NBA: Ranking the league’s best third options

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 15: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Chicago Bulls in action against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on May 15, 2021 in New York City. The Nets defeated the Bulls 105-91.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 Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 15: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Chicago Bulls in action against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on May 15, 2021 in New York City. The Nets defeated the Bulls 105-91.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 Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
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Gordon Hayward
Gordon Hayward (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

They can’t all be the go-to guy. But in some instances, maybe they should.

Like every team sport, the players that are on the field of play know exactly who their best players are. In basketball, and the NBA in particular, everyone knows who should be receiving the bulk of the shots down the court.

The second option is also important in the grand scheme of things. But, more so on the unheralded side, an NBA team’s third option plays a huge role but more times than not, won’t receive a large amount of credit for a team’s wins and losses. We’ll officially be putting an end to that right now.

In our opinion, having two big-time scorers isn’t enough. In order for an NBA squad to win it all, they need a valuable and competent third option. So, with most of those players who are stuck in that role receiving little to no fanfare, we’re going to go ahead and give them the spotlight right now.

But who amongst them should be considered the best third option in the league? Keep reading to find out.