The start of the 2024-25 NBA season is just around the corner, with only five weeks to go before the action tips off. Excitement is building as teams prepare to open training camps, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing preseason beginning on October 4. Alongside these preparations comes the annual release of the top 100 NBA players list, a highlight eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
Analysts Weigh In
This year's list has been meticulously crafted by a panel of seasoned analysts, including Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson. Their collective expertise and insights have shaped a list that reflects both past performances and anticipated impact for the upcoming season.
Notably, the list this year includes no rookies, indicating a preference for proven talent and seasoned players. It’s a clear statement about the level of competition and the expectations set for those who have already demonstrated their capabilities on the hardwood.
Team Representation
Every NBA team is represented in the top 100, highlighting the league-wide talent. The New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves lead the pack with six players each making the cut, showcasing their depth and potential strength for the season.
Following closely, the Boston Celtics field an impressive five players in the top 100, underscoring their championship ambitions. Meanwhile, teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets each have four players included, indicating a balanced distribution of talent across various franchises.
However, it's a different story for teams like the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards. Each of these teams has only one player in the top 100, reflecting their current rebuilding phases or the need for more star power to compete at the highest levels.
Returning Stars and New Faces
Among the league's elite, familiar faces continue to dominate. Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant remain entrenched in the top 10, a testament to their enduring excellence and impact on the game. Draymond Green, entering his 13th NBA season, continues to be a pivotal presence for the Warriors, combining defensive prowess with veteran leadership.
Zion Williamson, after playing a career-high 70 games last season, appears poised to further solidify his reputation as a dominant force, while Austin Reaves of the Lakers is coming off a stellar season where he averaged 15.9 points per game and played all 82 games.
A breakout season for Alperen Sengun of the Rockets has placed him on the radar as one to watch, and Dereck Lively II made significant contributions to the Dallas Mavericks' run to the NBA Finals, confirming his rising star status.
Players on the Move
Some established players have experienced shifts in their rankings. Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal have both seen drops, potentially fuelled by recent injuries or team performance issues. Conversely, Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed breaking into the top 10, suggesting their ascending trajectories within the league.
For the Celtics, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White are set to lead their charge for an NBA championship, highlighting the team's robust backcourt and strategic focus on both ends of the floor.
Unanimous Selection
The highlight of the list, perhaps unsurprisingly, is Nikola Jokic, who was unanimously selected by the expert panel as the top player for the upcoming season. Jokic's multifaceted game and consistent excellence make him a cornerstone for the Denver Nuggets and a player poised to continue dictating the flow of games through his unique skill set.
As the season approaches, these rankings provide a tantalizing preview of the battles and storylines awaiting fans. From veteran stars to emerging talents, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in NBA history.