Ranking the Best 22-and-Under Prospect on Every NBA Team During 2014-15 Season
The NBA is brimming with young talent entering the 2014-15 season.
We're talking about really young prospects, college-aged ballers who are already professionals in the world's topmost basketball league. Some of them are still teenagers, yet they're competing in the sport's fiercest jungle.
In the past, several experts and networks have put together rankings of the top 25-and-under players in the league. We wanted to explore an even greener age group.
We took the best 22-and-under prospect from every franchise and ranked them. Which club lays claim to the top youngster in the NBA?
How We Ranked 'Em
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These rankings include players who were 22-and-under to begin the 2014-15 campaign. Teams without a 22-year-old on the roster are represented by their best 23-year-old.
The pecking order is based largely on the prospects' 2014-15 projected production and impact. Both statistical contributions and intangibles are taken into account.
Last year's stat lines weigh into the equation but only as much as they indicate what will take place this season.
Ultimately, this list is a measure of which young guns are poised to reign in the coming months.
Notable Injuries
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For a couple of NBA franchises, the top 22-and-under prospects on the rosters are sidelined indefinitely due to major injuries. As they will miss much or all of the 2014-15 season, we kept them out of the rankings.
Julius Randle, Los Angeles Lakers PF
Randle broke his tibia against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 28, during the first game of his NBA career. Rachel Nichols of TNT first reported the injury specifics.
The 6'9" rookie power forward out of Kentucky is by far the most exciting young piece in purple and gold, but Lakers fans will have to wait months to see him again. It puts a damper on LA's season, which was going to be challenging enough without injuries.
Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers C
Sorry, Michael Carter-Williams and Nerlens Noel. Joel Embiid is the premier prospect of the Sixers franchise.
Sorry, Sixers fans. Embiid is still recovering and rehabbing his ankle from surgery in June, and the rebuilding club is in no rush to bring him back. We don't know how strong or explosive he'll be upon returning, but we do know he's an elite prodigy when healthy.
28. Ricky Ledo, Dallas Mavericks SG
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 43 in 2013; 6'7", 195 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 1.7 PPG, 35% FG, 38% 3FG, 12.7 PER, 0.0 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 2.5 PPG, 0.6 APG, 41% FG, 36% 3FG
Prime: supplementary scorer off bench
Ricky Ledo's sampling of meaningful NBA minutes is so small, we have to evaluate him almost as if he's a rookie.
He played just 11 games for the Dallas Mavericks in 2013-14, but his stints with the Texas Legends in the D-League showcased his scoring potential.
On a well-oiled Dallas unit that includes seasoned veterans at the guard and wing spots, Ledo is too inexperienced and un-explosive to stand out. Austin Ngaruiya of Mavs Moneyball explained his modest ceiling for 2014-15.
"The ideal scenario for Ledo this season would involve him shooting the moneyball (three-pointer) well and earning about 15 minutes a night. The shooting would add another offensive weapon to the Maverick machine..."
Ngaruiya's worst-case projection? Failure to earn any minutes: "...his athletic limitations (would prove) to be a true deterrent to becoming a rotational player."
27. Markel Brown, Brooklyn Nets SG
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 44 in 2014; 6'3", 190 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-OK State): 17.2 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.9 APG, 47% FG, 38% 3FG, 22.0 PER, 5.7 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 3.8 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 0.7 APG, 44% FG, 35% 3FG
Prime: rotational 2-guard
The Brooklyn Nets don't have a ton of promising youth behind their veteran rotation. That's evidenced by Markel Brown owning the "best 22-and-under prospect" mantle for the club.
The bouncy guard won't enjoy a star-studded future, but he could grow into an explosive complementary piece. He has shooting potential, can see the floor and handle the ball a little bit. Brown is someone who will give the club a jolt as a shooter and slasher.
Illness derailed his preseason; he's still acclimating to the flow of NBA games. The Oklahoma State product spent much of the 2013-14 campaign as one of the Cowboys' featured players, so it's unclear how efficient he'll be in a peripheral role.
Athleticism is his biggest advantage at this point. He must sharpen his ball skills and timing in order to actually earn a role.
26. Jusuf Nurkic, Denver Nuggets PF/C
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Vitals: 20 years old; drafted No. 16 in 2014; 6'11", 280 lbs
2013-14 Stats (Adriatic-Cedevita): 10.9 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.0 BPG, 55% FG
2014-15 Projection: 4.6 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 0.8 BPG, 49% FG
Prime: starting center; 10-15 PPG
Denver Nuggets centers Timofey Mozgov and JaVale McGee will prevent Jusuf Nurkic from shedding his warm-ups often in 2014-15. The mammoth Bosnian prospect is still too raw to make a case for sharing substantial minutes.
General manager Tim Connelly picked up an intriguing asset in Nurkic, however. He moves well for a 6'11", 280-pound man, and he's already a force to account for on the glass. In preseason, he pulled down double-digit boards a couple of times.
His offensive tools are encouraging as well, as he scored 15-plus points twice. Nurkic can post up against bigs and employ powerful drop steps or dextrous baby hooks.
It will be a challenge for him to match up with the upper-echelon athletes in the frontcourt. Fortunately, he's big enough and mobile enough to go end-to-end and establish superior position.
25. Meyers Leonard, Portland Trail Blazers F/C
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 11 in 2012; 7'1", 245 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 2.5 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 45% FG, 9.4 PER, 0.6 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 4.8 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 0.7 BPG, 47% FG, 28% 3FG
Prime: high-level backup big
The arrival of Robin Lopez and the emergence of Joel Freeland caused Meyers Leonard's minutes and touches to dip in 2013-14, and newcomer Chris Kaman will keep the youngster on the bench.
Leonard hasn't been as productive as Portland Trail Blazers fans hoped when Portland selected him 11th overall in 2012. He's amply mobile for a seven-footer, and his jumper has improved, but he doesn't own much of a back-to-the-basket repertoire.
The good news is that his gradually upgraded shooting could result in a morphed role for him. Joe Freeman of The Oregonian explains the transition:
"[As Leonard] continues his evolution from project to productive big man, it's becoming more and more clear that his mix of athleticism, shooting, speed and passing ability make him perfectly suited to be a "stretch four" rather than a traditional center.
At the very least, Leonard is becoming a "hybrid" big man who can play a little power forward and a little center, depending on matchups and lineups.
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24. Solomon Hill, Indiana Pacers SG
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Vitals: 23 years old*; drafted No. 23 in 2013; 6'7", 225 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 1.7 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 43% FG, 30% 3FG, 7.6 PER, 0.4 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 4.6 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 41% FG, 33% 3FG
Prime: backup small forward
Not only do the Indiana Pacers lack a 22-year-old this year, their crop of 23-year-olds also isn't incredibly inspiring.
Sophomore Solomon Hill will share minutes with C.J. Miles and Chris Copeland at small forward, and he'll see playing time mainly because Paul George is out of the picture.
Frank Vogel took a long look at Hill during the preseason, and the 6'7" forward struggled to shoot consistently or regularly create.
"He’s a 'three-and-D' guy that can’t yet shoot threes and might not be a good defender," said Jared Wade of 8points9seconds.com. Nevertheless, Wade added that Hill "should get plenty of chances to prove the doubters wrong."
23. Reggie Bullock, Los Angeles Clippers SG
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 25 in 2013; 6'5", 207 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 2.7 PPG, 1.3 RPG, 36% FG, 30% 3FG, 6.7 PER, 0.2 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 5.9 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 41% FG, 32% FG
Prime: rotational wing
Reggie Bullock hasn't wowed anyone thus far in his Los Angeles Clippers career, yet he has a chance to earn a bigger role.
The Clips are still trying to figure out their optimal small forward cycle, so Bullock could steal some minutes and become a more familiar face on the Staples Center hardwood. Matt Barnes' woeful preseason has helped open the door even more for the second-year wing.
At this juncture, however, he's primarily a shooter, and he doesn't profoundly impact the game in other areas. Doc Rivers gave him an audition as starting small forward during LA's preseason rumble against the Portland Trail Blazers; Broderick Turner of the Los Angeles Times said "Bullock didn't really stand out."
Even if he's not starting material, his quick release will come in handy at the back of the rotation this year and beyond.
22. Shabazz Napier , Miami Heat G
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Vitals: 23 years old*; Drafted No. 24 in 2014; 6'1", 175 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-UConn): 18.0 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.9 APG, 43% FG, 41% 3FG, 25.5 PER, 7.9 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 7.0 PPG, 3.0 APG, 40% FG, 35% 3FG
Prime: high-level backup point guard/spot starter
The Miami Heat don't have a significant 22-and-under prospect in their system, so we're breaking down Shabazz Napier, the franchise's best 23-year-old.
He exited college a hero, and his clutch playmaking in the NCAA tournament undoubtedly enhanced his draft stock. The Heat to a chance on him to build their backcourt depth.
His summer league and preseason outings have been a series of letdowns and surprising outbursts. Overall, his ability to create was pleasing, despite lackluster shooting numbers (36 percent on field goals; 21 percent on triples).
It's safe to assume he'll perform more steadily once he operates regularly alongside Miami's veterans. There's enough evidence to suggest he can compete with his perimeter skills and quickness.
The idea of him stealing minutes from Mario Chalmers and Norris Cole isn't far-fetched, but he won't be handed anything too easily.
21. Jordan Adams, Memphis Grizzlies SG
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 3 in 2012; 6'5", 207 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-UCLA): 17.4 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.3 APG, 2.6 SPG, 49% FG, 36% 3FG, 28.3 PER, 6.4 Win shares
2014-15 Projection: 6.5 PPG, 1.5 APG, 46% FG, 33% 3FG
Prime: starting shooting guard; 10-15 PPG
Blessed with superb court awareness and scoring instincts, Memphis Grizzlies rookie guard Jordan Adams can provide something the club could always use more of: buckets.
"Jordan Adams should crack the Memphis rotation at some point this season," said Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman. "Just knows how to put the ball in the bucket."
You won't find him jumping out of the gym and driving for acrobatic layups; he's one of the few prospects who can't clear 30 inches on a max vertical jump. He gets his opportunities by flaring to the wing and corner for catch-and-shoot attempts, and he's also a solid ball-handler who can change speeds and utilize length.
Adams is a capable passer as well, quickly diagnosing plays and delivering the ball to cutters. He averaged 3.1 assists per 40 minutes at UCLA, and he'll help streamline Memphis' attack.
20. Kyle Anderson, San Antonio Spurs G/F
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Vitals: 21 years old; Drafted No. 30 in 2014; 6'9", 230 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-UCLA): 14.6 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 6.5 APG, 48% FG, 48% 3FG, 24.7 PER, 5.6 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 6.4 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 44% FG, 31% 3FG
Prime: key role player on title contender; versatile point-forward
Scouts and analysts hemmed and hawed all year about Kyle Anderson, trying to determine whether his game would translate to the NBA.
His foot speed was (and still is) the primary point of concern, as he's too slow to drive past most wings and he struggles in isolation defense.
Judging by his preseason exploits with the San Antonio Spurs, he's adjusting nicely to the speed of the game and compensating with effective shooting and length. Anderson notched 9.5 points per game on 50 percent field-goal shooting and 46 percent from three-land over six exhibition contests.
Keeping opponents honest with the jumper will help space the floor for the Spurs and open up lanes to pass or attack close-outs.
Anderson is a bizarre specimen compared to most prospects, but the Spurs usually do a magnificent job of making masterpieces out of unorthodox material.
19. T.J. Warren, Phoenix Suns SF
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 14 in 2014; 6'8", 215 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-NC State): 24.9 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 53% FG, 27% 3FG, 31.3 PER, 6.5 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 5.0 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 45% FG, 30% 3FG
Prime: starting small forward; versatile scorer
The playoff-hungry Phoenix Suns have a deep roster and are well-stocked at forward, so minutes will be scarce for T.J. Warren once he returns from his thumb injury.
In his limited role, however, we'll see his superb instincts and ability to scrounge up scoring opportunities. He puts playmaking guards in good position to get him the ball, and he calmly knows how to fill up the hoop once he receives the rock.
Don't let his playing time or statistics dishearten you. He's one of the most well-prepared NBA newcomers due to his situational awareness and scoring touch. General manager Ryan McDonough lauded the rookie's advanced aptitude:
“T.J. is such a natural scorer," he told SiriusXM NBA Radio. "He’s the most physically ready draft pick we’ve had the last few years."
18. Dennis Schroder, Atlanta Hawks PG
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 17 in 2013; 6'1", 168 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 3.7 PPG, 1.9 APG, 38% FG, 24% 3FG, 5.8 PER, -0.7 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 7.3 PPG, 2.9 APG, 42% FG, 29% 3FG
Prime: starting point guard
We dare you to find a speedier player on this list than Atlanta Hawks backup point guard Dennis Schroder.
He’s a dangerous playmaker if challengers give him a crease or let him turn the corner on a pick-and-roll. The German youngster can slice his way to the hoop or smoothly dish the rock to an open comrade.
For right now, speed is essentially his only weapon. If he can’t find a way to go around or blow past defenders, he’s considerably less intimidating. Schroder’s slender frame and inconsistent jump shot prevent him from hurting opponents in multiple areas.
Let’s remember he’s still just 21 years old, and he has a chance to cultivate those electrifying playmaking skills and to expand his game as a quarterback.
17. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Charlotte Hornets SF
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 2 in 2012; 6'7", 232 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 7.2 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 47% FG, 12.0 PER, 3.1 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 9.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 0.9 SPG, 46% FG, 27% 3FG
Prime: key role player on top-tier playoff team; 12-14 PPG; All-Defensive team candidate
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist turned out to be a reach at No. 2 in the 2012 draft, as the Charlotte Hornets were hoping for a more versatile offensive impact to go along with his superb defense.
He's been a massive project when it comes to ball skills and shooting, and he didn't take great strides from his rookie to sophomore campaign. As a rookie, he scored 12.5 points per 36 minutes, and in year two he scored just 10.7.
Despite his overvalued status on draft night, the Hornets shouldn't give up on him. He's shown incremental improvement as a shooter, especially during preseason play. Danny Chau of Grantland.com explained the progress.
"...Kidd-Gilchrist underwent a complete 'shot reconstruction' this offseason...He legitimately has a new jumper. It’s startlingly different. He’s been eager to show it off."
And in the defense department, he's a hardworking, promising wing. MKG has the possession-by-possession desire to be a stopper, and he's rangy enough to cover multiple positions. That will help keep him on the court even if his shooting doesn't flourish.
16. Tim Hardaway Jr., New York Knicks SG
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Vitals: 21 years old; Drafted No. 24 in 2013; 6'6", 210 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 10.2 PPG, 0.8 APG, 43% FG, 36% 3FG, 12.7 PER, 3.1 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 11.8 PPG, 1.2 APG, 44% FG, 36% 3FG
Prime: starting shooting guard
The pre-Phil Jackson New York Knicks made a string of regrettable moves over the past half-decade to put the club in such a mediocre spot.
However, they did push the right buttons in the 2013 draft, landing one of the crop’s biggest steals in Tim Hardaway Jr.
The second-year spark plug out of Michigan is a streaky shooter with some open-court slashing ability. His energy and long-range prowess make him a handy prospect to bring off the bench.
Hardaway is a below-average passer, however, and he’s not yet adept at creating shots in tight quarters.
Regardless of his up-and-down performances, he supplies great value compared to the majority of his 2013 draft peers.
15. Marcus Smart, Boston Celtics PG/SG
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Vitals: 21 years old; Drafted No. 6 in 2014; 6'4", 220 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-OK State): 18.0 PPG, 4.8 APG, 42% FG, 30% 3FG, 26.9 PER, 5.6 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 12.2 PPG, 4.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, 40% FG, 31% 3FG
Prime: All-Star combo guard; DPOY candidate
Marcus Smart's preseason was a mixed bag.
For much of October, he couldn't find a rhythm as an outside shooter. He also wasn't consistently running the Boston Celtics offense as an efficient table-setter.
But on the bright side, he was confident and aggressive during most of the exhibitions, as he looked comfortable competing as a scoring option and slashing playmaker.
And on the really bright side, his defense looks splendid. It won't be long before he joins the NBA's exclusive club of elite stoppers. Coach Brad Stevens gushed over the rookie.
"…The defensive side of the ball, I'm still blown away by it...He has a chance to be a great defender," he told Chris Forsberg of ESPNBoston.com. Stevens also commented on Smart's powerful tools, per a Boston Celtics tweet: "He has ultimate physical talent. He's got physical strength. He's got great agility...He's really unscreenable."
When his offensive efficiency takes stride, we'll be looking at a bona fide two-way combo guard.
14. Doug McDermott, Chicago Bulls SF
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 11 in 2014; 6'8", 225 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-Creighton): 26.7 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 53% FG, 45% 3FG, 32.8 PER, 7.7 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 9.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 47% FG, 39% 3FG
Prime: key third option
Chicago Bulls fans shouldn’t be worried or overly focused on Doug McDermott’s playing time or place in the pecking order entering 2014-15.
They should just focus on his execution at both ends of the court.
How will his off-ball movement and three-point shooting enhance the offensive unit Derrick Rose is trying to resurrect? Can he create off the bounce, hit some mid-range shots and find teammates as a wing passer?
And the questions on the other end are more tenuous. Will his effort and alertness be enough to compete with the length and explosiveness of attackers? Can Tom Thibodeau “hide” him in his system.
If McDermott can answer positively to most of those questions in the early going, the playing time will eventually come.
13. Steven Adams, Oklahoma City Thunder C
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 12 in 2013; 7'0", 255 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 3.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 0.7 BPG, 50% FG, 11.2 PER, 2.9 Win shares
2014-15 Projection: 8.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.6 BPG, 60% FG
Prime: starting center; top-tier low-post defender
Steven Adams isn't abundantly skilled or particularly fluid, but he fills his role well as a rebounder, rim protector and close-range finisher.
He consistently beats his opponents to the spot because he's fleet-footed for a towering center. The Oklahoma City Thunder were shrewd to pick the New Zealander late in the 2013 lottery, and they may reap the benefits if he commands more of Kendrick Perkins' playing time.
B/R's Grant Hughes noticed Adams' activity across the board during preseason:
"He went on to post some scary numbers—numbers that should finally (finally!) make Kendrick Perkins a fixture on the pine. Through his first seven contests, Adams has averaged 12.7 points and 6.9 rebounds on 68.4 percent shooting from the floor.
He can pass, he defends the rim, and he's brutally physical—as evidenced by his average of 3.86 fouls in just 25.7 minutes per game.
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Don't be surprised by a mini-breakout year from OKC's interior anchor of the future.
12. Nik Stauskas, Sacramento Kings SG
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 8 in 2014; 6'6", 205 lbs
2013-14 Stats (Michigan): 17.5 PPG, 3.3 APG, 47% FG, 45% 3FG, 22.7 PER, 6.2 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 10.4 PPG, 2.3 APG, 1.9 RPG, 45% FG, 40% 3FG
Prime: borderline All-Star; second scoring option; top five in three-point shooting
If you've watched Nik Stauskas play at all, you know he has one of the sweetest-looking jump shots in all of basketball—and more importantly, one of the most accurate ones.
The Sacramento Kings drafted the Canadian breakout prospect eighth overall because he can not only stretch the defense but also manipulate it.
He's extremely savvy working away from the ball, and he can also shoot and pass off the dribble. Sac-town can use him in a variety of ways, including as a pick-and-roll ball-handler. Mike Malone will trust his decision-making and skill set.
It's hard to tell exactly what the Kings will get from him defensively, but he won't lack for effort. His basketball instincts will help him quickly adapt in every area, even in departments where he won't shine.
11. Harrison Barnes, Golden State Warriors SF
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 7 in 2012; 6'8", 225 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 9.5 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 40% FG, 35% 3FG, 9.8 PER, 3.2 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 11.1 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 45% FG, 36% 3FG
Prime: dynamic third option; borderline All-Star; 15-17 PPG
After a 2012-13 rookie campaign that culminated with a thoroughly impressive playoffs performance, Harrison Barnes struggled as a sophomore coming off the bench in 2013-14.
He's a gifted athlete with some valuable skills: outside shooting, some post-up moves, finishing ability and defensive length. Unfortunately, he didn't have the wherewithal to lead the Golden State Warriors bench efficiently last year.
That's exactly why new coach Steve Kerr is reportedly considering putting Barnes back in the starting lineup and tabbing Andre Iguodala to lead the reserves, per Diamond Leung of the Bay Area News Group.
"With Barnes in the lineup, Kerr said he'd look to take advantage of Barnes' abilities as a cutter alongside passing big men Andrew Bogut and David Lee and shooters who free up space in Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson," said Leung.
Barnes' stats will be much prettier in year three, but don't expect a massive outburst or production. After all, Kerr will give Iggy a bunch of playing time, and the Splash Brothers will continue to eat their share of the pie.
10. Jonas Valanciunas, Toronto Raptors PF/C
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 5 in 2011; 7'0", 255 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 11.3 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 0.9 BPG, 53% FG, 16.1 PER, 6.7 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 15.0 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 1.3 BPG, 52% FG
Prime: go-to big man; borderline All-Star
In the recent NBA general managers survey, Toronto Raptors big man Jonas Valanciunas was voted as the international player most likely to have a breakout season.
Why? Because he's a tank when he's aggressive.
The Lithuanian center is entering his third season, and he has a talented stable of guards and wings around him to make plays and give him space to operate. When he uses his footwork and goes up strong toward the hoop, he draws fouls and good things happen.
Toronto expects him to be a force in the post, and it also holds high standards for him defensively. He was recently benched against the New York Knicks after failing to keep them off the glass.
"One of the big focuses for us to advance in the playoffs is that he’s got to be the best rim protector—block shots, [legal] vertical [jumps] and being able to get over to that weak side early on any [dribble] penetration," Raptors assistant Bill Bayno told Eric Koreen of the National Post.
His activity as an anchor could determine whether Toronto is a dangerous dark horse to challenge Eastern powers such as Cleveland and Chicago.
9. Terrence Jones, Houston Rockets PF
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 18 in 2012; 6'9", 253 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 12.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.3 BPG, 54% FG, 31% 3FG, 19.1 PER, 7.3 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 13.4 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 51% FG, 33% 3FG
Prime: explosive third option
In the Houston Rockets' up-tempo system, Terrence Jones feasts off running the floor and taking advantage of the opponents' obsession of Dwight Howard and James Harden.
When foes overcompensate to corral Harden or box out Howard, Jones is there to fill the lane or crash the offensive glass. The 6'9" southpaw is also willing to generate his own offense, as he can slash powerfully to the rim from the wing or post.
"I don't think Terrence Jones gets enough credit," said USA Today NBA editor Adi Joseph. "He's a good fit next to Dwight and has the potential to be a really good No. 3 player."
Look for him to follow up his breakout sophomore season with steady but modest gains in year three.
8. Andrew Wiggins, Minnesota Timberwolves SG/SF
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Vitals: 19 years old; drafted No. 1 in 2014; 6'8", 199 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-Kansas): 17.1 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 45% FG, 34% 3FG, 21.4 PER, 4.9 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 14.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 44% FG, 33% 3FG
Prime: All-Star; borderline superstar; DPOY Candidate
There are a handful of fundamental areas Andrew Wiggins must demonstrate before he earns higher placement on this list. He's still a bit raw and must become a stronger shot-creator in half-court scenarios.
Nevertheless, he's the second-highest among all rookies in these rankings. It's clear that the NBA style of play will work in his favor, as the well-spaced floor and up-tempo tendencies will showcase his speed and bounciness.
The Minnesota Timberwolves won't lean on him as a featured scorer, so he won't likely put up Rookie-of-the-Year numbers. However, he's going to connect with quarterback Ricky Rubio for a healthy portion of touchdowns, and his defense will keep him on the floor in many cases.
There's nothing wrong with being excited about Wiggins' arrival in the NBA, as long as it's measured with some patience. He'll be star material once he becomes a sturdier and more fluid player.
7. Victor Oladipo, Orlando Magic SG
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 2 in 2013; 6'5", 215 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 13.8 PPG, 4.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 42% FG, 33% 3FG, 13.6 PER, 1.3 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 15.1 PPG, 3.4 APG, 44% FG, 35% 3FG
Prime: borderline All-Star; DPOY candidate
The Orlando Magic are a young, rebuilding team with several promising assets, and chief among them is their No. 2 pick from 2013.
Victor Oladipo is an electrifying two-way player, bringing a burst of energy as a lockdown defender and budding playmaker. Unfortunately, Magic fans have to wait for him to heal from his facial fracture suffered Oct. 23. He's expected to miss a month of action, according Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports.
He came out of Indiana relatively raw, but he showed enough smarts and a surplus of athleticism to earn a high selection in the draft. Orlando used him as its primary ball-handler as a rookie, but it's probably better that he'll be a 2-guard moving forward alongside Elfrid Payton.
"In a best-case scenario, Oladipo can hound smaller point guards and hunt for his own offense without having the responsibility of getting everyone else easy shots," said Jonathan Tjarks of SB Nation.
Look for Payton and Oladipo to feed off one another over the next several years. In the near future, they'll be one of the most hazardous backcourts in the Eastern Conference.
6. Trey Burke, Utah Jazz PG
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 9 in 2013; 6'1", 190 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 12.8 PPG, 5.7 APG, 38% FG, 33% 3FG, 12.6 PER, 0.9 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 14.9 PPG, 6.8 APG, 42% FG, 36% 3FG
Prime: borderline All-Star
Even if preseason is only a rough sketch of what Trey Burke will do in the 2014-15 regular season, the Utah Jazz offense will be miles ahead of its 2013-14 pace.
Burke looks extremely comfortable in Quin Snyder's system, taking advantage of plenty of high pick-and-rolls to make plays and find his own scoring chances. His outside shot hummed to the tune of 47 percent from three-land in October, which is a great sign for his overall growth.
When he's splashing triples and driving confidently into the lane, he's a different-looking player.
"His aggression has increased tenfold from last year," said B/R's Dan Favale. "He was never wholly passive (as a rookie), yet he...would remove himself from the offense for sets at a time. This side of his rookie year, Burke has never dropped out of attack mode."
A big sophomore campaign from Burke will expedite the club's rebuilding process and put him in the "star" conversation.
5. Jabari Parker, Milwaukee Bucks F
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Vitals: 19 years old; drafted No. 2 in 2014; 6'8", 235 lbs
2013-14 Stats (NCAA-Duke): 19.1 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 47% FG, 36% 3FG, 28.4 PER, 5.5 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 18.0 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 44% FG, 34% 3FG
Prime: borderline superstar; 20-plus PPG
We almost had to flip a coin to decide who Milwaukee's best youngster is. That's how scary Giannis Antetokounmpo is.
With apologies to the Greek Freak, we tabbed rookie Jabari Parker as the Bucks' top prospect. He's the more polished offensive weapon and will give the franchise a legitimate cornerstone scorer to build around.
The Duke product will rapidly emerge as a rising star because he's a versatile inside-out operator. He has plenty of room to upgrade his shot selection and efficiency, but there isn't a spot on the floor he can't score from. Whether it's a step-back jumper, low-post maneuver or coast-to-coast foray, Parker can pull it off smoothly.
Defense is certainly a question mark, and he'll make his share of blunders early on. The Bucks are more than willing to endure his defensive development, while they reap the benefits of his offensive production.
4. Andre Drummond, Detroit Pistons C
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 9 in 2012; 6'11", 279 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 13.5 PPG, 13.2 RPG, 1.6 BPG, 62% FG, 22.6 PER, 9.9 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 15.1 PPG, 13.1 RPG, 2.0 BPG, 59% FG
Prime: All-Star; DPOY candidate
Can new Detroit Pistons skipper Stan Van Gundy maximize the formidable potential of Andre Drummond?
The explosive 270-plus pound big man was an uncontainable rebounder as soon as he broke into the league in 2012. Now the rest of his game is developing nicely, and he's poised to become much more than an opportunistic rim-rocker.
Judging by the preseason sample, Detroit is experimenting with more post-up touches for him. The big fella is more confident with his baseline hook shots, and he's a more productive passer from the low block. Van Gundy was pleased with Drummond as training camp unfolded.
"He’s taking his time, he’s patient, he’s making good, strong moves," he told Keith Langlois of Pistons.com. "I think that he’s been terrific down there. With him getting post-ups in live situations on a regular basis, I think he’ll just continue to get better and better."
Defensively, he's on a fast track to stardom. As he gains experience, his towering presence and natural instincts will be even more influential.
3. Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards SG
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 3 in 2012; 6'5", 207 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 17.1 PPG, 3.3 APG, 42% FG, 40% 3FG, 14.3 PER, 4.0 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 18.2 PPG, 3.3 APG, 44% FG, 40% 3FG
Prime: All-Star; top-five three-point shooter
With a picturesque shooting stroke and promising all-around skill set, Washington Wizards' Bradley Beal has quickly become one of the top 2-guards in the entire Association.
His recent wrist injury will keep him out until at least late November, the team announced. But once he comes back and gets in a rhythm, he'll continue filling up the hoop as a catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble threat.
Beal is more alert and crafty than most prospects his age, as he showed last year during the playoffs. ESPN Insider Tom Haberstroh (subscription required) noted how impressive Beal's playmaking prowess was:
"It's still hard to believe Bradley Beal was only 20 when he punished Chicago and Indiana, two of the NBA's most vicious defenses, in the playoffs last season. Beal showed a ton of poise when he absorbed more ballhandling duties and thrived next to John Wall.
In the playoffs, Beal averaged 19.2 points, 4.5 assists and 5.2 rebounds, shooting 41.5 percent from deep. Remember, 20 years old.
"
Although he finishes well through contact, the youngster's next step of development is to improve his efficiency inside the arc and in the paint in 2014-15. He shot 43 percent on two-pointers last year and only took 2.6 free throws per game.
His growth in these areas could significantly boost Washington's playoff positioning come springtime.
2. Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers PG
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Vitals: 22 years old; drafted No. 1 in 2011; 6'3", 190 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 20.8 PPG, 6.1 APG, 43% FG, 36% 3FG, 20.1 PER, 6.7 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 20.3 PPG, 6.4 APG, 45% FG, 38% 3FG
Prime: superstar; MVP candidate
Kyrie Irving isn't a "prospect" anymore—at least on the offensive end.
Even so, it's exciting to think that the two-time All-Star's best days are still ahead of him. Cleveland Cavaliers fans are glad he signed with the Wine and Gold through 2019.
It's tough to project what his numbers will look like in 2014-15, as the Cavs now have two other lethal offensive weapons in the mix. No matter what his touches and usage look like, he should have no problem finding space to create and operate fluidly in David Blatt's system.
Irving will certainly enjoy success and a deep run in the playoffs, but will he be a truly elite point guard this season? Can he improve his passing output and shooting efficiency, and will he make strides defensively?
Either way, we know he'll carve up would-be stoppers with his shifty slashing and shot-making ability.
1. Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans PF
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Vitals: 21 years old; drafted No. 1 in 2012; 6'10", 220 lbs
2013-14 Stats: 20.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 2.8 BPG, 52% FG, 26.5 PER, 10.4 win shares
2014-15 Projection: 23.3 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 2.9 BPG, 51% FG
Prime: superstar; MVP candidate; DPOY candidate
No NBA youngster delivers a more potent two-way attack than New Orleans Pelicans star Anthony Davis.
During his sophomore season, he coolly cranked out a 20/10 season, including a 26.5 PER and a league-leading 2.8 blocks per game. He earned All-Star honors, and in September he became the anchor for Team USA's World Cup gold-medal run.
Who knows what he's going to do in year three?
Davis' NBA production thus far has derived largely from his blend of physical tools and superb instincts. That means his overall impact will continue to climb as he keeps refining his ball skills and improving his defensive positioning.
It seems like everyone is setting the bar outlandishly high for Davis. But even if he falls short of fans' wildest dreams, he'll still be a matchup nightmare for opponents.
Dan O'Brien covers the NBA and NBA Draft for Bleacher Report.
Follow him on Twitter: @DanielO_BR
