10. Damian Lillard – Portland Trailblazers
The rumors surrounding Damian Lillard are only so intriguing because of how great he truly is. He is one of the best point guards in the game and arguably the most clutch player in the NBA right now.
The Trailblazers have been unable to win with Lillard at the helm, but that won’t stop him from trying. He’ll look to carry Portland to the playoffs once again this season, barring any unforeseen blockbuster trade.
9. Joel Embiid – Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid is the most dominant true big man since Shaquille O’Neal. Some even believe he deserved to win the MVP award last year.
Despite this, he still couldn’t lead the 76ers to the ECF, though it wasn’t completely his fault. The big man clearly has championship aspirations, and after getting paid this summer, will look to capitalize on them in the coming years.
8. Luka Doncic – Dallas Mavericks
What Luka Doncic is able to do on the offensive end is absolutely incredible. He led Slovenia to their first-ever Olympics and was one win away from earning them a Bronze Medal.
He almost upset the Clippers in the playoffs last year and was by far the best player on the court. Doncic will be dominating the league for years to come.
7. Kawhi Leonard – Los Angeles Clippers
As previously mentioned, this list assumes that all players are at full health. When Kawhi Leonard is fully healthy, he is one of the best players in the NBA.
When Leonard went down, the Clippers still managed to reach the WCF, but they certainly missed him once they got there. He’ll sit out this year, but the massive contract he just signed proves how dominant he can be.
6. Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets
The reigning MVP is the best center in the NBA and led the Nuggets to the second round last season. His offensive abilities are unlike anything the NBA has seen from a center.
If Jamal Murray didn’t get hurt, he may have been able to bring Denver to the NBA Finals. With Murray out for a while again this year, Jokic will have to put the team on his back once again.