For the fourth consecutive year, ESPN.com has teamed up with the TrueHoop Network in an effort to rank every player in the NBA. That is a tremendous undertaking and I am glad I’m not the one coordinating it. However, this is a vast database and is very interesting to go through.
ESPN uses a prediction engine called ESPN Forecast to provide the most accurate predictions possible. At the heart of Forecast is a 200 member panel. This panel includes individuals with NBA expertise and a diverse background. The panel’s predictions are then aggregated and used to determine a more accurate player ranking system. Each player is rated on a 0-to-10 scale and given a score. The score represents their overall level of play in the forthcoming NBA season.
After releasing the first 100 players on September 15 (No. 500-400), ESPN has been utilizing their NBA on ESPN Twitter account (@ESPNNBA) to count down each player one at a time. This epic count down will continue until October 28th, which is opening night for the 2014-2015 NBA season.
There have been a quite a few Portland Trail Blazers players already ranked. Let’s go through them and discuss their positioning:
#470: James Southerland, Score 1.78
Southerland was acquired by the Trail Blazers in August. He signed a one-year, non guaranteed deal. Since the Trail Blazers already have 15 players under contract, Southerland would only gain a roster spot if he beat out another player on the roster. Highly unlikely but that’s what training camp is for.
#457: Allen Crabbe, Score 1.88
Crabbe should see an increased role this season. If he is given consistent playing time, I expect to see his ranking rise next year. He’s a dead-eye shooter and is terrific from distance. Normal playing time will be hard to come by but I hope Stotts gives him a chance early on in the season.
#435: Victor Claver, Score 2.10
Claver became third at either forward position on the roster last season. Thomas Robinson showed he could be second behind LaMarcus Aldridge, and Dorell Wright brought a veteran presence behind Nicolas Batum. Claver played in the 2014 FIBA World Cup last month and wasn’t all that impressive. He played a total of 41 minutes in seven games and averaged 2.3 points and 1.5 rebounds for the tournament. Although he played competitive basketball this summer, I’m not sure he improved much.
#404: Joel Freeland, Score 2.38
Freeland improved his ranking position by 37 spots since last season. With the addition of Chris Kaman, Freeland will find it hard to see the court this season. I’d still put him third in the center depth chart, in front of Meyers Leonard, or possibly between Robinson and Claver at power forward. He’s a hard worker and I hope he has a productive training camp.
#356: Meyers Leonard, Score 2.82
Leonard’s ranking drastically dropped in one year. Last year, he was ranked #255 and this year, he is 101 spots below that. Wow. Seems like the Forecast panel sees exactly what the rest of us have seen for a few years. Leonard is raw and has potential. At 22 years old, I’m not ready to completely give up on him. However, I don’t see any improvement happening. Will this be the year he finally “gets it”?
#329: Will Barton, Score 3.06
If you’ve read my recent articles you know I’m high on Barton. Dude is crazy athletic and seems to be an up and coming talent. His role with the Trail Blazers will definitely be expanded this season with the departure of Mo Williams. Will The Thrill should be exciting to watch this season.
#269: Dorell Wright, Score 3.50
Wright is a very well rounded player. He can attack you off the dribble or drain it over you from distance. He is the second small forward on the depth chart behind Batum. He will continue to be a vital role player and will need to stay consistent.
#241: Thomas Robinson, Score 3.88
Robinson’s ranking dropped 37 spots and I’m not sure I agree with that. He proved he can contribute on a winning team last season. His play isn’t very consistent but his hustle and heart are. If he can continue to grind in practice and on the court, he will continue to be the back-up to Aldridge.
#237: Chris Kaman, Score 3.94
Kaman could be a huge offseason acquisition for the Trail Blazers. He’s a veteran center that will back up Robin Lopez. Compared to Lopez, he is a greater offensive threat and fits extremely well into the Portland culture. Weird recognizes weird.
#222: C.J. McCollum, Score 4.02
McCollum is the wild card to the Trail Blazers 2014-2015 campaign. There will be a lot riding on his shoulders as he comes in to back up Damian Lillard or Wesley Matthews. The second year player has talent but can he perform on the NBA stage?
#221: Steve Blake, Score 4.04
Blake was brought in to be the veteran point guard reserve. He’s always been one of my favorite second-tier players. He doesn’t get a lot of media attention but comes in and takes care of business day after day.
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So there are your Trail Blazers rankings so far. Where will the other players land? ESPN has released up to #141 and there haven’t been any other Trail Blazers listed. That means the Trail Blazers have five players in the top 140. Yet to be ranked are Aldridge, Batum, Lillard, Lopez, and Matthews. As we inch closer to opening night, keep checking the rankings and see where the top five Trail Blazers land.