Fansided

NBA Season Preview 2017-2018: 10 players that will make a leap this season

By Jerry Christodoulatos

MILWAUKEE, WI - MARCH 08: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks works against Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during a game at the BMO Harris Bradley Center on March 8, 2017 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
MILWAUKEE, WI - MARCH 08: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks works against Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during a game at the BMO Harris Bradley Center on March 8, 2017 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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Harris
Harris /

5. Gary Harris

Gary Harris is one of the most exciting youngsters on the super fun Denver Nuggets. He has the potential to become a two-way stud, which is exactly the kind of player Denver needs in its curiously bereft wing rotation. In his third season, Harris flashed improvement across the board. He upped his 3-point conversion rate, surpassing the 40 percent mark, while also increasing his shot volume. His passing was much better as well and he even took on some creative duties in the pick and roll. Harris is also a major off ball threat and his chemistry with passing wizard Nikola Jokic is well documented; Jokic consistently finds Harris cutting with crazy, unique passes that nobody else in the league really throws.

On the defensive end of the floor Harris is Denver’s best perimeter defender. The Nuggets have performed terribly on defense over the past two seasons, but Harris is a consistent bright spot on that end. He’s a bit small for a two guard, which could be an issue when guarding heftier wing players, but Harris is quick and pesky on the defensive end.

With the departure of Danilo Galinari, Harris is going to get a chance to shine for the Nuggets. Although Paul Millsap is now on the roster, we can probably expect some slippage from the veteran moving forward. In any case, Harris will be the second or third scoring option an improved Denver squad. If he shows off some more juice as a playmaker this season, Harris could blossom into one of the best young guards in the league.