Just last week, CBS Sports unveiled its annual Top 100 NBA player rankings. We have analyzed this list from various perspectives, including examining the elite players in the Western and Eastern conferences, highlighting the biggest risers and fallers, profiling the best players aged 22 and younger, and discussing the top 10 players aged 35 and older.
We also categorized the list by specific positions. Essentially, we’ve explored every possible way to dissect and organize this ranking. Next, we will focus on the Top 10 players who were selected in the second round of the draft. Only nine second-round picks made it into the Top 100, indicating that while finding a gem after the first 30 selections isn’t rare, the majority of elite talent tends to emerge from the first round.
Nonetheless, the second round is still a source of significant talent. Several former second-round selections, although not included in our list, continue to be valuable assets in the league. Given the current landscape of talent, teams are increasingly prioritizing second-round picks. While you may not secure a three-time MVP like the player at the top of our rankings, you could discover a key player, similar to those who follow on this list, or perhaps an essential role player on a championship squad.
Top 100 rank: NR
Brooks may have narrowly missed making our Top 100, but he remains an influential player, particularly on the defensive end. His significance stems from his knack for getting inside opponents’ heads, a quality that enhances his defensive game. Moreover, Brooks is renowned as one of the league’s elite defenders. Last season, during his first year with Houston, he had the best three-point shooting performance of his career. His offensive growth ensures he can be part of the closing lineup, as his defensive skills are crucial in tight contests. — Jasmyn Wimbish
Top 100 rank: 94
Nembhard is undeniably a tenacious point-of-attack defender, a clever passer, and a dependable spot-up shooter. He fits perfectly alongside Tyrese Haliburton for the Pacers, preventing opponents from simply daring other players to outperform them. However, his playoff performance in 2024 demonstrated that Nembhard could be more than just a supporting player; he could be someone who necessitates a game plan from rivals. With Haliburton sidelined for Games 3 and 4 against the Celtics in the conference finals, Nembhard embraced the leading role as if it were his for some time. This is a strong foundation to build on. — James Herbert
8. Nic Claxton, Nets
Top 100 rank: 91
Although Claxton has flown under the radar in Brooklyn, his numerous defensive attributes—such as switching, ground coverage, and rim protection—remain as impressive as when he garnered DPOY attention at the tail end of the Durant-Irving era. With new coach Jordi Fernandez planning to use him as a handoff hub offensively, the key question is how much potential he has with the ball. Claxton has displayed his dribbling abilities in transition and possesses remarkable touch around the basket. However, his usage rate has yet to exceed 15.6%. — James Herbert
Top 100 rank: 78
The Blazers awarded Grant a five-year, $160M contract while they were still attempting to remain competitive with Damian Lillard. However, now that the team is in rebuild mode, such a salary for Grant no longer aligns with their direction. He is indeed a solid player, averaging 21 points per game with a 40% shooting rate from three-point range last season, showcasing considerable defensive length and skill. — James Herbert
Can the Blazers discover a beneficial trade after investing excessively in Grant last summer? — Brad Botkin
Top 100 rank: 73
Isaiah Hartenstein’s significant appeal for Oklahoma City lies in his considerable size. Dereck Lively II overpowered the Thunder during the playoffs last spring, but that’s unlikely to recur with Hartenstein in the mix. He excels in defensive metrics, having been rated the second-best defender in basketball last season, only behind Jonathan Isaac. He can hold his ground on the boards and is versatile enough to start or come off the bench. However, the standout feature is his unstoppable push shot from floater range. The Thunder faced shot-creation challenges against Dallas. When three-pointers aren’t landing and the shot clock is winding down, having a big man who can consistently score outside the dunker’s area becomes invaluable. — Sam Quinn
Top 100 rank: No. 61
Sadly, the later stages of Middleton’s career have been characterized by his frequent injuries, limiting his time on the court. His playoff performance, especially the Game 3 showcase against the Pacers, demonstrated he can still create magical moments, albeit much less often nowadays. With his injuries, age, and the arrival of Damian Lillard, Middleton is entering a new phase, becoming the Bucks’ clear third option. — Jack Maloney
Top 100 rank: No. 60
When it comes to position-less defenders, Jones is an exceptional example. According to NBA.com matchup data, he spends significant defensive time against players who could easily form a starting lineup: De’Aaron Fox, Paul George, Karl-Anthony Towns, Devin Booker, and Stephen Curry. He allocated similar time against Victor Wembanyama, Lauri Markkanen, and Tyrese Haliburton. While other players in the league can match up effectively against diverse opponents, none quite rival Herb Jones. Willie Green can assign him to defend a point guard or a center, along with anything in between, confident that he’ll deliver elite defense. — Sam Quinn
Top 100 rank: 56
A prime example of a “he’s not what he once was” player, Green remains a pivotal figure on both sides of the court. He still guards all positions adeptly and makes spontaneous defensive plays reminiscent of how Stephen Curry operates on offense driven by instinct. Notably, Green shot almost 40% from three-point range last season with over two attempts per game. Aware of his need to pose a scoring threat, he actively sought out opportunities to capitalize on gaps in defenses last season. — Brad Botkin
Top 100 rank: 13
In May, Brunson became the fourth player in NBA history—and the first since Michael Jordan in 1993—to score 40 points or more in four straight playoff games. He recorded a total of 16 40-point games in the 2023-24 season, including the playoffs, with only his former teammate Luka Doncic surpassing ten such games. This performance is particularly impressive for a 6-foot-2 guard with a 6-foot-4 wingspan who went undrafted six years ago and could not secure a four-year, $55 million extension heading into his fourth season with the Mavericks. Now firmly recognized as a superstar, Brunson this summer agreed to a four-year, $156.5 million extension—a considerable achievement. This contract allows the Knicks to build a contender around Brunson, featuring three of his college teammates for the long term. Ideally, with the addition of Mikal Bridges and Julius Randle’s return, Brunson shouldn’t need to score 40 points as frequently in the 2024-25 season, as New York relied too heavily on his scoring last season. The team’s scoring efficiency mirrored the Celtics when he was on the court and the Blazers when he wasn’t. The only player whose court presence significantly affected their team’s offensive efficiency is the three-time MVP currently topping this list. — James Herbert
Top 100 rank:
The only player on the planet capable of ensuring his team quality shots on every possession, Jokic’s influence is evident both in overt actions and subtle margins. There is no matchup he can’t take advantage of, whether playing as a scorer or a facilitator. His defensive skills have seen significant improvement. His complete disinterest in being hailed as the world’s top player, in many ways, contributes to him being exactly that. Each play he executes is devoid of ulterior motives and ego. Jokic represents the essence of what it means to be a basketball player. — Brad Botkin
If you’re seeking more NBA insights, join John Gonzalez, Bill Reiter, Ashley Nicole Moss, and a selection of special guests as they delve into the league’s major storylines every day on the Beyond the Arc podcast.
Discovering Hidden Gems: The Top 10 Second-Round Draft Picks in the NBA
Understanding the Value of Second-Round Picks
The NBA Draft is a critical event for teams looking to build their rosters, but the focus often falls on the first-round selections. However, the second round has proven to be a treasure trove of hidden gems. Second-round picks can sometimes outperform their first-round counterparts and become key players in their teams’ success. Here, we dive into the top 10 second-round draft picks in the NBA and explore their impact on the league.
Criteria for Selection
When identifying the top second-round draft picks, we considered the following criteria:
- Career Longevity: Players who have maintained a long and impactful career.
- All-Star Appearances: Players who have been selected for the NBA All-Star Game.
- Championship Contributions: Players who have played crucial roles in winning NBA championships.
- Statistical Impact: Players with significant career averages in points, rebounds, and assists.
Top 10 Second-Round Draft Picks in NBA History
| Player | Year Drafted | Team | Career Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manu Ginóbili | 1999 | San Antonio Spurs | 4× NBA Champion, 2× All-Star |
| Draymond Green | 2012 | Golden State Warriors | 3× NBA Champion, 3× All-Star |
| Nikola Jokić | 2014 | Denver Nuggets | 2× NBA MVP, 5× All-Star |
| Isaiah Thomas | 2011 | Sacramento Kings | 2× All-Star |
| Gilbert Arenas | 2001 | Golden State Warriors | 3× All-Star |
| Robert Horry | 1992 | Houston Rockets | 7× NBA Champion |
| Kyle Korver | 2003 | New Jersey Nets | 1× All-Star, 4× NBA Three-Point Contest Champion |
| Fred VanVleet | 2016 | Toronto Raptors | NBA Champion, All-Star |
| Monte Morris | 2017 | Denver Nuggets | Reliable role player |
| Jae Crowder | 2012 | Cleveland Cavaliers | Key contributor for multiple playoff teams |
Impact and Contributions
Each of the players listed above has made significant contributions to their teams and the league as a whole. Let’s take a closer look at a few standout players:
Manu Ginóbili
Manu Ginóbili was drafted 57th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in 1999. His unique playing style, characterized by his crafty moves and clutch performances, helped the Spurs secure four NBA Championships. Ginóbili’s ability to come off the bench and change the game’s dynamics has made him a legend.
Draymond Green
Selected 35th overall in 2012, Draymond Green has become a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors dynasty. His defensive prowess and playmaking ability have earned him three NBA Championships and multiple All-Star selections, solidifying his status as one of the best forwards in the game.
Nikola Jokić
Drafted 41st overall in 2014, Nikola Jokić has transformed the center position in the NBA. His exceptional passing skills and basketball IQ have led him to become a two-time NBA MVP. Jokić’s unique skill set has made him the focal point of the Denver Nuggets’ offense.
Benefits of Recognizing Second-Round Gems
Understanding the potential of second-round picks can benefit teams and fans alike. Here are some advantages:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Second-round players typically come at a lower cost, allowing teams to allocate resources elsewhere.
- Underdog Stories: These players often have compelling narratives that resonate with fans, enhancing team loyalty.
- Strategic Team Building: Teams can identify and cultivate talent that fits specific roles, enhancing overall team performance.
Case Studies: Successful Second-Round Draft Strategies
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs have a reputation for finding hidden talent in the second round, exemplified by their selection of Ginóbili. Their scouting department focuses on international talent and underappreciated players, leading to multiple championships.
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors’ success with Draymond Green highlights their ability to identify players who fit their system. They invested in Green’s development, which paid off with three championships and a strong defensive presence.
Practical Tips for Teams Looking to Discover Hidden Gems
If you’re a part of an NBA team or just a passionate fan, consider these strategies to spot potential second-round stars:
- Expand Scouting Networks: Look beyond traditional markets to discover international and small-school talent.
- Analyze Advanced Metrics: Use analytics to assess player potential rather than relying solely on traditional stats.
- Focus on Skills Development: Prioritize players with a strong work ethic and potential for growth.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Scouts
Many scouts emphasize the importance of a player’s mentality and adaptability. According to one NBA scout, “You can teach skills, but you can’t teach heart. Look for players who are hungry to learn and improve.”
By focusing on these attributes, teams can unearth the next hidden gem in the second round.
Conclusion
The second round of the NBA Draft holds immense potential for teams willing to look beyond the surface. The examples of players like Manu Ginóbili and Draymond Green showcase that talent can be found at any draft position. By recognizing the value of these picks and employing strategic scouting techniques, teams can build championship-caliber rosters while also creating compelling narratives that resonate with fans.
By exploring the hidden gems of the NBA, both franchises and supporters can appreciate the rich tapestry that makes up the league’s history and future.
