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TSN Basketball Analyst

Archive

1. BEN SIMMONS (76ers): Of all the NBA rookies this season, he has impressed me the most. He’s hit the ground running after a foot injury forced him to take a redshirt year, putting up eye-popping numbers (averaging 18.7 points, 9.2 rebounds and 7.6 assists). He impacts the game on every front with his size, athleticism, vision and skill. He’s so fluid and graceful. I think he has a chance to be an all-star for a long time. He was definitely worth the wait.

2. JEFF GREEN (Cavs): He’s always been a bit of an enigma. He’s good, but when you want or need very good he gives you inconsistent performance. I think this situation playing around LeBron James takes a lot of pressure off of him, allowing him to play off the talent around him and contribute. He’s a good rotation guy who can help you on both ends if you keep expectations realistic.

3. DE’AARON FOX (Kings): I liked him at Kentucky. Despite the fact he has to greatly improve his shooting skills, he’s a guy who has performed okay so far at the NBA level (11 points, 4.7 assists per game). In a major rebuild, he’s a player who needs to see the floor regularly to truly develop. Throw him out there and he’ll gradually figure it out.

4. ENES KANTER (Knicks): He’s been excellent for his new squad, averaging a double-double with 13.8 points and 10.6 rebounds a night. Kanter takes only good shots (64 per cent) and makes his free throws (90 per cent). He’s a beast on the offensive glass and his defensive effort is the best that I’ve seen in his time in the league. Kanter is really flourishing in his new situation.

5. HARRISON BARNES (Mavs): In a season filled with losing and frustration, he has performed well (19.4 points and seven rebounds per night) for Dallas. He’s an ideal third option on a very good team, but in this situation he’s being asked to do too much. Barnes gives you good effort consistently and is a respectable shooter. He needs a better cast around him.