Top 10 Western Conference Risers

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10. Scotty Pippen Jr. – Guard – Memphis Grizzlies

2024-2025 Stats: 9.9 PPG 3.3 RPG 4.4 APG 48.0 FG% 39.7 3P%

Scotty Pippen Jr. has emerged as a promising young guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, capitalizing on backcourt injuries to carve out rotational minutes. Known for his high basketball IQ and steady playmaking, Pippen Jr. brings energy off the bench and has shown flashes of being a reliable floor general. His improved three-point shooting and defensive hustle make him a valuable developmental piece in Memphis’ rebuild.

9. Julian Strawther – Guard/Forward – Denver Nuggets

2024-2025 Stats: 9.0 PPG 2.2 RPG 1.3 APG 43.2 FG% 34.9 3P%

Julian Strawther has solidified his role with the Denver Nuggets as a movement shooter and spacing specialist. In his sophomore season, Strawther has thrived in Denver’s system, knocking down open threes and fitting seamlessly alongside Nikola Jokić. His ability to stretch the floor and play within the flow of the offense has made him one of the more effective young role players in the Western Conference.

8. Naji Marshall – Forward – Dallas Mavericks

2024-2025 Stats: 13.2 PPG 4.8 RPG 3.0 APG 50.8 FG% 27.5 3P%

Since joining the Dallas Mavericks, Naji Marshall has become a versatile wing defender and physical presence on the perimeter. Known for his ability to guard multiple positions and contribute as a slasher, Marshall brings toughness to Dallas’ second unit. His gritty, no-nonsense style of play complements Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, and he’s become a key piece for a team eyeing playoff success.

7. Keon Ellis – Guard – Sacramento Kings

2024-2025 Stats: 8.3 PPG 2.7 RPG 1.5 APG 48.9 FG% 43.3 3P%

Keon Ellis has broken out as one of the Sacramento Kings’ most reliable perimeter defenders this season. The undrafted guard has earned a spot in the rotation thanks to his relentless on-ball defense, quick hands, and timely three-point shooting. Ellis plays with poise and energy, making him a perfect fit in Mike Brown’s fast-paced, defensive-minded system.

6. Dorian Finney Smith – Forward – Los Angeles Lakers

2024-2025 Stats: 8.7 PPG 3.9 RPG 1.4 APG 44.8 FG% 41.1 3P%

Dorian Finney-Smith brought his elite 3-and-D skill set to the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming a crucial role player alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Known for his perimeter defense, switchability, and corner three-point shooting, Finney-Smith gives the Lakers a reliable veteran wing who can guard the opposition’s top scorers and knock down shots in high-pressure moments.

5. Toumani Camara – Forward – Portland Trail Blazers

2024-2025 Stats: 11.3 PPG 5.8 RPG 2.2 APG 45.8 FG% 37.5 3P%

Toumani Camara has quickly become a fan favorite for the Portland Trail Blazers with his hard-nosed defense and relentless motor. The rookie forward is a standout on defense, often taking on the toughest assignments while contributing as a cutter and rebounder on offense. Camara’s growth this season is a bright spot for a young Trail Blazers team focused on development.

4. Christian Braun – Guard/Forward – Denver Nuggets

2024-2025 Stats: 15.4 PPG 5.2 RPG 2.6 APG 58.0 FG% 39.7 3P%

Christian Braun continues to be a glue guy for the former champion Denver Nuggets, offering elite perimeter defense, high-effort plays, and clutch moments. A key member of Denver’s bench unit, Braun guards multiple positions and brings championship poise beyond his years. His stock has risen thanks to consistent minutes and dependable two-way play.

3. Deni Avdija – Guard – Portland Trail Blazers

2024-2025 Stats: 16.9 PPG 7.3 RPG 3.9 APG 47.6 FG% 36.5 3P%

Traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, Deni Avdija has flourished in a bigger role, showcasing his all-around skill set as a point-forward. Avdija is averaging career highs in assists, rebounds, and efficiency while guarding top wings and initiating offense. His versatility and basketball IQ make him a foundational piece for Portland’s rebuilding core.

2. Norman Powell – Guard – Los Angeles Clippers

2024-2025 Stats: 21.8 PPG 3.2 RPG 2.1 APG 48.4 FG% 41.8 3P%

Norman Powell remains one of the most consistent sixth men in the league, providing instant scoring for the Los Angeles Clippers. Powell’s ability to create his own shot, knock down threes, and finish through contact makes him a nightmare matchup for second units. As the Clippers push for contention, Powell’s veteran scoring punch is critical.

1. Ivica Zubac – Center – Los Angeles Clippers

2024-2025 Stats: 16.8 PPG 12.6 RPG 2.7 APG 62.8 FG% N/A 3P%

Ivica Zubac continues to anchor the paint for the Los Angeles Clippers with dependable rim protection, strong rebounding, and efficient finishing around the basket. Often underrated, Zubac’s physical presence and ability to hold down the interior allow stars like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden to thrive on the perimeter. He’s quietly one of the most effective traditional centers in the NBA.