Every sport has its superstars, and basketball is certainly no exception. But even the likes of Magic Johnson or LeBron James can’t carry a team to glory single handedly year after year. In order to be a genuine title contender, a team needs a great pairing. A duo that feeds off one another to produce a whole that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
There are different ways we could try to rank the best duos, but Grant Hughes, the NBA correspondent for CBS, suggests that for a simple mathematical approach, the Estimated Plus Minus (EPM) is an effective measure for getting rid of noise. The only adjustment we need to make is to factor in EPM data from the previous year where we have a player whose numbers are skewed due to absence by injury. Otherwise, all we’ll be doing is reproducing the data for last year as opposed to ranking the duos as of now. Except where stated otherwise, we take the EPM for each of the players and sum the results. So for example, EPMs of +5 and +4.5 give us a combined EPM of +9.5.
LA Clippers – Kawhi Leonard and Paul George (EPM +11.3)
The Clippers closing streak of five wins was the best in the NBA last season, but it was ultimately a campaign of what might have been. Specifically, if Leonard had not been sidelined with a torn ACL for the entire season. That’s not the career killer it once was, Leonard has only just turned 31 and sportsbooks are expecting great things from the Clippers in 2023. In fact, if you bet online on Unibet sportsbook right now, you’ll be offered +700 championship odds. Only the Warriors are shorter.
Philadelphia 76ers – Joel Embiid and James Harden (EPM +11.7)
A perfect example of how a duo can make all the difference. Joel Embiid’s ability and contribution spoke for itself last year, but the 76ers need an injection of magic. That can come courtesy of James Harden, and if he can hit his straps next year and put those rumors that he can’t handle the big games to bed, the 76ers could be a force to be reckoned with.
Brooklyn Nets – Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving (EPM +12.2)
Undeniably a controversial selection, these two could equally hit a top spot among the greatest under achievers. They’ve only played together 44 times in three seasons, and they might not even be together next year. However, we are judging by what’s in front of us right now, and the sheer talent present in this duo means they cannot be denied. If the fates decree one last season together, it could be one for the ages.
Denver Nuggets – Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray (EPM +12.6)
If you’re looking to lay a couple of dollars on an outside shot for next season, the Nuggets could be an inspired shout. Like the Clippers with Leonard, they contributed manfully without the injured Jamal Murray. When he returns to the fold and combines with 2-times MVP Nikola Jokic, the whole league will sit up and take notice.