Looking ahead at what is to come in the NBA is a fun exercise that people like taking part in. Having debates about which teams are on the right path and heading toward contention down the line is one topic that brings out some strong opinions from people.
Another topic that generates a lot of discussions is when people discuss the best players in the league. Everyone has their own opinions and biases, as some people will go to bat for the best player on their own team.
However, there are a few players, even if they aren’t on your favorite team, that deserves some recognition for the work that they do. Some players are years away from their prime or just entering it that will be as dominant in five years as they are right now.
That was one of the topics on a recent survey done over at ESPN. 15 scouts, coaches and executives were polled on a number of different things about this offseason, the upcoming season and the future.
When asked about who the best player in the NBA will be in five years, Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks came away as the winner. He received seven votes, barely edging out Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks, who secured six votes. The final two votes went to Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics.
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This shows that the changing of the guard isn’t too far off, as some of the veterans will assuredly still be productive in five years, but may not be at the top of the mountain any longer. Antetokounmpo will be the oldest of the bunch in five years, departing his prime at 32 years old, but betting against him is likely a losing proposition.
He has transformed his body and game throughout his career. As he enters Year 10, he is only improving. The Greek Freak has been dominated for Team Greece as they prepare for EuroBasket, showcasing a new jump shot.
A two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo is excellent on both ends of the court. While he may not have as flashy of an offensive game as Luka Doncic or Jayson Tatum, he has shown to be one arguably the most dominant offensive player currently in the league. Defensively, Antetokounmpo is in a different world compared to Doncic and still has a large edge on Tatum, who is improving.
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Getting to watch those three players continue to hone their skills and develop over the next five years is going to be a pleasure for any basketball fan to watch. Sooner than later, they are going to be the veterans with a new group of young players looking to chase them down in surveys like this.
