Sir Charles in Charge
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NBA: Ranking the 10 best players under the age of 23 heading into 2018-19

By Michael Saenz

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 27: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks moves against Nikola Mirotic #44 of the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on December 27, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Knicks 92-87. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 27: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks moves against Nikola Mirotic #44 of the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on December 27, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Knicks 92-87. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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Honorable Mentions

Lauri Markkanen, 21, Chicago Bulls – Averaging 15 points and nearly eight rebounds per game last season, Markkanen really surprised many experts during his rookie season. He was consistent and reliable for the Bulls last year. And while he probably didn’t get the true recognition that he deserved for a solid rookie season, the Bulls view Markkanen as a valuable piece to their rebuilding puzzle – as they should.

Dennis Smith Jr., 20, Dallas Mavericks – There’s probably a handful of other players that could’ve been placed here, but for the sake of his potential (that I truly believe in) I will give Dennis Smith Jr. the benefit of the doubt for now. DSJ struggled with his shot during his rookie season, but still managed to average 15 points, five assists and four rebounds per game last season. The sky is the limit for the kid.

Jamal Murray, 21, Denver Nuggets – Jamal Murray is often overlooked. However, he improved greatly from his rookie to sophomore seasons. Generally, you’ll see a bit of a sophomore slump in second-year players. That wasn’t the case for Murray last season. Averaging nearly 17 points on 38 percent shooting from 3-point range, Murray proved that he’s a player the Nuggets could rely on moving forward.

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