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Yahoo Sports’ top 10 No. 3 options in the NBA

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Yahoo Sports’ Top 10 No. 3 Options in the NBA

In the modern NBA, every successful team needs a strong third option – a player who can contribute consistently without being the focal point.

These athletes play pivotal roles alongside their team’s top stars, often providing the glue and balance necessary for deep playoff runs.

Yahoo Sports recently released its list of the top 10 No. 3 options in the league for the upcoming season.

Here’s a look at the top 10 on the list:

  1. Paul George – Philadelphia 76ers
    George has shifted into a third-option role with the 76ers, forming a dangerous trio with Joel Embiid and James Harden. His defensive versatility and scoring punch make him one of the best complementary players in the NBA.
  2. Rudy Gobert – Minnesota Timberwolves
    Known for his elite defense, Gobert is a cornerstone of Minnesota’s interior defense. While Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards dominate the offense, Gobert’s presence in the paint elevates the Timberwolves’ overall play.
  3. Kristaps Porziņģis – Boston Celtics
    Porziņģis, now a Celtic, provides a unique combination of shot-blocking and outside shooting. His ability to stretch the floor while anchoring Boston’s defense makes him a crucial piece next to Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
  4. Chet Holmgren – Oklahoma City Thunder
    After missing his rookie season, Holmgren is set to be a critical part of OKC’s young core. His defensive prowess and offensive potential position him as a key player in the Thunder’s rise alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey.
  5. Desmond Bane – Memphis Grizzlies
    Bane is a lights-out shooter who complements Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. perfectly. His ability to space the floor and defend makes him one of the most valuable role players in the league.
  6. Evan Mobley – Cleveland Cavaliers
    Mobley has established himself as one of the NBA’s most promising young big men. His versatility on both ends of the floor complements Cleveland’s core of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.
  7. DeMar DeRozan – Sacramento Kings
    As an experienced scorer and playmaker, DeRozan provides a steadying presence for the Kings. Playing alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, he brings veteran leadership and offensive firepower.
  8. Mikal Bridges – New York Knicks
    A premier 3-and-D wing, Bridges adds defensive toughness and scoring depth to the Knicks’ roster. His role as a third option behind Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle could be key to the Knicks’ success.
  9. Draymond Green – Golden State Warriors
    Green’s defensive IQ and playmaking are unmatched. Although his scoring numbers don’t leap off the page, his value to the Warriors is clear as he continues to make life easier for Steph Curry and Klay Thompson.
  10. Myles Turner – Indiana Pacers
    Turner’s shot-blocking and ability to stretch the floor from the center position make him an ideal third option behind Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin in Indiana’s developing young core.

Notable Mentions:

  • Klay Thompson – Dallas Mavericks
    Now with the Mavericks, Thompson will play a complementary role to Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, contributing his elite shooting and defensive savvy.
  • Austin Reaves – Los Angeles Lakers
    Reaves continues to impress as a versatile guard for the Lakers, bringing energy and consistency to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
  • Scoot Henderson – Portland Trail Blazers
    The highly anticipated rookie is expected to contribute right away as a third option for the Blazers, who are rebuilding around him.

These players may not always be the focal points of their teams, but their impact is undeniable. Whether through defense, scoring, or leadership, each contributes to their teams’ success in unique ways.

As the season unfolds, keep an eye on these key No. 3 options as they look to help their squads make deep playoff runs.

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