O.J. Mayo Poster, originally uploaded by Digital Skraps.
O.J. Mayo is the first rookie on this list. It follows that because youth is a positive for our purposes, younger players will tend towards the higher rankings. In this, one might find an argument for Mayo to go higher. After one strong season with the Grizz though, there are (at least in my mind) more questions than answers. Will he and Rudy Gay remain team mates and form a formidable duo? Will the (imminent?) acquisition of the once-Answer-lific Iverson help or hinder Mayo's development? What about the influence of Z-Bo? One thing we do know about Mayo is that he has a nose for the basket, but at times looked too apt to go for that before exploring other options. Will this season see him grow into a smooth combo guard, or will all the losing start to set in?
Why does he get the nod over Rudy Gay? Because after 82 games, he just looks more intent on becoming a force in this league. Further, Mayo may not ever lead the league in assists, but he's still already a decent distributor and well on his way to developing a very, very well-rounded game. 18.5 points, 3 assists, and 3 rebounds per game ain't too shabby. I'm actually kind of looking forward to seeing what teaming with Iverson could do for Mayo. However, I saw someone say the Grizz would make the playoffs this year. Such statements call for sardonicisms such as: I didn't realize we were living in ridiculous-fantasies-do-come true! land.
