Jerami Grant had a breakout season for the Detroit Pistons last year and placed himself among the best power forwards in the Eastern Conference.
But the East is loaded at the position, with at least three players who are MVP candidates heading into the season, including the two frontrunners for the award.
Every single team in the East has as guy who is already established or has high-ceiling talent, so it’s not even easy to crack the top-5 in such a loaded group.
Here are the top power forwards in the Eastern Conference and where Jerami Grant ranks among them.
Detroit Pistons: Ranking Eastern Conference power forwards #15-12
#15 Franz Wagner: Orlando Magic
The lower part of this list is full of talented guys who have been drafted recently or within the last two seasons, including Wagner.
I think people are sleeping on Wagner, who is already a good playmaker who can shoot and defend, but like I said, this is a talented group.
#14 Rui Hachimura: Washington Wizards
Hachimura has proven himself to be a solid role player for the Wizards who can score from inside and grab boards.
Whether or not he ever becomes more than that will probably rely on his shot, which improved last season but still wasn’t impressive.
#13 PJ Tucker: Miami Heat
The old man on the list, PJ Tucker is definitely in the twilight of his career, but he can still defend just about anyone for short bursts and knock down 3-point shots. He’ll be a nice veteran addition to the Miami Heat.
#12 Patrick Williams: Chicago Bulls
Williams didn’t put it all together last season but all of the signs are there. He is a plus athlete who is still learning the game and projects as a guy who is going to be a great two-way player.
His long-range shot was much better than advertised and he is primed to have a big second season for the Bulls.