NBA: Ranking the top 5 young cores in the league

1. Denver Nuggets

Nikola Jokic 24, Jamal Murray 22, Michael Porter Jr. 21, Monte Morris 24, Bol Bol

The Denver Nuggets are the epitome of combining potential and experience. With an average age of 25.2 and having made the playoffs the previous two seasons, the Nuggets couldn’t fit the young core mold any better.

Despite appearing like he’s nearing the age of 40, Nikola Jokic remains one of the top young forces in the league. The Joker is currently averaging just over 20 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds per game. If he were a little more aggressive on the boards, Jokic could easily be the next player to average a triple-double for the entirety of a season. Also, see the following video for an example of the clutch gene he possesses.

Opposing teams constantly have to be prepared for Jamal Murray to put up 40 and Monte Morris is a consistent back-up point guard, and can always be counted on for assists.

In regards to Michael Porter Jr. and Bol Bol, the NBA should be scared.

The Nuggets, who already have a loaded roster, have to diamonds in the rough that could take over the league. MPJ took a significant chunk of time to reach the NBA level, and has, at times looked sluggish. After the injuries he has sustained, we can’t blame him. But when he’s on, he’s on. Porter Jr. went off for 25 on 11-of-12 shooting just over a month ago. Once he receives significant minutes, he’ll be a force to be reckoned with.

Also, despite his falling in the draft. Bol Bol has a combination of athleticism, height, length and shooting that is not fair, and prior to the foot injury at Oregon that caused the draft night dip, the Bol led the Ducks from a statistical perspective, putting up 21 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. If you don’t see the potential, no one can help you. It’s there. And assuming he’ll join this roster in the near future, the Nuggets will terrify the league.