ESPN just released this year's edition of their annual Top 100 list, and unsurprisingly, it contains more than a few members of the defending champs, the Los Angeles Lakers. What's interesting, however, is that out of the four Laker players that were part of the second half of the list (from 51st to 100th), three of them happen to be newcomers. They join L.A. superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who are both expected to be in the Top 10.
Former Defensive Player of the Year winner Marc Gasol is ranked as the 96th best player in the league by ESPN. The 35-year-old Spaniard, who played for the Toronto Raptors last season, signed with the Lakers as a free agent, and will look to contribute as part of the Lakers' frontcourt.
At No. 79 is another new recruit in Dennis Schroder, who arrived in Tinseltown via a trade deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder. This is the first time the 6-foot-1 combo guard has cracked the Top 100 list following a memorable campaign with the Thunder last season.
Just two spots ahead of Schroder is Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who will be entering his fourth year with the Lakers after signing a new deal with L.A.
Right below KCP at No. 76 is reigning Sixth Man of the Year winner Montrezl Harrell — another newcomer who signed with the Lakers on a two-year deal worth $19 million.
It is worth noting that Kyle Kuzma is a notable absence on the bottom half of the Top 100 list. ESPN has yet to reveal the Top 50 players, but odds are, Kuzma will be glossed over.
Oh, and did they also forget about the GOAT, Alex Caruso?
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