The updated NBA Pre-Postseason Players Tiers have been revealed, with Tier 3 consisting of players ranked between 24th and 42nd, and Tier 4 consisting of players ranked 43-80. A debate arises between valuing elite role players versus good-but-not-great primary or secondary creators, with some arguing for the importance of elite role players over borderline All-Star primaries. It is challenging to determine the value of players in between these categories, highlighting the importance of roster evaluation and avoiding the cheapening of the term “franchise player.”
The evaluation of players in the sub-elite, very good level of on-ball players presents a challenge, as the importance of shot creation varies across the league. Players like Mikal Bridges and Jaylen Brown exemplify this dilemma, where their value depends on the context of their respective rosters. The exercise of ranking players in tiers helps in identifying the gaps between elite players and understanding roster evaluation better. The comparison between Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner showcases the differences in self-creation ability and overall impact on a team.
Players like Tyrese Haliburton and Damian Lillard have seen variations in their tier placements throughout the season, with factors like injuries and performance influencing their rankings. While Haliburton has shown strong performance for much of the season, concerns about his style translating to the playoffs have impacted his tier placement. Similarly, Lillard’s efficiency has dipped in his new role in Milwaukee, raising questions about his performance at age 33 and his defensive capabilities.
As the playoffs approach, players like Luka Dončić, Jayson Tatum, and Joel Embiid have opportunities to improve their tier rankings based on their postseason performance. Dončić, in particular, is poised to showcase his skills in the playoffs with a strengthened team around him. Players like Jimmy Butler and Jamal Murray, known for their playoff dominance, are expected to perform well despite average regular seasons. Ja Morant’s tier placement remains uncertain, with expectations for improved performance next season.
Victor Wembanyama stands out as a rookie player in Tier 2B, showing significant growth and development over the season. His impact as a rim protector and improved scoring efficiency point towards a promising future, with potential for All-NBA honors in the upcoming seasons. Wembanyama’s performance, especially after adjustments in his role and teammates, indicates his potential for Tier 1 placement in the future. Despite not being able to prove himself in this year’s playoffs, Wembanyama’s impressive skills and highlights suggest a bright future in the NBA.
