NBA Playoffs 2011: LeBron James and the Other Top 10 Players Remaining
1. LeBron James, MIA - We have still yet to figure out what planet this man came from. No chance Gloria is his mama. This year’s playoffs have been his canvas. He can play inside and outside offensively and defend any position on the court. Hate him all you want, but he will continue to be the league’s best player for the next five years, at least.
2. Dwyane Wade, MIA - While many look past Wade because of his new running mate, he is the second best overall player remaining in the playoffs. Teams win championships with guys who can defend as good as they score and D-Wade is among a select few. His Euro Step move may be the most lethal transition weapon in the game.
3. Kevin Durant, OKC - His mid-range jumper is pure ice. He shreds defenses with variety. A true star, but I still don’t understand the postgame backpack routine.
4. Derrick Rose, CHI - Many will be shocked to find the MVP this low, but I nearly had him lower. I’m not doubting his ability as a scorer and playmaker. The guy plays in fast-forward. However, he’s one of the most overrated defensive players in the league and he’s not nearly as playoff proven as the players above him.
5. Dirk Nowitzki, DAL - There isn’t a player on this list you’d rather have taking the last shot. Forget Kobe, this guy defines clutch, and he’s one of the most efficient offensive players of all time. That step-back, one-legged fadeaway jumper has been giving opponents nightmares for years.
6. Russell Westbrook, OKC - His physical talents are freakish, yet his game-management could use some work. He often doesn’t comprehend the concept of shot selection in critical moments, also known as “Give Durant the damn ball.” If he ever gets “it,” he’s going to be a top-10 player.
7. Chris Bosh, MIA - While he has yet to shed the soft label, his offensive talents are unquestioned. For him to take the next step he must show aggression and tenacity on a consistent basis, especially inside defensively and on the glass. Chicago has been a major test for him.
8. Joakim Noah, CHI - Hate on the grimy appearance, but this guy is a gamer. There isn’t a more intense player in the league. He is the prototypical center on the defensive end and crashes the boards with a ferocity most players cannot match.
9. Luol Deng, CHI - Quietly, Deng has put together one of his best seasons to date. He’s finally been able to stay healthy and he’s impacting games on both ends. His perimeter shot could use some more consistency.
10. Jason Terry, DAL - Just call him Mr. Playoffs. His efficiency in this year’s playoffs has been absurd. He’s shooting 51 percent from the floor, 48 percent from three-point land and 88 percent from the line. Touch this man and you will burn.
Just missed: Carlos Boozer, Tyson Chandler, Jason Kidd
Total players on the list
Miami – 3
Dallas – 2
Chicago – 3
Oklahoma City – 2
