4. Richaun Holmes, Sacramento Kings
I am VERY high on Richaun Holmes, just like Bamba. While he cannot shoot it like Mo, he is one of the most versatile non-shooting bigs in the league. His defense and rebounding are elite. He has a push-shot floater that is almost automatic, meaning he can fit with other non-shooters in select lineups. His motor is unstoppable.
Plus, he is on a BARGAIN of a contract at around $11 million annually for three seasons after this one. The only reason I do not have him higher is that the players ahead have higher ceilings.\
3. Christian Wood, Houston Rockets
I would honestly value Christian Wood and Holmes similarly. Wood is easily the better offensive player, and I believe his defensive deficiencies to be more of a product of his environment (an actively tanking team). We have seen a lot of bad teammate moments this season from Wood, though, and he seems to be unapologetic about it.
Listen. I have always been of the mind that players acting out is a product of their environments and that they will tighten up once landing with a playoff team. But if you are comparing Wood to Holmes’ heart and motor, I am choosing Holmes every time. At 26 and capable of mind-boggling stat lines, I have to objectively place Wood higher. The Heat is reportedly interested. If there is a team that can make him buy-in on both ends, they are the likely answer.