Hoops Habit
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NBA: Stars Being Born Before Our Very Eyes

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 18, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker (9) embraces teammate Kawhi Leonard (2) after a three pointer against the Denver Nuggets during the second half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 18, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker (9) embraces teammate Kawhi Leonard (2) after a three pointer against the Denver Nuggets during the second half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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Not every tier is built with MVP candidates. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Not every tier is built with Top 10 players or MVP candidates. Some stars are too good to be ignored, but not yet great enough to rival the likes of Stephen Curry. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

The Tiers

First Tier

  • The first tier is reserved for those who are developing into genuine NBA superstars. They may not be there just yet, but their profound improvements have put them in the discussion. Whether it’s a matter of statistical greatness, postseason success, or career-defining accolades, these players are on the cusp of being mentioned with the best of the best. They may not be there yet, but they’re dangerously close.

Second Tier

  •  The second tier is for players who aren’t quite superstars, but are locked into the star conversation. Their production meets the standard for stardom, and their potential for explosive performances is undeniable. These players either need a slight uptick in statistical production or a stronger postseason resume to reach the first tier. True as that may be, they’re in the All-Star discussion.

Third Tier

  • The third tier is built for players who aren’t quite stars, but have the undeniable potential to get there. Certain phases of their game are star-caliber, but there are holes that must be addressed before stardom can be achieved. Nevertheless, they’re worth mentioning as players who are on the cusp of breaking into the second tier and beyond.

Next: The Next Dominant Center