The countdown to the 2024-25 NBA season has officially begun, with just five weeks remaining until tip-off. As training camps loom on the horizon, teams and players are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying season.
The preseason is set to begin on October 4, setting the stage for the regular season. Analysts Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson have collaborated to create this year’s top 100 NBA players list, offering a comprehensive look at the league's elite talent.
Notably, the list reflects seasoned analysis without the inclusion of any rookies. Every NBA franchise is represented, ensuring that fans from coast to coast have vested interests in the rankings. Among the prominent teams, the New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves each boast six players in the top 100. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics feature a respectable five players on the list, underscoring their depth and competitive aspirations.
Teams with a Dominant Presence
The Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets each have four players recognized. This widespread talent distribution highlights the growing parity in the NBA, with multiple teams in prime position to make deep playoff runs.
Among the notable player highlights, Draymond Green is poised to enter his 13th NBA season, bringing veteran leadership and defensive prowess to the court. Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant continue to shine as top-10 players, showcasing their enduring impact and skill.
Individual Performances of Note
Zion Williamson, coming off a career-high 70 games played last season, looks to build on his promising health and performance. Austin Reaves of the Lakers also distinguished himself, averaging 15.9 points per game and playing in all 82 games, a testament to his durability and consistency.
Alperen Sengun of the Rockets is emerging from a breakout season, raising expectations for his future contributions. Dereck Lively II played a crucial role in the Dallas Mavericks' run to the NBA Finals last season, adding a key young talent to their roster.
Shifts in Player Rankings
As the rankings are scrutinized, a few shifts are notable. Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal have seen drops, indicating a potential changing of the guard. On the other hand, Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed breaking into the top 10, demonstrating their rising stock and potential to soon join the league’s elite.
Championship Contenders and Dark Horses
Looking ahead, the Celtics’ duo of Jrue Holiday and Derrick White are expected to lead their team's charge for a 2025 championship. In contrast, the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards each have just one player in the top 100, reflecting a steeper hill to climb in their quest for competitiveness.
Amid all these dynamics, Nikola Jokic stands tall, unanimously selected by the panel of experts as the top player for the upcoming season. Jokic's blend of basketball IQ, versatility, and leadership cements his place at the pinnacle of the NBA hierarchy.