6. De’Aaron Fox, PG, Sacramento Kings
This time a year ago, placing De’Aaron Fox on such a list would have discredited the author instantly. While he still had a bright future, a historically bad rookie season left Fox light years away from being an All-Star point guard.
Then Fox proceeded to speed up his development and the Sacramento Kings‘ offensive attack, and he became their unquestioned leader and best player en route to a surprise 39-win season.
The former Kentucky guard was a pest on defense, harrying opposing guards and daring them to try to pass anywhere near him, at which point his blazing quick hands would snatch the ball and he would take off in the other direction.
More so than his defense and instincts, his offensive game took a step forward as Fox became more comfortable taking jumpers, which he knocked down at a reasonable clip. Most of his damage is done in transition and at the rim, but the more he can expand his shot out the more room he and his teammates will have to work.
The Kings came close to a playoff berth last season and as the owners of the league’s longest playoff drought, they will push hard to make it this season. If the first couple of months have Sacramento in position that will bode well for Fox’s chances at an All-Star berth.
If they stumble slightly out of the gate his margin may evaporate in a crowded Western Conference field, both for playoff teams and for All-Star guards.