a good passer, shooter, and ball handler with the physical skills to create inside and outside the arc. He hasn't played against the best competition, so there might be some growth necessary before he is physically ready to compete.

Isaac Bonga, PG/SG/SF Frankfurt (6-9, 172) Age: 17
The craze to find the next "Greek Freak" has died down, but Isaac Bonga is in that mold. The German international plays in the Bundesliga in Germany. Bonga is super skinny, not a super athlete, and needs to work on his jumper, but you can't teach his natural point guard skills at 6-9+.

Arnoldas Kulboka, SF Bamberg (6-10, 206) Age: 19
Kulboka, a native of Lithuania, is a forward that plays for Bamberg in the Bundisliga, though he is on loan in the Italian Serie A. Kulboka is a well-rounded scorer that can attack the basket and shoot from range. He needs to get much stronger and more consistent, but there is a lot to like in his game.

Killian Tillie, SF/PF Gonzaga (6-10, 200) Age: 19
Tillie hopes to follow in the footsteps of Domantas Sabonis and Zach Collins as Gonzaga big men to get drafted in the lottery. The French native Tillie might be the best of the bunch, he barely played last season but showed a big skill level for his size. How he does with a bigger role will determine where he ends up being draft.

Bigs
Marvin Bagley, PF/C Duke (6-11, 234) Age: 18
Considered by many to be the best prospect in High School basketball, Bagley surprisingly reclassified to the class of 17, so as to be eligible to be drafted a year earlier. Bagley is a big time athlete who plays way above the rim but also has a lot perimeter skills as well. A big year could easily lock him into the top overall spot in the draft.

DeAndre Ayton, C Arizona (7-1, 250) Age: 19
Other players might be considered better prospects in the draft than Ayton, but no one can touch him for talent. He can be an incredibly dominant force on the floor, using his stupid long arms and athletic ability the score from every area of the floor, including from beyond the arc. The problem is Ayton can dominate, but only when he wants to. He needs to play with a consistent effort to reach his potential, which is best player in the NBA high.

Mohamed Bamba, PF/C Texas (6-11, 225) Age: 19
In another draft, Bamba would be an solid top big man, but in the this draft he is a strong third, which is saying something considering Bamba has a 7-9 wingspan and can shoot threes. Though not considered a strong contender for the top overall pick, Bamba could definitely vault into that conversation with a big year.

Robert Williams, PF/C Texas A&M (6-10, 241) Age: 20
Williams was a potential lottery pick who decided to return for another year. Williams is a tremendous shot blocker with big defensive upside who is also developing outside touch as well. He looks like he'll be a lottery pick this year as well and could be in the top ten if his jumper develops more. Williams has a lot in common with Myles Turner.

Jaren Jackson, PF/C Michigan State (6-11, 242) Age: 18
Jackson is another potential lottery big man, a center with defensive upside and an offensive game that is at least intriguing. If Jackson can be more consistent and polish out his offense, he could be a high lottery pick, if not he might be coming back for another year.

Wendell Carter, PF/C Duke (6-10, 259) Age: 18
Carter was all set to be the big man on campus for Duke, but after Marvin Bagley reclassified, his playing time will be uncertain. He isn't a super athlete and doesn't stand out particularly in any area, however through smarts and skill he is effective. How much he plays at Duke may determine how interested teams are, though he has a long track record and would likely be a lottery pick even with a small role.

Chimezie Metu, C USC (6-11, 225) Age: 20
Metu has grown a lot in the last two years and will look to continue on that development curve in his Junior season for a very talented USC team. Metu has physical gifts and production, he just needs to polish out his game.

Mitchell Robinson, PF/C N/A (7-1, 233) Age: 19
Robinson was going to attend Western Kentucky but decided to drop out and prepare exclusively for the draft, a path more prospect should take. Robinson needs to grow and develop as a player but he's got really excellent physical tools. There will be mystery surrounding him but there shouldn't be, he is a high upside project that needs time to develop but has a lot of potential.

Nick Richards, PF/C Kentucky (6-11, 240) Age: 19
Like Robinson, Nick Richards has size, length, and athletic ability but is limited skill-wise at this point. How he develops offensively will be what to watch with him.

Austin Wiley, C Auburn (6-11, 260) Age: 18
Wiley also needs to get better offensively, and he has a massive frame that can be a problem defensively and on the glass, though he lacks the raw athletic ability of Richards and Robinson.

Brandon McCoy, C UNLV (7-1, 250) Age: 19
McCoy is, you guessed it, a physical marvel who needs to get better on offense. Any of these four could breakout and be lottery type picks.

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Top 12 Rookies: Preseason Edition

This list is based on three things: 1. current production, 2. role 3. long term outlook; in that order. All of these players are good and where they are ranked has nothing to do with whether I think they are "good" or not, it is simply an attempt at a snapshot of where they rookies stand right now.

01. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
Simmons hasn't blown the doors off statically but it is obvious watching him that he is a step ahead of the rest of the rookies (and with good reason, Simmons has had a year more of adjustment) both physically and mentally. The defense and shooting concerns remain and likely will for a while, but Simmons ability to handle the ball, pass, rebound, and get to the basket at a legit power forward's size is beyond impressive, a kind of player that is fun to watch and hard to defend.
Preseason Stats
5 GP, 22.8 mpg, 11.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 5.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2 tpg, .489 FG%, 0-3 3P, .409 FT%

02. Dennis Smith Jr, North Carolina State
Like Simmons, Dennis Smith Jr. pops off the screen with an athletic ability that stands out even among NBA players. More importantly, he seems to be working well with the Mavs veteran laden roster already, a relationship that goes ways. With the decision to start Dirk Nowitzki at center, the Mavericks will have at least three capable shooters on the floor with Smith (four when Seth Curry returns) which is more than enough space for Smith to jet into the paint. Like with all rookies (even those with a good rep) defense will be a work in progress, but Smith has the look of a top level playmaker in a perfect situation. Smith rolled his ankle in the Mavs last preseason game, but appears to have escaped without serious injury.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 19.1 mpg, 10.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 4 apg,0.3 bpg, 1.3 spg, 2.3 tpg, .416 FG% .451 3P%, .635 FT%

03. Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers
Ball has only appeared in two games this preseason nursing a fear of De'Aaron Fox hurt ankle, however when on the floor Ball has looked exactly as advertised, pushing the tempo and showing off his tremendous vision. It's hard to judge based on two games, so the jury is still out on how well his funky jumper will work in an NBA setting or if he will be able to run a halfcourt offense well, two of the main wrinkles Ball will have to smooth out if he wishes to reach his ceiling as a prospect.
Preseason Stats
2 GP, 28.5 mpg, 6.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 6 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.5 bpg, 2.5 tpg, .333 FG%, .250 3P%, 1-1 FT

04. Donovan Mitchell, Utah Jazz
After an explosive summer league, Mitchell has continued that into the preseason, popping off the screen in a similar way to Simmons and Smith Jr. What is most important to Mitchell's development is a disappointing one for the Jazz and NBA fans: Dante Exum might miss the entire season with a shoulder injury. This thrusts Mitchell into a bigger role as perhaps the first guard off the bench, playing both guards spots. If Mitchell gets minutes at point guard, it may be rocky at first but in the long term may really help his development.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 27.3 mpg, 17 ppg, 3 rpg, 2.6 apg, 0.6 spg, 2.6 tpg, .410 FG%, .250 3P%, .875 FT%

05. Josh Jackson, Phoenix Suns
Despite being (apparently) the most sought after player in the 2017 draft, Josh Jackson has flown under the radar this preseason, going about his business out in Arizona. So far, Jackson appears to be exactly the same player he's always been: playing hard (occasionally too hard, he needs to be smart AND active), attacking the basket and, despite how ugly his jumper it looks, it keeps going in. He's even been making his free throws at a respectable rate! Through sheer effort, Jackson stuffs the stat sheet, however he still tries to do too much on both ends, resulting in turnover and unnecessary fouls. A key for the Suns will be getting Jackson to play under control, but without sacrificing the energy that makes him such a good player.
4 GP, 28.5 mpg, 15.3 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.3 spg, 1 bpg, 5 tpg, .470 FG%, .461 3P%, .777 FT%

06. Malik Monk, Charlotte Hornets
Injuries to Nic Batum and Michael Carter-Williams has opened up a bigger role for Monk, a door he has stepped through with abandon so far in the preseason. Monk is and likely always will be a streaky gunner, who will light it up one night and be unable to do anything the next, though he will still keep trying. Until he can become a more consistent scorer, Monk will need to add additional value through playmaking, which he has actually shown a little bit of this preseason, running at least a rudimentary side pick-and-roll well enough. Also encouraging for Monk, and something that could be key for him become a more stable option, he has been getting the foul line a little more often than he did in college.
Preseason Stats
5 GP, 28.2 mpg, 15.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.4 apg, 0.2 spg, 0.8 tpg, .356 FG% .325 3P%, .764 FT%

07. De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
A back injury has limited Fox's minutes a bit so far this preseason, but two things have been abundantly clear: Fox is the backup as of now but his quickness is translating well to the NBA. The Kings somewhat confusingly brought in George Hill to the be the starting point guard while relegating Fox to a bunch role. At least at the start of the season, this is the case. Hill could share the backcourt with Fox, but the Kings also have a bunch of young shooting guards they want to play, limiting Fox's minute to purely backup point guard. Perhaps, as the season spirals away from the Kings, Fox will be able to play more, but right now his options seem limited. When he has played Fox looks like he'll be able to break down defenses from day one and his floater/in between game looks as good as ever. There are still the worries about his shooting and whether he plays with enough force to be the kind of finisher and defender you'd hope for, though his ability to pressure ball handlers is exciting.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 16.6 mpg, 10.3 ppg, 1 rpg, 2.6 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 0.6 tpg, .520 FG%, 1-1 3P, .714 FT%

08. Jonathan Isaac, Orlando Magic
Isaac has been good, in his own way, coming off the bench for the Magic so far this preseason. He looks pretty comfortable and natural despite his massive height for a forward and his ability to be a game changing defender is evident. He's still adjusting when it comes to offense and it will remain to be seen if he can expand his game beyond role player status. Isaac appears to be in a solid role off the bench for the Magic, but without the potential for more unless there is a injury to the starters.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 22.8 mpg, 7.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 0.8 apg, 0.8 spg, 1.3 bpg, 1.5 tpg, .395 FG%, .200 3P%, .538 FT%

09. Kyle Kuzma, Los Angeles Lakers
Kuzma has been lighting it up throughout the preseason, as he did in the summer league as well. Despite being a late first round pick, Kuzma has shown enough to speculate on how he projects into the season. Kuzma is a good playmaker and shooter, there isn't ton of question that he can be a positive offensive player, the real question is where does he play? Kuzma is frankly bad at the big man things at this point (0 blocks in 167 preseason minutes), but he may be too slow footed to defend wings. This season will be key to see where he fits, but he doesn't really have much of a role right now. At power forward, the Lakers have Julius Randle and Larry Nance Jr while at small forward they have Brandon Ingram and Luol Deng, both of whom can play at the 4 as well. Are the Lakers willing to bench the highly paid Deng to play Kuzma? Time will tell.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 27.8 mpg, 17.3 ppg, 4 rpg, 1.8 apg, 0.6 spg, 1.6 tpg, .513 FG% .242% 3P%, .785 FT%

10. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
We knew that Tatum would have a reduced role compared to the other top rookies, the question is whether or not Tatum's tough shot/iso heavy style of offense will translate to efficient scoring in the NBA. So far, not so good. Obviously he is adjusting and it is very early but Tatum has struggled to score and to do so efficiently, most distressingly he has only taken five foul shots in 101 minutes. It will be interesting to monitor how Tatum scores this year. He is definitely talented, but there is nothing "easy" about his offense.
Preseason Stats
4 GP, 25.3 mpg, 8.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2 apg, 0.5 bpg, 1 spg, 1.3 tpg, .371 FG%, .333 3P%, .600 FT%

11. Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls
Injury has limited Markkanen's ability to get on the court this season, but when he has played you can see the potential offensive ceiling. Markkanen's jumper is a thing of beauty, basically unstoppable and perfect for pick-and-pop. He's also a better, more mobile athlete than he ever gets credit for, particularly running in transition. His defense will be an area to monitor this season and whether or not he can carve out a bigger role.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 24.6 mpg, 11.6 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 1 tpg, .400 FG%, .388 3P%, 4-5 FT

12. Markelle Fultz, Philadelphia 76ers
Fultz was the best prospect in the draft and would be tops of this list if we're talking long term and overall talent. However, Fultz has attempted to re-work his jumpshot and basically can't shoot anymore, which is very troubling considering one of his biggest strengths was his ability to create mid-range jumpers as well as threaten from three. By this time next year, Fultz will most likely be one of the two or three best players on this list, but right now it is hard to be optimistic about his right now.
Preseason Stats
2 GP, 23.5 mpg, 8 ppg, 2 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.5 spg, 2.5 tpg, .291 FG%, 0-3 3P 3-5 FT

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Fantasy NBA: 5 Potential Draft Bargains

Early round picks have all the excitement, but nailing picks in the later rounds can be just as important to winning your fantasy league:

Dewayne Dedmon, C, Atlanta Hawks
Any one who has done a fantasy draft this year knows that rebounds and blocks are difficult to come by, and centers really dry up quickly. Enter Dewayne Dedmon, who has two things going for him: first, he is one of two true centers on the Atlanta Hawks roster and second, he isn't Miles Plumlee. Dedmon seems like a good candidate to soak up a lot of minutes, where the hope is he can give you rebounds and blocks. Dedmon's per 36 minute stats are excellent 10.5 points, 13.4 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, so the hope is that if he gets starters minutes in Atlanta, he will produce around that level. This is not a sexy pick, and Dedmon doesn't have much upside to speak of but he's a step above the rebound/block specialist that really just helps you in one area.

Skal Labissiere, PF/C Sacramento Kings
This one you might require some patience, or maybe if the league is shallow enough you just book mark him in your waiver-wire, but by seasons end there is a good chance that Skal Labissiere will be producing big time for your team. Skal is the most talented big man on the Kings roster, and though it might take some time, he should be playing starters minutes at one of the big man spots for the Kings. The reason he might not get the minutes load he should is that Kings head coach Dave Joerger has been reunited with Zach Randolph and, like any head coach, he wants to win games, which means he will likely lean on his vets more than a rebuilding team probably should (for the same reason, De'Aaron Fox isn't a higher pick) but once it is clear that the Kings are going to lose no matter how they play (and that Randolph should be a starter at this point) Skal will be the one to benefit. Look for him to produce points, rebounds, good percentages, and some blocks as well.

Jeremy Lin, PG/SG Brooklyn Nets
Lin always seems to be pushed out of real life basketball teams for one reason or another, which leads him to be undervalued in fantasy as well. The Nets acquired D'Angelo Russell in the offseason, intending to build around him, which immediately led to a perceived downgrade in Lin's value. Not so fast my friend! True, Lin as lead perimeter dog is a thing of the past, but the Nets play at an absurd pace, tops in the NBA last season, which means plenty of opportunities for both Lin and Russell, not to mention the fact that Brook Lopez and his 29.2% usage rate are now gone or the fact that those two are the only proven guards on the roster, or the fact that Russell is the better shooter, which means it will make more sense for Lin to have the ball more often. Per 36 last season, Lin averaged 21.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.7 steals. If Lin proves he is healthy and can handle a 30 minute load, you could get a starting point guard (minus threes, but seriously everyone shoots 3s now) for a backup price.

Eric Gordon, SG Houston Rockets
Gordon was a top 10 shooting guard option last year, finishing fourth in the NBA with 246 three pointers (the three players ahead of him are all first three round picks), and yet ESPN has him ranked as their 20th overall shooting guard, behind an injured Zach LaVine among others (this does include players that also play other positions, but still). Gordon's injury history certainly plays a part in that but now that he is away from the New Orleans Saints Pelicans questionable training staff, that isn't as big of a concern. It is also easy to see how Gordon could be better this year than last: it's his second year in the system, Lou Williams isn't around to steal second unit shots any more and, he'll pretty much always be sharing the floor with either James Harden or Chris Paul, two of the best passer in the league who will also draw a ton of attention. Gordon is the Rockets third best player and will be on the floor in crunch time as well. If you find yourself low on threes, don't be afraid to pull the trigger on this gunner.

 Kent Bazemore, SG/SF Atlanta Hawks
After receiving a big contract, Kent Bazemore Bazed-Less and was considered a disappointment, though it was really only his field goal percentage (.409%) that let fantasy teams down in the aggregate; anyone expecting super-star production was going to be let down no matte what Bazemore did. Just as the real life Bazemore is a glue guy, that is his role for your team, giving you a little bit of everything: least season he averaged 11 points, 1.3 threes, 3.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists 1.2 steals, 0.7 blocks. Nothing that stands out, but nothing that hurt you either while the 0.7 blocks is great from a shooting guard. Now take into account that Bazemore did that in just 26.9 minutes a game. That Hawks teams was a playoff team with multiple offensive weapons. Now, Bazemore might be the best player on the whole team! Expect his minutes to go up and his all around production to be close to his per 36 numbers. Tyler Johnson all falls into the catagory, a guard that provides you with rebounds and blocks at a higher number than you'd expect without killing you in other areas. Every little bit counts.

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Five Breakout NBA players in 2017-18

After an offseason full of player movement, the start of the season means new opportunities for many players across the league. These five players not only have bigger roles waiting for them, but also the skills to take advantage and break out.

Rodney Hood, Utah Jazz
This is the obvious one, Rodney Hood is sure to be all over breakout/most important player lists this preseason; it's clear that Hood needs to take a step forward for the Jazz to return to the playoffs. With Gordon Heyward gone, Hood is Utah's top remaining perimeter scorer and will be there go-to scoring option. It is important to note that Utah's egalitarian offense system won't feature a lot of iso situations, but no offense can rely completely on ball+player movement, there will plenty of times that individual shot creation will be required and Hood will probably lead the team in such opportunities. He won't replace Heyward 1-to-1, the Jazz will count on Ricky Rubio's passing, a Derrick Favors/Alec Burks health bounce-back, and rookie Donovan Mitchell to fill the void, but Hood will be the biggest piece in a group effort. For and foremost, health will be crucial for Hood, who has two seasons playing less than 60 games sandwiched between a nearly complete season of 79 games. Assuming health, Hood will need to not only sustain what he has been good at in the past but also develop his game to become more of a primary offensive option. Hood's strengths are obvious, he is a very good shooter from deep (.371 from three point range) and at 6-8 he has no trouble getting his shot off, while his patience running pick-and-roll allows him to be effective off the dribble without the burst normally associated with such actions. Where Hood needs to get better is inside the arc; his career fee throw rate (.196) and 2-point percentage are (.458) are well below average. Lacking that burst, Hood will need to hone his craft, using his size to finish over shorter players and become more active off the ball, getting easy shots at the basket via cuts and backscreens. Playing with more than willing passers like Rubio and Joe Ingles should allow Hood to get some easier looks, particularly on the break. Utah isn't a very fast-paced team (though that might change with Rubio) by Gordon Heyward excelled at leaking out ahead of the pack, something Hood should attempt to emulate. It's not that Hood is a lazy player by any means, but he can be somewhat low energy and not assertive hunting his own shot, which is exactly what the Jazz need of him. Also, in a contract year, Hood could really help his own financial situation with a big year, or tank it with a bad one.

Marcus Smart, Boston Celtics
The Celtics traded away their two top perimeter defenders and replaced them with a decidedly bad defender (Kyrie Irving), an okay one (Marcus Morris) and a very good one (Gordon Heyward). Heyward and Morris should at least hold serve replacing Jae Crowder but Avery Bradley is a different story. Irving will slot into Isaiah Thomas' role as resident defensive sieve but without Bradley there to match-up on the opposing point guard, that duty will fall in crucial moments on Marcus Smart, who is up to the task on that end of the floor. Whether or not he can replace Bradley's offensive contributions is more of an open question. Smart's size, strength, and tenacity make him one of best, most versatile defender in the league, able to battle bigger players in the post while pestering on the perimeter with quick feet and hands. Despite his willingness to fire away 4+ three-pointers a game, Smart is a terrible three-point shooter (.291 career) and his .422 percentage on two-point shots is just as putrid (compare that with Avery Bradley's .390 and .504 marks, respectively, last season). At this point, defenses have little to fear by leaving him wide open outside the arc, something that will really hurt the Celtics in crunch time, which is exactly when they will need him on the floor. So how can he be successful? In his prime, Tony Allen couldn't shoot and would routinely flub wide-open layups, yet was a successful player for years. Obviously being one of the best perimeter defenders in NBA history helped (Smart is excellent but he isn't quite Allen's level) but that didn't sort out his offense. On that end, Allen was always hunting for easy shots for himself, crashing the glass, sprinting in transition, and was such a threat to cut to the basket that defenses had to pay attention to him even if he wasn't going to shoot. That's the template use for his success, work as hard off the ball offensively as he does on defense. And Smart, while still a really bad shooter, can get hot at times which means that he can take a three from time to time, when wide open, he just shouldn't be so shot happy from there. Like Hood, Smart is also in a contract year and has some financial incentive to be better than he has been.

Allen Crabbe, Brooklyn Nets
With Portland, Crabbe played a crucial role in the Blazers offensive when he was on the floor, spacing the floor for Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, courtesy of a .444 shooting percentage from behind the arc. In Brooklyn, Crabbe will be performing a similar task for D'Angelo Russell and Jeremy Lin. However, Russell and Lin are lower usage players than Lillard and McCollum, which should give Crabbe a chance to take even more three than the 3.8 he attempted per game last season. 73 players attemped more threes than Crabbe last season. As a member of the Nets last season, Bojan Bogdanovic attempted 5 threes a game, if Crabbe takes that many or more a game (last season he was at 3.8) and continues to make 40%+ from three, a breakout offensive performance is very possible. Brooklyn took the third most threes last season (more than Golden State believe it or not) and will look to shoot even more this season, a plan that suits Crabbe just fine. The other factor here is that Brooklyn has every incentive to play Crabbe starters minutes, as they just used much of their copious cap space in order to acquire him, and had attempted to get him in the past. More opportunities is often all that it takes for a NBA player to have breakout campaign.

Jerami Grant, Oklahoma City
As of now, the Thunder's backup center is Dakari Johnson, who might not even make the roster. Unless the Thunder find a veteran big man, they'll have to find someone to backup Steven Adams. While a 6-8, 210 pound forward like Jerami Grant might not seem like the prime option, but Grant's defensive potential as someone who can switch and block shots, is actually ideal for playing center in the modern NBA, especially against backup centers who aren't going to kill him in the post. In less advantageous matchups, say against a lumbering post scorer like Jahlil Okafor, Grant would be just as much of a matchup problem because of his ability to make straight line drives and passably shoot from three, skills that will play up as a center. Last season, Grant made .371 of his 144 three-point attempts, something he will look to keep up in his first full year with the Thunder, if not at that level at least at a passable 33-35%, which would be very good if he is playing at center. Likewise, Grant isn't a superb driver but is quick for his size and is a vicious finisher when he gets to the rim. As a backup center, playing with some combination of Russell Westbrook, Paul George, and Carmelo Anthony, Grant will be asked to space the floor, attack closeouts, and finish lobs, all things he has shown the ability to do in the past. Defensively, Grant is one of the elite shot blockers in the NBA, finishing 11th in the NBA in block percentage (The Greek Freak is the only non-center ahead of him) so Grant has part of the big man skills down pat, though he will drastically need to improve as a rebounder in order to make it work at center. His 7.4 defensive rebound would rank second to last season among centers, besting only 35 year old, ground-bound Boris Diaw. Part of that poor number is the amount of time Grant spent playing small forward (and playing with high level rebounders that grabbed the boards instead) but no doubt he must improve to at least league average on the glass, an accomplishment that seems possible given his length and leaping ability. If Grant can stay a solid shooter and top level defender, while also improving his rebounding, a breakthrough to becoming one of the better backups in the NBA is definitely possible.

Norman Powell, Toronto Raptors
The Raptors roster has changed quite a bit over that last year, with players coming and going. Of the top ten per game minute getters last season, half of them are gone and their replacements are mostly unproven players. On the wing, the Raptors have presumed starters DeMar DeRozan and CJ Miles, then injured rookie OG Anunoby, still raw Bruno Caboclo, and multiple time castoff KJ McDaniels. These are the players Norman Powell is competing with for minutes. In fact it can be argued that Powell is the second best wing on the roster, ahead of Miles. Assuming there are 96 minutes available on the wing, DeRozan will take about 36 of them, leaving 60 minutes to be divided up among the rest. Whether it be from 25 to 30 minutes a game, Powell is sure to see a boost in minutes from the 18 a game he averaged last season. And honestly, as far as talent is concerned, playing time may be all that Powell needs to break out. Despite being relatively short for a wing, Powell is strongly built and has long arms to challenge bigger, stronger players defensively. Offensively, his jumper could stand to be more consistent, he is somewhat streaky, but where Powell stands out is his ability to beat defenders off the dribble and make plays going towards the basket. Powell took 41% of his shots withing 0-3 feet of the basket and made an excellent .606% of those shots. Given his ability defensively and a solid outside stroke, Powell should be the first player off the bench in Toronto, if not the starter by season's end.

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2017-18 NBA Predictions

Eastern Conference Regular Season
01.Cleveland Cavaliers
02. Boston Celtics
03. Washington Wizards
04. Toronto Raptors
05. Miami Heat
06. Milwaukee Bucks
07. Charlotte Hornets
08. Detroit Pistons

09. Philadelphia 76ers
10. Indiana Pacers
11. Orlando Magic
12. Atlanta Hawks
13. New York Knicks
14. Brooklyn Nets
15. Chicago Bulls

Eastern Conference Playoffs
#1 Cavs beat #8 Pistons
#2 Celtics beat #7 Hornets
#3 Wizards beat #6 Bucks
#5 Heat beat #4 Raptors

#3 Wizards beat #2 Celtics
#1 Cavs beat #5 Heat

#1 Cavs beat #3 Wizards

Western Conference Regular Season
01. Golden State Warriors
02. Houston Rockets
03. Oklahoma City Thunder
04. San Antonio Spurs
05. Minnesota Timberwolves
06. Los Angeles Clippers
07. Denver Nuggets
08. Utah Jazz

09. Portland Trail Blazers
10. New Orleans Pelicans
11. Memphis Grizzlies
12. Dallas Mavericks
13. Los Angeles Lakers
14. Sacramento Kings
15. Phoenix Suns

Western Conference Playoffs
#1 Warriors beat #8 Jazz
#2 Rockets beat #7 Nuggets
#3 Thunder beat #6 Clippers
#5 Timberwolves beat #4 Spurs

#1 Warriors beat #5 Timberwolves
#3 Thunder beat #2 Rockets

#1 Warriors beat #3 Thunder

NBA Finals
Warriors beat Cavaliers

NBA Awards
MVP: Steph Curry, Golden State
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, C Utah
Rookie of the Year: Ben Simmons, PF Philadelphia
Sixth Man of the Year: Andre Igoudala
Coach of the Year: Tom Thibodeau, Minnesota
Most Improved Player: Rodney Hood, SG Utah

East All-Stars
G: John Wall, Washington
G: Kyrie Irving, Boston
F: LeBron James, Cleveland
F: Gordon Heyward, Boston
F: Giannis Antetekoumpo, Milwaukee
Bench 1: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
Bench 2: Kyle Lowry, Toronto
Bench 3: DeMar DeRozan, Toronto
Bench 4: Kemba Walker, Charlotte
Bench 5: Kevin Love, Cleveland
Bench 6: Myles Turner, Indiana
Bench 7: Bradley Beal, Washington

West All-Stars
G: Steph Curry, Golden State
G: James Harden, Houston
F: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City
F: Kawhi Leornard, San Antonio
F: Anthony Davis, New Orleans
Bench 1: Paul George, Oklahoma City
Bench 2: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City
Bench 3: Chris Paul, Houston
Bench 4: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
Bench 5: Draymond Green, Golden State
Bench 6: Blake Griffin, Los Angeles
Bench 7: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota

All-NBA First Team
G: James Harden, Houston
G: Steph Curry, Golden State
F: LeBron James, Cleveland
F: Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio
C: Rudy Gobert, Utah

All-NBA Second Team
G: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City
G: Chris Paul, Houston
F: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City
F: Giannis Antetekoumpo, Milwaukee
C: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota
All-NBA Third Team
G: John Wall, Washington
G: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
F: Anthony Davis, New Orleans
F: Draymond Green, Golden State
C: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia

All-Defensive First Team
G: Patrick Beverly, Los Angeles
G: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
F: Draymond Green, Golden State
F: Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio
C: Rudy Gobert, Utah
All-Defensive Second Team
G: Danny Green, San Antonio
G: Chris Paul, Houston
F: Paul George, Oklahoma City
F: Derrick Favors, Utah
C: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
All-Rookie First Team
Ben Simmons, Philadelphia
Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles
Dennis Smith Jr, Dallas
Josh Jackson, Phoenix
Markelle Fultz, Philadelphia

All-Rookie Second Team
Jonathan Isaac, Orlando
Lauri Markkanen, Chicago
Donovan Mitchell, Utah
De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento
Jayson Tatum, Boston

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Five Potential Free Agent Bargains

PG Patty Mills
Reason for Value: Over-saturated Point Guard Market
The NBA has more good-to-great point guards than ever before and with a good point guard draft bringing more lead guard talent into the league, there just isn't that many teams that need point guards any more and that will be willing to hand out money for them.
What They Bring to the Table: Bench Production
Mills has been one of the best backup point guards in the league for the last couple years, capable of lighting up the scoreboard when need be but also providing consistent offensive production night in and night out. A career .395% shooter from three-point range, Mills can be relied on to space the floor, run pick-and-roll and create offense for himself. While mostly known as a scorer, Mills has also improved as a playmaker for others, posting his best assist rate since 2011-12, 24.3%, which ranked 27th among point guards last season. For a playoff contending team looking for some bench scoring, Mills would be a perfect fit and probably won't cost too much, especially if he isn't signed by the time the point guard musical chairs (Kyle Lowry, Jrue Holiday, Jeff Teague, George Hill, etc) ends.

SF/PF Rudy Gay
Reason for Value: Injury risk
Gay ruptured his Achilles (a serious injury) in January and missed the remainder of the season. Despite the risk, Gay opted out (apparently he really wanted to get out of Sacramento) and bet on himself in the open market. As long as he is able to recover and gets a clean bill of health from team physicians, Gay could be a value signing because his market will be depressed due to risk-adverse teams. If not for the injury, Gay would be a top target in free agency.
What He Brings to the Table: Production and Potential
Despite his reputation as an empty stats player, Rudy Gay has become a much better all around contributor at both forward spots in the last couple years, including ranking in the top 15 in RPM among small forwards despite playing for the dumpster-fire Kings. Due to the injury and aging, Gay may fit best long term at power forward, once he is unable to chase wings around on the perimeter night-in and night-out. That ability to move to the 4 is also a nice backup plan as he ages, as some smaller players would lose more value once they aged. A power forward that can shoot the ball (.372%) and create his own shot off the dribble is a very valuable piece. Now, if teams are paying Gay like they would pre-injury, this isn't a bargain, but that seems unlikely given how risk-adverse most teams are nowadays.

SG/SF Thabo Sefolosha
Reason for Value: Perception
Once a player has received the label of "can't shoot" it is extremely difficult for them to shake it, even when they show improvements over time. Thabo Sefolosha has long been regarded as a great defender that doesn't bring much to the table offensively. The perception, plus his age (33) could
What He Brings to the Table: Inexpensive 3-and-D
Let's be clear, Sefolosha is not much of an offensive threat, nor is he an incredible shooter, but he is still a good enough defender, smart, agile, long, and impactful that he has value in a limited role as a a defensive stopper alone. He just needs to be "good enough" as a shooter to be a rotation player and, at least for the last two season, he was just that, shooting right around 34% from three both seasons, numbers that while not eye-popping are "good enough" when you consider his defense. I don't think Thabo makes sense for non-contending teams, but higher end teams that want to compete with the Warriors and need wing defenders, Sefolosha should be a quality, and inexpensive, option.

SG Ben McLemore
Reason for Value: Played for the Kings
Now I will be the first to admit that the Kings have been doing a much better job recently, however in the past their organization has been so unstable, with countless coaching changes, ill-fitting rosters, and managerial edicts that it is hard to evaluate some of their players in that context. After being drafted 7th overall by the Kings, Ben McLemore has been disappoint, no doubt but he is only 24 and hasn't really had the benefit of a stable environment. McLemore is likely to be cheap, very cheap, but still has some potential left to become the player his physical tools and skills suggest.
What He Brings to the Table: Potential 3-and-D
A tremendous athlete that can run in transition and finish high above the rim, McLemore hasn't quite figured out how to turn that athletic ability into defensive production, but the tools are still there, even if he isn't quite as quick laterally as the rest of his athleticism might suggest. One encouraging sign for McLemore is the steady improvement of his three-point shot, which peaked a .382% last season and could still improve. These tools and skills, plus a more cohesive environment and better coaching, are what teams will bank on when it comes to McLemore. Coming out of college, McLemore was already considered a potentially great shooter and defender who needed to work on his offense off the dribble, and while the jury may be out on his shooting and defense, it is safe to say their is little hope he becomes a better shot creator. However, the upside he has to be a 3-and-D role player at just 24 years old, at a low cost, is an investment teams should look into.

SF/PF Nikola Mirotic (restricted free agent)
Reason for Value: Poorly Used by Previous Team
Due to their asinine roster construction, the Bulls need floor spacing so badly that they basically made Mirotic as spot up shooter. While shooting is a part of Mirotic's game (one he needs to be more consistent at, but he's still a career 35% three-point shooter) he can do so much more and a better coached team will see that and use him more to his strengths.
What He Brings to the Table: Offensive Skill and Sneaky Defensive Production
Believe it or not, Nikola Mirotic actually ranked in the top 10 in RPM for power forwards, better than Kristaps Porzingis, LaMarcus Aldridge, Thad Young, and Serge Ibaka among others. Even more surprising is that he ranked better defensively than offensively. Though he can actually be a quality defender due to his smarts and mobility, Mirotic will make his money on offense. A versatile offensive player, Mirotic can handle the ball and drive to the rim, where he is a solid finisher and is good at drawing fouls. And yes, he can also shoot even if he has been more streaky than expected. Mirotic probably wants out of Chicago and the Bulls may not be eager to bring him back, but he is a restricted free agent, which makes things tricky but in the end, Mirotic was so poorly used that he could be gotten for a reasonable price and provide above-average offensive production once he is given more freedom.

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