Basketball player rankings

Each of the analysts had their own approaches to their individual top 50s, but there were two general criteria that drove this aggregate top 50: versatility and winning.

Barkley and Smith both discussed the first factor. Barkley said great players have to be able to affect the game in multiple ways. Smith broke it down even further, saying points, rebounds, assists, leadership, defense and the ability to change the pace of the game were considered throughout the exercise.

And those two, along with Shaq, were clearly and understandably influenced by the level of team success everyone below has achieved (or not achieved).

50. Derrick White, Guard (Celtics)

49. Evan Mobley, Big (Cavaliers)

48. Alperen Şengün, Center (Rockets)

47. Chet Holmgren, Big (Thunder)

46. Tyler Herro, Guard (Heat)

45. Brandon Ingram, Wing (Pelicans)

44. Aaron Gordon, Forward (Nuggets)

43. Bradley Beal, Guard (Suns)

42. LaMelo Ball, Point Guard (Hornets)

41. DeMar DeRozan, Wing (Kings)

40. Kristaps Porziņģis, Center (Celtics)

39. James Harden, Guard (Clippers)

38. Lauri Markkanen, Forward (Jazz)

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