5. Vince Carter, New Jersey Nets
Vince will have to pickup the scoring load now that Jefferson is gone. Last season, his scoring average of 21.3 was below his career average of 23.8 but his 45.6 percent field goals percentage and 81.6 percent free throw percentage were both above his career average. Vince broke the five assists per game mark the fist time in 07-08 and pulled down six boards a night.
Expect Vince to regain some of the notoriety as a premier SG in the league this season.
6. Joe Johnson, Atlanta Hawks
Joe Johnson is a 6-7 combo guard with a full tool belt. He passes, rebounds and will score from all over the floor. Joe shot 83.4 percent from the stripe in 379 free throw attempts, both career bests.
Johnson has seen a lot of flux in his scoring average, but you can anticipate 20+ points per game this season. Johnson led all shooting guards in assists last season.
7. Kevin Martin, Sacramento Kings
Kevin Martin is one of the more accurate shooters in the league and boosted his scoring average to 23.7 last season. An injury last winter slowed his production, but he finished the season strong, averaging over 26 points in the last two months of the season.
Not really an all around player, but Martin is a nice addition as a shooter.
8. Brandon Roy, Portland Trail Blazers
Roy boosted his scoring average to 19.1 and assists average to 5.8 last season. With the addition of Greg Oden, the former Rookie of the Year should have another passing option to look for on the young, talented Trail Blazers. Brandon Roy is strong with the ball and takes smart shots. Expect his free throw percentage and three point field goals to increase this season as he continues to develop.
9. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder
As a rookie, Durant averaged 20.3 points, 1.0 steals, .09 blocks and snagged 4.4 rebounds per game. These numbers should increase with added strength and experience. A very good free throw shooter at 87.3 percent, Durant will continue to develop his three point shot and his ability to find field goal opportunities in the half court.
KD is a potential All-Star for the team formerly named the Sonics.
10. Mike Dunleavy, Indiana Pacers
The former Dukie blew up in his first full season with the Pacers. Dunleavy set career marks in points per game with 19.1, field goal percentage at 47.6 percent, three pointers made with 165 (shooting 42.4 percent), free throw percentage at 83.4 percent, and APG with 3.5. His new responsibilities with the Pacers also led to a career high in turnovers with 2.3 per night. MD Jr is a very accurate shooter and hits the boards well with his 6-9 frame.
With all of the highs last season, don’t overrate Dunleavy, but don’t underrate him either. He is a viable selection as a 4-10 SG.
Next Best:
Josh Howard, Dallas Mavericks
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