The countdown to the 2024-25 NBA season has officially begun with the preseason tipping off on October 4. All eyes are on the league as the new season promises thrilling action, fresh storylines, and intense competition.
First and foremost, analysts Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson have meticulously crafted this year’s top 100 players list. Notably, the list features no rookies, underscoring the emphasis on proven talent and experience. Every NBA team boasts at least one player on the list, highlighting the league’s remarkable depth of skill.
Teams with High Representation
Among the teams, the New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves each feature an impressive six players in the top 100. The Boston Celtics follow closely with five players. Other notable mentions include the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets, each having four players represented.
Teams like the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards, however, only have a single player making the cut, pointing to potential areas for growth and development.
Veterans and Rising Stars
Draymond Green, entering his 13th NBA season, continues to be a crucial figure for the Golden State Warriors. Alongside him, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant remain in the elite echelon as top-10 players, showcasing their longevity and sustained excellence. Meanwhile, Zion Williamson’s career-high 70 games last season stands as a testament to his growing resilience and impact on the court.
Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers is another player to watch. After averaging 15.9 points per game and playing in all 82 games last season, he has solidified his place as a dependable and talented athlete. Similarly, Alperen Sengun of the Houston Rockets is coming off a breakout season, suggesting a promising career trajectory.
Close Contenders and Ranking Drops
Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed out on breaking into the top 10, highlighting their extraordinary talent and potential to make significant moves up the rankings in the coming seasons. On the other hand, Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal have seen drops in their rankings this year, a narrative likely to stir discussions about their performance and future prospects.
Players Leading the Charge
The Boston Celtics’ new acquisition, Jrue Holiday, along with Derrick White, are set to lead the charge for a championship in 2025. The teamwork and synergy between these players will be pivotal for the Celtics as they aim for the ultimate prize.
Top Recognition
Nikola Jokic’s unanimous selection as the top player for the upcoming season by the panel of experts cements his standing as the premier talent in the NBA. This recognition is a nod to his exceptional skill set, leadership on the court, and his pivotal role in driving the Denver Nuggets' success.
As training camps approach, the anticipation builds, and teams gear up for the challenges ahead. The comprehensive top 100 list not only celebrates the league's finest but also sets the stage for what promises to be an electrifying NBA season.