8th: Austin Rivers
May 8, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Austin Rivers (25) controls the ball against the Houston Rockets during the second half in game three of the second round of the NBA Playoffs. at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
If the Clippers didn’t make so many new additions this summer, Austin Rivers might even be slightly higher on this list. Consistency is his glaring flaw, but he still proved that he’s developing after delivering a few memorable playoff performances.
The key takeaway from his performance in the postseason — most notably his game four against the San Antonio Spurs and 25 point performance against the Houston Rockets in game three — is the confidence he showed. That’s not all he needs, though, as he still only made 42.7 percent of his shots and 30.9 percent of his threes during the regular season. Yet the way he almost took over games at times is something no one could have seen coming.
Rivers drove to the rim with more intent and success than we’re used to seeing, despite the fact that the likes of Tim Duncan and Dwight Howard stood in his way.
As that confidence grows and his competitive nature continues to shine through, it should only be a matter of time before we gradually see his shooting and composure running the offense improve. Plus, more veterans to learn from such as Pierce and Prigioni can help his development even further.
The potential to be the backup point guard of the future is there, and having less pressure on his shoulders now that he has some help alongside him in the second unit should help a young player like Rivers.
Next: Josh Smith