RANKING THE 2014 NBA DRAFT CLASS BY TIERS

In the retrospective examination of the 2014 NBA Draft class, a meticulous tiered ranking system emerges to encapsulate the diverse trajectories of its entrants. As we navigate through these tiers, each delineated group offers a glimpse into the careers of notable players, unraveling the nuanced tapestry of their contributions to the realm of the NBA.   

TIER 6

Jabari Parker, Dante Exum, Elfrid Payton, Doug McDermott, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Nik Stauskas, Noah Vonleh, Tyler Ennis, Shabazz Napier

In Tier 6, Jabari Parker, once considered a high-potential prospect, has navigated a journey that led him to the Barcelona EuroLeague team. After ten seasons in the NBA, Parker showcased his scoring ability, averaging 14.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Despite facing injuries that hampered his trajectory, Parker continues to contribute to the game on an international stage.

Dante Exum, known for his athleticism and defensive skills, faced challenges with injuries during his NBA career. Injuries limited his playing time, and he ultimately transitioned to different teams, and is currently donning the Mavericks jersey. Exum's journey serves as a reminder of the unpredictability in professional sports, and he remains a player with untapped potential.

Elfrid Payton has spent over nine seasons in the NBA. Averaging 10.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, Payton has showcased his versatility on the court. While he hasn't reached All-Star status, his contributions as a floor general have earned him a place in various team rotations.

Doug McDermott, known for his sharpshooting, has established himself as a reliable scoring option. Over nine seasons, McDermott has averaged 10.7 points per game, showcasing his ability to stretch the floor. His journey includes stints with the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, and San Antonio Spurs, where he continues to make an impact as a scoring forward.

Thanasis Antetokounmpo, brother of NBA superstar Giannis, played a role in the Milwaukee Bucks' championship run in 2021. His energy and defensive contributions off the bench were crucial for the Bucks. While not a primary scorer, Thanasis showcased the importance of role players in championship-caliber teams.

Nik Stauskas has had a journeyman career in the NBA. Over eight seasons, he's played for multiple teams, showcasing his three-point shooting ability. Stauskas has averaged 6.8 points per game, and his ability to provide instant offense from beyond the arc has been his calling card.

Noah Vonleh has displayed his skills for various teams over eight seasons. While his statistics may not stand out, Vonleh's ability to contribute in rebounding and defense has kept him in the league. His journey includes stops with the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, and other franchises.

Tyler Ennis, a point guard with a solid skill set, has faced challenges with injuries during his career. Despite the setbacks, Ennis has continued to showcase his playmaking ability when on the court. His journey includes playing for teams like the Phoenix Suns, Milwaukee Bucks, and Toronto Raptors.

Shabazz Napier, a guard with scoring instincts, has navigated through multiple teams during his NBA career. With averages of 6.0 points and 2.0 assists per game, Napier has contributed as a backup point guard. His journey includes playing for the Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, and other franchises.

TIER 5

Bogdan Bogdanovic, Joe Harris, Spencer Dinwiddie, Jordan Clarkson, Dwight Powell, Kyle Anderson, Rodney Hood, TJ Warren, Dario Saric, Gary Harris

Bogdan Bogdanovic has become a key contributor for the Atlanta Hawks. Over eight seasons, Bogdanovic has averaged 13.1 points, showcasing his scoring ability and three-point shooting. His impact on the court has been vital for teams aiming for playoff success.

Joe Harris, known for his sharpshooting, has been a consistent presence for the Brooklyn Nets in the past. Over eight seasons, Harris has averaged 11.2 points per game, primarily through his accurate three-point shooting. His ability to stretch the floor has complemented the Nets' star-studded lineup before his departure when the Big 3 .

Spencer Dinwiddie has made significant contributions to teams like the Brooklyn Nets, Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards. Over eight seasons, Dinwiddie has averaged 13.6 points and 5.0 assists per game. His ability to score and facilitate offense has been crucial for his teams.

Jordan Clarkson has thrived off the bench for the Los Angeles Lakers and later the Utah Jazz. Over eight seasons, Clarkson has averaged 14.4 points per game, providing instant offense and energy. His role as a sixth man has been essential for competitive teams.

Dwight Powell has been a consistent contributor for the Dallas Mavericks. Over eight seasons, Powell has averaged 8.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. His ability to finish around the rim and contribute on both ends of the floor has been valuable.

Kyle Anderson, a versatile forward, has showcased his unique skill set for various franchises. Over eight seasons, Anderson has averaged 8.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. His playmaking ability and defensive versatility have made him a key piece for the Grizzlies and Spurs specifically.

Rodney Hood, a scoring wing, has contributed to various teams over eight seasons. With averages of 12.1 points per game, Hood has showcased his ability to score from the perimeter. His journey includes playing for teams like the Utah Jazz, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Portland Trail Blazers.

TJ Warren was a consistent offensive threat for the Indiana Pacers in his best seasons. Over eight seasons, Warren has averaged 15.5 points per game, showcasing his scoring versatility. His ability to score in bunches has been a key asset for the Pacers and then the Brooklyn Nets until injuries derailed his career.

Dario Saric, a skilled forward from Croatia, has been a valuable contributor for teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns that now found his way into the Golden State Warriors. Over eight seasons, Saric has averaged 10.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute in various facets has been crucial for his teams.

Gary Harris played an important role for teams like the Denver Nuggets and Orlando Magic. Over eight seasons, Harris has averaged 11.2 points per game, showcasing his scoring and defensive abilities. His contributions on both ends of the floor have been valuable for playoff-contending teams.

TIER 4

Aaron Gordon, Andrew Wiggins, Clint Capela, Jerami Grant, Jusuf Nurkic

Aaron Gordon secured an NBA championship with the Denver Nuggets in 2023 after his trade in 2021 from the Magic. Over ten seasons, Gordon has averaged 13.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. His versatility and athleticism have made him a valuable asset for both the Orlando Magic and the Nuggets.

Andrew Wiggins won an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2022. Over ten seasons, Wiggins has averaged 19.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. In addition to his scoring prowess, Wiggins has earned an All-Star selection that revamped his career and the Rookie of the Year award.

Clint Capela has been a defensive anchor for teams like the Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks. Over eight seasons, Capela has averaged 12.1 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. His shot-blocking and rebounding abilities have been crucial for his teams.

Jerami Grant currently plays for the Portland Trail Blazers. Over eight seasons, Grant has averaged 11.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. His defensive prowess and scoring ability have made him a valuable asset for teams aiming for playoff success.

Jusuf Nurkic now plays for the Phoenix Suns after being traded for Deandre Ayton. Over eight seasons, Nurkic has averaged 11.4 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. His physical presence in the paint and rebounding skills have been valuable for multiple teams.

TIER 3

Zach LaVine, Julius Randle, Marcus Smart

In Tier 3, Zach LaVine has played ten seasons for the Chicago Bulls and Minnesota Timberwolves. Averaging 20.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 573 regular-season games, LaVine's scoring ability and athleticism have earned him two All-Star selections so far in his career.

Julius Randle, a power forward with a diverse skill set, has played ten seasons for the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, and New Orleans Pelicans. Averaging 18.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 614 regular-season games, Randle's All-Star appearances and Most Improved Player award highlight his impact for the Knicks currently.

Marcus Smart has played ten seasons for the Boston Celtics and Memphis Grizzlies. Averaging 10.6 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.5 rebounds in 592 regular-season games, Smart's defensive prowess earned him the Defensive Player of the Year award. His recent move to Memphis signals a new chapter in his career after leaving an indelible mark as the heart of the Celtics for many years.

TIER 2

Joel Embiid

In Tier 2, the spotlight is firmly on the towering presence of Joel Embiid, a player who has undeniably left an indelible mark on the NBA landscape. Throughout his illustrious eight-season career with the Philadelphia 76ers, Embiid has consistently showcased the skills that make him a dominant force in the league.

Standing tall as a commanding center, Embiid's statistical achievements speak volumes about his prowess on the court. Averaging an impressive 27.4 points per game, his offensive repertoire is as diverse as it is effective. Whether commanding the paint with powerful post moves or stepping out to drain perimeter shots, Embiid's scoring ability is a constant threat for opposing defenses.

Beyond the points, Embiid's impact reverberates through his prowess on the glass, pulling down a robust average of 11.2 rebounds per game. His tenacity and timing on the boards contribute significantly to the 76ers' success in controlling the flow of the game and limiting second-chance opportunities for the opposition.

However, to label Embiid merely as a statistical powerhouse would be an understatement. The Cameroonian center has elevated his game to a level that transcends numbers, earning the accolades of his peers and the admiration of fans worldwide. His six All-Star selections serve as a testament to his consistent excellence, as he routinely finds himself among the league's elite as the current MVP holder.

TIER 1

Nikola Jokic

At the pinnacle of Tier 1 stands Nikola Jokic, a maestro on the basketball court whose influence extends far beyond the conventional expectations for a center. Over the course of his nine-season tenure with the Denver Nuggets, Jokic has not only redefined the role of a big man but has also become a symbol of basketball brilliance.

Jokic's statistical resume is nothing short of remarkable, boasting averages of 20.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game across 616 regular-season contests. What sets Jokic apart is not just his ability to fill up the stat sheet, but the grace and finesse with which he orchestrates the game. His basketball IQ is unparalleled, and his passing prowess, particularly for a player of his position, is a rare and invaluable asset that sets him apart from his peers.

The Serbian center's impact transcends traditional measures of success, as evidenced by his five All-Star selections. Jokic's skill set, marked by an uncanny ability to score from various spots on the floor and create opportunities for his teammates, has made him the focal point of the Nuggets' offensive schemes.

The pinnacle of Jokic's journey, however, was reached in the 2022-2023 NBA season, where he led the Denver Nuggets to an NBA championship. This achievement, coupled with his Finals MVP honor, solidified his place among the all-time greats. Jokic's ability to elevate his game when it matters most and deliver in clutch moments was a defining factor in Denver's triumphant run.

2023-12-10T13:32:26Z dg43tfdfdgfd