As the buzzing excitement around the NBA reaches a fever pitch, anticipation for the 2024-25 season is palpable among fans and analysts alike. The season tips off in just five weeks, with training camps on the horizon, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling journey from preseason to playoffs.
The preseason kicks off on October 4, and among the most talked-about elements this year is the unveiling of the top 100 players list. Curated by esteemed analysts Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson, the list represents a snapshot of elite talent as we head into a new season. Notably, no rookies have made the cut, underscoring the depth of established talent currently shining in the league.
Team Representations in the Top 100
Every NBA team boasts at least one player in the top 100 list, a testament to the widespread talent across the league. Leading the pack, the New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves each have six players featured. The Boston Celtics follow closely with five players making the list.
Solidifying their place among the league's elite, teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets each have four representatives. Contrarily, the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards each have just one player in the top 100, highlighting areas for growth and future potential.
Spotlight on Individual Players
This year, familiar names continue to dominate. Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant remain entrenched in the top 10, their enduring prowess on the court showing no signs of waning. Draymond Green, embarking on his 13th NBA season, remains a central figure for the Golden State Warriors.
Last season saw standout performances from several players, grabbing attention for their consistency and impact. Zion Williamson broke through with a career-high 70 games, showing his potential as a cornerstone for the New Orleans Pelicans. Austin Reaves of the Lakers averaged an impressive 15.9 points per game, taking to the court in all 82 games last season, proving his mettle as a reliable team player.
Young talent also emerged, with Alperen Sengun of the Rockets showcasing a breakout season. Meanwhile, Dereck Lively II was instrumental in the Dallas Mavericks' run to the NBA Finals, etching his name into the annals of the team's storied history.
Shifts and Surprises in Rankings
Several players experienced dramatic shifts in their rankings. Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal saw a drop, while players like Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed the top 10, underscoring the fierce competition and high standards within the league.
For the Boston Celtics, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White are poised to lead a championship charge in 2025, their leadership and skills critical to the team's ambitions.
The Unanimous Number One
Peerless in his abilities, Nikola Jokic has been unanimously voted the top player for the upcoming season by the panel of experts. His exceptional performances and unmatched versatility on the court make him a formidable force and the foremost talent to watch as the season unfolds.
As we edge closer to the start of the 2024-25 NBA season, this blend of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and strategic team dynamics promises a tapestry of captivating moments, intense rivalries, and basketball brilliance.