Colin Cowherd reveals top 10 players in NBA Finals between Mavericks, Celtics

The NBA Finals are coming up.

The Western Conference champion Dallas Mavericks and Eastern Conference champion Boston Celtics about to come together in a clash for the Larry O'Brien trophy, with Game 1 tipping off on Thursday. The star power could not be stronger, as talented guards, rim-running big men and first-rate forwards will be showcased on full display. 

Who are the top 10 players in this matchup between Boston and Dallas, though? Colin Cowherd took us through his list Tuesday on "The Herd." 

Here's who he specified.

10. Celtics C Al Horford

Cowherd's thoughts: "You know only LeBron [James] as an active player has got more playoff experience? He has the highest net rating by any Celtic, and is a historically great corner 3-ball shooter. He's a 38 percent 3-ball shooter during the playoffs in his career.

9. Mavericks F PJ Washington

Cowherd's thoughts: "Versatile, can guard the five, maybe guard the three, maybe guard the two. Also, he has more 3s in the playoffs than Jayson Tatum."

8. Celtics C Kristaps Porzingis

Cowherd's thoughts: "Porzingis had his best defensive year. He's versatile, he's hard to defend. He's got great length. Third-leading scorer on the Celtics this year, over 20 points per game. … I would put him at eight, again I'm crossing my fingers on his health. But he will make key plays in this Finals. That I can guarantee you."

7. Mavericks C Dereck Lively II

Cowherd's thoughts: "How about the rookie, Dereck Lively? Dude's shooting 67 percent from the field. Second-highest plus-minus for the Mavericks. Not only is he a rim defender, he's good on the lobs from Luka. To get a No. 12 pick in the current state of college basketball who can come into these high-leverage games and be this much