
<p>There have been so many outstanding players in <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/the-top-3-smallest-players-throughout-nbas-history-20230206-SPD-3378.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA history</a></strong> that picking only five for the finest starting lineup ever is an impossible task. Nonetheless, the following players might form the best starting five in the NBA based on their individual achievements and their effect on the game.</p>



<p>All five of these players have created indelible marks on the sport of basketball, and they deserve to be considered among the game’s all-time best. The sports industry is only one of several that has caught the attention of the public as generative artificial intelligence (AI) spreads.</p>



<p>One of the latest iterations of chatbots is <em>ChatGPT</em>. As its popularity grew, we decided to try an experiment and ask it to choose the NBA’s all-time top starting five.</p>



<h2>Point Guard: Magic Johnson</h2>



<p>Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who stood at 6 feet 9 inches, changed the game of basketball with his stature, vision, and passing abilities as a point guard. He won five NBA titles and was named Most Valuable Player in the NBA Finals and NBA MVP three times each. He finished his career averaging 11.2 assists per game and led the league in assists on four separate occasions. In addition to his 12 All-Star appearances, Johnson was selected to the NBA’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team.</p>



<h2>Shooting Guard: Michael Jordan</h2>



<p>Michael Jordan won six NBA titles, was named Most Valuable Player of the NBA Finals six times, and was named NBA MVP five times. He was a 14-time NBA All-Star and a 10-time scoring champion. Jordan’s clutch heroics have earned him a reputation, and he won his sixth NBA title with the game-winning jumper he made in Game 6 of the 1998 Finals.</p>



<h2>Small Forward: LeBron James</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/how-many-records-does-lebron-james-hold-complete-list-of-the-forwards-records-in-nba-20230208-SPD-3383.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a></strong> is widely considered to be one of the best basketball players of all time, having won four NBA titles, four NBA Finals MVP awards, and four NBA MVP awards. Moreover, he has been chosen for the NBA All-Star Game 17 times and has been named to the All-NBA First Team 13 times. James is a formidable force on both ends of the court because of his adaptability, athleticism, and court vision.</p>



<h2>Power Forward: Tim Duncan</h2>



<p>Tim Duncan won five NBA titles, three NBA Finals MVP awards, and two NBA MVP awards throughout his career. His dependability, leadership, and clutch performance earned him widespread acclaim. Being one of the best power forwards in NBA history, Duncan was chosen for 15 All-Star Games.</p>



<h2>Center: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</h2>



<p>With 38,387 points, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the NBA record for most points scored. He was honored with six NBA MVP trophies, as well as two NBA Finals MVP honors, and two NBA championships. In addition to his 19 seasons as an NBA All-Star, Abdul-Jabbar was selected to play on the NBA’s All-Time Team for its 50th anniversary. He played in the NBA for a total of 20 seasons and was legendary for his unguardable skyhook.</p>


No Kobe Bryant, Bill Russell, Shaquille O'Neal, Wilt Chamberlain: ChatGPT picks NBA's all-time best starting five

No Kobe Bryant, Bill Russell, Shaquille O'Neal, Wilt Chamberlain: ChatGPT picks NBA's all-time best starting five - thesportsdrops NEWS

miniaturas


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-players-that-might-challenge-nikola-jokic-for-2023-nba-mvp-award-20230318-SPD-3509.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA Draft</a> </strong>is a place where not many teams have found success. Of course, it helps to sign a superstar like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar or <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/how-many-records-does-lebron-james-hold-complete-list-of-the-forwards-records-in-nba-20230208-SPD-3383.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a></strong>, but that doesn’t happen every season.</p>



<p>Due to the subjective nature of the draft process, scouts often fail to notice important details. Several second-round choices have been more influential than first-round picks due to their intangible qualities, the system, or even the opportunity for improvement.</p>



<p>While the first-round choices usually attract more attention, the second-round has produced some of the league’s most successful players. In this piece, we will examine the three best players ever selected in the second round of the NBA Draft.</p>



<h2>3. Draymond Green</h2>



<p>In the history of the NBA, Draymond Green is regarded as one of the top second-round choices. In the 2012 NBA Draft, the Golden State Warriors selected him as the 35th overall selection. Green is a fantastic all-around player who excels both defensively and offensively. </p>



<p>He has been chosen to three NBA All-Star teams, five NBA All-Defensive teams, and earned the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2016–17, and his club has won three NBA titles. Due in large part to Green’s one-of-a-kind blend of skills, the Warriors have been so successful over the last decade.</p>



<h2>2. Dennis Rodman</h2>



<p>Throughout the history of the NBA, Dennis Rodman has stood out as one of the most original players. In the 1986 NBA Draft, he was picked 27th overall by the Detroit Pistons. Rodman’s unrelenting work ethic and exceptional defensive skills made him an integral part of the Pistons’ championship teams in the late 1980s. </p>



<p>Five NBA titles later, he had also been honored seven times as a member of the league’s All-Defensive First Team. In addition to his seven NBA rebounding titles, Rodman won the award twice.</p>



<h2>1. Nikola Jokic</h2>



<p>Nikola Jokic is the most recent player to join the exclusive company of previous second-round choices in the NBA Draft. Denver Nuggets used the 41st selection in the 2014 NBA Draft to choose him. In a short amount of time, Jokic has established himself as a legitimate superstar and one of the league’s best big men. </p>



<p>As the NBA’s lowest draft selection ever to win MVP, he made history with his 2020-21 season. Jokic’s offensive and defensive strengths stem from his ability to score, distribute, and grab rebounds.</p>


Top 3 best players ever selected in the NBA Draft second round

Top 3 best players ever selected in the NBA Draft second round - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Among the highest honors a professional basketball player can get, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/luka-doncic-and-potential-mvp-candidates-of-2022-23-nba-season-20221110-SPD-3142.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MVP honors</a></strong> from the National Basketball Association are among the most sought-after. Yet, only a select group of legends, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nikola Jokic</a></strong> included, have accomplished this feat several times.</p>



<p>According to all indications, the 28-year-old Serbian will win the prize for the third year in a row. However, there are many who argue he shouldn’t be the clear frontrunner since other players have higher statistics.</p>



<p>On every given day, Jokic deserves to win, but the NBA is a story-driven competition, so he didn’t. Now, <em>NBA.com</em> have analyzed the three competitors for MVP this year who have a realistic chance of defeating him.</p>



<h2>3. Luka Doncic</h2>



<p>During the course of his NBA career, Luka Doncic has made defenders look foolish, and he seems to be improving rather than declining. In any other year, his stats would be MVP caliber.</p>



<p>Doncic’s MVP prospects may be hurting since he couldn’t get the Dallas Mavericks into the playoffs. He may not be successful since his squad isn’t very strong.</p>



<h2>2. Giannis Antetokounmpo</h2>



<p>One might be forgiven for thinking that we’ve become complacent with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Don’t misunderstand me, however; the things the Greek Freak has been up to for years aren’t typical and may never be repeated.</p>



<p>With the Milwaukee Bucks, Giannis is the team leader in almost every statistical category, and he is also one of the finest defenders in the NBA and an unstoppable attacking force inside the paint.</p>



<h2>1. Joel Embiid</h2>



<p>Too many seasons have passed with Joel Embiid being the league’s second-best player but without him winning the award. As a result of sharing the court with Jokic throughout his peak, he has been unable to win the honor.</p>



<p>Health has been the greatest question mark for Embiid about MVP voting, but as long as he is playing, the Philadelphia 76ers will be contenders. He hasn’t missed much court time this year, leading some to argue that he should win the MVP.</p>


Top 3 players that might challenge Nikola Jokic for 2023 NBA MVP award

Top 3 players that might challenge Nikola Jokic for 2023 NBA MVP award - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>When it mattered most, Kevon Looney’s offensive rebound in the 2022 NBA Finals came at the right moment. The 2021 NBA Finals were determined in large part during the dreadful time that the Phoenix Suns used their backup center. If Markieff Morris and Rajon Rondo don’t improve as 3-point shooters, the 2020 Lakers won’t be able to win the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA Finals</a>.</strong> </p>



<p>The NBA has earned a reputation as a league where only the best players can succeed. Stars help teams get to the playoffs, but once there, it’s frequently the unexpected performance of a vital bench player that determines the winner. As Stephen Curry misses a game-winning shot, Kevon Looney is there to collect the rebound and give his team another opportunity to win.</p>



<p>The all-in nature of the NBA has increased the importance of such guys. Most of the clubs that have stars now have to give up a lot of depth to obtain them since the cost of doing so has skyrocketed. Several of this year’s favorites didn’t manage to keep the supporting casts that helped them last year, but Golden State and Milwaukee did. This spring, the success of a couple of contenders hinges on the shoulders of a handful of role players who must each perform like a Looney or VanVleet.</p>



<h2>3. Isaac Okoro</h2>



<p>This season, we have our choice of phony 40 percent 3-point shooters. The Suns have a good chance of winning the NBA Finals if Torrey Craig maintains his current shooting percentage of 40%. For a while during the start of the season, Yuta Watanabe had the highest 3-point percentage in the NBA.</p>



<p>These are the kinds of players with whom we need to draw comparisons to Isaac Okoro, who has a career-best 43.6 percent three-point clip over a 30-game sample. In that time, he’s attempted just 2.6 three-pointers a game.</p>



<h2>2. Josh Green</h2>



<p>Green, who has seen limited postseason action the past two years, is now the starting shooting guard for the Dallas Mavericks and, depending on how things shake out, one of the most important defenders in the Western Conference, which features Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, Jamal Murray, Ja Morant, De’Aaron Fox, and Anthony Edwards. The Dallas Mavericks won’t get it far in the playoffs without facing up against an All-Star point guard. Maybe it will have to deal with three in a row.</p>



<h2>1. PJ Tucker</h2>



<p>With Joel Embiid on the court, the 76ers have played 1,354 minutes in the playoffs. They have a 335-point advantage in Embiid minutes, which equates to a win rate of one point every four minutes. Yet despite having him on the team, they’ve never made it to the conference championship game. </p>



<p>In the 864 postseason minutes they have played without him, they’ve been outscored by 168 points. In the playoffs, when the 76ers have Embiid, they play like a championship contender, but in the regular season, they are a lottery club.</p>


Top 3 players who might make difference in 2022-23 NBA season

Top 3 players who might make difference in 2022-23 NBA season - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p id="block-8557854b-8c66-4ed7-a4ec-f262b8bb1c1c">Once upon a time, there was a legitimate point of contention about whether <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carmelo Anthony</a></strong> or <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/how-many-records-does-lebron-james-hold-complete-list-of-the-forwards-records-in-nba-20230208-SPD-3383.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a></strong> should be the first choice in the NBA Draft. But the veteran has been out of action for some time now.</p>



<p id="block-2829970a-0f13-45f6-94c7-85d63e5f919f">As impressive as Anthony’s career was, he appears to have been overlooked at every turn. However, when you least expect it, the 38-year-old forward may come tearing out of the tunnel.</p>



<p id="block-4e340149-526f-4408-836b-175d3e046e77">As <em>SportsNet New York</em>‘s Ian Begley put it, “something to keep an eye on” is whether or if the Phoenix Suns contemplate adding Anthony to their roster. Let’s examine which squads might profit most from his presence.</p>



<h2 id="block-e20d258e-340f-4442-bb0e-904ed340a0f9">3. New York Knicks</h2>



<p id="block-86781197-1060-4f4f-b7f6-bae86f9a1904">Carmelo Anthony’s return to the MSG court has been anticipated for years. His departure from the New York Knicks was a sour one, and it has even been suggested that Phil Jackson treated him wrong and made him the scapegoat.</p>



<p id="block-d1a746cc-0d55-48e0-9af7-aa27e1cc5a39">Melo deserves more from the Knicks, who have the chance to re-sign him for the rest of the season. They are on the cusp of playoff contention and could use a seasoned veteran’s clutch shooting and playmaking abilities.</p>



<h2 id="block-88ec5a5f-b674-43d6-af39-adcca52dff1f">2. Miami Heat</h2>



<p id="block-d84c2b47-0a83-4173-afa7-654dbae40793">When the trade deadline approached, Pat Riley was unable to improve his team’s squad. Even if he signed Kevin Love off the buyout market, he still has some fixing up to do in Miami.</p>



<p id="block-0202d119-476a-44d9-a234-4eb0e86f6129">Although Carmelo Anthony is no longer an All-Star level player, he may assist relieve some offensive pressure on Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler if the Miami Heat were to sign him this summer.</p>



<h2 id="block-991a891f-8c8d-4a3a-a73f-3fdbac73c224">1. Phoenix Suns</h2>



<p id="block-a219e471-a3db-4fde-b509-d28bea746fba">NBA superstar Kevin Durant wants his club to sign Carmelo Anthony, and he generally gets what he wants. That seems to have been the case in Brooklyn, at least.</p>



<p id="block-ce03ed99-c6ef-43af-a28f-dce40205b093">Carmelo and Chris Paul are good pals. To everyone’s delight, the duo should be able to go out on top, thus it’s fitting that the Phoenix Suns are now the favorites to win the NBA title.</p>


NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for free agent Carmelo Anthony

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for free agent Carmelo Anthony - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Once upon a time, there was a legitimate point of contention about whether <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carmelo Anthony</a></strong> or <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/how-many-records-does-lebron-james-hold-complete-list-of-the-forwards-records-in-nba-20230208-SPD-3383.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a></strong> should be the first choice in the NBA Draft. But the veteran has been out of action for some time now.</p>



<p>As impressive as Anthony’s career was, he appears to have been overlooked at every turn. However, when you least expect it, the 38-year-old forward may come tearing out of the tunnel.</p>



<p>As <em>SportsNet New York</em>‘s Ian Begley put it, “something to keep an eye on” is whether or if the Phoenix Suns contemplate adding Anthony to their roster. Let’s examine which squads might profit most from his presence.</p>



<h2>3. New York Knicks</h2>



<p>Carmelo Anthony’s return to the MSG court has been anticipated for years. His departure from the New York Knicks was a sour one, and it has even been suggested that Phil Jackson treated him wrong and made him the scapegoat.</p>



<p>Melo deserves more from the Knicks, who have the chance to re-sign him for the rest of the season. They are on the cusp of playoff contention and could use a seasoned veteran’s clutch shooting and playmaking abilities.</p>



<h2>2. Miami Heat</h2>



<p>When the trade deadline approached, Pat Riley was unable to improve his team’s squad. Even if he signed Kevin Love off the buyout market, he still has some fixing up to do in Miami.</p>



<p>Although Carmelo Anthony is no longer an All-Star level player, he may assist relieve some offensive pressure on Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler if the Miami Heat were to sign him this summer.</p>



<h2>1. Phoenix Suns</h2>



<p>NBA superstar Kevin Durant wants his club to sign Carmelo Anthony, and he generally gets what he wants. That seems to have been the case in Brooklyn, at least.</p>



<p>Carmelo and Chris Paul are good pals. To everyone’s delight, the duo should be able to go out on top, thus it’s fitting that the Phoenix Suns are now the favorites to win the NBA title.</p>


destacadas


<p>By becoming the NBA’s all-time scoring leader, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/lebron-james-and-other-nba-greats-who-could-have-had-successful-nfl-careers-20221221-SPD-3274.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a></strong> has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His total of <strong>38,387 </strong>points is more than the previous record established by <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/no-relationship-between-lebron-james-and-kareem-abdul-jabbar-20221005-SPD-2922.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</a></strong>, a forward who achieved that mark in 1989.</p>



<p>With the Los Angeles Lakers taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles, James set the mark in the 20th season of his legendary career. A 21-foot jumper made by the Los Angeles Lakers great late in the third quarter on Tuesday against the Oklahoma City Thunder sent him over the 38,387-point mark, previously held by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.</p>



<p>In comparison to the 1,560 games it took Abdul-Jabbar to reach that mark, James reached that milestone in little more than 1,400 games played. Michael Jordan’s 30.1 points per game are the most ever in NBA history. James’ 27.1 places him seventh all-time, second only to Kevin Durant among currently active players (27.3).</p>



<h2>LeBron James’ NBA career highlights and awards</h2>



<ul><li>4× NBA champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020)</li><li>4× NBA Finals MVP (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020)</li><li>4× NBA Most Valuable Player (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013)</li><li>19× NBA All-Star (2005–2023)</li><li>3× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2006, 2008, 2018)</li><li>13× All-NBA First Team (2006, 2008–2018, 2020)</li><li>3× All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2007, 2021)</li><li>2× All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2022)</li><li>5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009–2013)</li><li>NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014)</li><li>NBA Rookie of the Year (2004)</li><li>NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004)</li><li>NBA scoring champion (2008)</li><li>NBA assists leader (2020)</li><li>NBA all-time leading scorer</li><li>NBA 75th Anniversary Team</li><li>4× AP Athlete of the Year (2013, 2016, 2018, 2020)</li><li>3× Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2012, 2016, 2020)</li><li>Time Athlete of the Year (2020)</li><li>USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2012)</li></ul>


How many records does LeBron James hold? Complete list of the forward's records in NBA - thesportsdrops NEWS

How many records does LeBron James hold? Complete list of the forward's records in NBA


<p>When people, even those who aren’t very familiar with basketball, think of the NBA, images of dunks often come to mind. Some of the first names that spring to mind when discussing basketball are big guys like <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/joel-embiid-and-two-other-biggest-2023-nba-all-star-starter-snubs-20230127-SPD-3351.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shaquille O’Neal</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-victor-wembanyama-20230129-SPD-3358.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wilt Chamberlain</a></strong>.</p>



<p>NBA scouts have been drooling over tall talents like Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, their height and wingspan.</p>



<p>Though taller players have always had an edge on the court, shorter players have never been discouraged from trying to make it to the NBA. Here, you will learn the names of the three players in NBA history who were the smallest to ever suit up for the league.</p>



<h2>3. Mel Hirsch (height: 5’6″)</h2>



<p>It’s one thing to get into the league when you’re just 5 feet 6 inches tall; it’s another to keep your footing once you’re there. Mel Hirsch, a guard, was able to make the Boston Celtics squad for the 1946-47 season.</p>



<p>Hirsch’s performance wasn’t very noteworthy, even by the standards of the time. He played in just 13 games, but his stats were respectable: 1.5 points and 0.8 assists per game on 20.0% shooting from the field and 50.0% from the foul line.</p>



<h2>2. Earl Boykin (height 5’5″)</h2>



<p>Earl Boykins, in contrast to Hirsch, spent a total of 13 seasons in the NBA, playing at a high level the whole time. Considering that the typical NBA player retires after only 4.5 years, it’s very astounding.</p>



<p>On average, Boykins scored 8.9 points per game for his career across his stops with the New Jersey (now Brooklyn) Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets), Washington Wizards, and Houston Rockets.</p>



<h2>1. Muggsy Bogues (height 5’3″)</h2>



<p>At long last, we reach Muggsy Bogues, the stuff of legend. For 14 years, Bogues was a reliable starter despite his little stature. His extraordinary athleticism allowed him to succeed, and he finished his career with 39 blocks.</p>



<p>Bogues, who was stealthy, quick, and highly cerebral, played for the Washington Bullets, the Charlotte Hornets (now the New Orleans Pelicans), the Golden State Warriors, and the Toronto Raptors. With the 1986 FIBA World Championship, he led the tournament in scoring and assist averages at 7.7 and 7.6, respectively.</p>


The top 3 smallest players throughout NBA's history - thesportsdrops NEWS

The top 3 smallest players throughout NBA's history


<p>When it comes to the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/three-nba-teams-with-the-most-potential-for-february-sales-20230121-SPD-3338.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA Draft</a></strong>, there is no such thing as a ‘can’t-miss’ kind of player. Victor Wembanyama, a French superstar, would come the closest if there were. As a result, he has caught the attention of dozens of scouts.</p>



<p>This year, Wembanyama looks just stunning on the pitch. He’s got the shot-blocking chops of Dikembe Mutombo, the ball-handling skills of Chris Paul, and the long-range shooting prowess of Buddy Hield.</p>



<p>The 19-year-old is widely expected to be selected as the first overall choice in this year’s NBA Draft, and thus, many clubs will jostle for position to choose him. Take a look at the three possible teams that have the best shot of doing just that.</p>



<h2>3. Charlotte Hornets</h2>



<p>This year’s <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/kyle-kuzma-to-leave-wizards-and-other-potential-upcoming-trades-involving-shooters-20221219-SPD-3270.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charlotte Hornets</a></strong> team has been a complete and utter failure. With LaMelo Ball’s health issues and the uncertainty surrounding Miles Bridges’ future, the team has been in dire need of another scorer.</p>



<p>If Ball’s health continues to deteriorate, the Hornets would be smart to put an end to his season. It’s attractive to think that they’ll have Wemby and Ball for the next decade, so they may as well sink the rest of the season.</p>



<h2>2. Detroit Pistons</h2>



<p>The youthful core that the Detroit Pistons have assembled is already among the most remarkable and promising in the NBA. Their prospects of making the playoffs were all but dashed when they lost Cade Cunningham for the year.</p>



<p>So, even if they lose, they may still come out on top. While waiting for Cunningham’s recovery, they may allow their young stars like Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, and Sadiq Bey to learn from their errors and develop into better players, increasing their chances of earning the first overall selection.</p>



<h2>1. Houston Rockets</h2>



<p>The Houston Rockets have some of the league’s youngest players. Unfortunately, coach Stephen Silas hasn’t done a good job of nurturing their abilities. They aren’t going down, but they are terrible.</p>



<p>However, Wembanyama has the potential to be the game-changer for this team, much as the legendary Hakeem Olajuwon did for the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers. There has never been a more dynamic and adaptable jumbo frontcourt than the one that would be formed by pairing Jabari Smith Jr. with Alperen Sengun.</p>


Top 3 most likely destinations for Victor Wembanyama

Top 3 most likely destinations for Victor Wembanyama - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>After the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/three-nba-teams-with-the-most-potential-for-february-sales-20230121-SPD-3338.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA’s 2023 All-Star</a></strong> starters were named on Thursday, a few reserves with justifiable complaints were expected. The starting have been announced, with the fan vote accounting for 50%, the media vote for 25%, and the player vote for the remaining 5%. It was revealed that Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has been named an NBA All-Star for the 19th time, matching Abdul-Jabbar for the most All-Star appearances in NBA history. </p>



<p>James, who received the most votes in the league as a whole, will lead one team in the next All-Star Game on February 19 in Salt Lake City. The other team’s captain will be Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks, who received the most votes in the Eastern Conference. The NBA has employed a captain system for the All-Star Game for the last six years, and James has participated in every one of them. </p>



<p>In addition to 2019 and 2020, Antetokounmpo now has the honor of serving as captain for a third time. Unlike previous years, when captains choose a week or two in advance of All-Star weekend, this year’s game will include an unannounced twist: the two players will choose their teams in the days leading up to the game. These are the three biggest 2023 NBA All-Star starter snubs, as per&nbsp;<em>CBS Sports.</em></p>



<h2>3. Domantas Sabonis</h2>



<p>Sabonis’s performance with the Kings has been outstanding. His absence results in a ten-point drop in scoring for every hundred possessions for the second-ranked Kings offense, according to CTG.</p>



<p>To add insult to injury, Sabonis has played 45 games to Zion’s 33 and Williamson is expected to miss at least two more weeks. When comparing their loss totals, the Kings are now three games ahead of the Pels.</p>



<h2>2. Anthony Davis</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-worst-performing-nba-teams-in-2022-23-20230122-SPD-3342.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Davis</a></strong> has a true shooting percentage of 65.9 and is averaging 27.2 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. The first three statistics are much superior than Zion Williamson’s bests, especially in terms of rebounds and blocks. In terms of TS, the numbers are quite similar.</p>



<p>Even without any other excellent defenders, the Lakers’ defensive rating would be the best in the NBA if Davis were playing. He is the Lakers’ defense, while Zion has improved defensively, but he is more of a byproduct of a successful New Orleans defense than a star in his own right. Davis was, for a while this season, the league’s top performer.</p>



<h2>1. Joel Embiid</h2>



<p>In this situation, Embiid was more deserving of a starting spot than Anteokounmpo was, therefore his exclusion was unjust. Embiid was voted third among frontcourt players by the media and players, behind Tatum and Durant, but he came in at a fourth place in the fan poll, which was won by Giannis. The key distinction lay there.</p>



<p>The notion that the fans are the game’s lifeblood and should have a say in the All-Star Game selection process has some merit, but in this case, the league made a mistake. Embiid outscores Antetokounmpo despite shooting at a far lower percentage from the field.</p>


Joel Embiid and two other biggest 2023 NBA All-Star starter snubs

Joel Embiid and two other biggest 2023 NBA All-Star starter snubs - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Every NBA team spends the whole season building a championship-caliber roster. It’s not uncommon for a club to open the season as heavy favorites to win their division and go far into the playoffs after assembling a squad full of talented individuals.</p>



<p>Less than three months remain in the regular <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-small-forwards-in-2022-23-nba-season-20221202-SPD-3219.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022-23 NBA season</a></strong>, and thus far it has been wonderful. Some teams have underperformed both surprisingly and predictably, and it’s up to them to figure out whether they can make a comeback.</p>



<p>Nowadays, even modest slipups aren’t really so insignificant. While there is still much time this season and any team may make a turnaround, these three teams will be taking a long, hard look at themselves to see if they can fix their flaws this year.</p>



<h2>3. Golden State Warriors</h2>



<p>It’s understandable that the reigning champions, who have an aging core, would take it easy during the regular season. However, the team’s 6-18 road record, 17th-ranked offense, and negative point differential beggar belief. Sure, the Warriors weren’t doing so hot before Curry’s recent absence or Andrew Wiggins’.</p>



<p>The Warriors’ starting lineup has been dominating all season long, and the team’s recent showings against the Celtics, provide cause for confidence that they can still compete with top-tier contenders. No one knows whether the bench can carry any significant load, and the defense is no longer a reliable safety net. The Warriors have very little room to make mistakes now, yet they continue to do it nevertheless.</p>



<h2>2. Atlanta Hawks</h2>



<p>While the Hawks’ current five-game winning streak is encouraging, this season has still fallen well short of the lofty expectations that accompanied the deal for Dejounte Murray. The defense has become better, but the offense is in danger of being ranked among the worst in the league because of its reliance on a small number of players.</p>



<p>Nobody is moving, neither the ball nor the player. Trae Young and Murray engage in a futile charade of who will take the lead, with Young’s 3-point percentage being over 35 percent due solely to a recent hot run. For a club that just traded Kevin Huerter and desperately needs shooting, it just won’t cut it. Atlanta is fourth in the NBA in 3-point percentage, behind only Denver, Chicago, and Los Angeles.</p>



<h2>1. Minnesota Timberwolves</h2>



<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timberwolves</a></strong> had been predicted to win 50 games and finish in the playoff’s top four. They risked a lot to acquire Rudy Gobert, but they must have thought they could contend for a conference championship in the West Conference to make such a move. There was no intention of this lasting very long.</p>



<p>After coming so close to winning a playoff series last year, this group will have a difficult time making the playoffs this year. Although it was the defense that was expected to improve significantly, they have actually regressed since last year.</p>


Top 3 worst performing NBA teams in 2022-23

Top 3 worst performing NBA teams in 2022-23 - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Most likely, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/bojan-bogdanovic-and-other-potential-players-warriors-could-look-to-acquire-20221225-SPD-3282.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets</a></strong> are attempting to trade Eric Gordon to other teams in exchange for draft selections. In all likelihood, Orlando will answer calls for Terrence Ross and Gary Harris. Both Charlotte and Detroit should be willing to listen to offers from older players.</p>



<p>These players were vital, yet they are hardly spoken of outside of February. One may always expect a few deadlines to be extended at the conclusion of any given period.</p>



<p>Even though this is one of the most packed playoff races in league history, there are five clubs who stand out as not just the most likely sellers at the deadline but the pivots of the entire market. The rest of the league is waiting for these teams to make a decision, and if a deal changes the outcome of the championship in February, one of these teams is likely to be involved.</p>



<h2>3. Chicago Bulls</h2>



<p>This group will never amount to anything. This era of Bulls basketball, ironically, started two days ago when the Orlando Magic reached the same decision and traded Vucevic to the Bulls. It’s possible that this agreement is currently preventing Chicago from progressing. </p>



<p>With just 21 victories, they won’t be able to choose in the first four picks. If not, the Magic will make the selection. From that vantage point, it may be best for the Bulls to simply wait it out and figure out a retool in the winter. Since Vucevic’s contract is up and DeRozan is in his mid-30s, a transfer sooner rather than later is preferable.</p>



<h2>2. Washington Wizards</h2>



<p>If for no other reason than that, no player who was really content with his present club would say as much on the record about his approaching free agency as Kuzma has, he will likely be dealt before the deadline. He’s the mythical big wing who can shoot, and who won’t hurt you on either end of the court, therefore he should be a perfect match for almost any playoff team. The truth isn’t as cut and dry.</p>



<p>Of course, Kuzma is more of a test than anything else. He plays a position where teams are willing to overlook shortcomings in otherwise good players like himself. In the summer, a team will likely offer a package of lucrative assets in exchange for Kuzma, betting that they will sign him to a large multiyear deal and, in doing so, perhaps setting the market for comparable wings.</p>



<h2>1. San Antonio Spurs</h2>



<p>Those who can play the position of center or power forward in the playoffs are quite uncommon. Karl-Anthony Towns, in a single game last spring, was able to force Steven Adams off the court due to the extreme need for flexibility. A smaller player at the center who planned to flip screens and make up for offensive losses could get away with it until just lately. </p>



<p>Nikola Jokic has given one conference new planning challenges, while the other has Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo to contend with. In order to defeat the incorrect center, all it takes is one mismatch.</p>


Three NBA teams with the most potential for February sales

Three NBA teams with the most potential for February sales - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The defending NBA champion <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-three-under-25-players-in-2022-23-nba-season-20221204-SPD-3231.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a></strong> have stumbled to start the new season. Their bench was severely beaten up, and Steve Kerr has had trouble finding a rotation that works for them now.</p>



<p>Furthermore, it’s likely that they lack the necessary personnel to win back-to-back titles. Therefore, despite their deep affection for their prospects, they may have to abandon some of them.</p>



<p>Keeping this in mind and the Warriors’ salary cap constraints in mind, these are the three most likely trade possibilities that might help Stephen Curry and the Warriors right the ship.</p>



<h2>3. Jakob Poeltl</h2>



<p>The San Antonio Spurs are currently uninterested in a championship. Their only goal is to get the number one overall selection in the 2018 NBA Choose so that they may draft Victor Wembanyama, hence they are likely to deal away most of their older players.</p>



<p>The Dubs have benefited much from Kevon Looney’s play, but James Wiseman is too much of a liability. They’d benefit from having a big guy like Jakob Poeltl on the bench who can help anchor the defense and isn’t a major problem in the paint.</p>



<h2>2. Bojan Bogdanovic</h2>



<p>The acquisition of <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/james-harden-goran-dragic-and-all-nba-players-available-for-trade-after-december-15-20221211-SPD-3247.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bojan Bogdanovic</a></strong> was a huge win for the Detroit Pistons. Their young players have benefited greatly from his presence as a seasoned veteran, and he is now playing the greatest basketball of his career. He is, however, not compatible with their timeframe.</p>



<p>As much as they care about him, they should seek compensation for him. He fits well into Steve Kerr’s style since he is a smart player, a good distributor, an effective shooter, and a dependable team defender.</p>



<h2>1. Gary Trent Jr.</h2>



<p>It’s no secret that Gary Trent Jr. will be highly sought after in the trade market, and rumors have surfaced that the Toronto Raptors are exploring a complete squad overhaul.</p>



<p>Trent Jr. is a tenacious backcourt defender and one of the league’s best three-point shooters. As with Gary Payton II, he has the 3-and-D abilities that the Dubs have yearned for all season and has the potential to be a key spark for them.</p>


Bojan Bogdanovic and other potential players Warriors could look to acquire

Bojan Bogdanovic and other potential players Warriors could look to acquire - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Growing up, young athletes often find success in more than one sport. While some want to make it to the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong>, others have their sights set on the MLB. Some people compete in track meets because they want to emulate the greatness of <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-rookies-for-2022-23-nfl-season-20221207-SPD-3236.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a></strong> players.</p>



<p>There are instances when athletes disregard their likely position or compensation and seek a career in the sport they love the most. Some people are simply motivated by financial gain or the chance to excel in a particular activity.</p>



<p>Regardless, it’s easy to wonder whether those athletes wouldn’t have been just as successful, if not better if they had taken a different career route. Therefore, we will inform you about three NBA greats who, in retrospect, perhaps would have been as successful in the NFL.</p>



<h2>3. John Havlicek</h2>



<p>John Havlicek, a superstar for the Boston Celtics, was an All-Star in baseball, football, and basketball during his formative years. It’s true that he was picked up in both the NFL and NBA drafts.</p>



<p>The good news for basketball fans is that the renowned guard/forward opted to take his skills to the floor, where he won eight NBA titles, appeared in thirteen All-Star Games and was named Finals MVP once.</p>



<h2>2. Allen Iverson</h2>



<p>All-Star guard Allen Iverson once said that football was his true passion, surpassing even his beloved sport of basketball. He even said he was better at football than basketball, which, when you see the clips, doesn’t seem that far-fetched.</p>



<p>The legendary Philadelphia 76ers player could also play quarterback, kick returner, and defense. Iverson had 21 interceptions throughout his high school career, including a record-tying 5 in a single game because of his exceptional quickness. In addition, he guided his teams to victories at the state level.</p>



<h2>1. LeBron James</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-small-forwards-in-2022-23-nba-season-20221202-SPD-3219.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a></strong> wasn’t only inflicting devastation on football before he became the most anticipated basketball prospect of all time. Two times he was named to the All-State team, and he also established several records while playing wide receiver and quarterback.</p>



<p>James, who had a similar build to Calvin Johnson, would have had a terrific NFL career. As a football player, he attracted attention from many schools, including Miami, Notre Dame, Alabama, and Ohio State.</p>


LeBron James and other NBA greats who could have had successful NFL careers

LeBron James and other NBA greats who could have had successful NFL careers - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Players who renewed their contracts during the summer are now free agents, marking the unofficial start of the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/james-harden-goran-dragic-and-all-nba-players-available-for-trade-after-december-15-20221211-SPD-3247.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA trade season</a></strong>. There aren’t many potential game-changers in the current pool.</p>



<p>James Harden is one of them, but he can reject any deal. However, there will be 21 more players available in a month’s time. And among them are far more intriguing figures like Bradley Beal, Deandre Ayton, and Zach LaVine.</p>



<p>No matter where you stand on the issue, nobody can dispute the critical importance of having at least a handful of reliable shooters in order to compete in modern basketball. Accordingly, elite shooters are anticipated to fetch a premium price during this year’s NBA trade deadline. These are the three best shooters who could switch teams in the NBA soon.</p>



<h2>3. Gary Trent Jr.</h2>



<p>The Toronto Raptors have underperformed this year, and general manager Masai Ujiri has to provide direction on the future of many players, including guard Gary Trent Jr. He has the option to leave at the conclusion of the season, and it seems that’s what he intends to do.</p>



<p>The Raptors may decide to completely overhaul their roster in order to create a team around Rookie of the Year winner Scottie Barnes. Trent Jr. is a formidable offensive threat and a game-changing defensive presence. He’s just 24, so whoever buys him will get a great deal.</p>



<h2>2. Bogdan Bogdanovic</h2>



<p>Bojan Bogdanovic is not the youngest player in the league, but he may be the most dependable. The young players on the Detroit Pistons team really look up to him as a mentor and appreciate his strong leadership.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, Bogdanovic does not fit into their plans at all, and they might make better use of any draft selection. The former Utah Jazz combo forward is an all-around player who is capable of scoring at will, distributing the ball to teammates, and even stepping up on defense.</p>



<h2>1. Kyle Kuzma</h2>



<p>During his time with the Washington Wizards, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/return-to-hawks-and-two-other-possible-landing-spots-for-kyle-kuzma-20221216-SPD-3263.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyle Kuzma</a></strong> has developed into a solid contributor. He was clearly unable to realize his full potential while sharing a court alongside Anthony Davis and LeBron James.</p>



<p>But now that he has shown what he’s capable of, there will be no lack of clubs interested in dealing with Kuzma as a 3-and-D stretch four. If he and Kristaps Porzingis don’t start performing better soon, the Wizards might attempt to trade them.</p>


NBA - Page 3

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Three NBA teams with the most potential for February sales

Bojan Bogdanovic and other potential players Warriors could look to acquire

LeBron James and other NBA greats who could have had successful NFL careers

Kyle Kuzma to leave Wizards and other potential upcoming trades involving shooters

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