Ranking the top 10 players (currently) in the NBA to come out of the 2017 draft
The 2017 NBA Drafts was lauded as one of the best in recent memory, now in their third season, what players have made a name for themselves? Who has the potential to be a star? We’re here to take a look at the 10 best players (currently) from that draft.
10. Lonzo Ball, New Orleans Pelicans
Lonzo Ball was originally drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers but was sent to New Orleans as part of a trade package for Anthony Davis. Although his struggles from the line and beyond the arc are well documented, he hustles like crazy, gets rebounds as a guard, has court vision that very few in the NBA possess, and his 3-point percentage has gotten better every year.
Ball’s game has been elevated on the Pelicans this season under the fast-paced philosophy of head coach Alvin Gentry, showing why Lonzo was initially drafted at No. 2. Ball has the potential of an All-Star, whether or not he unlocks that potential has yet to be seen.
9. Kyle Kuzma, Los Angeles Lakers
Also drafted to the Lakers alongside Ball, Kyle Kuzma remained in LA after the Anthony Davis trade. Kuzma has been an offensive spark for the Lakers for three seasons now, playing as their stretch forward.
During the 2018-19 season, Kuzma averaged 18.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, and although his production has been diminished this season playing alongside a healthy LeBron James and Anthony Davis, his efficiency has been improved because of it, Kuzma is now shooting 36 percent from 3-point land compared to last season’s lackluster 30.3 percent.
Kuzma’s defense has been up and down at best and seems to be his biggest downside. Kuzma’s ceiling is a potential All-Star but is more likely to be a 3rd or 4th option for a title contender.