Top 5 NBA players at each position so far
Honorable Mention: Giannis Antetokounmpo MIL
The Greek Freak! Giannis Antetokounmpo has become one of the most exciting players in the NBA at present. With an absurd 7’4″ wingspan, Antetokounmpo is developing into one of the best wing players in the league. What’s even more shocking is the fact that the 20-year-old is not done growing yet. Antetokounmpo’s ability to contribute as a scorer, rebounder and defender makes him a modern-day Shawn Marion. Although his offensive game needs polishing, his 17.6 points per game is still very impressive, for the third year player from Athens, Greece.
5: Carmelo Anthony NYK
It’s time for Carmelo Anthony to take that final step. He is an undoubted superstar and a perennial all-star. But it’s time Melo really stepped up in more intangible ways. He will always get his when it comes to points and rebounds. The man has one of the deadliest offensive games in the league. However his inability to make players around him better has long since been a dark spot on Anthony’s resume. This current Knicks team seems to be clicking, and if Melo wants to rise back to the top of small forward spectrum, he’s going to need to guide New York to the playoffs. His stats are decent but when compared to the competition he is facing at the small forward position, Melo has some work to do.
4: Kawhi Leonard SAS
Kawhi Leonard may be the best player on the San Antonio Spurs right now. Think about that. Leonard is a fierce defender and his offensive game has blossomed over the last three seasons. At the moment, Leonard may be one of the most merciless two-way players in the NBA. Leonard is able to dominate teams with his voracious rebounding and defense prowess while contributing eye-popping numbers on the offensive end. Despite his humble nature, Leonard is a big time talent. With the arrival of LaMarcus Aldridge you might have thought Leonard’s stats would take a hit. But even with fresh competition for touches, Leonard is posting splendid numbers.
3: Paul George IND
After being sidelined for much of last season with a horrific right leg injury, Paul George has returned a determined man. With the departure of David West, it is even more imperative for the superstar to assume a greater leadership role and we are certainly seeing that from George. Whether it be scoring, assisting or rebounding, George is ready to lift the Pacers on his back and drag them to the promised land. Few players in the NBA can replicate George’s smooth intensity on the court, and his versatility seems to grow with each game. At the moment, the main man in Indiana is quietly building himself an impressive MVP case.
2: Kevin Durant OKC
Like Paul George, Kevin Durant is in a big bounce back season. Durant had to watch from the sidelines as his running mate Russell Westbrook did his best to keep the Thunder afloat last season. Durant is back now, although he has already had to fight through some minor setbacks. However, his box office talent has not diminished in the slightest. When he is at his best and healthy, Durant is a top-three player no question. His effortless offensive game is his calling card, but the thin man’s defensive game is largely underrated. A healthy Durant is a great thing for the NBA and so far he is on track for a big comeback.
1: LeBron James CLE
This really should not be a surprise. One could make the argument that LeBron James should be voted the MVP every season, but where’s the fun in that? It’s almost like we are bored with his greatness, mainly because we are. There’s a whole new breed of exciting players to gawk at, and LeBron’s methodical domination has become status quo for NBA viewers. However, that should not diminish the King’s status as the best small forward in the league. LeBron’s numbers this season prove he is still the best all-around player in the league.
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