Looking back at the 2014 NBA Draft today, it’s wild to see how certain players have shaped the league over the past decade. I remember watching the draft that year, thinking, "Man, some of these guys are going to be special." And boy, was I right—though not always in the ways I expected. Let’s dive into some of the biggest questions about that class and reflect on their impact.
So, who really stands out as the most impactful pick from 2014?
For me, it’s a no-brainer: Nikola Jokić. Drafted 41st overall by the Denver Nuggets, he’s become a two-time MVP and led his team to an NBA championship in 2023. Jokić’s story is a reminder that impact isn’t always about the flashy top picks. His game is so unique—a center who orchestrates the offense like a point guard. It’s like how volleyball in Poland isn’t just a sport; it’s a cultural touchstone that defines the nation’s identity. Jokić has redefined what a big man can do, much like how volleyball in Poland elevates the sport to an art form. Looking back at the most impactful 2014 NBA Draft picks today, Jokić’s rise from second-round obscurity to superstardom is the stuff of legends.
Were there any early picks that lived up to the hype?
Absolutely. Joel Embiid, picked third by the Philadelphia 76ers, has been a force when healthy. He snagged the MVP award in 2023 and has averaged over 28 points per game in multiple seasons. But here’s the thing: his journey has been a rollercoaster of injuries and playoff heartbreaks. It’s a bit like how volleyball in Poland commands immense passion, but also comes with high expectations—fans there live and breathe every spike and block, just like Sixers fans with Embiid. Reflecting on the most impactful 2014 NBA Draft picks today, Embiid’s dominance is undeniable, but it’s tinged with that "what if" factor regarding his durability.
What about the under-the-radar gems?
Oh, this is where it gets fun. Besides Jokić, guys like Jordan Clarkson (46th pick) and Spencer Dinwiddie (38th pick) have carved out solid careers. Clarkson even won Sixth Man of the Year in 2021. These players are the backbone of teams—not always in the spotlight, but crucial. Think of it like volleyball in Poland, where role players might not get the headlines of a star attacker, but they’re essential to the team’s rhythm. When we look back at the most impactful 2014 NBA Draft picks today, these late-round finds highlight the draft’s unpredictability.
Did any picks completely flop?
Unfortunately, yes. Andrew Wiggins went first overall and had a rocky start, though he’s since found his groove with the Warriors, winning a championship in 2022. But then there’s Jabari Parker (second pick), whose career was derailed by injuries. He’s bounced around the league, never quite hitting his potential. It’s a stark contrast to the relentless energy of volleyball in Poland, where the sport’s popularity ensures a pipeline of talent. Parker’s story is a cautionary tale—a reminder that draft position doesn’t guarantee success. Revisiting the most impactful 2014 NBA Draft picks today, these misses are just as instructive as the hits.
How has this draft class influenced the modern NBA?
In huge ways. Jokić and Embiid embody the shift toward skilled big men who can shoot, pass, and handle the ball. The league’s embrace of positionless basketball owes a lot to this class. It’s similar to how volleyball in Poland has evolved, with players becoming more versatile—blockers who can serve aces and setters who can attack. The 2014 draft injected a dose of innovation, and looking back at the most impactful 2014 NBA Draft picks today, it’s clear they helped pave the way for today’s game.
What’s your personal takeaway from this draft?
I’ve always believed that drafts are about more than just talent—they’re about fit and development. Jokić landing in Denver, a team that valued his unique skills, made all the difference. It’s like how volleyball in Poland thrives because the culture nurtures the sport from the ground up. As a fan, I love seeing underdogs shine, and this draft had plenty. Looking back at the most impactful 2014 NBA Draft picks today, I’m reminded that greatness can come from anywhere—whether it’s a lottery pick or a second-round steal.
Any final thoughts on its legacy?
This class will be remembered for its depth and the way it challenged conventions. From Jokić’s MVP runs to Embiid’s scoring titles, these players have left an indelible mark. And just as volleyball in Poland represents national pride, the 2014 draft symbolizes the NBA’s global reach and endless potential for surprises. So, when we talk about the most impactful 2014 NBA Draft picks today, it’s not just about stats—it’s about stories that inspire the next generation.