Beyond the Toronto Raptors: Who are Canada’s best players?
By Go Paolo
Tier B: Solid but not sensational
Opposite to Tier C, this is the easiest group to classify. The Canadians on this list, while they likely won’t be All-Stars, will enjoy long fruitful NBA careers as key rotational guys.
Dwight Powell
You have to hand it to Powell. In five seasons in the NBA, he has steadily become more productive. He’s gone from the 12th man in Boston to the incumbent starting center with the up-and-coming Mavericks. Playing alongside European stars Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis should help him shine a little bit brighter.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker*
There is some considerable hype for Alexander-Walker, taken 17th overall by the Pelicans. A cousin to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Walker exhibits some similar traits: a solid NBA body, versatility, and a high floor of a potential. He has already managed to earn big minutes with a deep Pelicans squad and will be a key rotational piece moving forward.
Cory Joseph
Maybe Joseph has Gregg Popovich and the Spurs system to thank for his continued NBA success, but he has always been a crafty player who would make the most of his limited physical prowess. Joseph was the star for Team Canada but couldn’t carry the team alone. He might be lacking as the key player, but he is a superb supporting piece.
Tristan Thompson
A major asset of the 2015-16 Cavaliers championship team, and one of LeBron’s lieutenants, Thompson has proven that his traditional smashmouth style of play is still invaluable in today’s NBA. His limitations on offense prevent him from becoming a star, but he would be a solid addition to any contender.
Kelly Olynyk
Olynyk is one of the “glue guys” on the Miami Heat. Though he usually only scores around 10-12 points in a game, he does more for the team than what the stats sheet reflects. Equipped with equal parts smarts and grit, Olynyk is another type of player contending teams would love to have.