As you may have heard, the folks over at Slam Magazine are listing their Top 50 Players in the NBA this year in advance of the start of the regular season. Perhaps you've been disappointed with Slam's rankings so far, especially if you're Carmelo Anthony or one of his most ardent supporters, but if you're primary rooting interest is the Portland Trail Blazers, this year's Top 50 probably suits you just fine.
First, there's starting shooting guard and backup point guard CJ McCollum, who comes in at No. 42 on Slam's Top 50 after winning the NBA's 2016 Most Improved Player award.