Respect Earned: NBA's All-Impressive Squad

Michael Whittenberg

Senior Writer Written on February 28, 2008

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Looking for a premier big man not named Dwight Howard? Then this is the guy to look forward to in upcoming years.

He is currently fourth in the league in field goals made, and second in the league in offensive rebounding.

Second Team

Juan Carlos Navarro, Memphis Grizzlies (Years Pro: Rookie)

Unlike Durant and Horford, Navarro was a no-name rookie heading into this season.

He began to recieve recognition after a 28-point performance on November 16th against the New Orleans Hornets. From that point on, Navarro has gone on to average 10.9 PPG.

Linas Kleiza, Denver Nuggets (Years Pro: 2)

Of course Carmelo Anthony and Allen Iverson are the main weapons in Denver—but Kleiza has been the guy to step it up whenever Melo or A.I. have bad shooting nights.

We saw a glimpse of his capabilities last season when he scored a then career-high 29 points against the Los Angeles Lakers. This season, he erupted with a 41-point outburst against Utah on January 17th.

Al Thornton, Los Angeles Clippers (Years Pro: Rookie)

Thornton was a freakish scorer in his senior season at Florida State, which is why he was selected as a lottery pick.

While starting only 11 games during his rookie campaign, Thornton has averaged 11 PPG. He also scored double figures in 13 of his last 14 games, while averaging 17 PPG during that span.

Leon Powe, Boston Celtics (Years Pro: 1)

Be honest, did you know who this guy was before the season began?

Although he is averaging only 6.6 PPG, he has played exceptionally well—especially while Kevin Garnett sat out with an abdominal strain injury.

Powe has been under the radar all season, so an All-Impressive Team mention is only right.

Sean Williams, New Jersey Nets (Years Pro: Rookie)

As inconsistent as New Jersey has been this season, Williams has developed as one of their building blocks. This is especially important if the Nets plan to move Vince Carter during the offseason.

Williams is an exceptional defender and shot blocker. He only averages seven PPG, but is an impact player on the defensive end of the floor.

Third Team

Mike Conley Jr., Memphis Grizzlies (Years Pro: Rookie)

If you're a fan of the college game, then you remember Conley playing last year at Ohio State alongside Greg Oden.

Conley was considered the best point guard available in the 2007 NBA Draft, and so far he has proved himself worthy of that assessment.

He draws comparisons to Tony Parker, with his quickness and ability to penetrate to the basket.

9.4 PPG isn't that impressive—but for a rookie of his caliber, it's good enough.

Conley is a fellow teammate of Navarro's and both guys will be solid building blocks for a franchise that is clearly in rebuild mode.

Sasha Vujacic, Los Angeles Lakers (Years Pro: 3)

Another Laker headlines a team with stellar play this season.

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