NBA Players With the Most to Prove in Orlando

19 July 2020 0

Russell Westbrook:

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JANUARY 9: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Houston Rockets handles the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 9, 2020 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2020 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
Jeff Haynes – Getty Images

Westbrook is a superstar, no doubt about it. However, almost every season come playoff time, he has doubters. He fails to lead teams beyond the first or second round, and at times his play style seems to hurt him more than it helps him. Alongside another bonafide star in James Harden, Russ needs to show something different this season in Orlando. He needs to be more efficient, and lead the Rockets on a serious run.

Anthony Davis:

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LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 01: LeBron James #23 and Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers while playing the Phoenix Suns at Staples Center on January 1, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. 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. Lakers won 117 to 107. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images)
John Mccoy – Getty Images

Davis’ talent s undeniable, but he has not yet seen the playoff success of some of the other elite players in the league. With only one playoff series win, he definitely needs to prove something this season. Lebron’s championship window is fading, and Davis is the ultimate X-Factor that can take the Lakers all the way. He needs to dominate other bigs on both ends for the Lakers to have a chance at a ring this season.

Paul George:

Los Angeles Clippers' Paul George plays during an NBA basketball game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Matt Slocum – Getty Images

PG has had a somewhat disappointing career, partly due to injuries as well as supporting cast. However, this is by far his best chance at a ring. The Clippers seem destined for a deep playoff run, led by their incredible team defense and George and Kawhi leading them on offense. PG needs to be a strong second option, and give LA a few big games if they are to go all the way.

Giannis Antetokounmpo:

Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo stretches during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers Thursday, Dec. 19, 2019, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
Marry Gosh – Associated Press

The Greek Freak is one of the best players on the planet, there is no question about it. However, he has not exactly lived up to the superstar hype thus far in the playoffs. In a weaker East, Giannis must take the Bucks to the finals, and challenge their finals opponent. If not, not only will the doubters begin to creep in, but Giannis’ future in Milwaukee may become less secure.

Ben Simmons:

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 15: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during action against the Brooklyn Nets in the fourth quarter of Game Two of Round One of the 2019 NBA Playoffs at the Wells Fargo Center on April 15, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Nets 145-123. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Mitchell Leff – Getty Images

Regardless of the criticisms of his jump shot, Simmons is an elite player in this league. His defense, playmaking, ball handling and IQ make him a phenomenal point guard for Philly. However, he needs to take this team on a long playoff run to prove people wrong. Him and Embiid are one of the most talented duos in the league, and they can not settle for an early round exit again this season.

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