Post by House on Jun 15, 2010 19:19:11 GMT -5
Top 13 Trade Value Players
Basically, this is a list of players in the league who I believe have the highest trade value. I am taking into account age, production, contract, positional value, etc. You may not agree with the list, but I do.
Think of it like this: The #1 player on this list, if I had him, I would not consider trading for anyone. If I had the #2 player on this list, I would most likely trade him for the #1 player depending on what my needs are really. Think of Bill Simmons' trade chart, which I will link to from earlier this year:
sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/100208/one -- #40-#24
sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/100208/two -- #23-#1
Here's how he described it:
First, let's give an honorable mention:
Darko Milicic, C, Indiana Pacers-- Darko's just as good as Dwight, if not better, but he expires after this season, and keeping him COULD be a problem. However, he's been a key part of the Pacers for years, and I'd be shocked if the Pacers didn't re-sign him to a big contract after the season.
Andrei Kirilenko, SF, Miami Heat-- I literally almost put him on the list, because his contract is very team-friendly. He's great defensively and offensively he's a fine player. However, he just missed the cut.
DeShawn Stevenson, SF, Atlanta Hawks-- I really like DeShawn, problem is he's 30 and his contract runs until he's 34. And I've heard his name dangled in trade rumors too. Of course, that could be just Jay messing around, so I dunno.
Etienne Priera, SG, Chicago Bulls-- Wanted to give a shout out to the best player this league has ever or will ever see, period. There is NO ONE who will ever do what he did. And he's back home where he belongs, in Chicago. We know Tiger would never trade him, so yeah. He retires after this season probably.
Travis Leslie, SG, Milwaukee Bucks-- Dude's ratings are nice, but his production is outstanding. I really like this guy going forward, and he's a Georgia boy too. Double bonus. NOTE TO KRU: Leslie is obviously a stud, but I'm too lazy to go back and put him ahead of Oriakhi.
Dwyane Wade, SG, Milwaukee Bucks-- Arguably the best player in the league, but he's going to command a lot of money this offseason since his contract expires.
Michael Gilchrist, SF, Washington Bullets-- Had a meh first TC, but still looks to be a stud for the future. If he can bust out next TC, he'll be up here.
Alec Burks, SG, Boston Celtics-- I really like Burks game as a 2nd year player. Sky's the limit for this kid, could turn into a quiet superstar if he continues to improve his offensive game.
Evan Turner, SF, Charlotte Hornets-- Does everything well, does nothing poorly. But does nothing spectacularly and his contract comes up at the end of the season.
Josh Selby, SG, Charlotte Hornets-- IMO, has a long way to go before he can become a star in this league, but he's getting there, slowly but surely. He has nice value right now, Charlotte could look to see what they could get for him.
Yao Ming, C, Los Angeles Clippers-- GREAT production, terrible contract. That contract is gonna screw the Clippers later on if they don't deal him when his value is highest. He will play that contract out.
Nene Hilario, C, Golden State Warriors-- Why are more people not going after this guy? GREAT big man, can do exactly what you want him to do in terms of defense and rebounding, and aar has made it known he's available. GO AFTER HIM.
Tyreke Evans, PG/SG, Seattle Supersonics-- I honestly think this guy will be one of the ten best players in the league soon. If I don't re-sign him, I am going to shoot someone. I am doing this article for him, so he better not blow it and sign with someone else.
Omri Casspi, SF, Seattle Supersonics-- No fucking way I'm ever trading him. EVER. I'm going to attempt to get him back if possible after the season too.
Tim Duncan, PF, Vancouver Grizzlies-- Big expiring, can help out a playoff team right now, probably retires soon. Biggie's trying to look for deals but no one's biting. They should be, Tim can still bring it.
Dirk Nowitzki, PF, Portland Trailblazers-- Dirk's still got it too, but he's also an expiring. Don't know what a team is going to pay him in the offseason, but he can obviously still play.
Nicholas Batum, SF, Portalnd Trailblazers-- Dude is a stud. CC has a real find here with Batum, who was picked one pick ahead of my pick a few years back. I'm still mad about that. He can score and defend well, and should be good in this league for a long time.
Emeka Okafor, PF/SF, Denver Nuggets-- One of, if not the best, defensive players in the league. Only thing that kept him out of the top 11 is because he's expiring.
Anderson Varejao, PF, Sacramento Kings-- I really like Anderson in this league, he does everything well for a big man. I actually like him more than his teammate, Chris Bosh, which is why he's on here.
Ricky Rubio, PG, Sacramento Kings-- If I didn't put him on here, Marty would kill me. lol, honestly though, he's a solid PG, he just can't score. If he works on that, he'll be the best pure PG in the league.
Ekpe Udoh, PF, Dallas Mavericks-- Udoh is SOLID. If he has one more great TC, he just might crack the top 12 next year (that is, if I decide to take the time to do it, lol).
Kyrie Irving, PG, Dallas Mavericks-- I honestly think Kyrie's going to be the best player out of this draft class, but he needs to cut down on his TOs before he can claim that title.
Jared Sullinger, PF, Los Angeles Lakers-- If Sullinger ever can get to B, B+ defense, he's going to be a superstud. I really like his game. Along with Bradley, the Lakers have a good core going forward.
Avery Bradley, SG, Los Angeles Lakers-- Does almost everything well, especially steal the ball. Like was said before the draft, he could end up leading the league in steals one day. If he ever develops an outside game, he's going to be lethal.
Now, onto the top 13. If I've forgotten someone outrageously obvious, please post it and I'll add him in.
13. Alex Oriakhi, PF, Utah Jazz
Ratings: 377 Alex Oriakhi PF 22 6'9'' 240 B- D+ D A- A- B
Stats: 31 36.4 minutes per game, 9.0 points per game, 12.0 rebounds per game, 2.2 assists per game, 0.7 steals per game, 1.8 blocks per game, 1.5 turnovers per game, 42.3 FG%, 54.3 FT%
Contract: $2,830,491 $3,042,835 $3,255,084 $3,447,164 $0 $0 $0 $12,575,574
I had to include one rookie in this rankings, so I picked the guy that, I think, has done the best so far. Now, trade value wise, he's not ahead of some of the HM guys like Evans, AK, etc. But like I said, I'm including a rookie. And this rookie is in the top 10 in rebounds per game and has good ratings. If he can improve his scoring, he could be a really nice big man in this league. However, that Free Throw shooting is absolutely atrocious. Ew.
12. Amare Stoudamire, PF, Minnesota Timberwolves
Ratings: 350 Amare Stoudemire PF 29 6'11'' 261 A C D+ A- B D
Stats: 33 games, 36.4 minutes, 27.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.3 blocks, 1.4 TO, 47.9 FG%, 82.8 FT%, 27.3 3P%
Contract: $15,955,555 $17,949,999 $20,193,749 $22,717,968 $25,557,714 $27,922,221 $29,916,666 $160,213,872
Amare is still bringing it this year. And he shows no sings of slowing down. One of the best all-around players in the league by far, my only concern with him is that monster contract he got, but he should be great for most of it. Anyone that wants a guy that can play SF or PF without worry should look at Amare, though there's no reason why the Wolves would consider trading him right now.
11. Tony Parker, PG, Portland Trailblazers
Ratings: 395 Tony Parker PG 30 6'2'' 184 A- B+ A- A- C- D
Stats: 34 39.2 25.0 5.4 10.4 2.2 0.2 2.5 .446 .770 .356
Contract: $17,325,000 $18,900,000 $20,475,000 $22,050,000 $0 $0 $0 $78,750,000
Tony, vous etes magnifique. In all seriousness, Tony is one of the best PGs in the league by any standard. He can score, he can defend, he can pass, he can do it all. If I had to pick nits, it'd be that he doesn't shoot well from 3, which is something I want my PGs to do. I want a guy that shoots in the 40s, not the mid 30s. That's what separates him from #10. And can Tony step up in the playoffs and lead his team to a title? That's the question that comes to mind for me.
10. Gilbert Arenas, PG, Los Angeles Clippers
Ratings: 147 Gilbert Arenas PG 30 6'3'' 201 B- A A+ A C D
Stats: 33 39.5 27.1 5.2 11.0 2.3 0.6 2.8 .489 .922 .464
Contract: $20,475,000 $22,050,000 $23,625,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $66,150,000
The PG for the defending world champs has made the city of Los Angeles forget about AI. In my opinion, Gilbert is the best PG in the league bar none. He can pass, defend, and he doesn't turn it over excessively. But what really sets him apart is his ability to score. Look at those percentages! 49% from the field, 92% at the line, 46% from 3. He might be the best pure scorer in the league. If the Clippers keep playing the way they have been, Gilbert might get my vote for MVP.
9. Dwight Howard, PF, Seattle Supersonics
Ratings: 612 Dwight Howard PF 26 7'0'' 273 A- C- D A- A C
Stats: 33 33.3 17.2 13.1 2.2 0.8 2.8 2.0 .429 .758 .000
Contract: $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $32,625,000
He's not scoring as well as he was last season, but that doesn't matter really. He's putting up those stats as a non-option in an outside offense. He's just awesome. His FG% has slumped this year, but that doesn't mean he's terrible. He's just not getting as many good opportunities to score with the improved play of Tyreke, Dorrell, and Mo Williams. By any calcuation, Dwight's one of the 3-5 best bigs in the league night in and night out. Defensively he's a monster. Don't try and score on him. And he grabs rebounds like Moses Malone back in the day in real life. Dwight's only 26 too, so expect to see him on this list for awhile.
8. LeBron James, SF, Golden State Warriors]
Ratings: 507 LeBron James SF 27 6'9'' 252 A- A- A- A- A- C
Stats: 34 38.7 29.4 8.5 5.3 2.6 0.3 3.4 .458 .837 .469
Contract: $18,281,250 $19,687,500 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $37,968,750
Why LeBron hasn't won a title, I don't know. He's got the ratings, he's got the ridiculous stats, he shoots well from 3, from the field, and from the line, he gets rebounds, he gets assists, steals, everything. Turns it over a bit too much, but that's OK. He's the King. When he wins a title, his value will go up more, IMO. Aar said that he's available and put him on the block yesterday. Teams are gonna fall all over themselves to try to get him from aar, so we'll see what happens.
7. Josh Smith, PF, Orlando Magic
Ratings: 541 Josh Smith SF 26 6'10'' 226 A- C+ C A- B+ C
Stats: 31 37.2 18.7 10.4 2.3 1.6 3.5 1.9 .459 .684 .300
Contract: $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $32,625,000
Smoove is only 26! YEE! And he's a monster defensively. I've tried my damndest to get him off shaun, but Shaun has continually stymied my efforts. I really don't see shaun trading him unless he's getting any of the 6 players ahead of Smoove. And Smoove is worth it, believe me. 18.7 points a game, 10.4 rebounds, 3.5 blocks. That's insane. And 1.6 steals too. Plus, he's not a total fuckup from the FT line like he is in real life. Safe to say this Smith is better than real-life Smith.
6. John Wall, PG, Denver Nuggets
Ratings: 589 John Wall PG 22 6'4'' 195 B B+ A A- C B
Stats: 27 37.3 17.6 5.1 9.3 1.9 0.1 2.6 .449 .579 .323
Contract: $3,321,514 $3,517,514 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $6,839,028
Wall is a fucking monster. He's going to end up the best PG in the league, the only question is when? Next year? The year after? Whenever he is, he SHOULD be on Denver. I know they were talking about swapping Wall for LeBron, but if I'm ukfan, I don't consider doing it. Franchise PGs in this league are godsends, so don't blow what you have, and don't trade Wall for LeBron. As to Wall himself, the only thing I have to pick at is his poor 3 point shooting. If I'm ukfan, I look to try and IT his 3 pt. shot or his jump shot next time out. Should really help his overall game out.
5. Derrick Favors, PF, New Jersey Nets
Ratings: 445 Derrick Favors PF 21 6'11'' 256 A- D C- A A- A
Stats: 31 32.4 17.5 11.0 2.0 0.7 1.3 1.2 .463 .571 .000
Contract: $3,517,514 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $3,517,514
Yes, yes, I know he's expiring. But unlike the situation with Tyreke and the Sonics, the Nets have PLENTY of room to offer for Favors. And there's no indication that he wants to leave New Jersey, even if it's a terrible state. Favors ratings make EVERYONE salivate, but I want to say this: I think he's under-performing. He has an A in defense. Only 1.3 blocks a game? Really Derrick? If he can get that up to 2-3 blocks a game, then I'll be happy. I know this though: Broph's a fucking lucky guy to have traded Amare for Favors. Amare's great, but I think Favors is going to end up the better player.
4. Kevin Durant, SF, Houston Rockets
Ratings: 605 Kevin Durant SF 23 6'10'' 229 B A+ C B+ B- B
Stats: 32 38.0 32.6 7.6 2.6 1.7 0.4 1.8 .494 .919 .452
Contract: $11,250,000 $12,375,000 $13,500,000 $14,625,000 $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $84,375,000
That's a fucking nice-ass contract that Durant has there. I mean, that's not even over $100 million total. I know I said Arenas was the best pure scorer in the league, but I might have to retract that. I mean, just LOOK at Durant's scoring: 32.6 points a game, 49% from the field, 92% from the line, 45% from 3. That's insane. He also gets close to 8 rebounds a game and almost 2 steals a game. And he turns it over about half as much as LeBron. Plain and simple, Durant is a fucking stud, especially with that A+ outside offense. I mean, jeez. That's hard to do. He's Allan Houston with better... EVERYTHING.
3. Rudy Gay, SF, Cleveland Cavaliers
Ratings: 623 Rudy Gay SF 26 6'9'' 232 A- A C A- B- C
Stats: 36 37.8 31.4 7.4 4.7 1.4 0.1 2.4 .512 .878 .438
Contract: $15,468,750 $16,875,000 $18,281,250 $19,687,500 $0 $0 $0 $70,312,500
Gay is a straight-up man-child. Guy does everything well. Scores, rebounds, assists, gets a steal and a half a game, and he's shooting over 50% from the floor. THAT'S NUTS. It was a toss-up between him and Durant, but I picked Gay because I think Gay is more capable of leading a team to a title than Durant is. I dunno why, it may be just me that thinks that. But to say that Gay is not a top 5 player in this league is ridiculous. He's actually top 3, so there.
2. Al Jefferson, C, Chicago Bulls
Ratings: 543 Al Jefferson C 27 6'11'' 292 A- C- C- A- A- C
Stats: 37.7 24.7 13.2 2.7 0.8 4.1 2.2 .448 .752 .000
Contract: $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $32,625,000
I'm guessing Broph still hates Tiger and still hates Al Jefferson for leaving the Nyets a couple of years back. With good reason. Al may not have the ratings other bigs have, but he has the stats. He's been the best big in the league for a few years now, and in my opinion, being the best big in the league = top 3 player in this league automatically. He's everything you'd want in a big man. He scores, he rebounds, and, of course, he blocks shots. It's an art when Al Jeff blocks shots. He anchors a solid defense that, with Etienne back on board, is going to make one more run at a title to send Mr. Priera out on top. And with Al, the Bulls and Tiger have a great shot at doing that.
1. Perry Jones, SF, New York Knicks
Ratings: 527 Perry Jones SF 21 6'11'' 230 B+ B+ C A- B- A
Stats: 36 36.0 25.8 7.8 2.6 1.3 0.7 1.9 .439 .801 .379
Contract: $3,104,934 $3,321,514 $3,517,514 $0 $0 $0 $0 $9,943,962
What can you say about Perry Jones? In his 2nd year in the league, he's averaging about 26 points a game, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, with only 2 TOs, and he's shooting 44% from the field and 38% from 3. FROM A 2ND YEAR PLAYER. I'd give my left nut to get Perry on my team (n/h). Dude is destined to be the best player in the league for years. And to think I almost got him in the lotto too, dammit. Why did I get #2? Why? Ugh.
So that's it. If I've forgotten anyone, let me know.
Basically, this is a list of players in the league who I believe have the highest trade value. I am taking into account age, production, contract, positional value, etc. You may not agree with the list, but I do.
Think of it like this: The #1 player on this list, if I had him, I would not consider trading for anyone. If I had the #2 player on this list, I would most likely trade him for the #1 player depending on what my needs are really. Think of Bill Simmons' trade chart, which I will link to from earlier this year:
sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/100208/one -- #40-#24
sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/100208/two -- #23-#1
Here's how he described it:
A quick recap of the rules:
1. Salaries matter. Over this season and the next two, would you rather pay Gerald Wallace $29.5 million or Antawn Jamison $40 million?
2. Age matters. Would you rather have Chauncey Billups for the next five seasons or Rajon Rondo for the next 12?
3. Pretend the league passed the following rule: For 24 hours, any player can be traded without cap ramifications but with luxury-tax and every-season-after-this ramifications. If Team A tells Team B, "We'll trade you Player X for Player Y," would Team B make the deal?
4. Concentrate on degrees. I don't think L.A. or Miami would make a Kobe-Wade swap, but L.A. would at least say, "Wow, Wade is a few years younger, same stats, should we have a meeting about it?" while the Heat would say, "There's no frickin' way we're trading Dwyane Wade for a guy with 1200 games on his odometer." That counts in the big scheme of things.
5. The list runs in reverse order. So if Rajon Rondo comes in at No. 15, players 1 through 14 are all players about whom Boston would say, "We hate giving up Rondo, but we definitely have to consider this deal." And they wouldn't trade him straight-up for any player listed between Nos. 16 and 40.
1. Salaries matter. Over this season and the next two, would you rather pay Gerald Wallace $29.5 million or Antawn Jamison $40 million?
2. Age matters. Would you rather have Chauncey Billups for the next five seasons or Rajon Rondo for the next 12?
3. Pretend the league passed the following rule: For 24 hours, any player can be traded without cap ramifications but with luxury-tax and every-season-after-this ramifications. If Team A tells Team B, "We'll trade you Player X for Player Y," would Team B make the deal?
4. Concentrate on degrees. I don't think L.A. or Miami would make a Kobe-Wade swap, but L.A. would at least say, "Wow, Wade is a few years younger, same stats, should we have a meeting about it?" while the Heat would say, "There's no frickin' way we're trading Dwyane Wade for a guy with 1200 games on his odometer." That counts in the big scheme of things.
5. The list runs in reverse order. So if Rajon Rondo comes in at No. 15, players 1 through 14 are all players about whom Boston would say, "We hate giving up Rondo, but we definitely have to consider this deal." And they wouldn't trade him straight-up for any player listed between Nos. 16 and 40.
First, let's give an honorable mention:
Darko Milicic, C, Indiana Pacers-- Darko's just as good as Dwight, if not better, but he expires after this season, and keeping him COULD be a problem. However, he's been a key part of the Pacers for years, and I'd be shocked if the Pacers didn't re-sign him to a big contract after the season.
Andrei Kirilenko, SF, Miami Heat-- I literally almost put him on the list, because his contract is very team-friendly. He's great defensively and offensively he's a fine player. However, he just missed the cut.
DeShawn Stevenson, SF, Atlanta Hawks-- I really like DeShawn, problem is he's 30 and his contract runs until he's 34. And I've heard his name dangled in trade rumors too. Of course, that could be just Jay messing around, so I dunno.
Etienne Priera, SG, Chicago Bulls-- Wanted to give a shout out to the best player this league has ever or will ever see, period. There is NO ONE who will ever do what he did. And he's back home where he belongs, in Chicago. We know Tiger would never trade him, so yeah. He retires after this season probably.
Travis Leslie, SG, Milwaukee Bucks-- Dude's ratings are nice, but his production is outstanding. I really like this guy going forward, and he's a Georgia boy too. Double bonus. NOTE TO KRU: Leslie is obviously a stud, but I'm too lazy to go back and put him ahead of Oriakhi.
Dwyane Wade, SG, Milwaukee Bucks-- Arguably the best player in the league, but he's going to command a lot of money this offseason since his contract expires.
Michael Gilchrist, SF, Washington Bullets-- Had a meh first TC, but still looks to be a stud for the future. If he can bust out next TC, he'll be up here.
Alec Burks, SG, Boston Celtics-- I really like Burks game as a 2nd year player. Sky's the limit for this kid, could turn into a quiet superstar if he continues to improve his offensive game.
Evan Turner, SF, Charlotte Hornets-- Does everything well, does nothing poorly. But does nothing spectacularly and his contract comes up at the end of the season.
Josh Selby, SG, Charlotte Hornets-- IMO, has a long way to go before he can become a star in this league, but he's getting there, slowly but surely. He has nice value right now, Charlotte could look to see what they could get for him.
Yao Ming, C, Los Angeles Clippers-- GREAT production, terrible contract. That contract is gonna screw the Clippers later on if they don't deal him when his value is highest. He will play that contract out.
Nene Hilario, C, Golden State Warriors-- Why are more people not going after this guy? GREAT big man, can do exactly what you want him to do in terms of defense and rebounding, and aar has made it known he's available. GO AFTER HIM.
Tyreke Evans, PG/SG, Seattle Supersonics-- I honestly think this guy will be one of the ten best players in the league soon. If I don't re-sign him, I am going to shoot someone. I am doing this article for him, so he better not blow it and sign with someone else.
Omri Casspi, SF, Seattle Supersonics-- No fucking way I'm ever trading him. EVER. I'm going to attempt to get him back if possible after the season too.
Tim Duncan, PF, Vancouver Grizzlies-- Big expiring, can help out a playoff team right now, probably retires soon. Biggie's trying to look for deals but no one's biting. They should be, Tim can still bring it.
Dirk Nowitzki, PF, Portland Trailblazers-- Dirk's still got it too, but he's also an expiring. Don't know what a team is going to pay him in the offseason, but he can obviously still play.
Nicholas Batum, SF, Portalnd Trailblazers-- Dude is a stud. CC has a real find here with Batum, who was picked one pick ahead of my pick a few years back. I'm still mad about that. He can score and defend well, and should be good in this league for a long time.
Emeka Okafor, PF/SF, Denver Nuggets-- One of, if not the best, defensive players in the league. Only thing that kept him out of the top 11 is because he's expiring.
Anderson Varejao, PF, Sacramento Kings-- I really like Anderson in this league, he does everything well for a big man. I actually like him more than his teammate, Chris Bosh, which is why he's on here.
Ricky Rubio, PG, Sacramento Kings-- If I didn't put him on here, Marty would kill me. lol, honestly though, he's a solid PG, he just can't score. If he works on that, he'll be the best pure PG in the league.
Ekpe Udoh, PF, Dallas Mavericks-- Udoh is SOLID. If he has one more great TC, he just might crack the top 12 next year (that is, if I decide to take the time to do it, lol).
Kyrie Irving, PG, Dallas Mavericks-- I honestly think Kyrie's going to be the best player out of this draft class, but he needs to cut down on his TOs before he can claim that title.
Jared Sullinger, PF, Los Angeles Lakers-- If Sullinger ever can get to B, B+ defense, he's going to be a superstud. I really like his game. Along with Bradley, the Lakers have a good core going forward.
Avery Bradley, SG, Los Angeles Lakers-- Does almost everything well, especially steal the ball. Like was said before the draft, he could end up leading the league in steals one day. If he ever develops an outside game, he's going to be lethal.
Now, onto the top 13. If I've forgotten someone outrageously obvious, please post it and I'll add him in.
13. Alex Oriakhi, PF, Utah Jazz
Ratings: 377 Alex Oriakhi PF 22 6'9'' 240 B- D+ D A- A- B
Stats: 31 36.4 minutes per game, 9.0 points per game, 12.0 rebounds per game, 2.2 assists per game, 0.7 steals per game, 1.8 blocks per game, 1.5 turnovers per game, 42.3 FG%, 54.3 FT%
Contract: $2,830,491 $3,042,835 $3,255,084 $3,447,164 $0 $0 $0 $12,575,574
I had to include one rookie in this rankings, so I picked the guy that, I think, has done the best so far. Now, trade value wise, he's not ahead of some of the HM guys like Evans, AK, etc. But like I said, I'm including a rookie. And this rookie is in the top 10 in rebounds per game and has good ratings. If he can improve his scoring, he could be a really nice big man in this league. However, that Free Throw shooting is absolutely atrocious. Ew.
12. Amare Stoudamire, PF, Minnesota Timberwolves
Ratings: 350 Amare Stoudemire PF 29 6'11'' 261 A C D+ A- B D
Stats: 33 games, 36.4 minutes, 27.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.3 blocks, 1.4 TO, 47.9 FG%, 82.8 FT%, 27.3 3P%
Contract: $15,955,555 $17,949,999 $20,193,749 $22,717,968 $25,557,714 $27,922,221 $29,916,666 $160,213,872
Amare is still bringing it this year. And he shows no sings of slowing down. One of the best all-around players in the league by far, my only concern with him is that monster contract he got, but he should be great for most of it. Anyone that wants a guy that can play SF or PF without worry should look at Amare, though there's no reason why the Wolves would consider trading him right now.
11. Tony Parker, PG, Portland Trailblazers
Ratings: 395 Tony Parker PG 30 6'2'' 184 A- B+ A- A- C- D
Stats: 34 39.2 25.0 5.4 10.4 2.2 0.2 2.5 .446 .770 .356
Contract: $17,325,000 $18,900,000 $20,475,000 $22,050,000 $0 $0 $0 $78,750,000
Tony, vous etes magnifique. In all seriousness, Tony is one of the best PGs in the league by any standard. He can score, he can defend, he can pass, he can do it all. If I had to pick nits, it'd be that he doesn't shoot well from 3, which is something I want my PGs to do. I want a guy that shoots in the 40s, not the mid 30s. That's what separates him from #10. And can Tony step up in the playoffs and lead his team to a title? That's the question that comes to mind for me.
10. Gilbert Arenas, PG, Los Angeles Clippers
Ratings: 147 Gilbert Arenas PG 30 6'3'' 201 B- A A+ A C D
Stats: 33 39.5 27.1 5.2 11.0 2.3 0.6 2.8 .489 .922 .464
Contract: $20,475,000 $22,050,000 $23,625,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $66,150,000
The PG for the defending world champs has made the city of Los Angeles forget about AI. In my opinion, Gilbert is the best PG in the league bar none. He can pass, defend, and he doesn't turn it over excessively. But what really sets him apart is his ability to score. Look at those percentages! 49% from the field, 92% at the line, 46% from 3. He might be the best pure scorer in the league. If the Clippers keep playing the way they have been, Gilbert might get my vote for MVP.
9. Dwight Howard, PF, Seattle Supersonics
Ratings: 612 Dwight Howard PF 26 7'0'' 273 A- C- D A- A C
Stats: 33 33.3 17.2 13.1 2.2 0.8 2.8 2.0 .429 .758 .000
Contract: $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $32,625,000
He's not scoring as well as he was last season, but that doesn't matter really. He's putting up those stats as a non-option in an outside offense. He's just awesome. His FG% has slumped this year, but that doesn't mean he's terrible. He's just not getting as many good opportunities to score with the improved play of Tyreke, Dorrell, and Mo Williams. By any calcuation, Dwight's one of the 3-5 best bigs in the league night in and night out. Defensively he's a monster. Don't try and score on him. And he grabs rebounds like Moses Malone back in the day in real life. Dwight's only 26 too, so expect to see him on this list for awhile.
8. LeBron James, SF, Golden State Warriors]
Ratings: 507 LeBron James SF 27 6'9'' 252 A- A- A- A- A- C
Stats: 34 38.7 29.4 8.5 5.3 2.6 0.3 3.4 .458 .837 .469
Contract: $18,281,250 $19,687,500 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $37,968,750
Why LeBron hasn't won a title, I don't know. He's got the ratings, he's got the ridiculous stats, he shoots well from 3, from the field, and from the line, he gets rebounds, he gets assists, steals, everything. Turns it over a bit too much, but that's OK. He's the King. When he wins a title, his value will go up more, IMO. Aar said that he's available and put him on the block yesterday. Teams are gonna fall all over themselves to try to get him from aar, so we'll see what happens.
7. Josh Smith, PF, Orlando Magic
Ratings: 541 Josh Smith SF 26 6'10'' 226 A- C+ C A- B+ C
Stats: 31 37.2 18.7 10.4 2.3 1.6 3.5 1.9 .459 .684 .300
Contract: $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $32,625,000
Smoove is only 26! YEE! And he's a monster defensively. I've tried my damndest to get him off shaun, but Shaun has continually stymied my efforts. I really don't see shaun trading him unless he's getting any of the 6 players ahead of Smoove. And Smoove is worth it, believe me. 18.7 points a game, 10.4 rebounds, 3.5 blocks. That's insane. And 1.6 steals too. Plus, he's not a total fuckup from the FT line like he is in real life. Safe to say this Smith is better than real-life Smith.
6. John Wall, PG, Denver Nuggets
Ratings: 589 John Wall PG 22 6'4'' 195 B B+ A A- C B
Stats: 27 37.3 17.6 5.1 9.3 1.9 0.1 2.6 .449 .579 .323
Contract: $3,321,514 $3,517,514 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $6,839,028
Wall is a fucking monster. He's going to end up the best PG in the league, the only question is when? Next year? The year after? Whenever he is, he SHOULD be on Denver. I know they were talking about swapping Wall for LeBron, but if I'm ukfan, I don't consider doing it. Franchise PGs in this league are godsends, so don't blow what you have, and don't trade Wall for LeBron. As to Wall himself, the only thing I have to pick at is his poor 3 point shooting. If I'm ukfan, I look to try and IT his 3 pt. shot or his jump shot next time out. Should really help his overall game out.
5. Derrick Favors, PF, New Jersey Nets
Ratings: 445 Derrick Favors PF 21 6'11'' 256 A- D C- A A- A
Stats: 31 32.4 17.5 11.0 2.0 0.7 1.3 1.2 .463 .571 .000
Contract: $3,517,514 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $3,517,514
Yes, yes, I know he's expiring. But unlike the situation with Tyreke and the Sonics, the Nets have PLENTY of room to offer for Favors. And there's no indication that he wants to leave New Jersey, even if it's a terrible state. Favors ratings make EVERYONE salivate, but I want to say this: I think he's under-performing. He has an A in defense. Only 1.3 blocks a game? Really Derrick? If he can get that up to 2-3 blocks a game, then I'll be happy. I know this though: Broph's a fucking lucky guy to have traded Amare for Favors. Amare's great, but I think Favors is going to end up the better player.
4. Kevin Durant, SF, Houston Rockets
Ratings: 605 Kevin Durant SF 23 6'10'' 229 B A+ C B+ B- B
Stats: 32 38.0 32.6 7.6 2.6 1.7 0.4 1.8 .494 .919 .452
Contract: $11,250,000 $12,375,000 $13,500,000 $14,625,000 $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $84,375,000
That's a fucking nice-ass contract that Durant has there. I mean, that's not even over $100 million total. I know I said Arenas was the best pure scorer in the league, but I might have to retract that. I mean, just LOOK at Durant's scoring: 32.6 points a game, 49% from the field, 92% from the line, 45% from 3. That's insane. He also gets close to 8 rebounds a game and almost 2 steals a game. And he turns it over about half as much as LeBron. Plain and simple, Durant is a fucking stud, especially with that A+ outside offense. I mean, jeez. That's hard to do. He's Allan Houston with better... EVERYTHING.
3. Rudy Gay, SF, Cleveland Cavaliers
Ratings: 623 Rudy Gay SF 26 6'9'' 232 A- A C A- B- C
Stats: 36 37.8 31.4 7.4 4.7 1.4 0.1 2.4 .512 .878 .438
Contract: $15,468,750 $16,875,000 $18,281,250 $19,687,500 $0 $0 $0 $70,312,500
Gay is a straight-up man-child. Guy does everything well. Scores, rebounds, assists, gets a steal and a half a game, and he's shooting over 50% from the floor. THAT'S NUTS. It was a toss-up between him and Durant, but I picked Gay because I think Gay is more capable of leading a team to a title than Durant is. I dunno why, it may be just me that thinks that. But to say that Gay is not a top 5 player in this league is ridiculous. He's actually top 3, so there.
2. Al Jefferson, C, Chicago Bulls
Ratings: 543 Al Jefferson C 27 6'11'' 292 A- C- C- A- A- C
Stats: 37.7 24.7 13.2 2.7 0.8 4.1 2.2 .448 .752 .000
Contract: $15,750,000 $16,875,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $32,625,000
I'm guessing Broph still hates Tiger and still hates Al Jefferson for leaving the Nyets a couple of years back. With good reason. Al may not have the ratings other bigs have, but he has the stats. He's been the best big in the league for a few years now, and in my opinion, being the best big in the league = top 3 player in this league automatically. He's everything you'd want in a big man. He scores, he rebounds, and, of course, he blocks shots. It's an art when Al Jeff blocks shots. He anchors a solid defense that, with Etienne back on board, is going to make one more run at a title to send Mr. Priera out on top. And with Al, the Bulls and Tiger have a great shot at doing that.
1. Perry Jones, SF, New York Knicks
Ratings: 527 Perry Jones SF 21 6'11'' 230 B+ B+ C A- B- A
Stats: 36 36.0 25.8 7.8 2.6 1.3 0.7 1.9 .439 .801 .379
Contract: $3,104,934 $3,321,514 $3,517,514 $0 $0 $0 $0 $9,943,962
What can you say about Perry Jones? In his 2nd year in the league, he's averaging about 26 points a game, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, with only 2 TOs, and he's shooting 44% from the field and 38% from 3. FROM A 2ND YEAR PLAYER. I'd give my left nut to get Perry on my team (n/h). Dude is destined to be the best player in the league for years. And to think I almost got him in the lotto too, dammit. Why did I get #2? Why? Ugh.
So that's it. If I've forgotten anyone, let me know.
