The countdown has begun. The 2024-25 NBA season is just five weeks away, and teams are gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in basketball history. Training camps are on the horizon, setting the stage for players to showcase their offseason improvements and build chemistry with new teammates.
In anticipation of the season, the analysts have unveiled their top 100 players list, a comprehensive ranking formulated by experts Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson. Interestingly, the list omits any rookies, focusing solely on proven talent and potential.
Team Strengths
Every NBA team has at least one representative on the list, reflecting the league's significant depth of talent. Emerging as significant powerhouses, the New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves each boast six players in the top 100. Close behind, the Boston Celtics have five players included, a testament to their strong roster.
Other teams with notable mentions include the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets, each contributing four players to the elite list. Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards each have just one player making the cut, highlighting areas ripe for development.
Top Performers and Emerging Talents
Draymond Green is heading into his 13th NBA season, bringing invaluable experience and tenacity to the court. Mainstays like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant continue to shine, holding their positions as top-10 players. These veterans exemplify sustained excellence and leadership in their respective teams.
Last season witnessed Zion Williamson achieving a personal milestone by playing in a career-high 70 games, a positive indicator of his improving durability. In Los Angeles, Austin Reaves made waves by averaging 15.9 points per game, making a statement by being one of the few players to appear in all 82 games. Across the league, the Houston Rockets' Alperen Sengun had a breakout season, elevating his status among the NBA's promising young stars.
Dereck Lively II played a pivotal role in propelling the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals last season, showcasing his potential as a cornerstone of the franchise. However, there were some shifts in rankings as well; Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal saw a dip in their positions this year, hinting at changing dynamics and emerging new talent.
Near Misses and Future Contenders
In the close-but-not-quite category, Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed entering the top 10, yet their performances suggest that they might not be far from breaking through next season. The Celtics are positioning themselves as serious contenders for the championship in 2025, led by veterans Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, whose leadership and playoff experience are invaluable assets.
Kudos to Nikola Jokic, who was unanimously selected as the top player for the upcoming season by the panel of experts. Such recognition underscores his pivotal role and the high expectations placed on him to lead his team to new heights.
As the preseason tips off on October 4, fans and analysts alike are eager to see these top players in action. With seasoned stars maintaining their dominance and young talents rising, the NBA landscape is poised for an exciting season. Teams will be striving to leverage their strengths and address their weaknesses, all with the ultimate goal of hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy come season’s end. The stage is set, and the anticipation is palpable as the NBA gears up for another unforgettable journey.