- The top NBA players reimagined at 7'4" would bring unstoppable scoring capabilities to the league
- With added height, their versatility on both ends of the court would be enhanced
- Steph Curry would become the best scorer of all time with his outstanding shooting
The NBA is filled with incredible talent, and the notion of "What if?" has always sparked curiosity and imagination among fans. In this thought experiment, we will explore the hypothetical scenario of the NBA's top players donning an extraordinary height of 7'4". How would these elite athletes, renowned for their skills and versatility, adapt to the game with such towering stature? From the dynamic playmaking of Ja Morant to the sharpshooting of Stephen Curry, we'll examine the impact these altered dimensions would have on their careers.
In the following list, we will delve into the reimagined capabilities of ten outstanding NBA players as they ascend to this remarkable height. By envisioning their performances in the 2022-23 season and contemplating the expectations for the upcoming 2023-24 campaign, we gain insights into how these towering figures might influence the league in unprecedented ways.
10. Jayson Tatum
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In the 2022-23 NBA season, Jayson Tatum showcased his scoring prowess, averaging 30.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game with 1.1 steals and 0.7 blocks per game.
His combination of smooth ball-handling, exceptional footwork, and versatility on offense make him a force to be reckoned with. If Jayson Tatum were 7'4" tall, his already impressive scoring ability would reach new heights. His increased height would make him an even more daunting presence in the paint, allowing him to score at will over defenders and become a dominant force on the boards. His handles and agility would still be valuable assets, as he could now see over most defenders, facilitating his playmaking.
Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, one can expect Tatum to be an unstoppable offensive force. With his improved skills, he could become a matchup nightmare for every defender, stretching the floor with his shooting and using his slashing skills to dominate inside. His impact on both ends of the floor will be substantial for Boston, as he could be a shot-blocking threat on help defense and a proven versatile scorer capable of leading his team to success. His potential in the upcoming season would be truly remarkable for the Celtics in their championship quest.
9. Ja Morant
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During the 2022-23 NBA season, Ja Morant displayed incredible athleticism and playmaking ability, averaging 26.2 points, 8.1 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game, along with 1.1 steals and 0.3 blocks per contest.
His explosive drives and creativity in setting up teammates are instrumental to his team's success. If Ja Morant were 7'4" tall, his already outstanding athleticism would be amplified. He would be a dynamic presence in transition, using his newfound height to finish at the rim with ease and overpower defenders. His court vision and playmaking skills would still shine, and his size advantage would make it even more challenging for opponents to contain him.
Looking forward to the 2023-24 season, one can anticipate Ja Morant becoming a game-changing presence in the league. His combination of speed and skills can elevate him to an elite level, and he'll be a player his team can rely on to lead them deep into the playoffs. His potential for the upcoming season will be nothing short of exciting despite his suspension, as he showed already in the last couple of seasons that he can be a Top tier talent in the NBA while leading the Memphis Grizzlies to a deep playoff run.
8. Donovan Mitchell
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In the 2022-23 NBA season, Donovan Mitchell exhibited his scoring ability, averaging 28.5 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game with 1.5 steals and 0.5 blocks per game.
His combination of explosiveness and clutch performances made him a fan favorite for the Cleveland Cavaliers. If Donovan Mitchell were 7'4" tall, his scoring prowess would be nearly unstoppable. He would be a matchup nightmare, able to easily shoot over defenders and finish in traffic with ease. His agility and quickness would still be assets, as he'd be a dominant force off the dribble. With such height, he'd become a more imposing defensive presence as well.
For the 2023-24 season, the expectations for Donovan Mitchell will be sky-high after an unbelievable first campaign with the Cavs. His scoring is elite, and he might contribute significantly on the defensive end. He could lead his team deep into the playoffs, being a true franchise player. Donovan Mitchell's potential might be a game-changer for the upcoming season as the Cavs try to go deep into the Eastern Conference Playoffs.
7. Devin Booker
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In the 2022-23 NBA season, Devin Booker continued to establish himself as one of the league's premier shooting guards, averaging 27.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, while averaging 1.0 steals and 0.3 blocks.
His scoring ability, particularly in clutch moments, is a defining trait of his game in the postseason. If Devin Booker were 7'4" tall, his scoring and efficiency potential would be unparalleled. His shooting range and shot-creating ability would be even more devastating, and he could easily shoot over nearly any defender. His height advantage would make him a dominant presence in rebounding and shot-blocking. With this added size, he'd still maintain his quickness and agility, making him a versatile offensive and defensive threat.
Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, Devin Booker will be a player opposing teams are going to dread facing. He is a scoring machine, capable of taking over games, and his versatility on both ends of the floor could be a key asset for his team's championship aspirations. The expectation for Booker in the upcoming season is to lead his team deep into the playoffs, on a Big 3 in Phoenix along with Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, where they are supposed to win the championship after losing in the 2021 Finals against the Bucks.
6. Damian Lillard
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During the 2022-23 NBA season, Damian Lillard showcased his deep shooting range and clutch performances, averaging 28.7 points and 7.3 assists per game.
His leadership and scoring ability make him one of the league's elite point guards. If Damian Lillard were 7'4" tall, his scoring range would be otherworldly. His three-point shooting would be a deadly weapon, and he'd be able to shoot over nearly any defender. His court vision and playmaking skills would still shine, and he'd be an intimidating presence in perimeter defense.
For the 2023-24 season, one could anticipate Damian Lillard to be a game-changer. His ability to hit shots from deep and facilitate offense would be second to none, and he'd lead his team with his exceptional skills and leadership. With his newfound height, Lillard's Bucks would look to him as the primary catalyst for their success, expecting deep playoff runs and championship aspirations.
5. De'Aaron Fox
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In the 2022-23 NBA season, De'Aaron Fox showcased his speed and playmaking ability, averaging 25.0 points and 6.1 assists per game with 4.2 rebounds, adding 1.1 steals and 0.3 blocks per game.
His ability to push the pace and create scoring opportunities for his team makes him a valuable asset for the Kings since they drafted him as the 5th pick in the 2017 Draft. If De'Aaron Fox were 7'4" tall, his speed and playmaking skills would still be assets. He'd be a unique player with the ability to drive to the rim with ease and finish over defenders. His height advantage would make him a disruptive force on defense, and he could facilitate his team's offense with unmatched court vision.
For the 2023-24 season, the expectations for De'Aaron Fox are remarkable. His combination of speed and clutchness make him a force on both ends of the floor, and he showed capable of leading his team to new heights with his dynamic style of play alongside Domantas Sabonis. Fox's growth will make him a key figure in his team's quest for a deep playoff run and potentially a championship after the Kings got back to the playoffs for the first time in more than 15 years.
4. LeBron James
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In the 2022-23 NBA season, LeBron James continued to defy age, averaging 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. Bron added 0.9 steals and 0.6 blocks per game last season too.
His incredible combination of athleticism, basketball IQ and leadership was on full display last season, and it looks like he will still be at his peak next season. If LeBron James were 7'4" tall, he would be an even more formidable force. His size and strength would make him nearly unstoppable in the paint, while his vision and basketball IQ would still set him apart as a playmaker. Defensively, he'd be a rim-protecting force as he is already the King of chase-down blocks, a unique skill that gave him a championship in the 2016 NBA Finals.
Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, the expectations for LeBron James are nothing short of greatness. He'll continue to be a leader on and off the court, driving his team towards championship contention. With his enhanced supporting cast, he'll be an even more versatile player, dominating at multiple positions and contributing in all facets of the game in his 21st season as a pro.
3. Luka Doncic
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During the 2022-23 NBA season, Luka Doncic further solidified his status as one of the brightest young stars, averaging 32.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game with 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks per game.
His unique blend of scoring, playmaking, and basketball IQ makes him a franchise cornerstone for the Mavericks since they drafted him in 2018. If Luka Doncic were 7'4" tall, his versatility and court vision would be even more pronounced. He'd be a true point forward, capable of dominating in the post and facilitating the offense. His size would create matchup nightmares for opponents and there wouldn't be another unicorn as unique as the Slovenian maestro if that were the case.
For the 2023-24 season, Luka Doncic's potential can be limitless. He'll be in the MVP conversation even more than ever, leading his team with incredible stat lines and clutch performances as he did last season despite missing the playoffs. The expectations for Doncic are to elevate his team to championship contention and become a first-time MVP into his sixth season as an NBA player.
2. Kyrie Irving
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In the 2022-23 NBA season, Kyrie Irving displayed his exceptional ball-handling and scoring ability, averaging 27.1 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game alongside 1.1 steals and 0.8 blocks.
His incredible handles and clutch shot-making are a sight to behold. If Kyrie Irving were 7'4" tall, his ball-handling skills and finishing ability would become nearly impossible to defend. His size would make him a more imposing presence on the court, allowing him to see passing lanes and create opportunities for his teammates. His already impressive contested shot-making would be unstoppable and there wouldn't be any flaw in his game, as he would also be a menace on the defensive end of the court.
Looking forward to the 2023-24 season, Kyrie Irving's potential with Luka Doncic on the Mavs makes him an offensive juggernaut. His combination of scoring and skill would lead his team deep into the playoffs, with the expectations of making a strong championship run. Irving will be counted on as a primary scorer and playmaker, impacting games in ways that few others can.
1. Stephen Curry
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During the 2022-23 NBA season, Stephen Curry continued to revolutionize the game with his shooting, averaging 29.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 6.5 assists per game while logging 0.9 steals and 0.6 blocks per game.
His incredible range and ability to stretch the floor changed the dynamics of NBA basketball. If Stephen Curry were 7'4" tall, his shooting range and ability to create space would be unmatched. He'd be a towering figure on the court, capable of shooting from anywhere and making defenses adjust to his unique skills. If he’s already the best in the world at shooting contested threes, that added height would make him unguardable from three, able to shoot over every single defender, and probably the most unique and prolific scorer ever.
For the 2023-24 season, the expectations for Stephen Curry are monumental. He'll still be a scoring sensation, potentially challenging his own records for three-pointers made with the addition of Chris Paul to assist him next season. His presence on the court stretches defenses to their limits, creating opportunities for his teammates too. Curry's ability to lead his team to championships might not be at its peak, as the Warriors didn´t make the best moves in the West, but his sole presence will be a force to be reckoned with in the postseason.
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