75 best NBA players for 2026-27 season, ranked appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The NBA has never had so much talent spread across the league. Almost every team league-wide has a player they view as a star or a potential future star, and most teams have multiple players who fit that description. From top-seeded teams to play-in teams, there were loads of contenders last season. Even the tanking teams built with the immediate future in mind, as teams like the Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz added the talent that could help them find success this very season. All of these factors make narrowing down a list of the best players in the NBA harder than ever before, but here are the 75 best players for the 2026-27 season.
Note: Stats found at basketball-reference.com
75. Cason Wallace, Oklahoma City Thunder, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
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2025-26 stats: 8.6 points, 3.1 rebounds
In recent years, Cason Wallace has been just one piece of the puzzle for an Oklahoma City Thunder team that has championships on their mind. Wallace plays great defense and can hit 3-pointers, but a number of other OKC players have been able to say the same thing. However, the Thunder are going to need more out of Wallace this year, especially after giving him a massive contract just days before the start of the season.
Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, and Aaron Wiggins were traded in the offseason because of financial concerns. Wallace will likely replace Dort in the starting lineup. While the team still has great depth, Wallace’s defense, especially against wings, will be all the more important because of the team’s departures.
74. Keyonte George, Utah Jazz, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 23.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, 6.1 assists
Keyonte George has quietly put up some crazy numbers on a bad Utah Jazz team. Last season, the guard averaged 23.6 points per game, but the dialogue surrounding the Jazz was more in regard to their tanking ways and future outlook. Now, the Jazz are expected to be much better, and George will continue being a big part of what they do. George may have to sacrifice some as a scorer, but he has impressive playmaking abilities and can supplant his production with more assists.
73. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 56th
2025-26 stats: 8.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists
Draymond Green’s skill set catered best to what the Golden State Warriors did when they were winning championships. He was the heart and soul of a dynasty, thanks to his stellar defensive abilities and high IQ. Green has never been much of a scorer, but the Warriors never needed him to be. These days, winning doesn’t come as easily for the Warriors, but Green is still the one who instills winning in his teammates. Green hasn’t been a double-digit scorer in over eight years, but he can defend players bigger or smaller than him, and he knows how to get his teammates into the right spots.
72. Josh Giddey, Chicago Bulls, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 69th
2025-26 stats: 17.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 9.1 assists
Josh Giddey has been a much better fit for the Chicago Bulls than he was for the Thunder. Not only were spacing questions less worrisome on the Bulls, but Giddey has actually improved as a shooter, too. In Chicago, Giddey operates as the lead ball handler, where he can use his great positional size to see over defenders and make passes to his teammates. With more talent coming to Chicago, such as the next player on this list, the 6-foot-7 Australian will have plenty of teammates who can convert his passes into assists.
71. Normall Powell, Chicago Bulls, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 84th
2025-26 stats: 21.7 points, 3.5 rebounds
Jalen Brunson, Kevin Durant, and James Harden. Those are just a few names of players who ranked in between 10th and 20th in scoring last season. Of course, Durant and Harden have multiple scoring titles to their names, and Brunson was just named NBA Finals MVP. Norman Powell is another player who fits the qualifications. Powell’s 21.7 points per game ranked as the 20th best mark in the NBA among qualified players, yet the first time All-Star’s move to Chicago is going under the radar. Of course, at age 33, there is a chance that last season was somewhat fluky for Powell, but perhaps he was just a late bloomer.
70. Dillon Brooks, Phoenix Suns, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 20.2 points, 3.6 rebounds
Dillon Brooks’ reputation is that of a pest and irritant. While he does play with a chip on his shoulder and tries to give his team a competitive advantage by getting under his opponent’s skin, Brooks proved he is so much more during his first season with the Phoenix Suns.
Brooks averaged a career-high 20.2 points per game last season. He is always willing to take on any task or defensive assignment, and his teammates tend to rally behind him. The fact that he is great TV is just the cherry on top.
69. AJ Dybantsa, Washington Wizards, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: N/A
Ranking rookies before they even play a regular season game can be controversial, but AJ Dybantsa has the potential to be a megastar. The first overall pick led the nation in scoring as a freshman at BYU. He is an explosive athlete who can score from all three levels of the floor. It will be interesting to see if the Washington Wizards give their draftee the reins right away or if veterans like Trae Young and Anthony Davis operate as the team’s top players from the get-go.
68. Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: N/A
The Portland Trail Blazers have a surplus of guards. There is still hope that Scoot Henderson will reach his potential as a former top-three pick, and Jrue Holiday is one of the best defensive guards ever. Those two will be joined by Ja Morant, who was an offseason trade acquisition, and Damian Lillard, who is returning from an Achilles injury. Of course, Lillard’s best days came in Portland, so fans are hoping that one of the best players in franchise history will return to his old form. Lillard is second on the all-time 3-point shooting list. Will he be able to thrive with another undersized backcourt partner, though? He certainly did so back when he shared the court with CJ McCollum.
67. Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 9.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.0 steals
Ausar Thompson doesn’t have quite as much offensive pop as his twin brother, but he is certainly an elite defender. Thompson finished third in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season, something that is somewhat of a rarity for non-bigs. He led the league with 2.0 steals per game, often converting deflected passes into easy transition buckets. Of course, the jumper is still a nightmare, but luckily, the Detroit Pistons have surrounded Thompson with 3-point specialists like Isaiah Joe, Duncan Robinson, and Kevin Huerter.
66. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Atlanta Hawks, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 20.8 points, 3.4 rebounds
Nickeil Alexander-Walker has been a 3-and-D role player for most of his career. That was until last season, when he increased his scoring average by over double to 20.8 points per game with the Atlanta Hawks. Rather than just sitting in the corner waiting for catch-and-shoot opportunities, like he had for most of his career, Alexander-Walker took on more creation duties.
It resulted in NAW winning the Most Improved Player of the Year award. Alexander-Walker is one of many lockdown perimeter defenders in Atlanta. Will his offense continue developing, though, or are his scoring averages at risk of falling back down closer to his career marks?
65. Ivica Zubac, Indiana Pacers, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 39th
2025-26 stats: 14.1 points, 10.6 rebounds
When the Indiana Pacers had an interior presence the season before last, the team made it all the way to Game 7 of the NBA Finals. Myles Turner was the center manning the middle back then. Now, the Pacers have Ivica Zubac, who was traded for at last year’s trade deadline. The big man makes it hard for opponents to score inside. He also collects rebounds and has a soft touch around the rim on offense.
64. Tyler Herro, Milwaukee Bucks, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 43rd
2025-26 stats: 20.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists
During his time with the Miami Heat, Tyler Herro wore a number of hats. He was one of the best bench scorers in the NBA, evidenced by his Sixth Man of the Year win. He then developed into an All-Star who averaged as much as 23.9 points per game in 2024-25. Herro was never more than the second option in Miami, though. After being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, Herro becomes the face of the franchise, and he does so for his hometown team.
63. Darryn Peterson, Utah Jazz, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: N/A
The second rookie on this list, Darryn Peterson, was actually drafted a pick after Dybantsa. He ranks higher on this top 75 NBA players list, though. Peterson has more shooting potential and will likely be on the better team this year. Many scouts considered him the best prospect in what was one of the most stacked draft classes in recent memory. Regardless, the Rookie of the Year race is going to be a blast, and Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson can’t be counted out for that award, either.
62. Mikal Bridges, New York Knicks, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 57th
2025-26 stats: 14.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.3 steals
Mikal Bridges is the NBA’s best iron man. He has now played in 638 consecutive games. That consistency and availability paid off in a big way last season, as the New York Knicks were crowned as NBA champions. Bridges isn’t much more than a 3-and-D role player, but he does those two skills well and on a nightly basis. Bridges has shown the ability to scale up when need be, too, evidenced by his 26.1-point-per-game stretch after being traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2023.
61. Desmond Bane, Orlando Magic, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 47th
2025-26 stats: 20.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists
Desmond Bane is a key piece to what the Orlando Magic want to do. The team has great slashers, but they need his 3-point expertise to be on lock all season long. Bane got off to a slow start with the team last season after they traded four first-round picks for him. Such a slow start, or the injury issues that have held the Magic back in recent years, can’t take place if Orlando is to reach their goals.
60. Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 53rd
2025-26 stats: 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds
Aaron Gordon is the Denver Nuggets’ glue guy. He is a key defender for the team, and his aerial mastery in the dunker spot makes him the perfect fit alongside Nikola Jokic. Gordon has become a much better offensive player than one who just catches alley-oops, though. When Gordon gets his feet set on his jumpers, he is a legitimately good 3-point shooter. He can use brute strength to score inside as well. Injuries have held Gordon back in recent years, and Denver needs him to stay healthy more now than ever before.
59. Ja Morant, Portland Trail Blazers, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 30th
2025-26 stats: 19.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 8.1 assists
Not long ago, Ja Morant was looked at as one of the future faces of the NBA. He made the All-Star Game in his third and fourth seasons, averaging 27.4 and 26.2 points per game, respectively, in those two years. Morant’s explosive athleticism made him must-watch TV, and his Memphis Grizzlies looked like they could become perennial contenders. The years since haven’t been so kind to Morant. He has struggled with injuries, off-the-court issues, suspensions, and drama in Memphis, which led to his offseason trade to Portland. The Trail Blazers offer him a change of scenery, so hopefully he can re-establish himself as a star.
58. Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 58th
2025-26 stats: 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds
Trey Murphy is a player that seemingly everyone wants. The wing continuously hears his name in trade rumors because he can fit into any lineup. Murphy shoots, defends, and leaps at a high level. For now, the 3-and-D-plus player will continue suiting up for the New Orleans Pelicans. Last season, Murphy became the second player ever with at least 200 3-pointers and 100 dunks in a season.
57. Brandon Ingram, Los Angeles Clippers, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 48th
2025-26 stats: 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds
Brandon Ingram will miss the start of the season because of a partially torn Achilles tendon. The good news is that there is optimism that he won’t be out for too long. The headliner of the Kawhi Leonard trade has officially resumed on-court work. Ingram made the All-Star team last season and has seven straight seasons with scoring averages above the 20-point-per-game mark.
Ingram is a lanky player who can shoot over the top of defenders. Injuries have long been a concern with BI, though, so this achilles problem is something to monitor.
56. Darius Garland, Los Angeles Clippers, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 41st
2025-26 stats: 18.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, 6.7 assists
While Ingram was added in the offseason Leonard trade, the Los Angeles Clippers added the other half of their newfound star duo during last season’s trade deadline. Darius Garland came to town in the James Harden trade. Like Ingram, Garland is a fringe All-Star, but not a player who is a lock to earn that accolade every single season.
In fact, both players are two-time All-Stars. A Garland-Ingram combination will help the Clippers avoid falling to the bottom of the standings, which is important because of the team’s recent loss of draft capital. Will the duo be good enough to ensure Los Angeles contends for the playoffs, though?
55. Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 11.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.9 assists
If anyone is to outplay their top-75 ranking, it will be Dylan Harper. The Rutgers product was already really, really good as a rookie, as he helped the San Antonio Spurs take a championship step forward and compete in the NBA Finals. With a bunch of talent around him, the former number two pick averaged just 11.8 points per game.
The production will likely take a massive leap forward this year, though. In fact, reports have suggested that the Spurs even view Harper as the franchise’s second-best player already. Harper is sure to be better going forward. The only question is: How high can he soar?
54. Brandon Miller, Charlotte Hornets, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 64th
2025-26 stats: 20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds
Another recent top-two pick, Brandon Miller, also seems poised to demonstrate his improvement this year. With LaMelo Ball out of town, there are more shots readily available on the Charlotte Hornets roster. Miller has already averaged around 20 points per game in back-to-back seasons. He is such an advanced scorer that it would come as no surprise if that number neared the mid-20s this year.
The Hornets are adapting, and they are putting a lot of confidence in their young players. Hopefully, Miller will continue getting better. If it weren’t for one of the most generational prospects ever sharing a draft class with Miller, he may have been the number one pick in 2023.
53. Derrick White, Boston Celtics, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 38th
2025-26 stats: 16.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.1 steals
Derrick White toes the line between role player and star. His scoring numbers don’t pop off the page, but he is efficient and reliable when he does get his shots up. What makes him so important to the Boston Celtics is the fact that he does all of the little things. White is a glue player and elite defender.
While the third or fourth option in Boston when they won the championship, White worked as the number two with Jayson Tatum sidelined last season. Tatum is back to full health now, but Brown was traded for Paul George, who isn’t the same player he once was. White will again work as Boston’s second option now.
52. Trae Young, Washington Wizards, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 32nd
2025-26 stats: 17.9 points, 2.0 rebounds, 8.0 assists
Trae Young has thrice led the NBA in total assists. In one of those seasons, Young also led the NBA in total points. Tiny Archibald is the only other player who has ever led the league in both statistical categories in the same season. Young can make jumpers from anywhere on the floor; he has an effective floater, and his gravity creates open looks for teammates. Clearly, the new Wizards point guard is a wizard with the ball in his hands.
However, Young is just on the outside looking in of the top 50 for a reason. The undersized point guard struggles mightily defensively, and the Hawks were never able to figure out how to cover for his limitations, even when they surrounded him with defensive specialists. He was traded to Washington for a meager package for a player of his caliber. While Young will need to buck the loser label, it is worth remembering that he has been the best player on an Eastern Conference Finals team before, and he will surely help Washington at least become playoff-caliber.
51. Jaren Jackson Jr., Utah Jazz, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 33rd
2025-26 stats: 19.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.4 blocks
The newest trend in the NBA is one where teams add star talent for their futures while simultaneously tanking for a better draft position. The Wizards traded for Young last year, but he only played five games before being shut down for the season. The Jazz also traded for Jaren Jackson Jr.
The former Defensive Player of the Year winner played just three games with the Jazz after the trade, but Utah wants to compete as soon as this season. The two-time blocked shots leader immediately improves a defense that ranked last in scoring last season. Jackson may need to provide more as a rebounder than he ever has before, though. Hitting the glass has long been viewed as a weak point for the big who has a career 5.6 rebounds per game mark. However, the Jazz traded away Walker Kessler, and Jusuf Nurkic is currently injured, so Jackson might have to spend more time at center than the power forward spot that he has thrived at.
50. Kon Knueppel, Charlotte Hornets, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists
For having a highly touted prospect drafted number one last year, the Rookie of the Year race ended up being a lot more closely contested than most would have guessed. Kon Knueppel and his 3-point marksmanship gave Cooper Flagg a run for his money. While Knueppel’s 42.5% clip from deep was impressive, the new face of the Hornets broke onto the scene for many more reasons than just shooting.
Knueppel is a high-IQ player who brought a sense of winning to the Charlotte Hornets that was desperately needed. He deserves the final spot in this top 50.
49. Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 77th
2025-26 stats: 10.9 points, 11.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.6 blocks
Defense is Rudy Gobert’s calling card. The Stiffle Tower may have a limited offensive skill set, but he is one of just three four-time Defensive Player of the Year winners. Gobert is closer to 1.5 blocks per game these days, rather than being above the 2.0 mark like he was earlier in his career, but he is still an expert rim protector.
The Frenchman catches a lot of flak for offensive lowlights, but he knows his role and doesn’t do too much. Four times, Gobert has led the league in field goal percentage.
48. Michael Porter Jr., Brooklyn Nets, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 82nd
2025-26 stats: 24.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists
Michael Porter Jr. was well established as one of the best 3-point shooters in the NBA during his time with the Denver Nuggets. At 6-foot-10, the former top high school recruit can shoot over anybody, and he has a knack for making the most difficult of shots. After being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, Porter had the chance to show off the rest of his game.
With the ultimate green light, Porter’s scoring increased to 24.2 points per game. He did more work off the bounce and in the mid-range. The Nets are still trying to develop young talent around Porter, so he might not have quite as much freedom this season. Big numbers can still be expected from Mr. Never Pass The Rock, though.
47. Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota Timberwolves, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 71st
2025-26 stats: 14.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.1 steals
Jaden McDaniels plays with his heart on his sleeve. The lanky wing can lock down opposing wings or give the opposition’s guards nightmares with his full-court press. While Gobert’s defense receives more attention, McDaniels plays a big part in why the Timberwolves are regularly one of the top defensive teams in the NBA.
With a guard like LaMelo Ball coming into town, who isn’t known for his abilities on the less glamorous end of the court, McDaniels may have to give even more defensive effort than he already does. McDaniels also uses his gangly frame on offense to take and make awkward shots in the mid-range.
46. Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 28th
2025-26 stats: 21.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists
Zion Williamson entered the NBA as a phenom. When the New Orleans Pelicans drafted him first overall in 2018, the National College Player of the Year was supposed to immediately take over the NBA. It looked like he’d do just that, as the number one pick went 4/4 from deep with a stretch where he scored 17 straight points during his debut. In the seven seasons since, Williamson has only made 29 more 3-pointers. Plus, the defense has been mediocre at best. Williamson has brilliant strength and athletic traits, but he has a weird build for the power forward spot, and opposing scorers have taken advantage at times.
More worrisome than the shooting or the defense, though, is the injury bug. Williamson missed all of 2021-22, and he has thrice been limited to 30 games or fewer. He is in this top 50 for a reason, though. Williamson is a career 23.8-point-per-game scorer. The injuries have not completely sapped him of his athleticism, as he is still dominant inside. Williamson has two All-Star nods and has proven himself as one of the best scorers in the NBA when he is able to be on the court. Amazingly, there is still potential for improvement, even entering year eight.
45. Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 31st
2025-26 stats: 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists
After a season in which Domantas Sabonis played just 19 games and averaged just 15.8 points per game, there was a case for him to drop out of the top 50. However, fans shouldn’t forget that the son of Arvydas led the NBA in rebounds per game in each of the prior three seasons.
Sabonis is a double-double machine who scores with footwork and touch and collects rebounds. Furthermore, he’s got some of his dad’s passing genetics, too. The season before last, Sabonis’ jumper was coming along as well. He made 41.7% of his deep balls in 2024-25 before being plagued by a slow start and injuries last year.
44. Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 40th
2025-26 stats: 26.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists
The Utah Jazz tanked in a big way last season. This go-around, they hope to contend with their deep, young, and talented roster. Darryn Peterson, the team’s second overall big, was viewed as a generational prospect in the eyes of many. The team hopes he will become a megastar. Utah also traded for Jaren Jackson Jr. and gave Keyonte George a big payday.
It is Lauri Markkanen who represents the Jazz as a top 50 NBA player for this upcoming season, though. Markkanen is 7-foot-1 and capable of operating as a stretch shooter. The Finnish player can go all the way down to the small forward position, though, proving just how skillful he is.
43. Franz Wagner, Orlando Magic, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 27th
2025-26 stats: 20.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists
The third straight foreign player on this list of the top 50 best players in the NBA, Franz Wagner, is only a season removed from averaging 24.2 points per game. While the 3-pointer has lacked, Wagner makes up for it with excellent interior finishing. Plus, the German is a great perimeter defender.
Injuries limited Wagner last season, as he was only available for 34 matchups. In fact, injuries have been the Orlando Magic’s biggest enemy as a whole in recent years. Wagner is just 25 years old and has likely yet to reach his potential. He and the rest of his teammates just need to string together a healthy season.
42. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 74th
2025-26 stats: 16.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.1 steals
San Antonio Spurs guards rank back-to-back here. Let’s start with Stephon Castle. The younger of the Castle-De’Aaron Fox combination, who predominantly plays the shooting guard position, is the ultimate glue player. He is a connector on offense who can really score as a driver. He is an excellent defender, too.
Castle is an intense player, and that fact will help give the Spurs an extended championship window. After making the NBA Finals in Castle’s second season, the team is already way ahead of schedule. Castle was better than expected as a passer (7.4 assists per game) last season, too. Prolonged winning seems to be in the UConn product’s future. After all, he did win a championship in college.
41. De’Aaron Fox, San Antonio Spurs, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 29th
2025-26 stats: 18.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 6.2 assists
Fox had a couple of standout bad moments in the NBA Finals. That doesn’t mean that he isn’t a stud. Just like his younger teammates, who not only include Castle but fellow guard Dylan Harper, Fox was still learning during this postseason run. His old Sacramento Kings teams didn’t do great in the record column, so the fact that he helped the Spurs reach the NBA Finals in his first full and healthy season in San Antonio goes to show the talent that he is.
Fox is blazing fast, but he keeps defenses honest with a reliable 3-pointer. He is also one of the most clutch players in the NBA. Harper will need more minutes in year two, so it will be interesting to see if Fox sacrifices some or if Mitch Johnson rolls out more three-guard lineups.
40. Anthony Davis, Washington Wizards, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 13th
2025-26 stats: 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.7 blocks
Gone are the days of Anthony Davis being viewed as the NBA’s “next MVP.” Earlier in his career, Davis was a perennial blocks leader threat and a dominant scorer who could get buckets from anywhere on the court. Injuries have taken away some of the appeal of The Brow, though.
Even last season, Davis averaged 20.4 points per game, which was down from the mid-20s mark he’d been averaging for the decade prior. AD was traded to the Washington Wizards last season and is expected to be the veteran leader of the young team that just drafted AJ Dybantsa first overall. Davis still has the offensive prowess and the defensive expertise to be an All-Star. Plus, the team has centers in Alex Sarr and fellow former number one pick Deandre Ayton, which will allow Davis to play the power forward position that he has stated time and time again that he is more comfortable at. The Wizards need Davis to stay healthy if this youth-veteran combination is going to work, though.
39. Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 26th
2025-26 stats: 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6.2 assists
Alperen Sengun was one of the hardest players to rank. On the one hand, the Turkish hooper has a baby-Nikola Jokic-like skill set. He is a highlight waiting to happen and one of the best big man passers we’ve ever seen. However, Sengun’s lack of a 3-point jumper has held him back, as has poor defensive play.
Even so, the Rockets have plenty of defense around Sengun, and the big man has made the All-Star Game in back-to-back seasons. Sengun operates from the high post, where he can get the rest of his teammates involved. He throws defenders off with weird angles and an unorthodox style of play.
38. Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 60th
2025-26 stats: 23.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists
Austin Reaves averaged 23.3 points per game last season, despite sharing the court with players like LeBron James and Luka Doncic, who are among the most heliocentric, ball-dominant players in NBA history. James is gone now, so Hillbilly Kobe might do even more as a scorer going forward.
Reaves is super crafty, and he can score from all three levels of the floor. The playmaking is solid, too. The Los Angeles Lakers are the most popular team in America, and Reaves is their second biggest star. Plus, the team revamped the roster and brought in a bunch of role players who cater to Reaves’ and Doncic’s skill sets.
37. Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: N/A
Kyrie Irving is set to return to the hardwood after missing all of last season. Irving is one of the most innovative offensive forces in league history and certainly an all-time great point guard. He has a case as both the best below-the-rim finisher ever and as the best ball handler in NBA history. Irving has always returned from nagging injuries to show that he still has it when scoring inside and when dribbling the basketball, and that shouldn’t change this go-around.
It is truly a shock to see that the nine-time All-Star has never been an All-NBA First Team member. Whether he was with the Cavaliers, Celtics, Nets, or Mavericks, though, his teams have always been contenders. Irving brings to the Mavericks exactly what was missing in Dallas last season.
36. James Harden, Cleveland Cavaliers, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 19th
2025-26 stats: 23.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.0 assists
James Harden’s career has been an interesting one. He started his career as a sixth man on a young Thunder team that was supposed to win numerous championships. Harden’s trade to the Rockets played a part in that never happening. In Houston, Harden became the MVP and one of the greatest scorers of a generation. He won three scoring titles before departing for the Nets.
Ever since, Harden has been criticized for frequent trade requests and a lack of postseason success, but year in and year out, The Beard puts up impressive numbers. The step-back and the ability to draw contact are still there, but these days, Harden may be even better as a passer. The Cleveland Cavaliers are all in on chasing a championship with him on the roster.
35. OG Anunoby, New York Knicks, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 51st
2025-26 stats: 16.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.6 steals
OG Anunoby’s brilliance was on full display during the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals victory. Often viewed as a mere role player, the British forward played like a star all postseason long. He averaged 20.1 playoff points per game, which was much greater than that of teammate Karl-Anthony Towns, who is a more respected offensive player. In Game 4, Anunoby scored 33 points, which included a game-winning tip-in that has been described as one of the greatest moments in championship history. He made half of his 3-pointers in the NBA Finals, too, and Anunoby often acted as the Victor Wembanyama counter, going hard in the paint and finishing aggressively through the Defensive Player of the Year winner.
The game-winner came after a game-saving block just seconds prior as well, which goes to show just how special Anunoby is on the less glamorous end of the court. The former steals leader disrupts passing lanes, can block shots, and can guard both bigger or smaller players.
34. LaMelo Ball, Minnesota Timberwolves, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 45th
2025-26 stats: 20.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 7.1 assists
LaMelo Ball was one of many superstars to change homes this offseason via the trade market. Ball had somewhat of a reputation as a loser with the Hornets. That won’t be acceptable on a Timberwolves team that traded for him to take the championship step forward.
Ball is one of the flashiest players in NBA history. He chucks up wild shots and throws highlight reel passes, all while standing as a 6-foot-7 point guard, but it works. The playmaking and 3-point shooting that the youngest Ball brother will bring to Minnesota is just what the Timberwolves needed, too.
33. Amen Thompson, Houston Rockets, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 44th
2025-26 stats: 18.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.5 steals
ESPN caught a lot of flak for describing Amen Thompson as a 3-and-D player when they made their 2026-27 basketball rankings, and rightfully so. Thompson is a career 21.9% shooter from deep, so the long ball stands out as his biggest weakness. They got something right, though, and that is that D-and-no-3 player is one of the best players in the NBA, which is why the Rockets paid him handsomely right before training camp.
Thompson is, in fact, one of the best defenders in the NBA. He is a freak athlete with the pogo stick badge. The athleticism translates to offense in the form of interior finishing. Thompson could likely win the Slam Dunk Contest, evidenced by the 201 dunks he had last season, but he finds other, unique ways to score inside besides just slamming it home. Furthermore, Thompson is an impressive playmaker. Thompson has a lot of gravity when he gets downhill, which collapses opposing defenses and allows him to kick out to shooters.
32. Pascal Siakam, Indiana Pacers, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 22nd
2025-26 stats: 24.0 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists
With Tyrese Haliburton sidelined last season, Pascal Siakam took on lead scoring duties for the Indiana Pacers. Spicy P averaged 24.0 points per game, utilizing a solid jumper and an unguardable spin move. With Haliburton set to return, Siakam will return to a role he has found a lot of success in, and that is that of a co-star.
31. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 21st
2025-26 stats: 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 blocks
Joel Embiid is far and away the lowest-ranked player who has won an MVP at some point in the last eight seasons. That is strictly because of his injury history, and not because of his talent level. Embiid has missed about half of his potential time on the court throughout his career, including all of his would-be first two seasons in the league. He played just 38 games last season, 19 the year prior, and 39 games before that.
In 2022-23, though, Embiid was voted as the best player in the NBA. On the court, you can’t ask for much more. He is an elite defender, capable of not only protecting the rim but even neutralizing players on the wing better than most bigs can. Offensively, Embiid can score inside or outside, in post-ups or off the bounce. He has thrice averaged over 30 points per game in a season, and if Embiid can stay on the floor, it is tough to picture anyone out east slowing the Philadelphia 76ers down. Of course, “IF” is the key word in that sentence. At his best, though, Embiid is far better than this ranking would dictate.
30. Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 23rd
2025-26 stats: 18.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.7 blocks
Evan Mobley and the next player on this list fit the archetype of “unicorn,” players who have 7-foot-plus frames yet are able to do guard-like things offensively. Mobley is a former Defensive Player of the Year who led the NBA in blocks and is capable of scoring from anywhere on the court. Despite all he can do on the court, it is hard not to feel as though Mobley hasn’t quite reached his fullest potential.
29. Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 34th
2025-26 stats: 17.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.9 blocks
Chet Holmgren had a poor postseason showing, and injuries have been an issue throughout his NBA career. The skinny four/five can do it all, though. If it wasn’t for rival Victor Wembanyama’s presence, Holmgren would likely lead the league in blocks on a nearly yearly basis. Offensively, he is a fantastic jump shooter.
Holmgren has been unable to put on the weight that would seemingly help his game, but he has such impressive length that it typically hasn’t mattered much. A dose more aggression could help his game, too, but the Oklahoma City Thunder have so much depth and so many mouths that need feeding. The point is, the biggest critiques of Holmgren may just not matter. He is a superstar just the way he is.
28. Jalen Duren, Detroit Pistons, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists
In the eleventh hour to get a deal done, when all hope seemed lost, Jalen Duren and the Detroit Pistons agreed on a five-year contract extension. Despite his postseason struggles, the Pistons needed to bring their center back if they were to have any hopes of finishing atop the Eastern Conference standings again.
Duren is a monster of a man. He scores inside off alley-oops, post-ups, and putbacks. He also collects rebounds and protects the glass. Hopefully, Duren’s relationship with his team isn’t too far gone after a messy offseason.
27. Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 16th
2025-26 stats: 22.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, 5.2 assists
After being drafted first overall, Paolo Banchero seemingly kept doing things not seen since LeBron James early on in his career. He had the first 25-5-5 debut since James, as well as the first 30-15 game by a teenager since LeBron. Banchero’s blend of physicality and touch immediately thrust him into superstar status.
However, opinions on the Duke product have soured some in the years since. His Magic teams have fallen short of expectations on a regular basis, and Banchero’s 3-pointer hasn’t come around as much as hoped. Regardless, Banchero is a really good player, and he is still just 23 years old.
26. Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 17th
2025-26 stats: 17.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.2 steals
Jalen Williams missed much of last season. Upon his return, he didn’t quite look like himself, either. The Thunder are so deep that they found success regardless, but a return to form from Oklahoma City’s second-best player will go a long way in getting a potential dynasty back on track.
Williams is somewhat of an unorthodox player. He isn’t the biggest player for his position, nor the fastest, but he just plays winning basketball. Williams is a well-rounded offensive player and capable of defending multiple positions on the other end of the floor.
25. LeBron James, Philadelphia 76ers, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 7th
2025-26 stats: 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists
LeBron James is 41 years old and joining a new team. While at first glance that could sound like a recipe for disaster, The Kid From Akron is still one of the best players in the NBA and could very well add more hardware to his already stocked full trophy case this upcoming season.
While the greatest number one pick in NBA history is no longer the clear-cut best player in the NBA like he was for so many years, James still put up impressive numbers last season. The Chosen One ranked 26th in scoring (20.9), 47th in rebounding (6.1), and seventh in assists (7.2). The resume speaks for itself, too. James has four MVPs, 22 All-Star appearances, and four championships to his name. Another NBA Finals victory on a 76ers team that many are considering frontrunners would do wonders for James’ G.O.A.T. case.
24. Deni Avdija, Portland Trail Blazers, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 61st
2025-26 stats: 24.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 6.7 assists
It wasn’t long ago that Deni Avdija was traded from the Wizards for fading veteran role players and middling draft compensation. Now, he is one of the top 25 players in the NBA. The Israeli on the Portland Trail Blazers made the All-Star Game for the first time last season due to his advanced slashing ability.
Few get downhill and to the rim better than Avdija does. The forward does a great job of drawing contact when he is there, too. The Trail Blazers traded for Ja Morant and have the return of Damian Lillard. Both players are in this top 75. It will be Avdija who leads Portland while they take the next step forward, though.
23. Jalen Johnson, Atlanta Hawks, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 62nd
2025-26 stats: 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, 7.9 assists, 1.2 steals
Perhaps the most unheralded player within the top 25, Jalen Johnson, deserves his flowers. Johnson averaged 22.5 points per game while being both high-flying and using touch around the rim and on jumpers. Johnson’s best skill is his playmaking, though. The Atlanta Hawks star averaged 7.9 assists per game despite playing the power forward position last season.
Johnson doesn’t have to guard the opposing team’s best wings due to the presence of Dyson Daniels, Lu Dort, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. He certainly holds his own defensively, though. The point is clear, and that is Johnson is uber versatile. His do-it-all skill set deserves more recognition.
22. Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 37th
2025-26 stats: 18.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 1.4 steals, 1.5 blocks
Speaking of versatility, Scottie Barnes is one of the few players who actually has Johnson beat in that regard. Barnes is an elite defender who can truly guard one through five. He thrives in transition and can get his teammates involved on offense, too. The Toronto Raptors are littered with length and defense, and this could be the year that Barnes takes the next step offensively and surpasses the 20-point-per-game threshold.
21. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: N/A
The last time NBA fans saw Tyrese Haliburton play, he was the best player on a team playing in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. Who knows, if the point guard hadn’t torn his Achilles tendon, it is possible the Indiana Pacers would have won the championship in 2025. Haliburton’s postseason run leading up to his injury was special. It was highlighted by clutch plays and buzzer-beating shots.
Scoring isn’t even Haliburton’s best attribute, either. Haliburton has twice averaged greater than 10 assists per game, even leading the entire NBA in that regard during the 2023-24 season. Considering what we last saw on the court out of Haliburton, there is a case to be made that he should rank higher than 21st. However, Achilles injuries are considered by many to be the worst in sports, and Haliburton’s recovery journey was far from easy. The Iowa State product dealt with shingles and bloomed up in weight. The fact that the Pacers went from championship contenders to near the bottom of the standings illustrates just how important Haliburton is, though, so hopefully he returns to form this season.
20. Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 25th
2025-26 stats: 20.1 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.2 assists
After last season, the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to Bam Adebayo is his 83-point performance. It was the second-highest-scoring game by an individual player ever, only trailing Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game, which some fans think is a myth. Firstly, the 83-point outburst proves just how special Adebayo is as a scorer.
There is more to his game than just getting up shots, though. Adebayo is an intimidating rim protector, and he has flashed ball-handling and playmaking abilities, too. After the trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, he finally has a superstar teammate who can help him win at the highest level.
19. Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 35th
2025-26 stats: 25.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, 7.1 assists
Finally… After nine years in the NBA, one of which he spent sidelined because of an ACL injury, Jamal Murray was at last given the All-Star nod in his 10th and most recent season, officially ending the Denver Nuggets’ star’s streak as arguably the best player ever without an All-Star appearance on his resume. While Murray had been deserving in years past and only fallen short because of how stacked the Western Conference has been, the Canadian ensured he’d add his most notable missing accolade by increasing his scoring to 25.4 points per game.
Of course, scoring is what Murray does best. He hits off-balance shots from deep and in the mid-range, and his two-man game with Nikola Jokic, regardless of who is the screener and who is the ball handler, is one of the most unstoppable sets in basketball. The Nuggets are fresh off the most disappointing playoff series of the Jokic era, though. So, how will Murray and his running mate bounce back from their first-round exit?
18. Kawhi Leonard, Toronto Raptors, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 20th
2025-26 stats: 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.9 steals
An offseason filled with drama is finally in the rearview mirror for Kawhi Leonard. The two-time Defensive Player of the Year was traded to the Raptors, but not until after the NBA’s investigation surrounding him and the Los Angeles Clippers’ salary cap circumvention was completed.
The Clippers were hit hard in the punishment. Leonard, meanwhile, rejoins the team that he led to championship glory in 2019. When on the court, The Klaw is well regarded as one of the best defensive players ever. Last year, Leonard proved he still has it as a scorer, too. Leonard’s 27.9 points per game were both a career high and the sixth-best mark in the NBA. While the 2018-19 Raptors were underrated as a unit when they hoisted the Larry O’Brien Trophy, there is a case to be made that this version of the Raptors has surrounded Leonard with even more talent.
17. Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 18th
2025-26 stats: 20.1 points, 11.9 rebounds, 3.0 assists
Karl-Anthony Towns long had the label of being the best 3-point shooting center in NBA history. Now, NBA champion can be added to his titles. Towns’ offense was just as potent as ever when he helped the Knicks win the championship. It was his defense that was surprising, though. Towns more than held his own defending the 7-foot-4 phenom on the Spurs.
The Big Bodega’s shooting numbers were actually down over the course of the entire season last year. It is hard to know if KAT regressed once hitting the age of 30, or if he sacrificed some for the betterment of a championship push. Either way, Towns’ 3-point shooting at 7 feet tall will be a valuable asset for years to come. Will contract talks be a distraction, though?
16. Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 67th
2025-26 stats: 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists
Many publications would be hesitant to rank Cooper Flagg this high. After all, his Rookie of the Year race was closely contested. Even so, Flagg entered the NBA as one of the most highly touted prospects ever, and he lived up to the billing with a fantastic rookie season.
Flagg stuffed the stat sheet, evidenced by his averages of 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. This came despite the fact that Flagg was playing on a depleted Mavericks team where he was often forced out of position. Flagg defended at a high level right away, he got his teammates involved in his first season, and he proved to be a trustworthy, go-to scorer in his first season. A big sophomore jump can be expected, too, especially with Irving returning to the fold and able to take some of the ball-handling burdens off Flagg’s shoulders.
15. Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 14th
2025-26 stats: 26.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.0 assists
Devin Booker has had a case as the best shooting guard in the NBA for the better part of a decade. His playmaking has been pretty impressive in recent years, but at the end of the day, everybody knows Booker for his ability to put the ball through the net. Last year was Booker’s fifth on the All-Star team and his eighth straight averaging more than 25 points per game.
His mid-range, in particular, is lethal. The Phoenix Suns don’t have all the other big-name players around Booker like they once did, but they have a gritty team that plays hard. Booker will once again be asked to carry a heavy scoring burden because of it. Booker famously scored 70 points way back during the 2016-17 season, but amazingly, he has yet to even turn 30 years old.
14. Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 36th
2025-26 stats: 28.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.6 assists
Tyrese Maxey ranks just behind his new 76ers teammate in these rankings after averaging 28.3 points per game last year. That was the fifth-best mark in the NBA and just slightly behind the aforementioned new teammate. Maxey combines speed and shiftiness with an impressive jumper, making him a nightmare for opposing defenders to guard.
A score-first combo guard by trade, Maxey may have to take on additional playmaking duties this year with so many players on his team who need the basketball. All signs indicate that Maxey will do whatever it takes to find team success.
13. Jaylen Brown, Philadelphia 76ers, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 15th
2025-26 stats: 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.1 assists
The 76ers had a preexisting core of Maxey, Joel Embiid, and V.J. Edgecombe. They also added Dean Wade and Anfernee Simons to value contracts in free agency, and of course, LeBron James was brought in to bring in a winning culture. It is the addition of Jaylen Brown that really elevated this team to championship frontrunners in the eyes of many, though.
The 76ers fleeced the Boston Celtics in the trade for Brown. It wasn’t that long ago that Brown was named NBA Finals MVP. Plus, with the next player on this list sidelined for most of last season, Brown proved he can operate as a top option. The 28.7 points per game he put up last season were the fourth most in the NBA. Tie that scoring prowess that has gone from good to great with Brown’s elite perimeter defense, and you have yourself a superstar, one who will likely be coming out for blood after being traded.
12. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: N/A
2025-26 stats: 21.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, 5.3 assists
Jayson Tatum is Brown’s old teammate. Upon his return from an Achilles tear, he didn’t quite look like himself, as he only averaged 21.8 points per game over 16 games to end the regular season. Tatum deserves the benefit of the doubt. He was one of the most consistent players in the league prior to getting hurt, and he deserves credit for returning from a serious injury way quicker than anyone would have projected.
Like Brown, Tatum is a two-way superstar. He had the edge on his old teammate when it came to scoring throughout most of their respective careers. Many players are never the same after an Achilles injury, though, so there is risk to ranking Tatum as high as the 12th-best player in the NBA. Lots of fans do view him as a top 10 guy.
11. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 5th
2025-26 stats: 26.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists
Everybody knows that Stephen Curry is the greatest shooter in NBA history. His league record of 4,248 3-point makes is nearly 1,000 more than second place and only growing. Shooting isn’t a skill set that usually fades too much with age, either. Curry is the greatest shooter for more reasons than just his jump shot form, ability to make shots well beyond the arc, and quick release, though.
Curry is also known for his ability to fly around the court, wear out defenses, and use screens to get open. Even in his advanced age, that skill set hasn’t left the only unanimous MVP in league history. Of course, there is even more to Curry’s game, including a stellar handle, impressive interior finishing, and underrated playmaking abilities. The Golden State Warriors are getting old, but Curry is just as capable of leading that team as ever before.
10. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 10th
2025-26 stats: 27.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.7 assists
Donovan Mitchell has made the playoffs in all nine seasons of his career. Last season, he was finally able to reach the conference finals. It is championship or bust for Spida and his Cavaliers now. Mitchell averaged 27.9 points per game in what was his seventh straight All-Star nod. He is a truly elite-level scorer who has an array of moves on the court that he uses to get open.
9. Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets, SF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 8th
2025-26 stats: 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.4 assists
Age is proving to be just a number in the NBA. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant are all in or really close to their 40s, yet they all rank in the top 25 best players currently in the league. The legacies and all-time rankings for those legends are established, but they are still going strong against the young bucks of the modern game.
Durant is the one still left in the top 10, though. The Slim Reaper is arguably the best pure scorer in basketball history, outside of Michael Jordan. At or near 7-feet tall, he can shoot over the top of anyone, and his abilities have translated well to the twilight of his career. The 16-time All-Star and four-time scoring champion has answered his biggest question mark as of late, too, that being if he can play close to 82 games a year in his old age. Durant has played in 75, 62, and 78 games in each of the past three seasons. Even now, it would surprise nobody to see him with a 50-40-90 club season.
8. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 12th
2025-26 stats: 23.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 9.9 assists, 1.4 steals
It didn’t take long for the Pistons to go from a team that tied the consecutive losses record to one that was atop the Eastern Conference standings. The improvement is largely in thanks to Cade Cunningham, their former number one overall pick and a do-it-all star.
Thanks to his status as a jumbo guard, Cunningham thrives as a scorer, defender, rebounder, and playmaker. With the shooters to kick the ball out to that were missing during Cunningham’s first few seasons now on the roster, Cunningham has taken his game to new heights. The team just re-signed the recipient of a lot of his assists, Jalen Duren, so expect another season near the top of the standings for Detroit.
7. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 11th
2025-26 stats: 26.o points, 3.3 rebounds, 6.8 assists
The best player on the reigning best team in the NBA? That would be Jalen Brunson, who just led the Knicks to their first championship victory since 1973. Brunson is the quintessential point guard. He orchestrates the Knicks’ offense, getting his teammates involved when need be while simultaneously operating as the go-to scorer.
Brunson’s expertise in the clutch, in particular, was on display during New York’s NBA Finals run. Brunson led postseason performers with 28.4 points per game en route to taking home NBA Finals MVP honors. The mecca of basketball will never let his name be forgotten.
6. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, SG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 6th
2025-26 stats: 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds. 3.7 assists, 1.4 steals
Anthony Edwards makes for four Timberwolves in the top 50 players in the NBA, which is tied with the 76ers for the league lead. The top five players in the NBA are pretty set in stone, and some might view ranking Edwards higher than a player who just led his team to a championship win as controversial, but Ant-Man deserves the sixth slot here.
Not only is he a high flyer and one of the best dunkers in the NBA, but Edwards has led the league in 3-point makes before. He is a force on offense who hasn’t even had the benefit of having much point guard play around him recently. With LaMelo Ball now forming the other half of one of the best backcourts in the NBA, Edwards can be even better. Minnesota is in the midst of the best era in franchise history. Edwards led them to back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances before last season, but even when the Timberwolves were depleted by injuries last year, they were still able to get past a favored division rival in the first round. Don’t let the joyful personality trick you. Edwards is one of the NBA’s fiercest competitors. It is also worth noting that Edwards is the highest-ranked American-born player on this list.
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Miami Heat, PF
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 3rd
2025-26 stats: 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds. 5.4 assists
Giannis Antetokounmpo was the best player to switch teams in the offseason. The two-time MVP left the only team he had ever known, the Milwaukee Bucks, to have a better shot at winning a championship. The Greek Freak went down as the best Bucks player ever, but he still has plenty to give to the Heat.
Last season was Antetokounmpo’s first since 2017-18 in which he wasn’t in the top four in MVP voting. Antetokounmpo has the strength of a center and the speed of a guard. He bullies his way in the paint but can also fly like a gazelle in transition. Furthermore, the 10-time All-Star if a former Defensive Player of the Year winner. In Miami, Antetokounmpo has the co-star (Bam Adebayo) he lacked for too long in Milwaukee, but does the team have enough depth to win it all?
4. Luka Doncic, Los Angeles Lakers, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 4th
2025-26 stats: 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 8.3 assists
The Lakers have the most ball-dominant megastar in basketball because of a trade that still doesn’t make any sense. In his first full season in LA, Luka Doncic led the NBA in scoring (33.5 points per game), something he’d done during his last season with the Mavericks, too. Of course, during that season, Doncic was the best player on a team in the NBA Finals.
The expectation is always going to be championships with the Lakers, and the team prioritized adding talent that caters to Doncic’s style of play in the offseason. Doncic has the potential to become an all-time great, but his resume could desperately use some championships and MVPs.
3. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 9th
2025-26 stats: 25.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 3.1 blocks
Victor Wembanyama has officially arrived. He entered the NBA as one of the most highly touted prospects ever, and he has quickly lived up to it. Wemby has led the NBA in blocks per game in each of his three NBA seasons, and he earned a much-deserved Defensive Player of the Year nod last season. In fact, he became the first player ever to unanimously win that award. It would surprise no one if Wembanyama continues being named DPOY on a yearly basis; he is that intimidating as a rim protector.
Offensively, the former number one pick does things that shouldn’t be possible for someone who is 7-foot-4. He can hit step-back jumpers or finish over anybody inside. The Spurs were known for a prolonged dynasty with Tim Duncan leading the way, and this iteration of the team, led by a big man, has the potential to be even better.
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder, PG
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 2nd
2025-26 stats: 31.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.4 steals
Ranking Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the second-best player, not the first, is not meant to be a slight. The Thunder star certainly has a case after winning the MVP award for the second consecutive season. SGA now has four straight seasons above the 30-point-per-game mark, too.
While not going back-to-back as champions was disappointing for Gilgeous-Alexander’s team because they had more depth than ever before, OKC will certainly return to contention this year. Their star player thrives as a scorer from everywhere on the court, and it is hard to say if he is better as an interior finisher, from the mid-range, or when drawing fouls. The defense, rebounding, positional size, and passing ability are all prevalent as well. SGA is a beast, and dialogue surrounding who is better between him and the next player on this list will certainly be ongoing all season long.
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets, C
CP 2025-26 Top 100 Rank: 1st
2025-26 stats: 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, 10.7 assists, 1.4 steals
Nikola Jokic nearly lost his spot as the best player in the NBA after a less-impressive-than-normal postseason. The Nuggets were eliminated in round one by a Timberwolves team that was depleted by injuries, and Jokic had some uncharacteristically bad plays. The Serbian still put up video game-like numbers, though, evidenced by the 25.8 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 9.5 assists he averaged. His regular-season numbers were even better (27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, 10.7 assists), and in both the postseason and the regular season, he was the league leader in rebounds and assists. Leading the NBA in those two statistical categories had never been done before. Unthinkable numbers are nothing new for the NBA’s best triple-double getter.
Jokic has three MVPs, and he seemingly finds a new way to have a new claim for that award every season. For the first time in years, there was an argument for Jokic not having sole claim as the best player in the NBA, but for now, he still ranks number one.
Related: Celtics vs. Pistons NBA Opening Night injury report for first game of 2026-27 season