NBA Today: Ranking the top 10 duos in the league entering the 2019-20 season

Los Angeles Clippers introduce Kawhi Leonard and Paul George
Los Angeles Clippers introduce Kawhi Leonard and Paul George

#6 Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons (Philadelphia 76ers)

With the addition of veteran Al Horford and the returning Tobias Harris, Philly looks better than ever.
With the addition of veteran Al Horford and the returning Tobias Harris, Philly looks better than ever.

There's no question in any one's mind that Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid are two of the best youngsters in the NBA with a bright future ahead of them. One of the most hated duos on this list, the combo of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid has endured its fair share of criticism come along their way.

Simmons, despite his ability to throw dimes and defend with solidity, is a mediocre shooter. Embiid, on the other hand, has become notorious for taunting his opponents and frequently getting injured even though he is one of the best players in the league when healthy.

Despite some of their shortcomings, both Simmons and Embiid are perennial All-Stars, who are capable of leading a team deep into the playoffs. Simmons is just a jump shot away from a potential LeBron-like career while Embiid needs to stay injury-free to move up the ranks as one of the best players in the NBA.

Last season, they led Philly to 51 wins and made it to the Eastern Conference Semifinals where they were beaten in seven by Toronto with an iconic game-winner from Kawhi Leonard.

This season, with the addition of veteran Al Horford and long term signing of Tobias Harris, the 76ers are looking more dangerous than ever.


#5 Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson (Golden State Warriors)

Given Klay Thompson's injury, the onus will be on Step Curry to lead the Warriors to the playoffs
Given Klay Thompson's injury, the onus will be on Step Curry to lead the Warriors to the playoffs

In contrast to the previous duo, Splash Brothers Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson are one of the most liked players in the league. Two of the greatest shooters of all time, Curry and Thompson can shoot the ball from anywhere when they are on song. Curry has been the best point guard in the league for some seasons now while Thompson is no slouch either as he has been one of the best two-way players in the league in recent seasons.

With Thompson unavailable for most of the next season, it will be on Curry to keep the Warriors relevant. The multi-dimensional Draymond Green will also be expected to contribute heavily as the Warriors will look to stay afloat in the tough Western Conference.

Further, the surprise addition of D'Angelo Russell in the offseason is a blessing in disguise for the Warriors. Russell took a huge leap last season for which he was rewarded with the first All-Star selection of his career.

Despite the departure of some key players from their championship seasons, the Warriors are no way thin as they still have capable players who fit well with the team.

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