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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. Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Antonio Spurs
May 12, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the ball up the court against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson (21) during the first quarter in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
May 12, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the ball up the court against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson (21) during the first quarter in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

The 24-year-old is already an NBA superstar, but the scary thing is is that he is only getting better.

Despite his age, Leonard has proven that he belongs with the cream-of-the-crop of the NBA. While Steph Curry and the Warriors were making the most noise all season, the Spurs, led by Leonard, quietly finished with the T-7th best record in NBA history.

The crazy part is that the youngster is still getting better. From season to season in all five years in the league, Leonard has improved his points per game every time. During the season, Leonard averaged 21.2 points per game, 2.1 assists per game, 1.0 blocks per game (all career bests), and 6.0 rebounds per game (second best in career). His performance was good enough to make him the 3rd most efficient small forward in the league, behind only LeBron and Durant.

While Leonard’s statistics are impressive, his most impressive accolade of his career may be his back-to-back Defensive Player of the Year titles. Leonard’s ability to excel on the offensive and defensive side has made him a threat to any team. The sky is the limit for Leonard, so don’t be surprised if he bumps his way up this list in years to come.

Next: Number Four