The new CBA agreement makes it hard for NBA teams to have Big 3s.
Now, it’s all about power duos, as stacking up big contracts leads to some steep financial penalties.
As such, third-scoring options aren’t as prominent as they were five or six years ago.
Nevertheless, there are still plenty of great third options.
With that in mind, Patrick Beverley took some time to share his thoughts on the five best in the category.
Patrick Beverley lists his top 5 3rd options in the NBA right now:
1. Austin Reaves
2. Kyle Kuzma
3. Norman Powell
4. Mikal Bridges
5. Kristaps PorzingisDo you agree with Pat Bev? 🤔
(via @PatBevPod)
pic.twitter.com/aGFVDt2nTC— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 18, 2025
At No. 5, he had Kristaps Porzingis.
The Boston Celtics didn’t need him, but adding him was the ultimate luxury.
He can excel on both ends of the floor, and his combination of rim protection and floor spacing makes him a true unicorn.
Then, he chose New York Knicks G/F Mikal Bridges.
Bridges showed that he could be a team’s go-to guy if needed.
Nevertheless, his ability to play defense and his durability are what truly sets him apart from the rest of the pack.
He later chose Norman Powell.
Once considered a streaky scorer, Powell has now established himself among the best in the league.
He might be the third option on paper, but he’s actually been the Los Angeles Clippers’ leading scorer even after Kawhi Leonard’s return.
Beverley later had Kyle Kuzma at No. 2.
While not many people will agree, Kuzma is a very versatile player.
He’s a better defender than people give him credit for, and he can score from all three levels.
Last but not least, Beverley chose Austin Reaves.
Reaves has not become the standout player that many expected him to be.
Nonetheless, he’s the Jack of all trades for the Los Angeles Lakers, excelling with his scoring and playmaking and even holding his own on defense.
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