An annual tradition, ESPN has been releasing its top 100 players list over the course of the week. Also an annual tradition is the criticism of this list, as it always tends to bring up question marks about what the staff at ESPN are thinking when putting the list together. Some players find themselves clearly too high; some too low. Some even missed the list (Digits doesn’t forget you, Bojan Bogdanovic, Dorian Finney-Smith, Gary Trent Jr., & more). Here’s some of the worst rankings on the ESPN list:
**#72 - Michael Porter Jr.: Of course, MPJ has struggled with injuries over the course of his career, including last season. However, it seems too difficult to put him at this level. When healthy, he’s one of the best pure bucket-getters despite other weaknesses in his game. **
#59 - Tyrese Haliburton: As an Indiana Pacer, Haliburton averaged 17.5 points and 9.6 assists per game on a 62.9 TS%. That’s pretty elite for such a dynamic offensive player. With more touches likely coming this season, expect a 20 & 10 breakout season for the former King (they will regret trading him). #59 does not do him justice.
#48 - Shai-Gilgeous Alexander: This is the worst ranking of the list, arguably. Seriously, SGA is probably one of, if not the, most underrated players in the league. His ability to get downhill is matched by a handful of players. He just put up 24.5 points and 5.9 assists per game with nothing around him. Respect him.
#46 - Darius Garland: Garland was just a first time All-Star, leading the Cavs to a top four record before injuries derailed their season, leading them to miss the playoffs. He’s a legit offensive weapon, exemplified by his elite scoring and playmaking combination. He is absolutely better than the 46th best player in the association.
#40 - Zion Williamson: Yes, Zion did not play last season. No, we are not going to forget how damn good he was when he was on the court. He averaged 27 points per game on a 64.9 TS%. That’s unbelievable. He was unstoppable in the paint. #40 is a terrible ranking; try top 20.
#37 - Klay Thompson: Thompson was near the top 10 to 15 players at his best, but his best is far behind him. While the Warriors just won the Finals, that was more of a testament to Stephen Curry than Thompson, respectfully. He has no business as a top 50 player, let alone top 37.
- Charlie Spungin
Digit’s NBA Analyst
Twitter: @CharlieS3_