NBA trade season is upon us. As we approach the halfway mark of the 2023-24 season, rumors have begun flying around and deals are starting to get made (OG Anunoby was an amazing pickup for New York). Some notable names are circulating in trade talks, and with so many teams looking to compete, everyone is looking for the move that will take them to the next level. Today, let’s take a look at the ideal destinations for some of the big fish on the market.
Pascal Siakam→ Golden State Warriors
Potential Deal: Chris Paul, Jonathan Kuminga, lottery protected FRP to TOR, Pascal Siakam to GSW
All signs point to a Pascal Siakam trade being imminent. The Raptors are hovering around the middle of the pack standings-wise with no clear route to ascension, and the recent OG Anunoby trade suggests they are gearing towards a youth movement. Scottie Barnes’ All-Star leap this year has solidified him as their franchise guy. Siakam, who is almost thirty and plays the same position as Barnes, just doesn’t really fit the equation anymore. Major outlets are chugging out reports surrounding his name, and there was even a short while on Friday night where it seemed like Siakam was going to Sacramento. The former All-NBA forward is still in his prime and could provide a big boost to the right team.
Enter the Golden State Warriors. The sun has set on their dynasty, and they’re now trying to make the most of the last years of Stephen Curry’s prime. They are struggling to do so this year and are in desperate need of a talent upgrade if they want to make any real noise in the loaded Western Conference. Siakam could be the answer for them. He’s very versatile on both ends, has solid passing feel, and has experience playing center, all traits that make him well-suited for Golden State’s movement based, small-ball offensive scheme.
No one move can make this version of the Warriors a championship team, but they’re clearly an organization trying to compete, and doing so would be a lot easier with Siakam on their side.
Lauri Markkanen→ Oklahoma City Thunder
Potential Deal: Josh Giddey, Ousmane Dieng, an obscene amount of FRPs to UTA, Lauri Markkanen to OKC
After a three-year rebuild, the Thunder are back, and that’s an understatement. They’ve blazed onto the scene as one of the best teams in the league, period. Their championship window is cracked, and adding the right player to their nuclear nucleus of talent could open it all the way. Lauri Markkanen is that guy. The Finnish forward is the hottest commodity on the block right now. He’s an all-league talent who could make any team better. The Thunder, though, jump out as the best potential landing spot for him, because he would be the perfect Robin to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Batman. Markkanen is one of the best off-ball players in the sport, and Shai is one of the best advantage creators. The idea of Markkanen spotting up or cutting to the hoop while Shai drives is enough to make a hoops nerd drool. It’s a match made in heaven. Additionally, outside of Chet Holmgren, OKC is severely lacking in size and Markkanen would help in that department.
The Jazz have quietly been trending upward lately, and Markkanen is still just 26, so it would take a lot to pry him away, but if the Thunder could use their treasure chest of draft picks to their advantage and acquire the 2023 MIP, they would become a whole lot scarier.
Zach LaVine→ Philadelphia 76ers
Potential Deal: Tobias Harris, lightly protected FRP to CHI, Zach LaVine to PHI
Coby White’s breakout and Andre Drummond’s return to prime form during Nikola Vucevic’s absence have given fans something to get excited about, but that doesn’t change the fact that the Bulls are the most hopeless team in the NBA right now. Yes, more than the Pistons, because at least they have some kind of direction. Until Chicago decides to move on from their “big three” of DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Vucevic, they will be stuck in mediocrity.
Thankfully, though, LaVine and the Bulls seem to be in agreement that he will be moved in the near future, which is good news for teams looking to bolster their squads at the deadline. LaVine is a certified All-Star and an elite bucket-getter, and his value is at an all-time low, meaning a contender could get him for the low. The 76ers should be one of the teams calling about the star shooting guard. They lack reliable scoring/creation outside of Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, which could become a problem in the playoffs. LaVine could patch that hole and help Philly finally reach the Conference Finals (and beyond).
Alex Caruso→ Sacramento Kings
Potential Deal: Davion Mitchell, Chris Duarte, lightly protected FRP to CHI, Alex Caruso to SAC
Sacramento’s electric 2022-23 campaign was no fluke— they’re once again competing for a top seed in the West. As good as they’ve been in the regular season, though, they aren’t quite championship level. A move that could help them get there is trading for Alex Caruso. Caruso isn’t just one of the best defenders at his position, he’s one of the best defenders in basketball. He could single handedly boost Sactown’s defense to competency, healing their main weakness. On a smaller scale, he would take pressure off De’Aaron Fox, who has been asked to do a lot on that end due to lacking defensive personnel around him. Further, the Bald Mamba is enjoying a career year from behind the arc and would fit right in with the Kings three-point heavy attack. The price to get him is not cheap, but it would absolutely be worth it for the Kings as they look to make their first deep playoff run in a long time.
Malcolm Brogdon→ New York Knicks
Potential Deal: Evan Fournier, Quentin Grimes, SRPs to POR, Malcolm Brogdon to NYK
OG Anunoby was a great get for the Knicks, but they now have an Immanuel Quickley-sized hole in the backcourt. Luckily for them, there is another 2023 6MOY candidate (winner, actually) available to fill it: Malcolm Brogdon. Brogdon is a heady, all-business veteran and an endlessly steady presence on both ends who coach Thibodeau would probably fall in love with and play for 40 minutes a night. As the Knicks continue to get better and better, adding Brogdon would be the next step in bringing a Larry O’Brien to the Big Apple.
Buddy Hield→ Orlando Magic
Potential Deal: Gary Harris, Chuma Okeke, heavily protected FRP to IND, Buddy Hield to ORL
The Magic have been one of the biggest surprises of this season so far. They’re playing like a real playoff team fueled by their top-five defense and All-Star level play from Paolo Banchero. That said, though, they would have a tough time doing any real damage in the postseason because they can’t shoot. They’re near the bottom of the league in both three-point makes per game and three-point percentage. If they want to have a fighting chance in the big dance, that needs to change. Buddy Hield is one of the better pure shooters in NBA history and would open up more space for Orlando’s stars to operate while helping solidify their spot in the standings.
Moses Moody→ Memphis Grizzlies
Potential Deal: John Konchar, SRPs to GSW, Moses Moody to MEM
Jonathan Kuminga has been the talk of the town lately, but he’s not the only youngster on Golden State who’s buried in the depth chart and unhappy about it. Former lottery pick Moses Moody has been in and out of the lineup and it’s clear that he isn’t going to get the opportunity he needs to develop with the Warriors. Memphis is a young and hungry team with a weak wing room who could give Moody the chance to spread his wings while still being part of a competitive culture.
It doesn’t matter who the Portland Trail Blazers put on the court this season, they just aren’t winning. They’re stuck near the bottom of the Western Conference and despite having a talented roster headlined by high-level starters like Jerami Grant and Malcolm Brogdon and up-and-coming stars in Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe, they haven’t found a lineup that solves their woes. Nearly every player on the team has hung a negative plus/minus per 100 possessions. The one exception is an unlikely one: two-way contract man Duop Reath.
Chances are your first thought after reading that was, “WHO?” Unless you’re an NBA sicko, you probably couldn’t name undrafted rookies from bad teams, Reath included. That needs to change, though, because Duop Reath deserves to be recognized. Across 20 games and 305 minutes where he has been on the court, Portland has outscored opponents by 11.5 points per 100 possessions.
Welcome back to Two-Way Talents! This series highlights two-way contract players across the association that are balling out and staking a claim for a bigger role. The goal is to give unknown players the attention they deserve. This installment is about Duop Reath, the rookie who has been Portland’s most positive presence this season.
While Reath is new to the NBA, he is not new to professional basketball. After going undrafted in 2018, he signed a deal with a professional team in Serbia and proved to be a very productive player. In 2020, he won a bronze medal with the Australian National Team in the Olympics, and during his 2022-23 campaign in China he averaged 18 points and eight boards, and finished second in the CBA in blocks per game. It was perhaps that season that earned him his long-awaited NBA opportunity with the Blazers.
Now that he’s gotten that opportunity, he’s seized it. Reath has become a staple in Portland’s rotation, playing around 15 minutes a night and even starting four contests He’s carved out his niche by playing to his atypical strengths.
There are very few true centers in the NBA who even take enough threes to be considered a respectable shooter, let alone make enough. Reath, though, is part of that minority. He is most comfortable and effective playing on the perimeter. The 6’11” big man launches four triples per game, knocking down a decent 35% of them. He’s a pick-and-pop threat and gets a lot of looks out of that action. Because he can hit open shots, defenses are forced to honor him and guard him on the perimeter, opening up driving lanes for other Blazers. He’s also a determined screener who consistently creates advantages for teammates in that way.
As teams have recognized him as a shooter, Reath has also shown the ability to attack aggressive closeouts by putting the ball on the floor and getting to the cup. He has touch with both hands and uses his length to finish over people. His driving chops are even more unusual for a big than his shooting, and they’re part of what makes him such a fun and impactful offensive player.
Defensively, Reath offers some utility in multiple schemes. He doesn’t excel in one specific coverage, but he can hold up at the level or in drop when defending the pick and roll. He has the mobility to challenge players on the perimeter and the size to alter or reject shots at the rim.
Drop coverageAt the level/switch
Finding a comparison for Reath is tricky because his skillset is so uncommon. He most closely resembles Myles Turner or Brook Lopez, as all three bigs can shoot and drive. However, Reath is burlier than Turner and more athletic than Lopez, making him a true one-of-one player. His defense has a ways to go before he could reach the level Turner and Lopez are at, but the path for Reath to get there is achievable.
In the midst of an unexciting Trail Blazer season, Duop Reath’s out-of-the-blue emergence has been a bright spot worth talking about. If you haven’t already hopped on the Reath bandwagon, now’s the time, because the two-way baller is here to stay.
Hoops runs in the Holiday family. There’s not just one, or two, but three Holiday brothers in the NBA. In 2019, they became the first trio of siblings to play in the same game. Everybody knows the middle child, Jrue, whose resume includes All-Star and All-Defense appearances as well as a championship. Many fans are probably familiar with the eldest brother too, Justin, who has played over 10 years in the pros. The youngest of the three, though, is more unknown in the NBA world.
Drafted in 2018 by the Pacers, Aaron Holiday carved out a rotational role early on in his career. He started half the games he played in his sophomore season. Since being traded by Indiana in 2021, he has bounced around the league, playing some productive minutes but never finding a home. He touched down in Houston via free agency this past summer, and the move got very little attention from fans or media. With the way he’s playing since he entered their rotation, though, he deserves more buzz.
Like his brother Jrue, Aaron Holiday is a stout guard with a flair for defense. Although he stands at a mere six-foot flat, Holiday is packed solid with a strong core. He weighs in at 185 pounds, giving him a BMI that falls in the (very) slightly overweight range. He uses that frame to his advantage on defense— he’s undeterred by screens and unshaken by push-offs. Offensive players have to WORK to create separation when being guarded by Holiday. On top of his physical tools, Holiday has a dogged and determined mindset. He takes pride in locking up, often picking up ball handlers full court, and that tenacity is what makes him such a good defender.
Holiday’s defensive-minded playstyle is what made him a perfect addition for Houston. The team had struggled tremendously since James Harden’s departure in 2020. They were severely lacking energy and grit and quite frankly just didn’t care. Culture was nonexistent. This past summer, the front office made it a point to address those issues, bringing in head coach Ime Udoka and a group of veteran players who would help turn things around in H-Town. Holiday was part of that mix, and he’s been a key cog of the top-five defense created by the offseason overhaul. He’s part of Houston’s three best defensive lineups (according to DRTG, minimum 15 minutes played), a testament to the value he provides.
Houston's best defensive lineups (by DRTG, min. 15 minutes played) all have one thing in common: Aaron Holiday
They've put together a top five defense this year, and Holiday is a big reason why. He's a DAWG.
A specific reason why Holiday is such an important contributor to Houston’s defense is because a fundamental part of their game plan is switching screens, both on and off the ball. Holiday’s frame allows him to effectively cover both guards, big wings, and occasionally forwards, meaning he fits right into the scheme.
Take this possession, for example. Holiday’s man sets a screen at the top of the arc for Luka Doncic, one of the NBA’s most formidable offensive forces. Holiday steps right up to the level of the screen and he and his teammate, Fred VanVleet, execute the switch seamlessly. Holiday is then matched up against Doncic in isolation, which would have most players shaking in their sneakers. Doncic can usually get wherever he wants on the court, whenever he wants, especially against a smaller defender. Not on Holiday, though. When Doncic tries to go to his signature stepback, Holiday stays glued to him and challenges the shot excellently without fouling.
Defense is his strong suit, but Holiday is no slouch offensively either. His skillset makes him a snug fit in any attack as a complementary piece. He’s at his best spotting up and hunting triples— he’s knocked down 52.8% of his catch-and-shoot threes this season, a sizzling figure. On December 6th versus the Thunder, he tied his career high by hitting six threes. He’s comfortable playing some point guard, too. He’s a solid pick-and-roll ball handler who can get to the rim and finish or make a good read and hit the roll man. He’s just smart with the ball overall and doesn’t make things harder than they need to be. He’s averaging just 0.4 turnovers and dishing out 2.2 dimes per game on the season.
Holiday’s contribution extends beyond just on-court productivity. As a sixth-year pro, he’s been asked to play a leadership role on this young Houston team, helping the youngsters grow into the best versions of themselves. In an interview with HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Holiday spoke on this new challenge.
“This is probably the first place I’ve really had to be a leader. Other places, I’ve led in certain ways, but coming here, I felt that I could really help these guys out… All I try to instill is working hard and playing the game the right way… these guys are talented and just need a little bit of guidance.”
Guidance and veteran presence is exactly what the Rockets needed, and Holiday has answered the call. He’s been an immensely valuable member of the team, embracing his role on and off the court and helping establish a winning culture. The other Holiday brother is making a name for himself in H-Town. Take notice.
Hello, and welcome to Two-Way Talents! This series highlights two-way contract players across the association that are balling out and staking a claim for a bigger role. The goal is to give unknown players the attention they deserve.
The first installment of Two-Way Talents is about an undrafted rookie on the Cleveland Cavaliers, Craig Porter Jr., who has entered the rotation as a result of injuries but could make a case to stay in it.
On Halloween, the Cavaliers were missing Darius Garland, Caris LeVert, Ty Jerome, and Ricky Rubio. The backcourt rotation was thin, and Coach Bickerstaff turned to Craig Porter Jr. to fill in off the bench. Porter was ready and answered the call in a major way.
In 22 minutes, the rookie posted 10 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and a block. The Cavs went on to lose the game, but Porter was a winner that night. He caught Coach’s eye and earned another shot in the following day’s rematch versus the Knicks. He had a quieter outing that night—just 4 points, a rebound, and a steal in 11 minutes—but he did a few nice things defensively that didn’t show up in the box score.
So, why is Porter getting a chance? What do Cleveland’s coaches like about him? They’ve established a defense and “dawg” based culture, and Porter fits right in. He was a good defensive player in college and it looks like he’s keeping that same energy in the pros. Through his two appearances, he’s shown the chops to be a quality point-of-attack weapon and that is the skill that will keep him in the rotation. He navigates screens well, both on and off the ball, and does a good job of challenging shooters.
Porter’s defensive playmaking poise is even more impressive. He has extremely active hands and racks up oodles of steals and blocks. Check out this awesome snag block he made to blow up New York’s transition opportunity.
The numbers back up the tape for Porter. In his senior year at Wichita State he collected 3.0 stocks per game, and he leads all Cavaliers that have played at least 30 minutes this season in steal percentage and defensive box plus/minus (Basketball Reference’s per-100 possession measurement of defensive value).
Offensively, Porter hasn’t brought much to the table so far and will need to grow to stick in the league. He’s displayed some craft at the rim, but he’s attempted just one three (which he missed) through three games. In college he was an average shooter on relatively low volume. He’s just 6’2”, and small guards who can’t shoot have a hard time making it in today’s league. The three-ball is his swing skill, and if it comes along his ceiling is probably a Jevon Carter level player (or, on the very high end, Mike Conley).
With Ricky Rubio out indefinitely for personal reasons, there is a hole to be filled at Cleveland’s backup point guard spot. Craig Porter is getting his audition, and so far, he’s making some noise. Keep an eye on this two-way baller as the season rolls on.
The past three seasons have been a roller coaster for the New York Knicks. The excitement after a surprise playoff appearance in 2020-21 faded quickly due to a painfully mediocre 2021-22 regular season. One thing became clear after that year: they needed to embrace the youth movement. Talent and juice were lacking and Ws did not come consistently. Fading veterans like Evan Fournier, Derrick Rose, Kemba Walker, and Taj Gibson were given significant roles while talented young players like Immanuel Quickley and Quentin Grimes were denied the freedom they needed to develop. Things were bleak.
This past season, Coach Tom Thibodeau made the screamingly obvious change. Older players were traded or benched in favor of the youngsters, and the switch paid off. Quickley and Grimes made leaps and helped boost their squad back into competitiveness. The Knicks finished 5th in the Eastern Conference, advanced to the second round after making quick work of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and fought hard in a combative six-game series versus the eventual Finals runner-ups, the Miami Heat.
Now, heading into the 2023-24 season and with the Eastern Conference as competitive as ever, New York will need their young core to take another step forward in order to repeat last year’s success. Of that core, nobody is more primed for a breakout than Quentin Grimes.
At just 23 years old, Grimes is already a full-time starter for the Knicks. Only seven other players 23 years old or under were regular starters for playoff teams in 2022-23 (Evan Mobley, RJ Barrett, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Keegan Murray, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Ja Morant), putting the third-year two-guard in outstanding company. His game is more mature than his age, and he’s earned his spot in the opening five by playing his role exquisitely. His textbook 3&D skill set makes him a seamless fit next to New York’s star duo, Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. Grimes is a good player now, but he has another level that could be unlocked this year.
Through his first two years in the league, Grimes’ claim to fame has been his three-point shooting. He holds the franchise record for most triples made in a game by a rookie with the seven he splashed versus the Bucks in December 2021. He’s also already 29th on New York’s all-time 3PM list and is on track to crack the top 20 (at least) by the end of next season. He’s an excellent catch-and-shoot threat and a knockdown corner shooter (47.4% on corner treys in 2022-23) who punishes defenses that send too much help at Brunson or Randle.
His catch-and-shoot game is pure, but what makes Grimes as good of a sniper as he is is his ability to hit shots in a variety of ways. He can convert off handoffs, pin-down screens, or even just simple relocations, making him an even more effective weapon in New York’s offense. He’s mastered the ability to get his feet set and shoulders squared while on the move, and that skill combined with his quick release and elevation make him lethal when coming off a screen.
Beyond shooting, Grimes excels at other little things that make him the ideal off-ball offensive player. He’s a savvy cutter with a knack for catching defenders ball-watching and darting to the rim. He posted 1.4 points per possession on cuts last season (via Synergy), an elite output (1.0 is considered great).
Additionally, Grimes is a closeout killer. When defenders are slow and off-balance on their contests, or when they close out tightly to prevent an inevitable long-range bucket, he blows right by them and takes it to the rack. When he gets there, he’s a fantastic finisher. He graded out in the 100th percentile of BBall Index’s rim shot making metric last season. He can lay it up with finesse or power.
With his perimeter and interior scoring prowess, and the advantages he creates by attacking closeouts, Grimes bends defenses much more than the average role player and has shown real capacity for capitalizing on that gravity. He is a much better passer and playmaker than the box score numbers suggest (2.1 assists per game in 2022-23). He generates a ton of high value shots for teammates (layups and threes) by driving and finding bigs waiting in the dunker’s spot or shooters spotting up outside. He graded out in the 96th percentile of Basketball Index’s Passing Creation Quality metric last season.
Being able to put the ball on the deck and make something happen is a crucial skill in a playoff setting. Specialists are struggling to find minutes in the postseason in recent years. Teams are running shooters off the line and forcing them to make decisions. Shooters have to be able to make defenses pay in that situation or they can’t stay on the floor. Duncan Robinson, the Miami Heat’s all-time 3PM leader, fell out of the rotation in the regular season but was able to climb back in and contribute to his team’s Finals run with a newfound capability to attack closeouts. Grimes already has this in his bag and will never be exploited in that way.
Grimes’ value as a complementary player doesn’t end on offense. On the other end, he’s a tremendous point-of-attack defender who makes life difficult for some of basketball’s best players. The advanced stats sing his praises and the tape tells the same story.
The premier facet of Grimes’ guarding ability is his pick-and-roll defense. He shrugs off screens like they’re nothing and stays glued to his man like a shy child to his mother. Even if he does get caught up on the pick, he recovers quickly and alters shots with rearview contests. And, in the rare case where he gets stuck behind completely, he works to funnel his man into the waiting arms of menacing shot-blocker Mitchell Robinson. The pick-and-roll is both one of the sport’s most common and effective actions, so being able to weaken it at the level Grimes does is an extremely valuable talent.
Quentin Grimes is unquestionably a rock-solid pro already in his young career. However, the avenue for growth for him is clear-cut and realistic and 2023-24 could be a huge campaign for him. One thing that would help Grimes achieve a breakout is higher volume. The man needs more shots! That seems like a “well duh, you could say that about anybody” claim, but the numbers prove he is more effective when featured more in the offense.
In 2022-23, Grimes attempted 8.5 shots per game (5.7 3PA). He averaged 11.3 points on 46.8% from the field and 38.6% from three. In 25 games where he attempted 10+ field goals, he averaged 17.9 points on 49.5% from the field and 41.7% from three. When he’s given a chance to shine, Grimes takes full advantage of the opportunity.
Getting Grimes more shots wouldn’t even require force-feeding him and taking the ball out of the hands of New York’s stars. Putting him in more off-ball actions and helping him get a few more good looks per game is all it would take to maximize the damage he can do (and make the team better in the process!).
In terms of actually developing his game, the next step for Grimes is to become a more capable on-ball creator. He’s such a dangerous off-ball threat that he rarely puts the ball on the deck and creates in 1v1 situations, or out of the pick-and-roll. 99.4% of his three-point makes and 77.6% of his two-point makes last year were assisted, according to Basketball Reference. He’s shown small flashes of off-the-bounce shot making and P&R playmaking, and making those a more prominent part of his playstyle would take him to another level as an individual player. Even just utilizing one (or two) dribble pull-ups more often would give defenders another thing to worry about when guarding him and increase his impact.
NBA University, a well-known account on X that promotes in-depth basketball content to general audiences, recently posted the prompt, “name a young guy or role player who is under-appreciated nationally”. Grimes fits both categories. His standout role player qualities have made him a key contributor to the Knicks through his first two professional campaigns and he doesn’t get talked about enough. Additionally, he has a higher ceiling to scratch than most realize, and this upcoming season could see him kicking his game into another gear. Watch out for a breakout year from Quentin Grimes in 2023-24.
Another incredible NBA season has come to a close. The talent and competitive balance in the league were at an all-time high in 2022-23. Amazing individual performances were put on nightly. Playoffs droughts were snapped. Cinderella runs were made. And finally, in the end, the Denver Nuggets won their first championship in franchise history.
With the offseason well underway, it is time for my annual top 100 players list. To create this list, I painstakingly cut down a pool of over 170 players until I had my final 100 (plus ten “honorable mentions”). I did so by considering a variety of factors. The eye test. Statistics, regular and advanced. Playoff performance. Impact on winning. Individual talent. Offense. Defense. Ranking players is not an easy task, but after a lot of careful consideration, I have my final list.
Throughout the list, I have provided a collection of trends and tidbits explaining the rankings and the thinking behind them. A few related NBA thoughts have been mixed in as well.
Let’s dig in!
(Note- this list is based solely on the 2022-23 season. Past years and future potential were not considered.)
Injury Leaveoffs: Zion Williamson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Cade Cunningham, Lonzo Ball, Jonathan Isaac, Chet Holmgren
The above players did not appear in at least 30+ regular season contests and therefore did not qualify for the list. Had they not been injured, they would have made it.
Honorable Mentions (110-101):
110: Bruce Brown
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
Quick shoutout to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope— he was number 111 on my rankings and deserves as much credit for Denver’s ring as Bruce Brown does.
109: Bogdan Bogdanovic
2022 Rank: 110
Prediction: N/A
108: De’Andre Hunter
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
107: Bobby Portis Jr.
2022 Rank: 93
Prediction: N/A
106: Gordon Hayward
2022 Rank: 59
Prediction: 73
Gordon Hayward is past his All-Star prime but still has the skill set to really aid a contender. If he gets moved and is able to contribute to winning (and stays healthy, a big if), he will become a firm top 100 player once again.
105: Malik Monk
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
104: Austin Reaves
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
103: Walker Kessler
2022 Rank: N/A (rookie)
Prediction: N/A
Nobody expected Walker Kessler to be this good. He was a late first-round pick but was an all-league caliber rim protector from day one, a ridiculously impressive feat for a rookie.
102: Mitchell Robinson
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
Crazy but true: Mitchell Robinson was the most impactful player in a playoff series that featured four All-Stars (and Jalen Brunson who many argued should have been one this year).
101: Norman Powell
2022 Rank: 76
Prediction: 87
The Top 100
100: Kevin Huerter
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
99: Spencer Dinwiddie
2022 Rank: 108
Prediction: 110
98: Al Horford
2022 Rank: 94
Prediction: N/A
97: Buddy Hield
2022 Rank: 91
Prediction: 98
96: Immanuel Quickley
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
95: Jordan Poole
2022 Rank: 52
Prediction: 54
94: Russell Westbrook
2022 Rank: 46
Prediction: 89
93: Trey Murphy III
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
92: Scottie Barnes
2022 Rank: 77
Prediction: 62
91: Markelle Fultz
2022 Rank: INJ
Prediction: 94
90: Jordan Clarkson
2022 Rank: 105
Prediction: N/A
89: RJ Barrett
2022 Rank: 56
Prediction: 49
R.J. Barrett, Jordan Poole, and Scottie Barnes all dropped significantly from where they ranked last year. This is because all three flatlined instead of growing as expected. When you aren’t getting better, you’re getting worse, and while Barrett, Poole, and Barnes all project to climb back up the rankings in the near future, they all fell victim to that saying this season.
88: Jonas Valanciunas
2022 Rank: 55
Prediction: 70
87: Christian Wood
2022 Rank: 64
Prediction: 60
86: Wendell Carter Jr.
2022 Rank: 81
Prediction: 63
85: Cam Johnson
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
84: Jalen Green
2022 Rank: 107
Prediction: 50
Jalen Green has all the tools to be much higher than 84th. He just needs to put all the pieces together and find consistency.
83: Robert Williams III
2022 Rank: 75
Prediction: 76
82: Jakob Poeltl
2022 Rank: 78
Prediction: 93
81: Josh Giddey
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: 95
80: Kyle Kuzma
2022 Rank: 79
Prediction: 96
79: Marcus Smart
2022 Rank: 69
Prediction: 83
78: Malcolm Brogdon
2022 Rank: 65
Prediction: 71
77: Terry Rozier
2022 Rank: 45
Prediction: 58
76: Mike Conley
2022 Rank: 90
Prediction: 103
2022-23 was a renaissance for Mike Conley and it was beautiful. The 35-year-old is still a high-end starting point guard. He shoots the skin off the pill, he’s a seasoned floor general, and he is a plus defensively despite a lack of size. He made Minnesota look like a much more complete team when he arrived there mid-season.
75: Chris Paul
2022 Rank: 17
Prediction: 37
74: Clint Capela
2022 Rank: 68
Prediction: 84
73: Jaden McDaniels
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
Jaden McDaniels is a future DPOY, and his offense has more juice to it than most realize. He will be much higher very soon.
72: Keldon Johnson
2022 Rank: 84
Prediction: 69
71: Tobias Harris
2022 Rank: 66
Prediction: 72
70: D’Angelo Russell
2022 Rank: 44
Prediction: 53
69: Derrick White
2022 Rank: 82
Prediction: 97
Derrick White’s season should have woken up anybody still sleeping on him, but he still flies somewhat under the radar of everyone but ball-knowers and Celtics fans. He’s the exact type of supporting player a contender would want and undoubtedly makes the impact of a top 75 player.
68: Deandre Ayton
2022 Rank: 43
Prediction: 56
68th is very disappointing for Deandre Ayton. He isn’t aggressive or assertive enough to consistently match the highs he’s reached so far in his career and needs to be better.
67: Bojan Bogdanovic
2022 Rank: 83
Prediction: 92
66: Myles Turner
2022 Rank: 71
Prediction: 88
65: Devin Vassell
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: 108
Devin Vassell missed significant time due to injury, but when he played he looked like a future star. He is San Antonio’s second-best prospect and will rank even higher next year.
64: Tyler Herro
2022 Rank: 61
Prediction: 78
63: Nikola Vucevic
2022 Rank: 63
Prediction: 85
Nikola Vucevic ranked 63rd for the second consecutive time, which is funny because he averaged exactly 17.6 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in both seasons. Definition of consistency!
62: Franz Wagner
2022 Rank: 87
Prediction: 82
61: Michael Porter Jr.
2022 Rank: INJ
Prediction: 61
60: C.J. McCollum
2022 Rank: 39
Prediction: 45
59: Aaron Gordon
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
Aaron Gordon was this year’s Andrew Wiggins, a former high lottery pick who reinvented his game and became an elite role player for a championship team. I can’t say I expected it but he is getting his deserved flowers here.
58: Fred VanVleet
2022 Rank: 35
Prediction: 44
57: Jerami Grant
2022 Rank: 62
Prediction: 65
56: Nic Claxton
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
55: Paolo Banchero
2022 Rank: N/A (rookie)
Prediction: 80
It’s not often that a rookie scores 20+ points per game and puts themself in All-Star conversations, but Paolo Banchero did. He had his ups and downs, as all rookies do, but the raw talent and production are undeniable and he is without doubt a borderline top-50 player.
54: Klay Thompson
2022 Rank: 58
Prediction: 79
53: Anfernee Simons
2022 Rank: 50
Prediction: 46
52: Evan Mobley
2022 Rank: 74
Prediction: 52
51: OG Anunoby
2022 Rank: 57
Prediction: 64
50: Tyrese Maxey
2022 Rank: 53
Prediction: 51
49: Khris Middleton
2022 Rank: 34
Prediction: 28
Khris Middleton was injured for most of the year and he barely met the 30 games played threshold, which prevented him from finding a consistent rhythm, but he was Milwaukee’s best player in the playoffs and ultimately still cracked the top 50.
48: Andrew Wiggins
2022 Rank: 42
Prediction: 55
47: Jarrett Allen
2022 Rank: 33
Prediction: 39
46: Rudy Gobert
2022 Rank: 24
Prediction: 26
45: Desmond Bane
2022 Rank: 51
Prediction: 48
44: Brook Lopez
2022 Rank: 104
Prediction: 102
Top 50 for Brook Lopez will be shocking to the casual fan, but he fully deserves that ranking. He was my DPOY and his offensive output was ridiculously efficient. The Bucks may not have finished the year how they wanted, but they wouldn’t have been the best regular season team without Lopez.
43: Draymond Green
2022 Rank: 32
Prediction: 57
42: LaMelo Ball
2022 Rank: 37
Prediction: 38
41: Dejounte Murray
2022 Rank: 26
Prediction: 34
40: Jaren Jackson Jr.
2022 Rank: 54
Prediction: 59
39: Mikal Bridges
2022 Rank: 60
Prediction: 67
Mikal Bridges’ growth this season was evident in Phoenix and shined in Brooklyn after the trade. While he very likely isn’t the long-term number-one option for the Nets, nothing about what he did screamed fluke. Brooklyn Bridges is for real.
38: Bradley Beal
2022 Rank: 41
Prediction: 30
37: Kristaps Porzingis
2022 Rank: 49
Prediction: 66
36: Lauri Markkanen
2022 Rank: N/A
Prediction: N/A
Lauri Markkanen’s out-of-left-field jump from decent starter to certified All-Star is beyond impressive.
35: Tyrese Haliburton
2022 Rank: 47
Prediction: 40
34: Darius Garland
2022 Rank: 21
Prediction: 22
33: Jrue Holiday
2022 Rank: 19
Prediction: 27
Jrue Holiday adds so much value in the regular season that 33 feels low, but his playoff struggles are too much to gloss over.
32: Zach LaVine
2022 Rank: 20
Prediction: 29
31: DeMar DeRozan
2022 Rank: 11
Prediction: 25
30: Bam Adebayo
2022 Rank: 28
Prediction: 35
29: Jamal Murray
2022 Rank: INJ
Prediction: 43
28: Julius Randle
2022 Rank: 73
Prediction: 86
Yes, the flaws in his game are obvious and yes, his playoff performance was poor, but the Knicks would not have been nearly as good as they were this season without Julius Randle. He fully deserved his All-NBA nod.
27: Domantas Sabonis
2022 Rank: 40
Prediction: 41
26: Brandon Ingram
2022 Rank: 23
Prediction: 23
25: Kyrie Irving
2022 Rank: 18
Prediction: 18
Kyrie Irving, as a pure basketball player, is better than 25th. In the context of this season, though, I couldn’t rank him above players who accomplished more from a winning/playoff standpoint.
24: Jalen Brunson
2022 Rank: 70
Prediction: 75
I should not have slept on Jalen Brunson prior to this season. He was the engine that kept the Knicks chugging along and he had a borderline superstar playoff run.
23: Anthony Edwards
2022 Rank: 36
Prediction: 33
It won’t be long until Anthony Edwards is knocking on the door of the league’s upper echelon. His playoff performance was special.
22: De’Aaron Fox
2022 Rank: 38
Prediction: 36
“De’Aaron Fox is most likely to rise above the rest if he can take a leap as a shooter and defender and lead the Kings to the playoffs.” That’s a quote from my prediction top 100 article, and it tells the story of Fox’s 2022-23 campaign.
21: Paul George
2022 Rank: 16
Prediction: 11
20: James Harden
2022 Rank: 29
Prediction: 24
19: Jaylen Brown
2022 Rank: 27
Prediction: 32
18: Pascal Siakam
2022 Rank: 25
Prediction: 31
Pascal Siakam is an interesting player to judge. He had a stretch early in the season where he was playing legitimate top-ten caliber basketball, but it’s clear he can’t be the guy on a high-end playoff team. He is a certified All-NBA caliber guy, though, and is comfortably a top-20 player.
17: Trae Young
2022 Rank: 12
Prediction: 12
16: Ja Morant
2022 Rank: 10
Prediction: 13
15: Donovan Mitchell
2022 Rank: 15
Prediction: 15
14: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
2022 Rank: 22
Prediction: 21
Top 10 Shai coming soon, don’t sleep.
13: Kawhi Leonard
2022 Rank: INJ
Prediction: 6
Kawhi Leonard would have ranked higher had he been more healthy. He had a borderline All-NBA regular season and his first two playoff games before the injury were incredible.
12: Jimmy Butler
2022 Rank: 13
Prediction: 17
11: LeBron James
2022 Rank: 7
Prediction: 7
It’s kind of crazy to say LeBron wasn’t a top-ten player or even the best player on his team this year. Father Time is finally starting to catch up to him.
10: Devin Booker
2022 Rank: 9
Prediction: 14
Devin Booker’s otherworldly shot-making combined with his growth as a playmaker and defender have cemented him as the best shooting guard in the league. That shouldn’t even need to be said but some people still think Jaylen Brown is better.
9: Damian Lillard
2022 Rank: 31
Prediction: 10
8: Anthony Davis
2022 Rank: 30
Prediction: 16
Anthony Davis is the best defender in basketball. He was LA’s best player in their surprise Conference Finals run and looked more like the AD of old. He earned the mantle of top dog on the Lakers.
7: Jayson Tatum
2022 Rank: 8
Prediction: 9
6: Luka Doncic
2022 Rank: 6
Prediction: 4
5: Kevin Durant
2022 Rank: 3
Prediction: 5
The NBA community’s opinion of Kevin Durant has become more sour, but the man averaged 29 points on almost 60/40/90 splits while having one of his best defensive seasons in a minute. His efficiency was down in the playoffs, but his mere presence opened things up for Devin Booker to torch nets. KD is still top five.
4: Joel Embiid
2022 Rank: 4
Prediction: 3
3: Stephen Curry
2022 Rank: 5
Prediction: 8
Steph Curry is 35 and still playing best-in-the-world-caliber ball. We are spoiled with his greatness.
2: Giannis Antetokounmpo
2022 Rank: 1
Prediction: 1
1: Nikola Jokic
2022 Rank: 2
Prediction: 2
Jokic at number one should be of no surprise to anyone. His season was an all-timer.
Furman’s forward Jalen Slawsen, (20) roars after slamming the ball home during the second half of the first-round of the college basketball NCAA Tournament game against Virginia in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, March 16, 2023. (Willie J. Allen Jr./Orlando Sentinel)
Anybody who’s watched the Milwaukee Bucks knows the team needs some youth and energy. They’re one of the oldest rosters in the league and don’t have anybody outside of Giannis who can rise up and catch a lob or snag an offensive rebound over somebody. The 2023 NBA Draft is right around the corner and presents the opportunity for Milwaukee to add some youth, but the challenge is their only pick is the final one of the night. It’s rare but still possible to find value that late in the draft, and here are four players projected to be available around pick 58 who could make an impact for Milwaukee.
Jalen Slawson
Forward – 23 y/o – Furman
Closest Comparison: more athletic Kyle Anderson
6’7″ forward Jalen Slawson does it all. He spent five years at Furman university and is coming to the league with experience and a versatile skill set that make him a potential steal in the second round. He has the IQ and athleticism to see the court from day one and there are no major holes in his game. His strengths include bounce, defensive switchability/utility, passing, and unselfishness. He shot 39.4% on catch-and-shoot threes this past season, albeit on low volume, and if that shooting translates to the next level then Slawson will be a high-quality role player for a long time.
Ricky Council IV
Wing – 21 y/o – Arkansas
Closest Comparisons: Terrence Ross, bouncier Caleb Martin
If the Bucks are seeking athleticism with their pick and Slawson is not available, Ricky Council is their guy. The wing from Arkansas is a high-flier who loves to run out in transition and detonate on the rim. He’s also a smart cutter who can dart along the baseline and catch lobs. His three-ball needs a little work, but he has touch in the mid-range and he oozes confidence, so it’s reasonable to believe he can develop a reliable outside shot. If he can shoot the three and hold up on D, Council would be exactly what the Bucks are looking for.
Seth Lundy
Wing – 23 y/o – Penn State
Closest Comparison: Georges Niang
Seth Lundy’s claim to fame is his one elite skill: shooting. He’s one of the most efficient catch-and-shoot threats in the class. He doesn’t provide much else offensively, but his torch and bag of counters will make him valuable in any NBA offense. On the other end, he uses his strong frame to guard up against bigger wings and forwards. You can never have too much shooting next to Giannis, and Lundy would have the chance to shine from day one if he came to Milwaukee.
D’Moi Hodge
Guard – 24 y/o – Missouri
Closest Comparison: Jevon Carter
If you’re a fan of Jevon Carter, you’ll enjoy D’Moi Hodge. The Missouri product takes a steady diet of transition pull-up threes and wreaks havoc defensively with his knack for getting steals. He’s also an excellent shooter off the catch with a very quick and repeatable release. Hodge is old for a rookie, but what he lacks in age he makes up for in polish. His ceiling is lower than the other three guys on the list, especially because he’s a tad undersized for a two guard at 6’4”, but he would still be a solid option late in the draft.
The 2022-23 NBA regular season came to a close almost a month ago and the playoff battle is raging on. This year, we’ve seen an unbelievable display of talent across the league. From top to bottom, the NBA is the most talented it’s ever been. Today, while I’m a little late to the party, I will be recognizing some of the very best players in basketball by handing out my picks for all of the major awards, as well as the Bench Mob Blog awards. Let’s get started!
(Note: I have chosen my own finalists for each accolade rather than using the official ones.)
(Second note: I ran a survey for my Twitter followers to find out their award picks. The BMB fan award picks will be listed next to each of mine.)
Coach of the Year
Honorable Mentions- Joe Mazzulla, Mike Budenholzer, Taylor Jenkins, Will Hardy
Finalist: Mark Daigneault
The Oklahoma City Thunder played ahead of schedule this season, battling hard in the play-in and nearly cracking the playoffs despite being one of the league’s youngest rosters. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise to superstardom is a major reason why, Mark Daigneault deserves a lot of credit as well. His defensive scheme allowed his undersized squad to compete every night. Daigneault is just 37 years old, the third youngest coach in the NBA, and has a long and fruitful career ahead of him.
Finalist: Jacque Vaughn
The Nets started the season off cold which led to the firing of Steve Nash. After Jacque Vaughn stepped in to fill the role, he had the team playing like a title contender almost immediately, primarily thanks to a monstrous team defense. Even after the shocking trade requests from Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, the team still finished with a top-six seed in the ultra-tight Eastern Conference behind Vaughn’s guidance.
Finalist: Mike Brown
Mike Brown’s job steering the ship for the Sacramento Kings was nothing short of incredible. He designed an absolute flamethrower of an offense that was statistically one of the best ever. Brown’s leadership helped turn this organization from a laughing stock to a top seed in just one year and he was rightfully named the first unanimous COTY winner in history.
2022-23 NBA Coach of the Year- Mike Brown
(BMB Fan Coach of the Year- Mike Brown. Also receiving votes: M. Budenholzer, M. Daigneault, J. Mazzulla, M. Malone, J. Vaughn, T. Thibodeau)
Sixth Man of the Year
Honorable Mentions- Malik Monk, Norman Powell, Tyus Jones, Bruce Brown, Cole Anthony
Finalist: Malcolm Brogdon
There are many teams in the league that would start Malcolm Brogdon. When healthy with the Pacers, he was a borderline All-Star. However, with the Celtics, he sacrificed usage and a spot in the opening lineup for the betterment of the team and thrived as a result. The heady point guard elevated Boston with his efficiency and floor generalship and has a chance to help them raise banner number 18 in June.
Finalist: Bobby Portis Jr.
Bobby Portis may have taken a step back as a shooter this year, but his fierce competitive spirit never relented. He changed games for Milwaukee with his energy, crashing the glass with purpose and punishing mismatches with his back-to-the-basket game. Even though he only passed out of the post twice in 70 games (OK, that’s an exaggeration), Bobby was still an invaluable contributor for the Bucks.
Finalist: Immanuel Quickley
Coach Tom Thibodeau finally embraced the youth movement this season, removing vets like Evan Fournier and Derrick Rose from the rotation entirely. Immanuel Quickley was a major beneficiary of this decision. He was a spark plug and breathed life into New York’s lineup whenever he subbed in. He proved to be one of the NBA’s best team defenders at the guard position, making up for his height with excellent help instincts and high IQ (no pun intended). On the other end, he boasts a ballsy pull-up game and one of the most effective floaters in basketball. Quickley delivered an abundance of electric two-way performances on his way to 6MOY contention.
2022-23 NBA Sixth Man of the Year- Malcolm Brogdon
(BMB Fan Sixth Man of the Year- Immanuel Quickley. Also receiving votes: M. Brogdon, B. Portis Jr., B. Mathurin, N. Powell, C. Anthony, A. Reaves, M. Monk, B. Brown)
Most Improved Player
Honorable Mentions- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Jaden McDaniels, Immanuel Quickley, Aaron Gordon
Finalist: Devin Vassell
The Spurs were largely irrelevant and uncompetitive, so you probably missed out on it, but Devin Vassell’s growth this season exceeded all expectations. With all the freedom necessary to spread his wings, Vassell blossomed into a legitimate star-caliber offensive player. He’s efficient, smart, and versatile in his scoring attack and is similar in many ways to Milwaukee’s second All-Star Khris Middleton. These qualities will make Vassell the perfect running mate for Victor Wembanyama if the ping-pong balls bounce in San Antonio’s favor.
Finalist: Nic Claxton
Brooklyn Nets big man Nic Claxton makes his name on the defensive end. He was a serious DPOY candidate this year, combining all-world rim protection with elite switchability. It was offensively, though, where Claxton grew the most. He was generally an unskilled scorer through his first three campaigns as a pro, but this season he deepened his finishing bag and displayed silky touch in the low post. He was a significant part of Brooklyn’s regular season success and deserved MIP consideration.
Finalist: Lauri Markkanen
From solid starter to All-NBA candidate, Lauri Markkanen made an enormous leap in the 2022-23 season. He went from primarily a stretch four to one of the best off-ball scorers in the sport, taking full advantage of his expanded role with the Jazz. Markkanen is the 2023 Most Improved Player.
2022-23 NBA Most Improved Player- Lauri Markkanen
(BMB Fan Most Improved Player- Lauri Markkanen. Also receiving votes: S. Gilgeous-Alexander, T. Haliburton, J. Brunson, N. Claxton, D. Vassell, A. Gordon, M. Bridges)
As mentioned before, Claxton was a defensive force this season. He’s a menacing shot blocker and one of the best switch bigs in the league. His lateral quickness is not normal for a guy of his size and he can legitimately swap onto all five positions and lock down. There was less attention shined on Brooklyn after the departure of KD and Kyrie, which hurt his case, but Claxton had a DPOY-caliber year regardless.
Finalist: Brook Lopez
When they rolled out a fully healthy lineup (which wasn’t often), the Milwaukee Bucks were as impressive as anyone defensively. At the heart of this dominant defensive unit was Brook Lopez, who had a career year at age 35. Whether the metrics support it or not, his rim protection was unparalleled. Trying to finish over Lopez at the rim is like trying to eat with both hands tied behind your back: you just can’t do so cleanly. He rejected, altered, or smothered countless shots attempted in his vicinity. While his teammates Giannis and Jrue are two of the best defenders in hoops themselves, Lopez was the most important and impactful cog of Milwaukee’s defensive machine in 2023.
Finalist: Jaren Jackson Jr.
The Grizzlies ranked second in defensive rating this season, and Jaren Jackson Jr. can be thanked for that. He’s a destroyer of worlds in the paint—shooting anywhere near him is just asking for him to swat it to the 10th row. His block totals were so insane that people began questioning their authenticity. Another key piece of Jackson’s case is his dramatically-improved ability to defend without fouling. He has earned a reputation as a hack who struggles to stay on the court but he committed the least fouls per 100 possessions of his career this year.
2022-23 NBA Defensive Player of the Year- Brook Lopez
(BMB Fan Defensive Player of the Year- Brook Lopez. Also receiving votes: J. Jackson Jr., G. Antetokounmpo, N. Claxton, J. Holiday, O. Anunoby, J. McDaniels
Jalen “J-Dub” Williams was ranked in the All-Star tier of my Draft Casual’s Big Board during the scouting process, and his rookie campaign showed he’s well on his way to becoming that level of player. He’s the human embodiment of the word versatile. He can create on the ball for himself and others, he makes timely cuts often off the ball, and he uses his absurd length to be a disruptor defensively. Williams fits OKC’s preferred player mold of high-feel guys who contribute in multiple facets of the game to a tee, and it won’t be long before he’s suiting up next to his teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the All-Star game.
Finalist: Walker Kessler
It’s rare that rookies are impactful defenders, so finding one that contributes on that end at an all-league level is like discovering a unicorn. The Utah Jazz acquired a mythical creature in Walker Kessler via the Rudy Gobert trade. The 7’1” first-year man from Auburn showcased impeccable fundamentals as a shot blocker and is already one of the league’s best in that category. Kessler also finished an astounding clip of his field goals (72.0% on the year) and vacuumed in oodles of boards, making him a winning contributor from day one.
Finalist: Paolo Banchero
Once the regular season tipped off, Paolo Banchero came out of the gate head and shoulders above the rest of the class and never looked back. Standing at 6’10” with a 250lb frame, the freshman phenom already overmatches most of the league physically and used that advantage to find early success. He’s a bulldozer, a high-feel creator, a tantalizing prospect, and the 2023 Rookie of the Year.
2022-23 NBA Rookie of the Year- Paolo Banchero
(BMB Fan Rookie of the Year- Paolo Banchero. Also receiving votes: J. Williams, B. Mathurin, W. Kessler, J. Duren, K. Murray)
Most Valuable Player
Honorable Mention- Jayson Tatum
Finalist: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Two-time MVP and my pick last year, Giannis Antetokounmpo is unsurprisingly at the forefront of conversations around the award once again. This year, he’s armed with the best player on the best team argument. Even with championship co-star Khris Middleton sidelined for the majority of the season, the Greek Freak was able to lead his squad to a league-best 58 wins. His two-way dominance was as evident as ever and, while Jokic and Embiid received most of the buzz, his MVP case is equally as convincing.
Finalist: Nikola Jokic
Winning MVP this year would have made Nikola Jokic only the fourth player in history to earn it three straight times, putting him in the remarkable company of Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, and Larry Bird. He spearheaded Denver’s one-seed campaign, putting on diming and post-scoring masterclasses nightly while blowing everybody else out of the water in virtually every advanced metric in the process. Even though he won’t be completing the three-peat, the Joker proved that he belongs in all-time companionship regardless.
Finalist: Joel Embiid
After finishing as the runner-up two years straight, Joel Embiid finally got over the hump and was named MVP last week. He accomplished it by being the most unstoppable force in the sport. Guarding him one-on-one is a death wish. Once he faces up in the mid-range or turns his back to the basket, he commands the attention of every defender on the court or he will put two points on the board. Although Embiid was the official winner, he is a close second for me behind the best player in the world.
2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player- Giannis Antetokounmpo
(BMB Fan Most Valuable Player- Giannis Antetokounmpo. Also receiving votes: N. Jokic, J. Embiid, J. Tatum, L. Doncic)
Bench Mob Player of the Year
Honorable Mentions- Josh Green, A.J. Green, Josh Okogie, Jordan Nwora
Finalist: Yuta Watanabe
Reliable shooting. Glass-crashing. Nonstop energy. Yuta Watanabe does everything a coach wants from their end-of-rotation guys. Even when he fell out of Brooklyn’s regular lineup towards the end of the year, Watanabe never complained and continued to hustle his tail off every second he was on the hardwood. The dirty work he does and the threes he hits were key all season long for the Nets and his stats don’t do justice to the impact he has on victory.
Finalist: Jordan Goodwin
Jordan Goodwin started the 2022-23 campaign on a two-way contract with the Washington Wizards. Having just two games of experience under his belt before this year, he was unknown to many. Then, Delon Wright went down with an injury and Coach Unseld was in need of a new backup guard. Goodwin answered the call. He filled Wright’s role of defensive hound, marking his man up at full court every possession and picking countless pockets while limiting turnovers as a floor general on the other end. He went on to earn a well-deserved multi-year standard deal for his endeavors. Goodwin’s journey from undrafted free agent, to G-Leaguer, to two-way contract man, to legitimate rotational contributor is truly inspirational and he embodies a bench mobber.
Finalist: Isaiah Joe
For the first two years of his career, Isaiah Joe was rotting on the end of the bench in Philadelphia, never getting the chance to spread his wings as a pro. When the Sixers waived him in the offseason, the Oklahoma City Thunder were quick to scoop him up. It was a low-risk, high-reward move for a rebuilding organization and it ended up being one of the best signings of the summer. Finally getting an opportunity to play often, Joe emerged as an invaluable role player for OKC because he’s one of the best three-point specialists in the association. He shoots elite percentages on spot-up and off-screen tries and, as an added bonus, holds up defensively. With his performance this season, Isaiah Joe has paved a loooong career for himself. Daryl Morey undoubtedly regrets letting him go.
2022-23 NBA Bench Mob Player of the Year- Isaiah Joe
(BMB Fan Bench Mob Player of the Year- Isaiah Joe. Also receiving votes: J. Nwora, J. Alvarado, Y. Watanabe, J. Okogie, J. Green, J. McDaniels, A.J. Green)
All-NBA Teams
All-NBA First Team
G- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
G- Donovan Mitchell
F- Jayson Tatum
F- Giannis Antetokounmpo
C- Joel Embiid
All-NBA Second Team
G- Luka Doncic
G- Damian Lillard
F- LeBron James
F- Julius Randle
C- Nikola Jokic
All- NBA Third Team
G- Stephen Curry
G- De’Aaron Fox
F- Jaylen Brown
F- Kevin Durant
C- Domantas Sabonis
All-Defensive Teams
All-Defensive First Team
G- Jrue Holiday
G- Derrick White
F- Evan Mobley
F- Jaren Jackson Jr.
C- Brook Lopez
All-Defensive Second Team
G- Alex Caruso
G- Mikal Bridges
F- Jaden McDaniels
F- Giannis Antetokounmpo
C- Nic Claxton
All-Rookie Teams
All-Rookie First Team
Paolo Banchero
Jalen Williams
Walker Kessler
Bennedict Mathurin
Keegan Murray
All-Rookie Second Team
Jaden Ivey
Jeremy Sochan
Jalen Duren
Shaedon Sharpe
AJ Griffin
All-Bench-Mob Teams
All-Bench-Mob First Team
Isaiah Joe
Yuta Watanabe
Jordan Goodwin
Josh Green
A.J. Green
All-Bench-Mob Second Team
Jordan Nwora
Josh Okogie
Jose Alvarado
Jalen McDaniels
Nick Richards
All-Bench-Mob Third Team
Terence Davis
Edmond Sumner
Ty Jerome
Jaylen Nowell
Sam Hauser
So, those are my official 2022-23 NBA awards! Let me know what you agree and disagree with, I’m always down for a hoops discussion on my Twitter account @finleykuehl. Thanks for reading, and see you next time!
“Hey, we know what that’s all about. It’s all about appeasing Giannis. But to answer your question, no.”
This was an anonymous NBA general manager’s response to a question posed by writer Gery Woelfel about Milwaukee Bucks forward Thanasis Antetokounmpo, the elder brother of basketball’s best player. Would Thanasis be on an NBA roster if not for his brother’s status?
The GM’s response is the general consensus amongst anybody not of Milwaukee fandom. The guy hasn’t exceeded 10 minutes per game in any of his four seasons with the Bucks and any burn he does get is rarely meaningful. If he never sees the court outside of junk time, there’s no way anything about Thanasis outside of his surname warrants a roster spot. The reality is the exact opposite— he’s the most valuable 15th man in the association.
To understand Thanasis’ significance, you have to pay attention to his activity on the bench. He is the ultimate good vibes guy. He celebrates every big moment like he just won the lottery, flexing, yelling, or high-fiving teammates from the bench before they run back on defense. Enthusiasm like that is contagious. Seeing someone smile makes you do the same—it’s science—and Thanasis is always smiling.
The importance of having guys like that in a locker room can not be understated. Most of Milwaukee’s core players are already champions. In order to do it again, they must stay focused on bettering the team instead of selfishly seeking the next thing (a larger contract, more minutes, etc.). Legendary coach and current Miami Heat president Pat Riley called this post-success desire to level up the “disease of more”. Thanasis is immune to this disease. He’s perfectly content in his role and does whatever he can within it to uplift the group. When Thanasis took a leave of absence for personal reasons in March, Giannis shared in a postgame presser how “the energy was kind of off” for the team without him. They say if you feel good, you play good, and people like Thanasis boost the mood of everyone around them.
"The couple of games that he wasn't here, our energy was kind of off."
Thanasis is the league’s premier hypeman, but his true influence runs deeper than that. More than anyone else, he can keep Giannis’ mental game sharp. Anyone who’s watched Giannis knows his emotions can sometimes run hot, and Thanasis is always there to be a calming voice in his ear. It’s common to see him pull his younger sibling aside, presumably delivering brotherly words of wisdom to help the MVP stay focused and play at his best.
Thanasis’ on-court ability is overlooked as well. He was a second-round pick in 2014 and spent two seasons in the D-League before briefly donning a Knicks jersey in 2016. Now as a Buck, he’s flashed real talent whenever he’s let loose, which is usually in matches where Milwaukee’s roster is severely depleted. In 13 career outings where he’s played 20+ minutes, he’s averaged a very respectable 10.1 points. That figure balloons to 18 PPG in games where he logged 30+ minutes, albeit just four contests. He posted a career-high 27 points in Milwaukee’s regular-season finale versus Cleveland last year.
Standout athleticism is not a trait exclusive to Giannis in the Antetokounmpo family. Thanasis can do real damage slashing and cutting to the basket. He’s constantly looking for a chance to rip the hoop down with a rim-rocking slam and goes about it fearlessly. He can always be counted on to throw down an exclamation-mark jam at the end of a Bucks blowout win.
It’s fair to say Thanasis isn’t even Milwaukee’s worst player (sorry, Meyers Leonard), but even if he was, he’s still a culture guy who raises morale, never complains about his role, works hard, and gives 110% when he does step on the hardwood. And, even if he couldn’t provide the same impact on another team, why not celebrate Thanasis for starring in his situation instead of knocking him because that situation is unique? Any GM should recognize what having a guy like him means for a team with championship aspirations. He’s the optimal last man for the Bucks and deserves respect.
The talent level in the NBA is at an all-time high. With all the blinding star power shining every night, too many talented players slip through the cracks and fall under the average fan’s radar. So with the 2022-23 regular season nearly complete, I wanted to show appreciation to some of those unsung heroes that have made this season such a memorable one. Let’s dig straight in.
Zach Collins
Zach Collins was the main spark of this article. After an injury held him out for the entirety of the 2020-21 campaign, he came to the Spurs with a lot to prove and has surpassed all expectations. He jumped out of the gates playing like one of the best backup bigs in the business and is now flourishing as a starter since Jakob Poeltl’s departure. He’s a stout interior defender, a floor-spacer, and an impact rebounder who does all the dirty work. An enforcer in the truest sense, Zach is never afraid to stand up for his teammates and has been involved in multiple scuffles as a result. He bounced back from injury better than ever and at just 25 years old, he’s cemented a spot in San Antonio’s long-term plans.
Joe Ingles & Jevon Carter
This Milwaukee Bucks squad is perhaps the best of the Giannis era. While Jrue Holiday and Brook Lopez enjoying career years plays a large part in that, the biggest difference-maker is the depth on Coach Bud’s bench. Milwaukee’s roster boasts eleven playoff-caliber players, something no other team in the league can hold a candle to. The leaders of the stacked bench mob are Joe Ingles and Jevon Carter.
Ingles, who spent his entire career with the Jazz before this year, tore his ACL last season which could have spelled disaster for a guy in his mid-thirties. Instead, he’s been as productive as ever in his return to the court. He’s a fierce competitor and trash-talker who has been a steady veteran presence for this Bucks unit with his reliable shooting and secondary playmaking. He’s slow but precise in his movement and while he doesn’t provide much rim pressure, his court vision is excellent and he can find guys in their spots consistently. He even directs pick-and-rolls as a ball handler and is essentially the point guard at times. Considering his solid defensive ability too, Ingles has probably been Milwaukee’s sixth-best player and will be a vital member of the rotation in the postseason.
After the 2022 trade deadline, the Brooklyn Nets waived Jevon Carter to open up a roster spot for Goran Dragic. That decision blew up in their faces. Carter is miles ahead of Dragic (who, funnily enough, is also a Buck now) on both ends and has been a rock in Milwaukee’s lineup in the midst of a storm of injuries. He’s hounded opposing ball handlers and knocked down flurries of ballsy pull-up triples in all 79 Bucks contests this season. Coach Budenholzer received a lot of criticism for leaving Carter on the bench in the playoffs last year, but the steady little guard has made committing that mistake again impossible with his play in this Milwaukee campaign.
Dennis Schroder & Troy Brown Jr.
The post-bubble era has been a wild ride for the Los Angeles Lakers. Their rosters have been incompetent and their superstar duo has spent almost as much time in street clothes as they have on the court. This year’s trade deadline breathed some life into their chances at making noise in the crowded West as Rob Pelinka made multiple deals to add legitimate talent alongside LeBron and AD. Even before the deadline, through thick and thin, Darvin Ham has consistently seen winning contributions from Dennis Schroder and Troy Brown Jr.
Schroder, a veteran guard in his second stint in the City of Angels, has quietly been one of basketball’s best backup point guards. His effective inside-the-arc scoring, heady floor generalship and P&R directory, and solid point-of-attack defense have been critical in keeping the Lakers afloat no matter who’s healthy. He’s been the butt of many jokes about when he declined a contract worth upwards of $80 million, and while that decision is still questionable, he’s set himself up for a nice little payday this offseason.
Brown Jr., who was picked just outside of the lottery in 2018, struggled to find a real role as a pro during his time with Washington and Chicago. He took a one-year, bet-on-yourself deal last summer and it has paid off. He’s brought a lot of hustle to this Lakers squad both defensively and on the glass. As a bonus, he’s making good on a career-high percentage of his deep-range tries. He’ll likely move on to a new home after his contract expires and he’ll help bring success wherever he goes.
Quentin Grimes
Behind the arc is where Houston product Quentin Grimes impressed the most as a rookie, but he’s rounded his game out as a sophomore and become a key component of this playoff Knicks team. His name has been tossed around in All-Defense discussions because of his ability to dance around screens and stay glued to his man. On the other end, he’s been aggressive in attacking closeouts and using that advantage to finish at the rack or dish a well-timed dump-off to an open comrade. Of course, he still swishes treys with his beautiful stroke and has become a quintessential 3&D off-guard as a full-time opener for New York.
Tim Hardaway Jr.
Few players embody the title “three-point specialist” more than Tim Hardaway Jr. of the Mavericks. He rarely produces in other areas but can win Dallas games when he heats up from outside. They’re 6-3 on the season when he hits six or more triples. His highs are high and his lows are low but when he’s cooking he makes a big impact on victory and, as a bonus, launches some mind-boggling heat-checks that make his best outings a blast to watch.
Royce O’Neale
Before Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving requested trades out of the blue, the Nets were on a roll and looking like an upper-echelon contender. Their roster went through a massive recasting, with four new starters joining the lineup, but Brooklyn’s resident iron man remained after the dust settled. He’s missed only five possible contests while playing a career-high in minutes, providing high-level catch-and-shoot ability, wing defense, and ball movement every time he’s on the hardwood. It’s a shame the Nets imploded because O’Neale would have really aided them in competing for the Larry O’Brien and he deserves that opportunity.
Naz Reid & Taurean Prince
All-Star big man Karl-Anthony Towns was sidelined with a calf strain for a large chunk of this season, leaving a gaping hole in Minnesota’s scoring output. They needed someone to step up and Naz Reid delivered. He’s a fluidly skilled center/power forward combo who can handle the ball and get to the cup while also being a capable floor spacer. In some ways, he replicates what Towns brings to an offense. Reid has lept into the top tier of backup bigs and will command considerable money for his services as an unrestricted free agent this summer.
Taurean Prince has been as dependable as they come on the wing for coach Chris Finch. He’s a spot-up threat and a serviceable defender who’s been a staple in Minnesota’s rotation all year. Prince won’t wow you with his statistical output but he’s the type of guy that can be trusted to play significant minutes in playoff settings (think Pat Connaughton in Milwaukee’s 2021 Finals run or Markieff Morris for the Lakers the year prior). He also exploded for a fiery 35-point, 8-3PM performance in March in which he shot 92% from the field and 100% from deep which is pretty wild.
Davion Mitchell & Trey Lyles
The Sacramento Kings are undeniably the most exciting story of the season. After piecing together a refurbished roster through the trade market, free agency, and the draft, they snapped their woefully extended lottery streak by not only clinching a spot in the ‘offs but by securing a top-three seed in the Western Conference. De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis (who are both having All-NBA caliber seasons) headline the Beam Team but around them is an incredibly balanced group that has made this surgance possible.
Sacramento’s historic high-octane offense has been the platform for their takeoff and enough to overcome defensive deficiencies. That said, sophomore guard Davion Mitchell has been a buoy for them on D. He’s been praised for his lockdown capabilities since college and is living up to the hype, putting a real stake in All-Defense discussions. In some ways he’s a smaller Jrue Holiday on the perimeter, using impeccable core strength and lateral quickness to blow up plays and completely shut down his matchup.
I owe a huge apology to Trey Lyles. In an article two years ago where I jumbled together some positive thoughts on the Spurs, I threw a stray at him, flat-out saying “Trey Lyles sucks”. I’ve come a long way with my writing since then and Lyles has progressed equally. His do-it-all attitude at the four has been huge for Sacramento’s bench unit. Catch-and-shooting, timely cutting, rebounding; whatever you need, he’s got you covered. So, Trey, I apologize and I’m glad to see you succeed.
AJ Griffin
The only rookie on this list, AJ Griffin has flown under the radar of not only fans but somehow also his coaching staff. He’s been a professional in nearly every aspect of shooting from the second he stepped on an NBA court for the first time, whether it’s spotting up, turning and firing on the move, or stepping in for a one-dribble pull-up when he gets chased off the line. He’s also a solid defender on the ball and has delivered two game-winning buckets this season. All of that said, Griffin’s role in Atlanta’s rotation has been minor compared to the value he can provide. He was even getting DNP-coach decisions in early March, an inexcusable offense from Quin Snyder. Whenever he’s been given the proper minutes, Griffin has shown out and he feels like a lock for All-Rookie.
Aaron Nesmith
Despite being a lottery pick in 2020, Aaron Nesmith’s first two years in the league were void of both playing time and productivity. Then, last offseason, he was tossed into the trade that landed Boston Malcolm Brogdon which was just what he needed to grow. Nesmith has been a common member of Indiana’s starting five which he’s done by hanging his hat on the defensive end. He’s been relentlessly focused on getting stops while doubling as a viable spot-up shooter on the other end, fitting the always trendy 3&D label. The 2023 campaign has been like a second draft for Nesmith and he’s made the most of it.
Delon Wright & Daniel Gafford
While their mediocre record suggests otherwise, the Wizards have been a sneaky fun watch this year. Two major reasons for that are Delon Wright and Daniel Gafford.
Wright trails only former All-Star Kristaps Porzingis in box plus/minus this season amongst all Wizards. He makes them a better team when he subs in because of his ball-hawking, intelligent ball movement, and shooting. The veteran combo guard isn’t flashy but gets the job done at a high level night in and night out.
Gafford is one of the most thrilling watches at the center position. Every time he dives to the hoop or soars to catch a lob he does so with the intention of tearing the basket down. On defense, he prowls the paint waiting to exterminate any shot thrown in his direction. Simply put, the man’s a beast and he can dominate games with bounce, intensity, and vigor.
Dennis Smith Jr.
If there were a comeback player of the year award in the NBA, that honor would go to Dennis Smith Jr. Injuries turned a bright future into a bleak one that seemed at risk of ending when Portland waived him last season. Then, his hometown Hornets offered the 25-year-old another shot, one that he took full advantage of. Smith has shined defensively, using his athletic gifts to be an absolute menace despite standing at just 6’2”. Even considering his lack of a perimeter jumper, he’s extended his career with his newfound All-League guarding ability and it’s been one of the cooler subplots of this season.
This article could go on forever and ever if I mentioned everyone that came to mind when thinking of unsung heroes, so before I wrap things up here are some others: Doug McDermott, Chris Boucher, Donte DiVincenzo, Aaron Holiday, Coby White, Devonte’ Graham, Cam Reddish, Miles McBride, T.J. McConnell, Jaylin Williams, & Svi Mykhailiuk.
Part of what makes following the NBA so much fun is appreciating the contributions brought to the table by every single player, from the top dogs to the two-way guys, and the core mission at the Bench Mob Blog is to help everyone do just that. So, if you don’t know much about these guys, check ‘em out sometime. In the meantime, send your favorite unsung heroes to me on Twitter @thebenchmobblog. Thanks for reading, and see you next time!
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