Nothin' But Nets
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NBA Preseason: Ranking the Top 10 players in 2016-2017

By Tyler Dencker

Mar 29, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) drives to the basket as Orlando Magic forward Jason Smith (14) defends during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 29, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) drives to the basket as Orlando Magic forward Jason Smith (14) defends during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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  1. Kevin Durant, SF, Golden State Warriors

While Durant’s reputation of choosing Golden State in free agency earlier this summer has dampened his reputation, it’s important not to forget what this guy is made of. 

Point blank, Durant is one of the best sharp-shooting forwards in the league and is difficult for even the best NBA defenders to guard. Last season, Durant led Oklahoma City on an unlikely playoff run that went through the powerful San Antonio Spurs and came up a game short of beating the 73-9 Warriors and clinching a Finals berth.

Durant was third in the league in scoring, and to the surprise of some, was the most efficient small forward in the league – above LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard (hoopsstats.com). On top of that, Durant averaged eight rebounds per game and five assists per game, rounding out a very solid season for the 27-year-old.

While the scenery will change for Durant come this fall, one thing that won’t change is his high level of play. Whether you support the move or not, Durant has single-handedly influenced the course of the NBA and has made the Warriors heavy favorites to win the title this season.

Next: Number Two