Top 5 NBA players at each position so far
Honorable Mention: Paul Millsap
Similar to his teammate Al Horford, Paul Millsap is often overlooked in terms of league wide recognition. However Millsap’s numbers clearly speak for themselves. The former Utah Jazz forward is averaging just a shade under a double-double, and if the power forward position wasn’t so stacked at the moment Millsap would rank higher on the list. One of the most consistent performers in the NBA, Millsap is still extremely effective in his 10th season in the NBA.
5: Kevin Love CLE
This is a huge year for Kevin Love. After spending last season stumbling through constant contract speculation and trying to find his place in the Cavaliers offense, Love now knows where he stands in the Cleveland power structure. Although detractors will probably continue to doubt whether or not he truly fits in or “fits out” with the Cavaliers, Love is posting undeniably impressive numbers. The former UCLA Bruin is building an impressive chemistry with LeBron James and as long as he remains healthy, Love will remain an integral part of the Cavaliers title hopes.
4: Blake Giffin LAC
Once believed to simply be a sky-walking one trick pony, Black Griffin has now evolved into an all around phenom. Griffin has added a three-point shot and impressive ball handling skills, to go along with his already freakish physical abilities. Two years ago it was believed that Griffin’s one-dimensional nature would hold the Clippers back from reaching their true potential. However now we can see that Griffin truly is one of the most dynamic forces in the game today.
3: Draymond Green GSW
Few players in the NBA can rival Draymond Green’s meteoric rise to the top of basketball stratosphere. After playing a crucial role in the Golden State Warriors’ historic run to a title, Green has come back this season even better. Green is probably the most adept ball handling big man in the game, and when the Warriors elect to play with a small lineup, Draymond is often the one running fast breaks. Green’s ability to supply his teammates with scoring opportunities makes him one of the most versatile players in the game at any position. When you factor in his ability to play lock down defense on all five positions as well, you are faced with an almost unguardable player.
2: Anthony Davis NOR
The only thing that is holding Anthony Davis back at the moment, is Anthony Davis. The Pelicans franchise forward is one of the most physically gifted players in the association but his injury concerns are very troubling. Davis is a fulcrum at the offensive end as well as a defensive powerhouse, and when he is at his best there is no one who can fill up a stat sheet like the New Orleans superstar. His mere presence forces teams to reconsider entering the painted area. If Davis can find a way to stay off the treatment table for long stretches this year he could very well see himself in the MVP conversation.
1: DeMarcus Cousins SAC
How do you solve a problem like DeMarcus Cousins? The Kings forward is an absolute beast. His game is a mixture of finesse and power that absolutely confounds opposing defenses. However as good as Cousins is on the court, he remains a divisive figure in the locker room. Cousins’ passion is a great source of fuel on the court and if he can learn to channel that fury there is no doubt that he can be one of the best big men of his era. At the moment his near 28 points a game and 11 rebounds puts him at the top of the power forward summit.
Next: Small Forwards