1. Jeff Teague Atlanta Hawks PG
The Atlanta Hawks experienced a bevy of pleasant surprises this season, finishing as the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. No one deserves more credit than All-Star Jeff Teague, who averaged 15.9 points, 7.0 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game last season; he was one of only six players to average such numbers.
2. Kyle Lowry Toronto Raptors PG
The reigning All-Star Game eastern conference starter was excellent this season, putting up 17.8 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per season. Who else put up numbers similar to those? Try Russel Westbrook, James Harden, and Lebron James. The diminutive point guard gave people north of the border something to really smile about.
3. Serge Ibaka Oklahoma City Thunder PF
The active leader in blocks per game (2.6), Ibaka has been a force on the defensive end ever since he entered the league. Conversely, it is his offense that has made him an elite player. However, the 3-time NBA All-Defensive first teamer had a down 2014-2015 season, shooting under 50% from the field for the first time in his career. Plagued by an injury-riddled Thunder team, Ibaka will look to rebound in 2016.
4. Nerlens Noel Philadelphia 76er’s C
In what was basically his first season, “The Eraser” was very impressive on the defensive end, finishing top-10 in the league in steals per game (1.8), blocks per game (7), and defensive rating (8). If the youngster can improve his offensive game, look out.
5. Shabazz Muhammad Minnesota Timberwolves SF
Coming out of UCLA, I thought Muhammad was destined for offensive greatness. Unfortunately, that has just not matriculated. The southpaw quietly had a solid sophomore season however, posting 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. He also improved his three-point percentage by nearly 10 points (.392). Despite this improvement, Muhammad may be log-jammed behind two players even younger than him (Andrew Wiggins and Zach LaVine). Do I smell a trade?
6. Aron Baynes San Antonio Spurs C
7. Lance Stephenson Los Angeles Clippers SG (Yes, he deserves to be this low)
8. Alex Len Phoenix Sun C
9. PJ Tucker Phoenix Suns SF
10. Tarik Black Los Angeles Lakers C
