NBA Player Tiers 2026: Tier 5 - The Best of the Rest
This tier is a collection of players who are solid contributors but may not be in the top 100. It's a mix of role players, young talents, and veterans who have shown flashes of brilliance.
Point Guards
- Coby White: A former starter who struggled as a primary playmaker and defender. His value lies as a second-unit weapon. His calf issues and limitations as a playmaker make his future uncertain.
- Collin Gillespie: A solid role player in Phoenix. Small and not a great scorer, but he has a nose for the ball and makes sound decisions. His 40% 3-point shooting is impressive.
- Christian Braun: A solid connector with strong decision-making skills. His shooting fell off this season, and he needs to be a more significant difference-maker.
Shooting Guards
- Grayson Allen: Showed more as a playmaker, but had his worst shooting season since his rookie year. Missed time due to injury and age.
- Lu Dort: An All-NBA defender, but his offense relies heavily on assisted 3-pointers. His future situation is uncertain.
- Tari Eason: An energetic defender, but not very durable. Struggled with his offense and needs a situation that allows him to drive more.
Small Forwards
- Keldon Johnson: A high-floor play finisher, but not particularly imposing. Can be a havoc creator off the bench.
- Cason Wallace: Best suited for a bench role. His energy makes him a great havoc creator, but he needs to improve as a shooter or ballhandler.
Power Forwards
- John Collins: A play finisher with a high field goal and 3-point percentage. Struggles as a passer and defender.
- Draymond Green: A defensive powerhouse with playmaking skills. Turnover-prone offensively when isolated.
- Tobias Harris: Detroit's second option outside the paint. Uses the post more as he ages. His role and touches may decline.
Centers
- Kristaps Porziņģis: Frail and not reliable due to injury history. His games played have declined.
- Neemias Queta: A replacement-level player offensively, but a solid contributor for a top-five defense.
Other Considerations
- Donte DiVincenzo: Going through a tough injury situation. His versatility is valuable, but his age and injury make him a risk.
- Ajay Mitchell: An emerging offensive threat who needs to improve his shooting.
- Ayo Dosunmu: Sublime percentages and strong decision-making. Physical limitations may be a concern.
- Marcus Smart: Defends multiple positions well and makes critical plays. His offensive trick-or-treat tendencies are a concern.
- Julian Champagnie: An athletic upgrade with durability and reliable volume shooting. Fitting next to Victor Wembanyama is a bonus.
