De’Aaron Fox’s Inexcusable Snubbing and What It Says about the All-Star Game

Every year, players are snubbed from the All-Star game. It’s inevitable. 

Often, the snubbing can be chalked up to too much talent in the league. There are never undeserving All-Stars, so making selections for the last couple spots comes down to nitpicking. It’s rare that coaches make a flat-out mistake by not selecting a player, but that’s what happened this year with De’Aaron Fox. 

When you break down Fox’s case, it’s baffling that he won’t be competing in the All-Star game. He’s top ten in the league in scoring, averaging a career-high 27 points per game. He’s one of basketball’s best slashers and mid-range scorers, and by becoming a borderline lethal three-point threat (he’s shooting a career-high 38% from deep on over seven attempts per game, and half of them are unassisted), he’s a virtually unstoppable bucket getter. He’s a great playmaker. He’s the lead point-of-attack defender on his team and one of the few All-NBA guards who compete on defense night in and night out. Long story short, he shoulders a huge load on both ends and contributes at an all-league level for a team firmly in the playoffs in a ridiculously competitive Western Conference. 

If you don’t think that’s All-Star worthy, you don’t know basketball.

Of course, saying Fox should be an All-Star means he would have to take someone’s spot. Who would that be? Winning shouldn’t hold much weight in All-Star selection. It’s an individual accolade, after all. So, that said, Fox undoubtedly has a better case than Karl-Anthony Towns who currently holds a wildcard spot. You could argue that Fox has been the better individual player than Anthony Edwards, too. If you’re in the “winning does matter” camp, then there’s zero reason why Stephen Curry should be an All-Star over Fox. The Warriors aren’t even in the play-in and Steph is having a comparable individual season to Fox. 

All of that is not to say that KAT, Ant, and Steph are undeserving. They should be in the game, but so should Fox. The real problem is that it’s time for All-Star rosters to be expanded. The NBA is more talented than it’s ever been. There are at least forty All-Star level players competing for just 24 spots and that’s unfair to the players, especially when individual accolades matter for their contracts and their legacies. Increasing the All-Star roster size to 15, the size of a real NBA team, makes so much sense it’s crazy the change hasn’t been made yet. 

De’Aaron Fox has been inexcusably excluded from the 2024 All-Star festivities, and it’s blatant evidence of a problem that needs fixing. It’s time for change. 

6 Buy-Low Trade Targets Who Could Make a Huge Difference

In trade season, fans and the media obsess over the big moves. Everybody wants to see stars switching teams or struggling teams deciding to blow it up. What isn’t talked about, though, is that little moves can still make a massive difference. Adding the right complementary piece at the deadline can lift a contender to championship status. Examples of this in recent memory include the Raptors trading for Marc Gasol in 2019 and the Bucks getting P.J. Tucker in 2021. Today, let’s take a look at some buy-low targets who could fit that bill. These guys have low trade value but could reward a team that takes a chance on them. 

Gordon Hayward

Once an All-Star, Gordon Hayward is well past his glory days. Injuries have plagued him ever since he left Utah. However, he still has gas in the tank. Because he plays in Charlotte, Hayward’s production in recent years has gone unseen by the masses. When he’s healthy he’s still a high-level starter who contributes in every facet of the game. He’s an efficient spot-up threat, a capable pick-and-roll ball handler and passer, a respectable team defender, and a killer mid-range shooter. Even if he’s lost a step or two, the talent and skill have not left Hayward’s body and teams should be lining up to rescue him from the Hornets.

The one problem is that he’s making over $31 million, a tough figure to match in a trade, especially because his current value does not align with his paycheck. The best chance he has of joining a contender this season is if he’s bought out, a possibility that has been rumored. 

Teams Hayward would be a good fit on include the 76ers and the Mavericks. 

Kevin Huerter

The Sacramento Kings, 2022-23’s breakout squad, have taken a step back this season. Their offense has regressed to the middle of the pack, and their defense is below average on its best day. Their supporting cast is in need of an upgrade, and if they look to shuffle their roster around then teams should be calling about Kevin Huerter. While he’s having a down year, the man called Red Mamba has proven to be a dynamic shooter and movement threat who can be a key cog in an elite offense. He would be perfect for any team trying to bolster their attack, and because he is just 25 and has playoff experience, he would be a worthwhile addition for contenders and rebuilders alike. 

Teams Huerter would be a good fit on include the Magic, the Nuggets, and the Pistons.

Clint Capela

Not too long ago, Clint Capela was a borderline dominant interior force. In 2021, he ranked 49th on BMB’s top 100 players list after he led the league in rebounding and held things down in the paint for the Hawks deep in the playoffs. His impact has slipped significantly as the years have gone on though, and it’s only a matter of time before he loses his starting spot to the younger (and arguably better) Onyeka Okongwu. With his value at an all time low, Capela should be a target for teams looking to better their big man room. People don’t realize how hard it is to be a rim protector when the guys on the perimeter can’t guard, and Capela is a victim of that situation in Atlanta. So, in a more sound defensive infrastructure, the monstrous version of the Swiss Bank could make a return.

Teams that Capela would be a good fit on include the Thunder and the Grizzlies. 

Gary Harris

Gary Harris is a quality contributor in the league’s trendiest role: 3&D. His services are expendable for the Magic, though, as they are loaded in the backcourt and are trying to grow their young core. Therefore, they could be looking to offload Harris for a better fit. If a contender could snag him they would benefit greatly as they would be getting a solid shooter and prideful defender who could play big minutes deep in the postseason. 

Teams that Harris would be a good fit on include the Bucks, the Hawks, and the Suns.

Delon Wright

Teams searching for defensive improvement should look no further than Delon Wright, who’s one of the more underrated defenders in the sport. He’s an elite disruptor who uses lightning quick hands, cat-like reaction time, and a nose for the ball to rack up oodles of stocks. He can shoot and pass, too. The Wizards are tanking so the veteran could absolutely be had for the right price, and whoever is willing to pay it will not regret it at all. 

Teams that Wright would be a good fit on include the Bucks, the Mavericks, and the Lakers.

Richaun Holmes

Two years ago, Richaun Holmes was making a push for top-ten center status. Now, he’s barely a rotational player. His fall off has been almost inexplicable. Statistically he hasn’t gotten worse at all, he’s just stopped getting minutes. It feels like there’s no reason why he couldn’t be a steady backup somewhere, and he should be on the radar of teams that need another big. 

Teams that Holmes would be a good fit on include the Celtics and the Hornets.  

Two-Way Talents: Trevelin Queen

(All stats accurate as of 1/11/24)

Take a moment to consider this resume: MVP. Finals MVP. All-League. All-Defense.

Who do you think it belongs to? It sounds like it would be one of the best players in basketball, a guy like Giannis or LeBron. 

It’s actually Trevelin Queen’s. 

Welcome back to Two-Way Talents! This series highlights two-way contract players from 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 Trevelin Queen, the G-League superstar who has stepped up in the big league as of late. 

Since going undrafted in 2020, Queen has been one of the very best players in the NBA’s minor league, evident by his extensive list of accolades. He dominated during his 2021-22 campaign with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, winning MVP and leading his team to a championship. The year after, he made the G-League’s inaugural Next Up game, their equivalent of the All-Star game. Unfortunately, he just hasn’t been able to stick in the majors. Tenures with the Rockets and the Pacers ended up just being cups of coffee on two-way contracts and he hasn’t earned a standard deal yet. 

That could change this season. The Orlando Magic have been riddled with injuries this year. They’ve seen most of their key players outside of Paolo Banchero miss time, coach Jamahl Mosley has been forced to heavily lean on his third-stringers. The bench mob has helped Orlando stay afloat, and Queen has been an impactful member of that group of unsuspecting heroes that also includes Caleb Houstan and Chuma Okeke. 

Defense is the main reason Queen has become a valuable part of Orlando’s lineup. The Magic boast one of the league’s best defenses and have built their identity on that end. Queen fits right in. Since entering the rotation, he’s been tasked with significant responsibility defensively, defending upwards of 15 shots on multiple occasions and being matched up with the likes of De’Aaron Fox and Anthony Edwards, and he has proven to be worthy of it. He’s a determined wing stopper with a high motor who works hard to make life tough for opponents. Whether it’s containing drives, disrupting the passing lanes, or delivering a sweet chasedown block, Queen is always making stuff happen on D. 

His numbers back up the tape. EPM (estimated plus/minus, a popular advanced metric) ranks him in the 85th percentile league-wide defensively. He is second on the Magic in steal percentage and third in defensive box plus/minus. 

Queen hasn’t produced much so far offensively, but he has a lot to offer on that end. He’s finished top ten in the G-League in scoring twice, after all. Small flashes of his scoring ability have come to light during his stint in Orlando, and if he continues to get real playing time, it could shine even brighter. The game isn’t all about getting buckets, though, especially as a role player. In the G, Queen can shoot whenever he wants (he’s averaged upwards of 18 field goal attempts in his past three seasons), but in the NBA he gets limited shots and has to find other ways to contribute. He’s displayed heads-up passing as a Magic, making well-timed extra passes and even making plays out of the pick-and-roll from time to time. This unselfishness and quick decision making, along with his defense, will help him fit into a role and solidify himself as a real NBA player.

Being a G-League superstar is no small feat, but Trevelin Queen plays with the goal of eventually making it to—and staying at—the next level. With the way he’s played for Orlando, he is well on his way to earning a guaranteed NBA contract and achieving that goal. 

Ideal Destinations for 7 Hot Trade Targets

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. 

Two-Way Talents: Duop Reath

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 coverage
At 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. 

Aaron Holiday Is Helping the Rockets Take Off

(All stats accurate as of 12/8/23)

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. 

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. 

Two-Way Talents: Craig Porter Jr.

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. 

2023-24 Breakout Candidate: Quentin Grimes

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. 

Top 100 Players of the 2023 Season

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.

4 Impact Prospects the Milwaukee Bucks Should Target at Pick 58

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.