NBA 2K18: 10 Players Who Should Get A Stat Boost
Playoff kings, under-appreciated studs, and Russell Westbrook - duh.
Another blistering NBA season is in the books, and a new instalment of basketball's biggest video game franchise will closely follow. With the release of NBA 2K18 on the horizon, we're taking our annual look at the players who should find themselves significantly bolstered in the new game.
At first glance, this season was one of extremes - exquisite performances by Westbrook, Harden, LeBron and Durant overshadowing all the rest. Yes, those individuals shone brighter than most, but dig beneath the surface and you'll find a host of other potential candidates for acknowledgement, from defensive machine Rudy Gobert to diminutive point-scoring demon Isaiah Thomas.
Sure, all other teams were trampled by the Warriors and Cavaliers en route to their third successive shared final, but that doesn't mean only their stars are candidates for improvement. Yes, you'll find some huge, headline-grabbing names in this list, but keep an eye out for slightly less obvious candidates as well.
Overall, make sure you read closely. Not only will these players likely give you an edge over your opponents in 2K18, but they could well fit your personal style of play. Pay attention! Let's dive in.
10. Jimmy Butler - Minnesota Timberwolves
It remains to be seen just how effective Jimmy Butler's move to Minnesota will prove, but one thing's fore sure - the Chicago Bulls have lost their key man heading into 2017/18.
The franchise endured a mixed season, almost failing to make the playoffs before racing into a 2-0 lead against the Boston Celtics - the no. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. They were subsequently eliminated, losing four straight games in the process, but wouldn't have even reached that stage were it not for their 6'7" swingman.
Butler didn't have the most spectacular of seasons (in a year with one of the most hotly-contested MVP races ever), but still proved himself a star player. He had a career year in terms of average points, rebounds, assists and steals, and was voted into the All-NBA Third Team. Although not as spectacular as his Most Improved award in 2014/15, he's still had an impressive year, and will be greatly missed in Chicago.