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    This season, we ranked our top 25 under 25 based not on who they are now, but who they can become. It’s not solely based on potential as much as the projection on how much of that full potential can be reached. In a sense, this ranking represents how these players would be drafted if each was available in the draft right now.

     

     

    (For last season’s list, click here.)

     

     

    To be clear: This is a ranking of how we would order these players if we were starting a franchise and would have them for the next several years, not just this season. The overall rankings are based on an aggregate average of the individual rankings of our trio of NBA experts.

     

     

    In order to be eligible for this list, a player must be age 24 or younger as of Dec. 1, 2013. A trio of NBA experts breaks each player down from three perspectives:

     

     

    Amin Elhassan (scout) starts with a straight scouting report on each player.

     

     

    David Thorpe (coach) offers what each player must improve.

     

     

    Kevin Pelton (analytics) provides a three-year projection using wins above replacement player (WARP). He formulated his projections using his own system, SCHOENE.

     

     

    This list, chock full of former lottery picks and multiple top picks, is a strong nod to the importance of the draft, and a reminder that the draft always is far more about tomorrow than today. It’s important to note how quickly many of these players rose from draft-day labels like "raw talent with huge upside" to viable all-NBA players. Some of the younger players listed here can make big jumps by the time we do this again.

     

     

    It also is interesting to note that NBA players can be broken down into three categories based on the best asset they bring: athleticism, pure skill/craft, or the combination of size and skill. These 25 players feature 11 elite athletes, eight incredibly skilled players and six men who possess good skill along with big and/or tall/long bodies. What that also says is 17 of them have a lot of skill development left.

     

     

    Note: Statistics are as of games through Dec. 10. "NR" indicates a player was not ranked in 2012-13.

     

     

     

     
    1
    Anthony Davis
     
    AGE: 20
    DOB: 3/11/93
    HT: 6-10
    WT: 220
    POS: PF/C
     
     
     
    PPG: 18.8
    BPG: 3.6
    RPG: 10.2
    3-YR WARP: 54.6

     

     

     

     

    Amin Elhassan: Davis continues his superstar trajectory as an efficient, unselfish two-way player. He’s a tremendous defensive presence both on- and off-ball, a voracious rebounder and elite finisher out of pick-and-roll situations.

     

     

    David Thorpe: Improving his shooting is Step 1, beginning with a midrange game that can be featured in isolations when defenders play off him. Developing a plan in the post is Step 2, including face-ups against bigger, slower defenders, as well as a reliable middle-attack move with one solid counter.

     

     

    Kevin Pelton: After posting the best PER ever by a 20-year-old as a rookie, Davis merely ranks third in the league this season. Barring injury, his future is a lock.

    Previous rank: No. 13 | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     

     

     
    2
    Paul George
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 5/2/90
    HT: 6-9
    WT: 220
    POS: SF
     
     
     
    PPG: 25.1
    APG: 3.4
    RPG: 5.8
    3-YR WARP: 34.0

     

     

     

     

    Elhassan: George has taken the leap from All-Star to superstar by bringing his offensive game to a level on par with his defensive brilliance. Improved shooting across the board and the addition of a midrange game make him a much tougher cover than in years past.

     

     

    Thorpe: George needs to begin work on what most extra-large wings develop as they age — a post-up game. It starts with a mindset to fight for good post position throughout the game, including in transition. His length allows him to attack the paint and then rise straight up for a jumper, though developing a half-hook would be nice, too.

     

     

    Pelton: A relatively low WARP projection doesn’t give George enough defensive credit. His rapid development the past two seasons suggests he will continue working to improve his game.

    Previous rank: No. 18 | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     
    3
    Andre Drummond
     
    AGE: 20
    DOB: 8/10/93
    HT: 6-10
    WT: 270
    POS: C
     
     
     
    PPG: 13.5
    BPG: 1.4
    RPG: 13.0
    3-YR WARP: 46.3

     

     

     

     

    Elhassan: Probably already the best rebounder in the NBA, Drummond’s combination of size, elite athleticism and motor give him the ability to impact the game every time he steps on the court. He’s still raw in terms of skill and feel, but the instincts are there.

     

     

    Thorpe: He is nowhere near the same player in a fast game as he is in a more deliberate half-court game. Drummond has the ability to both outrace bigs end-to-end or earn deep post position in early offense. Doing so significantly elevates Detroit’s offense and makes him a far more dynamic player.

     

     

    Pelton: Dwight Howard is the only player with a similarity score better than 90 compared to Drummond, who could become the fourth-youngest All-Star ever afterKobe BryantLeBron James and Magic Johnson.

     

     

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     
    4
    James Harden
     
    AGE: 24
    DOB: 8/26/89
    HT: 6-5
    WT: 220
    POS: SG
     
     
     
    PPG: 24.6
    APG: 5.7
    RPG: 4.8
    3-YR WARP: 46.2

     

     

    Elhassan: The best shooting guard in the NBA, Harden has taken scoring efficiency to new levels. He gets to the front of the rim almost at will, and if the defense lays back he will seek and destroy from beyond the arc. A deft playmaker who makes his teammates better, Harden’s final frontier is conquering the defensive end.

    Thorpe: Harden has taken Kobe Bryant’s place as the player who makes the most "bad" shots, but he still misses the majority of them. On this team, with the weapons he has around him, those just are not necessary. Taking a few more uncontested shots each game and displaying a willingness to play defense more often the way he does expertly on occasion would elevate him to MVP-level status.

    Pelton: Players similar to Harden have tended to peak at an early age, often because of injuries. The pounding Harden takes while repeatedly driving to the hoop could take a toll.

    Previous rank: No. 4 | PLAYER CARD
     
    5
    John Wall
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 9/6/90
    HT: 6-4
    WT: 195
    POS: PG
     
     
     
    PPG: 19.6
    APG: 9.1
    RPG: 4.4
    3-YR WARP: 35.0

     

     

    Elhassan: Wall is beginning to fulfill the promise that got him drafted first overall in 2010 (amazing what being healthy can do for your game’s perception). He’s still not a consistent enough shooter, but he’s improved tremendously, and that has opened up passing opportunities for him. Defensively, he has the tools to be the antidote to the league’s class of super-athletic PGs.

    Thorpe: Improving his perimeter shot is a no-brainer, even just a midrange jump shot over smaller defenders, but he has work to do to become a better transition finisher as well. As perhaps the fastest ball-pusher in the league, Wall has many chances to outrace defenders but he often struggles to focus on making the shot rather than drawing contact or getting it off cleanly.

    Pelton: Point guards tend to peak late, so Wall might still have room to grow after emerging as an All-Star-caliber player this season.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     

     
    6
    Blake Griffin
     
    AGE: 24
    DOB: 3/16/89
    HT: 6-10
    WT: 251
    POS: PF
     
     
     
    PPG: 20.7
    RPG: 10.6
    APG: 3.0
    3-YR WARP: 36.6
     

    Elhassan: While pundits rail about Griffin’s lack of a post game, he’s quietly developing into quite the all-round talent: He’s a very good passer, a steadily improving jump shooter, a dominant force on the defensive glass and one of the best finishers in the game. And while his post game is mechanical and predictable, more often than not it is effective.

    Thorpe: Griffin is a top-10 guy in free throws attempted but not top 20 in makes. His new free throw stroke, which has him pausing at the top before finally finishing the release, is problematic. It requires exquisite timing, something he has not ever shown before as a shooter. He’d be better off shooting the ball with more fluidity.

    Pelton: At nearly 25, and relying as much as he does on athleticism, Griffin might be close to topping out statistically. The key is refining his game to offset those losses.

    Previous rank: No. 3 | PLAYER CARD
     
    7
    Kyrie Irving
     
    AGE: 21
    DOB: 3/23/92
    HT: 6-3
    WT: 191
    POS: PG
     
     
     
    PPG: 19.7
    APG: 5.8
    RPG: 3.4
    3-YR WARP: 33.4

     

     

    Elhassan: Irving’s meteoric rise has hit a minor snag, but he’s still one of the best young point guards in the game. His ability to shoot, break down defenses off the dribble and squeeze passes through the tightest of seams make him an impossible cover, but he’s got to show more trust in his teammates and let the ball go quicker. Also, he needs to improve his effort on the defensive end.

    Thorpe: Irving is struggling this season, clearly not playing with the joy and passion he has in the past. He’s not the first star to have issues with a teammate or two, so he needs to put that behind him and get back to playing with great energy and confidence. Paying more attention to his defensive assignments is a good way to get his offense in gear, as well as to help the team win games.

    Pelton: The two most similar players to Irving statistically, Allen Iverson and Derrick Rose, both have won MVPs. That’s Irving’s upside if he can lead a contending team.

    Previous rank: No. 6 | PLAYER CARD
     
    8
    Damian Lillard
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 7/5/90
    HT: 6-3
    WT: 195
    POS: PG
     
     
     
    PPG: 20.7
    APG: 5.6
    RPG: 3.8
    3-YR WARP: 28.4

     

     

    Elhassan: One of the most underrated members of the NBA’s golden age of point guards, Lillard is enjoying the benefits of playing on a team with talent. He’s struggled to finish at the rim this season (and was not stellar at it last season), but makes up for it with great perimeter shooting and savvy play out of the pick-and-roll. Probably has the best step-back jumper in the NBA.

    Pelton: Lillard is clearly one of the most complete guards in the NBA, except for when he is attacking the rim. He seldom finishes because he often holds onto the ball too long after jumping, thus shooting the ball on the way down. He’ll contort his body and extend his shooting arc to avoid contact or get the shot off, instead of exploding up and finishing on the rise as he initiates contact.

    Pelton: Next season probably will be Lillard’s last big step forward. Similar players tended to settle in at the level of play they reached at age 24.

    Previous rank: No. 21 | PLAYER CARD
     
    9
    DeMarcus Cousins
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 8/13/90
    HT: 6-11
    WT: 270
    POS: C
     
     
     
    PPG: 22.6
    BPG: 1.3
    RPG: 10.4
    3-YR WARP: 30.6

     

     

    Elhassan: The game is finally starting to come together for Cousins, as his shot selection has improved and his antics have decreased. Though he’s bit predictable in the post, that doesn’t matter with his size and strength advantage. Tremendous rebounder and an underrated passer.

    Thorpe: There is no doubt that Cousins is quickly moving in the right path toward stardom, but now is the time to stop playing like a "puppy." His exuberance is matched by a lack of discipline, and it shows in his turnovers and fouls. Part of this comes from playing on bad teams in meaningless games. Yet it is still on him to begin valuing possessions more by playing less casually and recklessly.

    Pelton: Cousins’ individual advanced stats have outpaced his impact as measured by plus-minus. The Kings are playing better with Cousins on both ends this season, a positive sign for his development.

    Previous rank: No. 19 | PLAYER CARD
     
    10
    Derrick Favors
     
    AGE: 22
    DOB: 7/15/91
    HT: 6-10
    WT: 268
    POS: PF
     
     
     
    PPG: 13.4
    BPG: 1.2
    RPG: 9.5
    3-YR WARP: 24.3

     

     

    Elhassan: I think Favors has the potential to be one of the best defensive anchors in the NBA, but has struggled with foul trouble in his first stint as a starting center. He has Velcro hands when it comes to rebounding and catching and finishing, especially out of the pick-and-roll. Plus, his post game is steadily improving.

    Thorpe: Favors will improve as a post player once he develops a plan. He chooses to drive the baseline too much, and when he goes down the middle first, he does so without a purpose, which is to either earn an easy shot there or create a better scoring angle on his baseline counter. He also needs to develop more of a jump hook and less of a "throw it over the shoulder" shot.

    Pelton: Favors might have untapped potential as a scorer. Utah predecessor Paul Millsap, one of the most similar players to Favors, didn’t average 18 points per 36 minutes until age 25.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     
    11
    Eric Bledsoe
     
    AGE: 24
    DOB: 12/9/89
    HT: 6-1
    WT: 195
    POS: PG
     
     
     
    PPG: 18.6
    APG: 6.0
    RPG: 4.0
    3-YR WARP: 28.5
     

    Elhassan: Off to a terrific start this season, Bledsoe’s elite athleticism and explosiveness allow him to blow by most defenders, and his strong frame lets him finish through contact at the rim. He’s still an inconsistent shooter from beyond the arc, and has a penchant for trying to make the flashy play instead of the safe one, but he brings good effort and energy to the court.

    Thorpe: It is exciting to think about Bledsoe’s overall future if he improves as a spot-up shooter. Right now he does a few things just a bit wrong; his left hand appears to be slightly too involved, his balance issues range from splitting his feet in the air to sometimes jumping forward a little too much, and he is not consistent with his extension and follow-through.

    Pelton: Bledsoe has dramatically cut down his turnover rate from his first two seasons, and based on similar players, he’s likely to make further improvement.

    Previous rank: 25 | PLAYER CARD

     

     
    12
    Serge Ibaka
     
    AGE: 24
    DOB: 9/18/89
    HT: 6-10
    WT: 245
    POS: PF
     
     
     
    PPG: 14.7
    BPG: 2.5
    RPG: 9.9
    3-YR WARP: 26.6
     

    Elhassan: Ibaka’s reached the point that his defense is probably a little overrated while his offense is a little underrated. A tremendous shot-blocker, he’s traditionally been a below-average presence on the defensive glass (although his numbers are up this season), and a less-than-conscientious defender away from the basket. Offensively, he’s developed into a knockdown shooter out to the corner 3-point line, but underachieves as a finisher around the rim.

    Thorpe: Ibaka is likely the single most productive and efficient role player in the league. But he could wring more scoring out of his game by earning more free throw attempts. His shot allows him to be an effective shot-fake attack guy, and his quickness and ambidexterity give him chances to create contact on drives and post-up plays. Those weapons, when used right, draw lots of fouls.

    Pelton: As a jump-shooting big who is also an elite shot-blocker, Ibaka is something of a new type of player. SCHOENE compares him to Raef LaFrentz, who wasn’t nearly the same kind of athlete.

    Previous rank: No. 7 | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     

     
    13
    Greg Monroe
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 6/4/90
    HT: 6-11
    WT: 250
    POS: PF
     
     
     
    PPG: 14.2
    BPG: 0.7
    RPG: 9.0
    3-YR WARP: 28.3
     

    Elhassan: One has to wonder how much longer Monroe can last in Detroit, where he is part of a crowded frontcourt rotation and surrounded by non-spacers. His ground-bound offensive game relies more on footwork and savvy, and he can put the ball on the floor and beat slower defenders off dribble attacks from the elbows. A good rebounder, Monroe’s defense leaves something to be desired.

    Thorpe: Detroit switches a lot off "big-little" screens, meaning Monroe has to guard wings more than most bigs. He has not been an effective defender in one-on-one situations as much as he could be, mostly because he keeps his long arms too low. Getting them up early would help him defend opponents who are driving to the hoop, taking away their easy looks at a runner or jump shot. He does that sometimes, but doing it all the time would elevate his on-the-ball defense to near elite level.

    Pelton: Monroe might be the steadiest player on this list going forward. While he’s unlikely to slip in terms of his production, similar players don’t reveal much untapped upside.

    Previous rank: No. 14 | PLAYER CARD
     
    14
    Kawhi Leonard
     
    AGE: 22
    DOB: 6/29/91
    HT: 6-7
    WT: 230
    POS: SF
     
     
     
    PPG: 11.5
    SPG: 1.9
    RPG: 6.1
    3-YR WARP: 21.2
     

    Elhassan: One of the premier perimeter defenders in the league, Leonard is taking steps to expand his offensive game beyond catch-and-shoot situations from beyond the arc and dribble drives versus hard closeouts, and is continuing to develop into a post threat. He’s a terrific rebounder for a wing, which allows the Spurs to play him at the 4 in small-ball lineups.

    Thorpe: Assuming he recovers from his early-season shooting funk, Leonard can take a big leap forward as a player if he starts taking on the mindset of a scorer. He could start by looking to take advantage of his post game more often, or backing smaller wings down from the perimeter. Doing so will also help him earn far more free throws.

    Pelton: Leonard has increased his usage rate, but still not to league average. How he handles a larger role will determine whether he can anchor the Spurs’ offense as their stars age.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     

     
    15
    Michael Carter-Williams
     
    AGE: 22
    DOB: 10/10/91
    HT: 6-6
    WT: 185
    POS: PG
     
     
     
    PPG: 17.7
    APG: 7.3
    RPG: 5.8
    3-YR WARP: 32.1
     

    Elhassan: The rookie is the latest incarnation of the big, pure point guard, like a cross between Shaun Livingston and Penny Hardaway. Carter-Williams has excellent vision and is a willing passer, and can create space with his explosive first step. Despite starting the season on fire from the perimeter, he’s come back down to earth — fulfilling his predraft scouting profile as a poor shooter.

    Thorpe: It’s all about shot selection for young players, and considering MCW’s size and skill advantages, it is even more imperative he learns this part of the game. He elects to take too many quick jumpers, and on drives he often tries to get the shot off on the run instead of gathering at the end of his drive and simply shooting the short jumper over his typically smaller defender.

    Pelton: SCHOENE’s five most similar players to Carter-Williams: Hardaway, Baron DavisStephen CurryRussell Westbrook and Jason Kidd. We might have ranked him too low.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD

     

     
    16
    Nicolas Batum
     
    AGE: 24
    DOB: 12/14/88
    HT: 6-8
    WT: 200
    POS: SF
     
     
     
    PPG: 13.5
    APG: 5.2
    RPG: 6.4
    3-YR WARP: 29.9

     

     

    Elhassan: It’s hard to believe that Batum, now in his sixth year, still isn’t 25 years old. A poor man’s Scottie Pippen, Batum is a long, versatile and athletic perimeter defender who can handle the ball and create for others. He’s been a consistently good 3-point shooter throughout his career and is ultra-efficient around the basket.

    Thorpe: Batum still makes far too many causal passes, which result in turnovers. He really struggles in ball-screen action, either not attacking the big hard enough to create easier passing and scoring angles, or he simply doesn’t pivot and move the ball away from the defenders as he passes.

    Pelton: A long-time WARP favorite because of his 3s and steals, Batum is unlikely to grow much statistically. Similar players stayed at exactly the same level the next season.

    Previous rank: No. 16 | PLAYER CARD
     
    17
    Harrison Barnes
     
    AGE: 21
    DOB: 5/30/92
    HT: 6-8
    WT: 210
    POS: SF
     
     
     
    PPG: 13.3
    APG: 1.8
    RPG: 3.8
    3-YR WARP: 0.2

     

     

    Elhassan: A world of potential, and he is just scratching the surface. Barnes has improved his offensive efficiency, particularly his shooting from downtown, a continuation from his playoff success last season. He also is progressing as a post threat, using his considerable size and strength advantages at the wing. However, he’s inconsistent defensively and needs to get better on the glass.

    Thorpe: Barnes has to develop a much tighter plan when he has the ball in isolation. He needs to attack at better angles, use more shot fakes, lower his hips and read the situation before attacking. Right now he just kind of plays by feel, which is not effective in the NBA.

    Pelton: Though Barnes’ best comp (Sean Elliott) shows his upside, the rest of the group is underwhelming for such a coveted player: Omri CasspiDeMar DeRozan andMarvin Williams.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD
     
    18
    Giannis Antetokounmpo
     
    AGE: 19
    DOB: 12/6/94
    HT: 6-9
    WT: 205
    POS: SG
     
     
     
    PPG: 5.1
    APG: 0.9
    RPG: 3.2
    3-YR WARP: 7.4
     

    Elhassan: Antetokounmpo’s upside is incredible as a two-way player in this league, but he has a ton of development to do, both physically and in terms of his skills. He does a great job at getting out in transition and finishing with his length, but he still struggles shooting the ball. Defensively, he has great instincts and his length allows him to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots.

    Thorpe: To be an elite wing scorer, Antetokounmpo must develop into an excellent ball-handler in half-court sets. Being able to shake good defenders with a dribble move would be the goal, but even just to be able to play effectively in ball-screen action would be good enough.

    Pelton: It’s too early for Antetokounmpo’s statistics to tell us much, but based on similar players, he’s most likely to emerge as a full-time starter in 2016-17 at age 22.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD
     
    19
    Gordon Hayward
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 3/23/90
    HT: 6-8
    WT: 220
    POS: SG
     
     
     
    PPG: 16.7
    APG: 4.7
    RPG: 5.1
    3-YR WARP: 21.3

     

     

    Elhassan: One of the most skilled young wings in the league, Hayward is currently experiencing how difficult life is as a No. 1 option. A good perimeter shooter, his shooting percentages have dropped across the board as his shots have increased, and he is turning the ball over more than ever. Hayward’s strength as a playmaker comes out of secondary action, like weakside pick-and-rolls and pindowns.

    Thorpe: Hayward’s efficiency will rocket upward when he starts consistently earning more free throws. He has the size and ball-handling skills to put defenders at disadvantages, which is the key to getting them to foul. However, it takes a better, greedier mindset as well as a relentless attacking game — characteristics he displays less often than he could. Finding his 3-point stroke will help.

    Pelton: Based on similar players, Hayward is likely to shift his shot selection to more valuable 3-point and free throw attempts. Having more playmakers alongside him will help that process.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD
     
    20
    Jrue Holiday
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 6/12/90
    HT: 6-4
    WT: 205
    POS: PG
     
     
     
    PPG: 15.2
    APG: 7.9
    RPG: 4.5
    3-YR WARP: 22.7

     

     

    Elhassan: Holiday’s solid all-round game is his strength, and his presence has elevated the play of the Pelicans (especially Anthony Davis). He doesn’t have an explosive first step, but he’s got decent quickness and the size and strength to muscle past defenders and make plays. Holiday has developed into a reliable 3-point shooter, although he still underachieves as a finisher at the rim, despite his size advantage.

    Thorpe: Holiday has the frame and the skill set to be an excellent post-up player. He’s strong enough to back guys down, and his ability to shoot from face-up positions makes him tough to guard on midrange post-ups because he’s just one quick dribble from the rim if the defender contests too closely or goes for a fake. Now Holiday just has to do it more often.

    Pelton: Playing alongside more talented players in New Orleans, expect Holiday to continue to evolve into a more efficient scorer who sets up his teammates more frequently.

    Previous rank: No. 12 | PLAYER CARD
     
    21
    Klay Thompson
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 2/8/90
    HT: 6-7
    WT: 205
    POS: SG
     
     
     
    PPG: 21.0
    APG: 2.5
    RPG: 3.3
    3-YR WARP: 17.2

     

     

    Elhassan: One of the NBA’s elite shooters, Thompson’s game is comparable to that of Allan Houston, especially with the blossoming of his back-to-the-basket game, where he can use his size to turn and shoot over smaller defenders. Thompson is also an underrated on-ball defender and is adept at chasing opponents off-screen, although has lapses when his man isn’t an active target in the play.

    Thorpe: He’s one of the top pure shooters coming off screens, but when defenders take away open looks he struggles to make a clean play. Thompson must lower his hips and dribble away from that second defender, then make sure to take the time to either pivot and make a strong and balanced pass to the open big, or make the easy pass to another guard/wing.

    Pelton: Statistically, Thompson has taken a huge leap this season, pushing his PER from 12.7 to 17.5. SCHOENE is skeptical he can maintain all of the improvement going forward.

    Previous rank: No. 22 | PLAYER CARD
     
    22
    Nikola Vucevic
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 10/24/90
    HT: 7-0
    WT: 250
    POS: C
     
     
     
    PPG: 14.7
    BPG: 1.1
    RPG: 10.9
    3-YR WARP: 19.7

     

     

    Elhassan: Vucevic is a monster rebounding machine with good feel on the offensive end and a nice touch around the rim. His post game isn’t flashy, but it’s effective, and he is able to finish around the rim on shots other than layups and dunks. Vucevic also does a nice job of moving without the ball, flashing from short corner to the front of the rim.

    Thorpe: Vucevic has a great-looking shot off ball screens when he pops, but too often he does not complete his shot, as it relates to footwork. Shooters need to emphasize staying balanced through the entire shot, and he often begins to back away just as he is releasing it. Trying to gain even one more step toward the rim on the catch would help, too.

    Pelton: Vucevic’s best comps include Andrew Bogut, but also journeymen Drew Gooden and J.J. Hickson. The difference? Bogut grew into a rim-protector, while Gooden and Hickson remained defensive liabilities.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD
     
    23
    Ricky Rubio
     
    AGE: 23
    DOB: 10/21/90
    HT: 6-4
    WT: 185
    POS: PG
     
     
     
    PPG: 8.4
    APG: 8.4
    RPG: 4.6
    3-YR WARP: 23.0
     

    Elhassan: He hasn’t developed into the Jason Kidd-level point guard we thought he’d be, but he’s still just 23 and one of the best passers in the league, with incredible vision and the ability to squeeze passes into the tightest spaces. He’s developed into a fairly reliable catch-and-shoot option from beyond the arc, but is atrocious scoring the ball anywhere else, in any other fashion. He’s an underrated defender with quick hands and sound footwork.

    Thorpe: Rubio is close to breaking through into a higher level of play, if only he’d trim the number of bad turnovers. Those are the ones that are high-risk and low-reward, especially early in possessions when he has so many other options. Limit those along with the long 2s he elects to take and his efficiency rockets up.

    Pelton: Rubio might never develop into a good outside shooter, but that’s not necessary for him to be valuable. More important is improving his finishing around the basket, his real weakness.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD
     
    24
    Jonas Valanciunas
     
    AGE: 21
    DOB: 5/6/92
    HT: 6-11
    WT: 231
    POS: C
     
     
     
    PPG: 9.1
    RPG: 7.6
    BPG: 0.9
    3-YR WARP: 7.3

     

     

    Elhassan: After a strong finish to his rookie season and a summer league MVP award, Valanciunas has somewhat stagnated in his sophomore year, often looking frustrated with the inability of his teammates to find him. He’s a good finisher out of pick-and-rolls and has decent footwork in the post, but his shot is flat, giving it little chance to catch favorable bounces.

    Thorpe: Solid in a lot of areas, but not yet strong in any. Learning how to fight for better position in the paint is a great place to start. Players his size who consistently bang bodies to get into areas next to the rim get more layups, tips and free throws. In addition, attacking at better angles once he does make a move out of the post will help get to better spots.

    Pelton: Valanciunas’ slow start has dropped his WARP projection, now second-lowest among this group. His translated Euroleague stats suggest this year’s sub-50 percent shooting is a fluke.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD
     
    25
    John Henson
     
    AGE: 22
    DOB: 12/28/90
    HT: 6-11
    WT: 220
    POS: PF
     
     
     
    PPG: 11.3
    RPG: 7.0
    BPG: 2.1
    3-YR WARP: 20.1
     

    Elhassan: Henson has benefited from Larry Sanders’ early-season injuries, seeing his minutes double, and he has responded as a result, bringing rebounding and energy to the floor. He’s a good finisher and has a decent touch around the rim. Defensively, his length and activity allow him to protect the rim and force opponents to alter their shot attempts.

    Thorpe: Henson is not a shooter or a post scorer — yet — and if he can focus on improving either that would be a great start. In the post he is too methodical and upright; getting lower and using his surprising quickness can help him beat his defenders for an easier and closer look at the rim. As a shooter, starting his shot with the ball higher can help.

    Pelton: Because he relies more on activity than skill, Henson is unlikely to improve much on this year’s 19.5 PER. That’s OK as long as he fills in the gaps in his game.

    Previous rank: NR | PLAYER CARD

     

     

     

     

     

     

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  • #855906
    AvatarAvatar
    Hale
    Participant

    Sorry I couldn’t format it better. It takes awhile and the ability to edit isn’t around for very long.

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  • #856013
    AvatarAvatar
    Hale
    Participant

    Sorry I couldn’t format it better. It takes awhile and the ability to edit isn’t around for very long.

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  • #855912
    AvatarAvatar
    machu46
    Participant

     In the very least, it’s nice to see two of my Bucks in there.  Hopefully they continue to develop.

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  • #856019
    AvatarAvatar
    machu46
    Participant

     In the very least, it’s nice to see two of my Bucks in there.  Hopefully they continue to develop.

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  • #855954
    AvatarAvatar
    Da1pot
    Participant

     Brad Beal should be there over Henson, Valanciunas, Antetokuompo, Vucevic, and maybe even some others as well. He is only 20 years old, yet averages over 20 points per game. Klay Thompson might be better and more efficient right now, but let’s see where Beal is when he turns 23.

    I also think that Blake Griffin is too high because I think he has peaked statistically already. I just don’t see him averaging anything significantly better than 20 and 10, and he plays at a position that isn’t as "premium" as a guy like Demarcus Cousins. There are a lot of good offensive power forwards in the league nowadays, but Cousins is arguably the best offensive center in the NBA in a league full of only a few of them.

     

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    • #855956
      AvatarAvatar
      machu46
      Participant

       I don’t know. I’d still put Blake ahead of DeMarcus.  He might have peaked from a statistical standpoint, but he’s still improving his game.  This year, he’s surprisingly been one of the best post defenders in the NBA in terms of points per possession, and looking at his shot chart, he’s been an above average shooter from mid-range while still maintaining his great numbers around the basket.

      Cousins has a ton of potential if he ever puts it all together (and he’s seemingly starting to do that this year), but the fact that you always have to worry about him keeping his head on straight is a major deterrent IMO.

      Regardless, they’re both great young players.  I just think Blake has gotten a bit of a bad rap with all the "he’s all dunks and nothing else" statements that you hear from people when they talk about him.  The only reason it looks that way is because that’s all ESPN shows us.  But Griffin is an undersized PF that’s made himself into an all-star caliber player because he has a great nose for the basketball, great footwork, ballhandling, and passing ability for a big man, he’s great in the pick and roll, and he’s developing his post game, jumpshot, and defense.

      As a Bucks fan, I’d kill to have someone like Blake Griffin to start to build a team around.

       

       

       

       

       

       

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      • #856159
        AvatarAvatar
        aivsdirk
        Participant

         

        and you wouldnt win a championship just like the clips wont win with blake being the centerpeice

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      • #856054
        AvatarAvatar
        aivsdirk
        Participant

         

        and you wouldnt win a championship just like the clips wont win with blake being the centerpeice

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        • #856150
          AvatarAvatar
          machu46
          Participant

          1. He isn’t the centerpiece in LA as is. And who knows if they’ll win one or not?

          2. I don’t think building a team around Cousins would be any better.  He’s the centerpiece of the Kings, and they’ve been irrelevant basically ever since Webber/Peja/Bibby left.

          3. A centerpiece (which, IMO, means being THE guy) is not the same thing as being A guy that you build your team around.  Blake doesn’t have to be your #1 guy, but you can still build a team around him being your #2.  Blake gives you a young starting point.

           

           

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        • #856255
          AvatarAvatar
          machu46
          Participant

          1. He isn’t the centerpiece in LA as is. And who knows if they’ll win one or not?

          2. I don’t think building a team around Cousins would be any better.  He’s the centerpiece of the Kings, and they’ve been irrelevant basically ever since Webber/Peja/Bibby left.

          3. A centerpiece (which, IMO, means being THE guy) is not the same thing as being A guy that you build your team around.  Blake doesn’t have to be your #1 guy, but you can still build a team around him being your #2.  Blake gives you a young starting point.

           

           

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    • #856062
      AvatarAvatar
      machu46
      Participant

       I don’t know. I’d still put Blake ahead of DeMarcus.  He might have peaked from a statistical standpoint, but he’s still improving his game.  This year, he’s surprisingly been one of the best post defenders in the NBA in terms of points per possession, and looking at his shot chart, he’s been an above average shooter from mid-range while still maintaining his great numbers around the basket.

      Cousins has a ton of potential if he ever puts it all together (and he’s seemingly starting to do that this year), but the fact that you always have to worry about him keeping his head on straight is a major deterrent IMO.

      Regardless, they’re both great young players.  I just think Blake has gotten a bit of a bad rap with all the "he’s all dunks and nothing else" statements that you hear from people when they talk about him.  The only reason it looks that way is because that’s all ESPN shows us.  But Griffin is an undersized PF that’s made himself into an all-star caliber player because he has a great nose for the basketball, great footwork, ballhandling, and passing ability for a big man, he’s great in the pick and roll, and he’s developing his post game, jumpshot, and defense.

      As a Bucks fan, I’d kill to have someone like Blake Griffin to start to build a team around.

       

       

       

       

       

       

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  • #856060
    AvatarAvatar
    Da1pot
    Participant

     Brad Beal should be there over Henson, Valanciunas, Antetokuompo, Vucevic, and maybe even some others as well. He is only 20 years old, yet averages over 20 points per game. Klay Thompson might be better and more efficient right now, but let’s see where Beal is when he turns 23.

    I also think that Blake Griffin is too high because I think he has peaked statistically already. I just don’t see him averaging anything significantly better than 20 and 10, and he plays at a position that isn’t as "premium" as a guy like Demarcus Cousins. There are a lot of good offensive power forwards in the league nowadays, but Cousins is arguably the best offensive center in the NBA in a league full of only a few of them.

     

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  • #856072
    AvatarAvatar
    Sharp Shooter
    Participant

     Drummond WILL be an all star this year

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  • #855966
    AvatarAvatar
    Sharp Shooter
    Participant

     Drummond WILL be an all star this year

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  • #856112
    AvatarAvatar
    qDizzle32
    Participant

     I don’t get how Bradley Beal isn’t on there

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  • #856006
    AvatarAvatar
    qDizzle32
    Participant

     I don’t get how Bradley Beal isn’t on there

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  • #856116
    AvatarAvatar
    mbunner23
    Participant

    No Bradley Beal hmm…don’t make too much sense to me.

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  • #856010
    AvatarAvatar
    mbunner23
    Participant

    No Bradley Beal hmm…don’t make too much sense to me.

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  • #856118
    AvatarAvatar
    lakeshow22
    Participant

     How did Bradley Beal and Eric Gordon not make it?

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  • #856012
    AvatarAvatar
    lakeshow22
    Participant

     How did Bradley Beal and Eric Gordon not make it?

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  • #856132
    AvatarAvatar
    ItsVictorOladipo
    Participant

    WTF?! How does Antetokounmpo make this list while DeRozan (21.5 PPG, 17.5 PER), Beal (20.6 PPG, 3.5 APG) and Oladipo (13.4 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.7 SPG) don’t.

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  • #856026
    AvatarAvatar
    ItsVictorOladipo
    Participant

    WTF?! How does Antetokounmpo make this list while DeRozan (21.5 PPG, 17.5 PER), Beal (20.6 PPG, 3.5 APG) and Oladipo (13.4 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.7 SPG) don’t.

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    • #856140
      AvatarAvatar
      BasketBalAllan
      Participant

       Because it’s Espn… 

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    • #856034
      AvatarAvatar
      BasketBalAllan
      Participant

       Because it’s Espn… 

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    • #856154
      AvatarAvatar
      machu46
      Participant

       I think it’s way too early to say that Giannis will be better than any of those three, but at the same time, this is supposed to be a list that projects their futures if I’m not mistaken.  It wouldn’t surprise me at all if people think Giannis might end up being better than those guys in a few years when he’s had more time to develop his game.

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      • #856372
        AvatarAvatar
        ItsVictorOladipo
        Participant

        In a sense, this ranking represents how these players would be drafted if each was available in the draft right now.

        If a draft of all the players under 25 in the NBA was held right now and a GM took Giannis over Beal or Oladipo they should be fired. Even considering the emphasis placed on potential.

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      • #856479
        AvatarAvatar
        ItsVictorOladipo
        Participant

        In a sense, this ranking represents how these players would be drafted if each was available in the draft right now.

        If a draft of all the players under 25 in the NBA was held right now and a GM took Giannis over Beal or Oladipo they should be fired. Even considering the emphasis placed on potential.

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    • #856259
      AvatarAvatar
      machu46
      Participant

       I think it’s way too early to say that Giannis will be better than any of those three, but at the same time, this is supposed to be a list that projects their futures if I’m not mistaken.  It wouldn’t surprise me at all if people think Giannis might end up being better than those guys in a few years when he’s had more time to develop his game.

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