NBA: Predicting the top 8 scoring duos of 2021-2022 season

Chicago Bulls

Zach LaVine: 26 points per game

Nikola Vucevic: 20 points per game

History suggests that when an offensive Big Three is formed of two wing players and a big man, the big man has to sacrifice touches. But DeRozan’s increased playmaking skills and assist numbers over his Spurs and latter Raptors seasons indicate he may continue to prioritize assists over scoring, at least through the first 3.5 quarters of Bulls games.

Vucevic’s superior outside shooting means he will benefit from the dribble penetration game of DeRozan and LaVine and the brilliant court vision of Lonzo Ball. Additionally, he fits better in bench lineups, which may be short of perimeter shooting. LaVine will continue to be a well-rounded offensive player, and if his defense improves, he may be a dark-horse MVP candidate.

Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis Antetokounmpo: 28 points per game

Khris Middleton 20 points per game

Giannis took a massive leap in the Finals. Who knows if his improved free-throw shooting is here to stay, but he has already proven he can score in bunches. Middleton is about as rock-solid as second options come.

Denver Nuggets

Nikola Jokic 28 points per game

Michael Porter Jr.: 20 points per game

Nikola Jokic’s disposition seems to be to pass, but without Jamal Murray for most or all of the regular season, he’ll need to step up as a scorer. I don’t care for Michael Porter Jr.’s political and anti-science views, but he is no doubt a baller. His buckets may not be as efficient as they were last year, but expect them to come regardless.