Ranking the top 50 NBA players of the 2021-2022 season: 50-41

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 29: LaMelo Ball #2 of the Charlotte Hornets dribbles between Malcolm Brogdon #7 and Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers during the third quarter of their game at Spectrum Center on January 29, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

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Top 50 NBA players ranked: 46. Myles Turner

Previous Rank: NA

Plenty of fans on the outside looking in have been looking to break up the pairing of Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis. Figuring out the fit with two centers has always been somewhat complicated and did not feel like maximization of their assets. However, with seasons like the two had last year things become much clearer.

Turner is the defensive anchor for the team and until he dealt with injuries this season was in the conversation for Defensive Player of the Year. He led the league in blocks at 3.4 per game and added in 12.6 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.0 assists per game. While some of the prolific defenders in the league rely on advanced stats to make their case for the top, Turner’s case is always much more cut and dry. His basic counting numbers stand out. Add in that he at least requires respect from beyond the arc and the fit on the Pacers gets clearer and clearer.

Turner may finally be able to take the next step with Rick Carlisle at the helm. The Pacers have been at a crossroads for the last two seasons. The locker room has bristled at the coaching of both Nate McMillan and Nate Bjorkgren. This is the last chance before changes come somewhere other than the lead coach. Turner has a chance to be a leader in that regard.