5 Most Dynamic Playmakers in the NBA Today

Everybody makes plays, as the game consists of them. A "playmaker" is someone who can do so on a near-whim, through a mix of sheer physical force and vision. When we discuss playmakers, we're talking about perimeter operators, guys who don't depend on teammates for the rock.

In discussing "dynamic playmakers," statistical efficiency need not apply. Dwyane Wade makes many mistakes, but he will be somewhere on this list. Rajon Rondo would appear to take regular-season games off, and he will certainly be on this list. A dynamic playmaker is not necessarily a consistent playmaker. 

5. Rajon Rondo

His overall production leaves something to be desired, as the Celtics have sported mediocre offenses in the past. It doesn't help that Rondo can barely effect the game on some nights, choosing to float and refusing to shoot.

Never mind that. When Rajon's on it, he's on it—and he tends to be on it when he's on national television. Few players are more creative than fully engaged Rondo. He boasts more kinds of pass fakes than any player I've ever seen. 

4. Manu Ginobili

I have to list someone who fundamentally changed the NBA. Before Manu Ginobili, the league wasn't involved in this "Eurostep" business. The idea that a driver could zig zag sideways on his two steps had not occurred to any American players. 

Enter Manu, and exit the old ways. Now, basketball programs all over the nation are teaching kids this new basketball basic. The criminally underrated Ginobili is still getting it done, claiming a 24.1 player efficiency rating last season. It is difficult for Manu to stay on the court, but when he plays, it's sheer brilliance. Few are more adept at changing speeds and contorting en route to the rim. He's a fine passer, too.

3. Dwyane Wade

Don't throw dirt on D-Wade just yet. He's 30 years old, and people seem to be already writing his career's obituary. Some of this is understandable. Wade did play only 33 minutes per game, missed time and looked gimpy in the playoffs. 

But "Flash" is back from knee surgery and looking healthy as ever. The Heat's second option is an underrated passer and an absolutely brutal driver. If you need a play made, it's always good to call up the league's best Eurostepper. Few are better in one-on-one situations.

2. Chris Paul

The game's best point guard has to be ranked as a top playmaker. Not only does CP3 statistically dominate his PG foes in nearly every category, but he also does so while seemingly puppeteering his teammates. 

There are long stretches where Paul appears to control a game's pace and eventual outcome. He has a near unbreakable dribble, which may have something to do with his scant 2.1 turnovers per game. Given any daylight, and he nails the mid-range jumper. Swarm him in anticipation of that shot, and he carves you with expert pick-and-roll passes. The man has no basketball flaws, save for his size. 

1. LeBron James

Let us set aside the defense, the defensive versatility and offensive positional flexibility. Let us also set aside how that's a lot to set aside. Man, this guy can get to the rim when his team needs a play. 

LeBron James averaged 6.6 attempts at the cup last season (via HoopData), and probably could have claimed more were he not pacing himself for health. Once at the rim, LeBron converted an astounding 75 percent of his tries. He might not have his 21 year-old hops, but James is more refined than ever in close. LeBron has added a floater, one-hand push-shot and now a skyhook to his ever-expanding paint arsenal.