A decade ago, the landscape of the NBA was about to change dramatically. As LeBron James celebrated his third championship and the formidable Golden State Warriors prepared to welcome Kevin Durant, the 2016 NBA draft was on the horizon. This draft class included talents like Ben Simmons, Brandon Ingram, and Jaylen Brown—all of whom have made significant impacts on their teams. Let's take a closer look at this draft class and see how it stacks up now, taking a 'best player available' approach.

Jaylen Brown: A Championship Catalyst

The original first pick, Ben Simmons, is now seen in a different light. In a re-draft, Jaylen Brown takes the top spot. Despite ranking sixth in the 2016 draft class for Value Over Replacement Player (VORP), Brown has proven his worth through his accomplishments. With a championship ring, a Finals MVP award, and five All-Star selections, he has demonstrated his capability to perform at the highest level. Brown leads the 2016 class in total points, tallying 13,474. His reputation as the best two-way wing adds significant value, making him the ideal choice for reimagined franchises.

Pascal Siakam: The Steady Contributor

Originally selected 27th, Pascal Siakam emerges at the second position in this re-draft. His accomplishments, including four All-Star nods and a Most Improved Player award, cannot be overlooked. With superior scoring efficiency and the ability to log significant minutes, Siakam has been a vital player for the Toronto Raptors and remains a force in the league. His defensive capabilities and all-around game ideally position him as a top pick—almost a match for Jaylen Brown.

Jamal Murray: The Playoff Performer

At the third position, Jamal Murray shines as one of the best offensive talents of this draft class. Originally the seventh overall pick, Murray's prowess as a scorer stood out. Despite injuries affecting his career trajectory, he has demonstrated the ability to perform on biggest stages, including a remarkable playoff run in 2023 where he averaged 26.1 points per game. His combination of scoring and playmaking make him a valuable asset to any team, which cements his place in the top tier of this class.

Domantas Sabonis: The Statistical Juggernaut

Though picked 11th in the original draft, Domantas Sabonis offers a compelling case for the fourth spot in a re-draft. His impressive stats, including leading the class in rebounds and assists, showcase his individual excellence. A three-time All-Star, Sabonis's contributions have been consistent; however, his defensive shortcomings have hindered his teams' capacities to achieve sustained playoff success. Despite this, his immense talent ensures a high draft selection.

Brandon Ingram: The Scoring Wing

Taking the fifth spot is Brandon Ingram. Originally selected second, Ingram has developed into a reliable scoring option, averaging over 20 points per game since joining the New Orleans Pelicans. His ability to generate his own shot, coupled with a Most Improved Player award, makes him a valuable re-draft pick. Although defensive concerns linger, his offensive ability cannot be understated.

Fred VanVleet: The Underdog Success Story

Undrafted in 2016, Fred VanVleet occupies the sixth spot in this list. Demonstrating commendable growth throughout his career, he has transformed from a bench player to an NBA champion and an All-Star. VanVleet's leadership and performance in crucial moments solidified his position as a valuable player. His work ethic and determination have made him a symbol of overcoming the odds, and he deserves recognition in the higher draft echelon.

The Mid-Tier Talent

As we delve deeper into the re-draft, other notable figures emerge. Ivica Zubac, originally the 32nd pick, has established himself as a quality starter with impressive stats. Meanwhile, Dejounte Murray, who had experienced injury setbacks, is also a worthy mention after ascending to the ninth spot. These players illustrate the depth of talent available in the 2016 draft.

Undrafted Gems and Role Players

As we approach the tail end of our re-draft, players like Dorian Finney-Smith and Alex Caruso rise to prominence. Both have made significant contributions despite being undrafted. Their transformative skill sets and intangibles—defense, versatility, and three-point shooting—underline the need for recognizing impactful players beyond the first few picks.

A Conclusion on 2016's Lasting Effects

The 2016 NBA Draft class continues to leave an indelible mark on the league, with players like Jaylen Brown and Pascal Siakam shining not just in individual accolades but also in their contributions to winning basketball. Through this re-draft lens, we have seen talents rearranged based solely on their impact on the court, rather than their positions or the current rosters they occupy. As the decade unfolds, the evolutions of these players set a compelling narrative for the NBA.