NBA: Ranking the 20 best players under the age of 23

NBA Zion Williamson (Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports)
NBA Zion Williamson (Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports)
17 of 22
Miami Heat
Miami Heat Bam Adebayo (Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports)

6. Bam Adebayo, 23, Miami Heat

Had this list been done last year, or even a few months ago, there’s a chance that Bam Adebayo is probably ranked higher. However, after the season that the Miami Heat endured, Bam checks in at “just” No. 6. The sky is still the limit for Bam but it was somewhat concerning that he didn’t take as big of a step this season as perhaps the Heat thought he would.

Considering that he averaged 19 points, nine rebounds, and five assists per game this season and that it was still somewhat of a disappointing campaign tells you all you need to know about the potential and expectation that surrounds Bam.

It’ll be interesting to see if there’s another jump in Bam’s game next season and, if so, what that entails. Either way, it should be interesting to watch as he continues to develop in one of the league’s best developmental franchises.