Prepare for the 2023-2024 NBA season as the top 25 players gear up to dominate the court. From veterans to rising stars, this list highlights the best in basketball.
25. Zion Williamson – New Orleans Pelicans
Despite facing injury challenges, Zion Williamson has all the potential to make a comeback and establish himself as a
great NBA player. His unreal combination of size, strength, and athleticism sets him apart on the court, making him a
way bigger threat with scoring and rebounding
Zion’s basketball instincts and high basketball IQ contribute to his ability to make an impact. His understanding of the game, quick decision-making, and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates show his talent.
With his youth and untapped potential, there is tons of room for growth and skill refinement. Given the right coaching and support system, there is no doubt that Williamson can overcome his injury setbacks and establish himself as one of the brightest stars in the NBA.
And in case you’ve forgotten who he really is, Zion averaged 22/6/3 during his rookie year before getting injured and showed plenty of upside in his game. Assuming he can stay healthy, he could realistically be much higher and take over the NBA.
24. Jaren Jackson Jr – Memphis Grizzlies
Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies has everything needed to have a breakout season, following his impressive Defensive Player of the Year campaign. With his defense, versatility, and strong presence in the paint, Jackson has shown he can impact both ends of the court.
With the loss of Ja Morant, many may imagine his stats to descend without a point guard to get him the ball. However, he still has a strong supporting cast that will also contribute to Jackson’s success. With new skilled teammates such as Marcus Smart and D-Rose creating scoring opportunities, a well-rounded Memphis Grizzlies roster will help his offense to excel at his defensive level.
Staying healthy will be key, as injuries have limited his playing time in the past. If he can maintain his health, Jackson has the chance to gain even more experience, build chemistry, and consistently showcase his abilities this season. The basketball world eagerly awaits the rise of Jaren Jackson Jr. as he aims to solidify his status as an NBA rising star.
23. Domantas Sabonis – Sacramento Kings
Domantas Sabonis has the potential to excel once again this season and lead the Kings to another playoff appearance. Last year, he showcased his versatility and impact on the court, averaging an impressive 19/12/7. Sabonis’s scoring ability is a key factor in his success, with his diverse offensive skill set allowing him to dominate in the paint and drain mid-range jumpers. Additionally, his exceptional court vision and passing skills make him an even bigger threat on offense, creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Sabonis’s rebounding significantly influences the game by providing second-chance opportunities and controlling the tempo. His ability to secure rebounds and initiate fast breaks enables the team to push the pace and catch opponents off guard.
With his scoring ability, rebounding dominance, and leadership qualities, Domantas Sabonis has the potential to have another outstanding season and guide the Kings to success alongside De’Aaron Fox. Sabonis’s commitment to excellence and his role as a leader further solidify his importance to the team’s aspirations for the playoffs once again.
22. Brandon Ingram – New Orleans Pelicans
Brandon Ingram is set to have another stellar season, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills. Last year, he averaged an impressive 25/5/6 per game, solidifying his status as a key offensive weapon. Ingram’s smooth shooting stroke and versatility make him a challenging player to guard as he is capable of scoring from all areas of the court. Whether it’s knocking down mid-range jumpers, attacking the rim, or stepping out beyond the arc, his offensive skill set is diverse and impactful.
Furthermore, Ingram’s improved playmaking ability adds another dynamic to his game. With his height and vision, he has the ability to find open teammates and make accurate passes. His increased assist numbers from last season demonstrate his growth as a playmaker. By involving his teammates and making the right decisions on the court, Ingram becomes a more well-rounded and impactful player, elevating the performance of the entire team.
Ingram’s relentless drive and commitment to improve make him a player to watch out for this year. He has shown a strong work ethic and a desire to elevate his game to new heights. With each passing season, he has made significant strides in his skill set and overall impact on the court. Ingram’s determination and hunger for success will push him to reach new levels, making him a significant contributor to his improving team’s success.
21. Mikal Bridges – Brooklyn Nets
Mikal Bridges is one of the biggest names to look out for this season, showcasing his incredible defensive skills and offensive improvement. Last year, in his 27 games with the Nets, he averaged an impressive 26/4/5 per game. Bridges has established himself as an elite defender, providing lockdown defense against some of the league’s top players. Additionally, his offensive contributions make him a valuable asset for any team.
Bridges’ defensive abilities set him apart from many players in the league. His combination of length, agility, and basketball IQ allows him to guard multiple positions effectively. Whether it’s shutting down opposing wings or providing help defense in the paint, Bridges consistently disrupts the opponent’s offensive flow. His defensive skills not only make him a standout individual defender but also elevate the entire team’s defensive presence.
On the offensive end, Bridges has proven to be a reliable scoring option. Bridges’ offensive versatility makes him a threat from beyond the arc as well as in the mid-range and at the rim. His ability to create his own shot and make plays for his teammates adds another dimension to his game, making him a valuable offensive piece. Look out for him to be regarded as a definite all-star this year.
20. Jaylen Brown – Boston Celtics
Jaylen Brown has the potential to have a phenomenal season, building upon his impressive performance from last year. Averaging 27/7/3, Brown showcased his scoring ability and overall impact on the court. While he struggled at times with trying to be the primary option and asserting ball dominance in the playoffs, this year presents an opportunity for him to refine his game and find the right balance.
Brown’s scoring is a major asset to his team. With his explosive athleticism and improved shooting, he has the ability to score from all areas of the court. Whether it’s attacking the rim with authority or knocking down shots from beyond the arc, Brown can put up points in various ways.
On top of that, Brown’s growth as a playmaker will be a key factor in his success this year. While his scoring ability is undeniable, his ability to involve his teammates and make plays for others will elevate his game to another level. By improving his passing skills and decision-making, Brown can become a more well-rounded player and contribute to the team’s success in multiple facets.
19. Tyrese Haliburton – Indiana Pacers
Tyrese Haliburton could very easily have a breakout season, depending on how the rest of his team plays. Last year, he showcased his versatility and playmaking abilities, averaging 21/4/10 per game. Now, coming off a new major contract deal, Haliburton has the opportunity to continue his upward trajectory and solidify himself as a rising star in the league.
Haliburton’s playmaking skills and basketball IQ set him apart. His ability to see the floor and make precise passes allows him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His impressive assist numbers from last season demonstrate his ability to orchestrate the offense and make his teammates better. With continued development in his decision-making and court vision, Haliburton can elevate his playmaking to an even higher level.
Additionally, Haliburton’s scoring ability adds a whole nother dimension to his game. While he is known for his passing skills, he has shown the ability to score effectively as well. Whether it’s knocking down three-pointers or utilizing his crafty mid-range game, Haliburton’s offensive arsenal is diverse and impactful. With his increased scoring responsibilities, he can further showcase his ability to contribute on the offensive end.
18. Trae Young – Atlanta Hawks
Trae Young is easily one of the most underrated players in the league, and looks to build upon his impressive performance from last year. Averaging 26/3/10 per game, Young showcased his amazing scoring ability and unhumanlike playmaking skills. This year presents an opportunity for him to continue his development and solidify himself as one of the premier guards in the league.
Young’s scoring is obviously a major asset to his team. With his deep shooting range and ability to create his own shot, he poses a constant threat to opposing defenses. Whether it’s knocking down long-range bombs or utilizing his crazy ball-handling to penetrate the defense, Young can put up points in a variety of ways. This season, he can focus on further refining his shot selection and becoming even more efficient as a scorer.
Furthermore, Young’s exceptional court vision and passing skills make him a dynamic playmaker. His ability to thread the needle with precise passes and set up his teammates for easy scoring opportunities is possibly his most valuable asset. With his improved decision-making and understanding of the game, Young can elevate his playmaking to new heights. By continuing to involve his teammates and make the right reads on the court, he can also further solidify himself as a true floor general.
17. Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers
Donovan Mitchell enters this season riding a wave of momentum unlike any other (minus the whole playoffs choke). From last year’s performance, where he averaged 28/4/4 and had a staggering 71 points in a single game, Mitchell’s star play style has only continued to ascend. His scoring combined with his unshakeable determination, were instrumental in rallying the Cleveland Cavaliers to the playoffs. Mitchell’s ability to consistently create his own shot under pressure and his knack for making clutch plays has made him a formidable force on the court.
This season, there’s a ton of anticipation surrounding Mitchell. With his established position as a lethal scorer, the expectation is for him to expand on the other aspects of his game – rebounding and facilitating.
If Mitchell can increase his averages from last year’s 4 rebounds and 4 assists, he could become an even more dominant player, balancing his known scoring abilities with an expanded capacity to create opportunities for his teammates. This would elevate his status from not just a top-tier scorer but to an all-around superstar.
16. Jimmy Butler – Miami Heat
Jimmy Butler’s impact on the Miami Heat has been nothing short of transformative. Last season, his impressive averages of 23/6/5 per game were the biggest part in propelling the Heat to the playoffs. Butler’s well-rounded game, his tenacity on both ends of the court, and his will to win are the qualities that set him apart. His synergy with team-mate Bam Adebayo has been a key ingredient to the Heat’s recent success, with their on-court chemistry reaching new heights.
This season, it is questionable if he can scale greater peaks. Despite the disappointment of not acquiring Damian
Lillard, Butler’s leadership will be critical in keeping the team’s morale high and their focus sharp. His partnership with Adebayo will continue to evolve, and under the guidance of Coach Erik Spoelstra, one of the most respected minds in basketball, Butler is hoping to lead the Heat to new heights.
Moreover, Butler’s relentless drive and commitment to continually improve make him a force to be reckoned with. His defensive prowess combined with his scoring ability make him one of the most formidable two-way players in the league. If he can build on his performances from last season and further enhance his playmaking abilities, Butler is primed to have an exceptional year, solidifying his title as one of the NBA’s (current) best.
15. Jamal Murray – Denver Nuggets
Jamal Murray’s return to the court this season is one of the most anticipated comebacks in the NBA. Despite still recovering from injury last season, Murray was a key piece in the Denver Nuggets’ championship run, averaging 20/4/6 during the season and even better stats in the playoffs.
The new season brings fresh challenges and opportunities for Murray. He shares the court with soon-to-be MVP (again) Nikola Jokic, whose unreal skills and basketball IQ make the duo one of the most formidable in the league. Their combined basketball skills, along with a strong supporting cast, make the Nuggets a force to be reckoned with. As Murray continues to recover from injury, his role will be even more significant, not just in terms of his on-court contributions but also in maintaining the team’s championship mentality.
Murray’s grit and determination, evident in his recovery and return from injury, are a testament to his character and his commitment to the game. As he navigates his comeback season, his ability to regain his pre-injury form while growing as a player will be crucial.
14. De’Aaron Fox – Sacramento Kings
De’Aaron Fox’s impact on the Sacramento Kings last season was nothing short of magical. Averaging an impressive 25/4/6, he played the key role in leading the Kings to their first playoff appearance in 17 years. Fox’s lightning-fast speed, dynamic playmaking, and scoring prowess make him a big force on the court.
This year, Fox is set to take his game to even greater heights. With the support of a talented teammate in Domantas Sabonis and a strong supporting cast, the Kings have the ingredients for success. Fox’s ability to create opportunities for his teammates and his knack for scoring in a variety of ways will be instrumental in driving the team’s offensive efficiency.
What sets Fox apart is his unwavering determination to establish himself as one of the premier point guards in the league. His work ethic is second to none, and he constantly seeks ways to improve his game. Fox’s goal of becoming a top point guard is a driving force behind his relentless pursuit of excellence. With his combination of speed, skill, and determination, he has the potential to establish himself among the elite players in the NBA.
13. Anthony Edwards – Minnesota Timberwolves
Averaging an impressive 25/6/4 last season, Edwards showcased his explosive scoring ability and versatility on the court. His performances in the league not only earned him the Rookie of the Year award in recent history but also cemented him as one of the brightest young talents in the league.
This year, Edwards has the opportunity to take his game to new heights. Over the summer, he showed tremendous growth and improvement, leaving fans and analysts in question of his true potential. With NBA experience under his belt, Edwards has gained valuable knowledge and now has a better understanding of the league, which will undoubtedly contribute to his development.
The sky’s the limit for Edwards as he looks to establish himself as the future star of the NBA. His combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and untapped potential make him an exciting player to watch. If Edwards can continue to refine his skills, expand his basketball IQ, and become a more consistent performer, he has all the tools to become a dominant force in the league and leave a lasting impact on the game.
12. Kevin Durant – Phoenix Suns
Kevin Durant’s blockbuster trade last season was nothing short of remarkable. Despite playing only 8 games with the Suns, he averaged an impressive 26/6/4 with the team. Now, as he gears up for the upcoming season, Durant finds himself on the new team, surrounded by a roster that boasts great chemistry. He has the potential to be a key player for a future championship team, alongside his talented teammate, Devin Booker.
Durant’s presence on the court alone demands attention from opposing defenses. His scoring ability, combined with his versatility and basketball IQ, makes him an offensive juggernaut. With the Suns’ strong supporting cast and a team that has developed great chemistry, Durant has the opportunity to thrive and help lead his team to success.
Furthermore, Durant’s reputation as one of the best players in the league precedes him. His skill set, including his exceptional shooting, ball-handling, and ability to create his own shot, is virtually unmatched. As a seasoned veteran, Durant brings invaluable experience and leadership to his new team. If he can stay healthy and continue to showcase his elite skills, there’s no doubt that Durant will be a driving force in the Suns’ pursuit of a championship, solidifying his status as one of the game’s greatest players EVER.
11. Anthony Davis – LA Lakers
Anthony Davis (AD) enters the new season with high expectations, and rightfully so. Last year, he showcased his skills by averaging an impressive 26/12/3. This year, AD will once again be a crucial component of a potential championship team, playing alongside LeBron James. The duo’s chemistry and on-court partnership make them a terrifying force that opponents will struggle to contain.
However, AD’s impact extends beyond scoring and rebounding. His defensive prowess is also a major asset. AD is widely regarded as one of the premier defenders in the league, with the ability to guard multiple positions and protect the rim. His presence alone can alter opponents’ game plans, making it challenging for them to score in the paint. AD’s defensive contributions make him a strong contender for the Defensive Player of the Year award.
To reach his full potential this year, AD will need to stay healthy and maintain his high level of performance. As he strives for greatness, AD’s impact on both ends of the court will be instrumental in guiding his team toward a championship and solidifying his place among the league’s elite players.
10. Damian Lillard – Milwaukee Bucks
Damian Lillard enters the upcoming season with immense potential for greatness. Last year, he showcased his offensive game by averaging an impressive 32/5/7 with the Portland Trail Blazers. This year, as he joins the Milwaukee Bucks, Lillard is set to become a key piece of a favored championship team, alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. The combination of Lillard’s scoring ability, leadership, and clutch performances will undoubtedly elevate the Bucks’ championship aspirations.
Lillard’s offensive skills are truly remarkable. His deep shooting range, ability to create his own shot, and fearless mentality make him one of the most dangerous offensive threats in the league. As he joins forces with Giannis, the duo has the potential to form a formidable one-two punch that opposing defenses will struggle to contain. Lillard’s scoring and playmaking abilities will complement Giannis’ dominant presence in the paint, creating a lethal offensive combination.
Dame’s leadership and experience will be incredibly valuable to the Bucks’ championship aspirations. His ability to rally his teammates, make crucial decisions in high-pressure situations, and lead by example make him a trusted figure on and off the court. Lillard’s determination and never-back-down attitude have earned him a reputation as one of the game’s most clutch performers.
9. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – OKC Thunder
This year, Shai Gilgeous-Alexader has the potential to make a significant impact and even become an MVP candidate. With an impressive average of 31/5/5 last season with the Thunder, SGA has already proven his skill and versatility on the court. His ability to score, rebound, and create opportunities for his teammates makes him a great 2-way player.
Moreover, OKC has been steadily improving year after year, which will further contribute to his success. The team’s commitment to growth and development, coupled with SGA’s leadership and work ethic, sets the stage for a promising season. With each passing year, the team’s chemistry will only continue to strengthen, allowing them to compete at a higher level.
SGA’s role in the team’s rebuild cannot be understated. He will be a key piece in shaping the best rebuild of all time. His scoring and playmaking ability will be crucial in leading the team to success and establishing a strong foundation for the future. As the team continues to develop and surround SGA with talented players, the potential for greatness becomes even more tangible.
8. LeBron James – LA Lakers
LeBron James is entering his 21st season in the NBA, and despite his age, he has shown no signs of slowing down. Last year, he averaged an impressive 29/8/7 with the Lakers. This season, LeBron’s experience and unmatched skill set
make him a vital piece for the Lakers’ pursuit of a championship.
LeBron’s ability to dominate the game on both ends of the court sets him apart from other players. His unbeatable basketball IQ, court vision, and leadership make him a natural playmaker. Not only can he create scoring opportunities for himself, but he also elevates the performance of his teammates. With Anthony Davis alongside him, the Lakers have a top 3 duo that opposing teams will struggle to beat on either side of the ball.
Furthermore, LeBron’s dedication to maintaining his physical condition and constantly improving his game ensures that he remains at the top of his craft. His relentless work ethic and commitment to staying in peak shape contribute to his consistent performance on the court. As a result, LeBron continues to defy expectations and elevate his game year after year. With LeBron’s presence, the Lakers have a realistic shot at capturing another championship title, solidifying his GOAT status in the league.
7. Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics
Unfortunately, I must realistically rank Jayson Tatum high on the list of potential greatness this year, despite not being personally a fan of his. Last season, Tatum’s stellar performance averaged an impressive 30/9/5, showcasing his versatility as a small forward. His incredible rebounding ability for his position gives him an edge, allowing him to compete with larger opponents and create additional scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. It’s also the only reason he MIGHT be above D-Book.
The dynamic duo of Tatum and Brown provides a good pairing that has the potential to elevate both of their performances. Brown’s presence on the court gives Tatum a reliable option to share the offensive load, creating a balanced attack for the Boston Celtics. Together, they form a unit that can trouble opposing defenses and make Tatum’s path to greatness smoother.
Additionally, Tatum has a team of talented individuals who complement his skills and provide necessary support on both ends of the floor. This support system allows Tatum to focus on his strengths and thrive as a player, knowing that he has teammates who can contribute in various ways.
6. Devin Booker – Phoenix Suns
Devin Booker has proven himself to be a formidable player in the NBA. Last year, he averaged an impressive 28/4/5 and his level of performance showcased his scoring ability and playmaking skills, making him a key offensive threat for his team.
In the season opener, Book exhibited his undeniable dominance on the court. He surpassed expectations by recording 32 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists, displaying his ability to consistently contribute across multiple stat categories. His strong performance demonstrated that he is ready to take his game to new heights this year.
D-Book’s impact extends beyond his individual statistics. He will be a crucial piece for one of the favored championship teams this season, alongside Kevin Durant. With his scoring and playmaking ability, Book provides an additional offensive weapon that opposing defenses must account for. His presence on the court creates opportunities for his teammates, as he draws defensive attention and can distribute the ball effectively. As a key contributor, Book’s performance will be instrumental in helping the Phoenix Suns contend for the championship this year.
5. Steph Curry – Golden State Warriors
Steph Curry has the potential to have a great year based on his exceptional performance last season and the promising start to this season. Last year, Curry averaged an impressive 29/6/6. These numbers showcased his incredible scoring ability and playmaking skills, making him a vital component of the Golden State Warriors offense.
In the season opener, Curry continued to demonstrate his skill and dominance by posting a slightly underwhelming 27/5/1 These numbers indicate that he is carrying his form from the previous season into the current one, just without the passing abilities apparently.
As the leader and primary scorer for the Warriors, Curry’s ability to consistently put up high-scoring performances will be crucial for his team’s success. His deep shooting range, incredible handles, and off-ball movement make him a nightmare for opposing defenses, providing the Warriors with a significant advantage, especially with CP3 now feeding him the ball.
4. Joel Embiid – Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid has undeniably established himself as one of the most dominant players in the NBA over the past few years. Last season, he averaged an impressive 33/10/4, showcasing his all-around skills.
However, what sets Embiid apart is his unique combination of size, agility, and basketball IQ. Standing at 7 feet tall, he poses a matchup nightmare for opponents, and his ability to score in the paint, shoot decent from the perimeter, and draw an unreal amount of fouls makes him virtually unstoppable.
Aside from his individual statistics, Embiid’s impact on the Philadelphia 76ers cannot be overstated. Last season, he led the team to the 3rd seed in the Eastern Conference. Embiid’s versatility on both ends of the court, as well as his tenacity in the post and shot-blocking abilities, make him a formidable force. With a year of MVP recognition under his belt, he is hungry for even greater success this season.
3. Luka Doncic – Dallas Mavericks
Luka Dončić has the potential to have a breakout season this year, building on his impressive performances from last year. In the previous season, Dončić averaged an incredible 32/9/8, solidifying himself as one of the league’s top players.
This season, Dončić’s chances of shining even brighter have increased due to the addition of Kyrie Irving and an improved surrounding core. Dončić already possesses outstanding playmaking abilities, and having a talented player like Irving alongside him further strengthens the team’s offensive capabilities. With Irving’s scoring and Dončić’s exceptional court vision, the duo has the potential to create havoc for opposing defenses.
Moreover, the improvements in the surrounding core provide Dončić with a better, supporting cast, enabling him to unleash his full potential. When a star player like Dončić has a strong roster around him, it opens up opportunities for him to excel. With the improved roster, the defenses will have a difficult time solely focusing on Dončić, allowing him to make better decisions and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo has already established himself as one of the most dominant players in the NBA, and this year he has the opportunity to elevate his game to even greater heights. Coming off a phenomenal season where he averaged 31/12/6, Giannis has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with. However, his partnership with Damian Lillard brings a new level of excitement and potential for both players.
With the addition of Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks roster, Giannis now has a superstar teammate who can provide exceptional scoring and playmaking abilities. Lillard’s deep shooting range and superb ball-handling skills perfectly complement Giannis’ strong inside presence and drive to the basket, not to mention his amazing defense. This combination makes it incredibly difficult for opposing defenses to contain them and opens up numerous scoring opportunities for both players.
Furthermore, the duo’s shared ambition to win both the MVP and a championship adds an additional layer of motivation and drive to their performances. Both Giannis and Lillard have individually come close to the MVP award in previous seasons, but their partnership increases their chances of securing the accolade. Their relentless pursuit of greatness and the desire to bring a championship to Milwaukee fuels their determination on the court and pushes them to constantly improve their skills.
1. Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic has established himself as the greatest player in the NBA, and he has the potential to further solidify his greatness this year. Coming off a stellar performance last season where he averaged an impressive triple-double of 25 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists per game, Jokic has showcased his exceptional skills and unreal basketball IQ. His performance in the season opener with 29/13/11 is a testament to his ability to dominate the game in multiple facets.
Moreover, Jokic’s success last year ended in winning the NBA championship and further established his status as an elite player. With this invaluable experience and taste of success, Jokic undoubtedly has the motivation and hunger to continue to improve and make an even bigger impact this season. His championship experience will provide him with the necessary confidence and leadership to guide his team to success.
Additionally, Jokic is fortunate to have an incredible supporting cast, led by Jamaal Murray. Murray’s dynamic scoring ability and chemistry with Jokic make them a great duo on the court. This combination, along with a well-rounded and talented team, gives Jokic the necessary tools to excel. With a strong supporting cast, Jokic can confidently trust his teammates and utilize their skills to create opportunities and ultimately elevate his game to new heights.
