Future is Bright For NBA Point Guards
Added on Feb 06, 2013 by Scott in
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The likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant and Carmelo Anthony still dominate the headlines most nights in the NBA. However, the deepest position across the league is point guard. Veterans Tony Parker, Deron Williams, Russell Westbrook and the injured Derrick Rose are established stars, but youth is being served by an impressive handful of players enjoying breakout seasons. Here are the best of the best.
Kyrie Irving – Cleveland (24.0 ppg, 5.4 apg, 3.5 rpg) – The Cavs are terrible, but that’s not Irving’s fault. The second year sensation is one of the league’s top scorers and three point snipers. His assist numbers need to increase, but with few other offensive options on the roster, Irving has to be a one-man gang more often than not. He should be a superstar for years to come.
Stephen Curry – Golden State (20.8 ppg, 6.5 apg, 3.8 rpg) – Curry is the main reason why the Warriors are contending in a stacked Western conference. He’s a deft playmaker and reliable free throw shooter who is enjoying his best season in 2012-13. He is a bit injury prone, but when healthy his dynamic quickness and shooting prowess is rivaled by few at the position.
Jrue Holiday – Philadelphia (19.3 ppg, 9.0 apg, 4.2 rpg) – If not for Holiday’s scoring and playmaking, the Sixers would be Eastern conference bottom feeders. He was good during his first three years, but the trading of Andre Iguodala has provided Jrue an opportunity to showcase a myriad of skills. If Andrew Bynum ever takes the court again, Holiday could be MVP worthy.
Brandon Jennings – Milwaukee (18.6 ppg, 6.1 apg, 3.4 rpg) – Jennings has been a consistent performer since his rookie campaign in 2009-10. His field goal percentage is problematic and nagging injuries are a concern, but if the Bucks qualify for the postseason, Jennings will be the catalyst.
Damian Lillard – Portland (18.4 ppg, 6.5 apg, 3.3 pbg) – The sixth overall pick in the 2012 Draft is poised to win the Rookie of the Year award for the Blazers. Besides LaMarcus Aldridge, Lillard is the most reliable threat on a nightly basis. Without him in the lineup, Portland would be floundering in the West.
Kemba Walker – Charlotte (17.8 ppg, 5.6 apg, 3.5 rpg) – The Bobcats are a laughable franchise with a cloudy future. The sole bright spot is Walker, who has little to work with, especially in the front court. If management added a couple of talented pieces, Walker could thrive. In reality, he’ll probably end up being traded in the next two years.
