SI’s The Crossover sure to motivate Russell Westbrook with lowly 6th rank
Diving Deeper:
On initial glance there is nothing technically wrong with the ten players on the list. All of these players are franchise stars who transcend their roster. Each of them are All-Stars who produce offensively. Although Green makes the list more for his defensive and leadership qualities.
Other takeaways from the list are three of the ten players are from the Golden State Warriors and two are new teammates (Harden/Curry). Four on the list are considered point guards (if you include Harden) and four are small forwards.
Seven through Ten:
Chris Paul:
Paul still produces and will join another top five list member this season. Albeit Paul’s injury history and postseason ineptness has this scribe questioning Paul’s seventh ranking.
Anthony Davis:
Granted, Anthony Davis is a star who puts up ridiculous stat lines. Yet, like Paul his injury history and inability to lead his previous teams to post season success may warrant a question mark at his 8th ranking. Certainly if Karl Anthony Towns, Joel Embiid or Kristaps Porzingis make huge leaps Davis’ position on the list may become less assured.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Deservedly makes the list and one could argue might even deserve a higher ranking than ninth. The “Greek Freak” dominated his own team last season and is projected to take another step. All that is stopping Antetokounmpo from being entirely unguardable is a reliable perimeter shot. Yet, there are genuine concerns in the Bucks camp with news Giannis is has a knee injury.
The problem was grave enough to keep the youngster out of the European Championships. NBA.com covered the news here. Titled ‘Jumper’s Knee’ the most concerning aspect is it occurs from overuse. Not the best news to receive about your franchise player, particularly when Khris Middleton just returned after a lengthy injury absence and Jabari Parker is still out with his second major knee injury. Rumors have surfaced this isn’t the first time Antetokounmpo has dealt with knee pain.
If there is any truth to the rumors – that would be a huge problem for Milwaukee. A perfect example would be Derrick Favors who was a perennial most improved candidate until degenerative knee issues affected his production.
Draymond Green:
As noted above the one guy in this league who best embodies his role is Green. Sure, his defensive prowess is unquestioned. No other 6’7″ (and that’s being generous) NBA forward-center is as adept at stopping opposing teams big men. Green’s Swiss army knife skill set offers passing, rebounding, and playmaking to be at a premium on the court. His intelligence is unparalleled, often serving as a coach on the court. Yet, the true value of Green is his leadership and on court demeanor.
Green gives the Warriors their swagger and is the driving force on the team. Especially considering the quieter nature of Curry, Durant, Thompson and even Iguodala. Green is the perfect commander who offers the grit allowing Golden State just enough toughness to not be considered soft. So, while his skills and production may not scream top ten, this spot is well warranted. (As much as Thunder Nation aren’t big fans, they recognize his talent and presence).