Getty Images/USA Today/Brightcast MEdiaThe NBA is a league constantly in motion, with stars rising and falling every season. As we progress through another thrilling season of the NBA, these top 30 names stand out for their exceptional performances on the court — so far. In this list, we rank the top 30 players in the NBA playing the game right now.
30. Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY SportsThe dust has settled on his latest off-court drama and we can return to judging him as a player. Irving has played a supportive role this season, utilizing his remarkable ball-handling skills when necessary and benefiting from the focus on Luka Doncic to achieve one of his most efficient shooting seasons. However, his unpredictability remains a constant, making it difficult to anticipate his performance at any given time, though he has managed to give the Mavericks optimal performances so far.
29. James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers
Dale Zanine-USA TODAY SportsJames Harden’s transition to the Clippers has surpassed expectations, guiding them to a playoff position in the competitive Western Conference. Once criticized for potentially destabilizing teams, Harden has instead brought out the best in the Clippers, enhancing their play with his adept playmaking, ballhandling, and surprisingly positive attitude. This version of Harden is different from his Houston days; back then, he bore a heavier scoring burden, surrounded by players less capable of generating offense. Now, collaborating with a more dynamic team, Harden has embraced his role. However, to truly change his playoff narrative, Harden must demonstrate his impact in the postseason.
28. Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans
Stephen Lew-USA TODAY SportsZion Williamson’s season has been quietly effective, a change from his past pattern of injuries and weight concerns. While he’s shown up consistently, questions about his game persist — including his work ethic, defensive effort, and the sustainability of his physically demanding play style. Despite these concerns, Zion’s talent is undeniable, with his explosive moments on the court reminding everyone of his potential. If he can eliminate his injury woes once and for all, the sky’s the limit.
27. Karl Anthony-Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves
Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY SportsKarl-Anthony Towns faced a setback with a meniscus tear towards the end of a promising season, putting the Timberwolves’ potential title hopes into question. Despite occasional criticisms of his play, Towns has demonstrated considerable ability, especially on defense. He’s flourished in a secondary role next to Anthony Edwards, and that’s good news for the Timberwolves considering the financial commitment they made in terms of his contract.
26. Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY SportsDespite battling frequent injuries that have limited his game appearances, Ingram has undeniable talent, especially when he competes against top players. Not only a scorer, Ingram has emerged as a remarkable playmaker, leading his team in assists even alongside talents like CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson. Watching a Pelicans game to see Zion might leave you more impressed with Ingram’s offensive skills. At just 26, his best years are likely still ahead.
25. Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks
Benny Sieu-USA TODAY SportsLillard’s new chapter with Giannis Antetokounmpo has — despite high expectations — been rocky at best. The team’s defense has been suffering and the offense is not clicking as anticipated. Lillard has had standout moments, but overall, his performance hasn’t reached the heights many expected. At 33, and with a significant career workload, there are questions about his longevity. However, his ability to score, especially from long range, keeps optimism high for his ability to compete at a high level.
24. Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
Jim Rassol-USA TODAY SportsWhile Jaylen Brown might not check every box as a player, focusing solely on the qualities he lacks overlooks the significant impact he makes as a dynamic two-way player. His ability to stretch defenses with his shooting has opened up his game. Brown’s versatility on both ends of the floor is integral to Boston’s success. Jayson Tatum might be the team’s best scorer. However, Brown is the heartbeat of this team.
23. Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings
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One of the best playmakers in the game, Sabonis is making a strong case for being one of the best centers in the league. Although he rarely shoots from beyond the arc, he significantly contributes to the team’s three-point play by orchestrating dribble handoffs and stirring the subsequent action. Despite facing challenges against top defenses, few can genuinely contain his mix of skills in ball handling, passing, and scoring inside. His speed surprises larger defenders in transition, and even when defenses anticipate his moves, Sabonis has a knack for opening opportunities for his teammates. However, his defensive play sometimes falls short, particularly against aggressive or more athletic opponents.
22. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
Scott Wachter-USA TODAY SportsWemby is the NBA’s next star if he’s not already. The San Antonio Spurs finally have a new much-needed face of the franchise, following the likes of Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard. With performances that fill the stat sheets impressively, Wembanyama’s potential seems boundless. Considering his ability to score and protect the rim at an exceptionally high level, his on-court exploits are a spectacle worth watching. You’d assume this suggests an exciting future for the Spurs.
21. Paul George, Los Angeles Clippers
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY SportsFollowing the trade for Harden and under the guidance of Ty Lue, Paul George has arguably become one of the Clipper’s most important players in a role where he’s often asked to play second fiddle. The main concern with him is his tendency to be injury-prone and his form often seems to be building up rather than being consistently at its peak. This season, he’s set to play more games for the Clippers than ever before, making the most of James Harden’s assists for one of his most efficient shooting seasons. Yet, the real test for him and the Clippers is maintaining health and performance during the playoffs. Beyond his on-court talents, he’s known for his entertaining podcast, Podcast P.
20. Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat
Sam Navarro-USA TODAY SportsBam could be in the conversation for one of the best centers in the league. If he, Tyler Herro, Jimmy Butler, and Duncan Robinson can all be fit and firing come playoff time, they will be a formidable opponent for anyone over a 7-game series. Bam is a defensive powerhouse — utilizing quickness, power, and footwork to hedge effectively and switch onto smaller players. Though not just Miami’s defensive anchor, Adebayo boosts the offense with his expert screens, effective mid-range shots, and keen ability to spot and pass to open teammates.
19. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers
Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY SportsTyrese Haliburton is here, and the world is taking notice. Haliburton is the mastermind behind the Pacers’ slick offensive moves. Even though the Pacers’ defense could be tighter, their offense moves so fast that opponents hardly have time to react. He might not be the most athletic, but his game-changing abilities and positive energy lift the whole team. This was evident during his time with Team USA over the summer. Haliburton’s defense and physical strength are areas for growth, but he’s quickly becoming one of the top talents in the league.
18. De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY SportsWatching Fox play is a real treat, thanks to his incredible speed and knack for seizing the moment. Sacramento had been a moribund franchise for years until Fox and Sabonis came into the picture. Fox is an alpha — ready to take the game over at a moment’s notice. He won’t shy away from taking the big shot when time is running out on the clock. Defensively, he has the chops to make life difficult for opposing guards. As he continues to grow into his prime, Fox will cement himself as one of the better lead guards in this league.
17. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY SportsIs Donovan Mitchell a drastically different player in Cleveland than he was in Utah? Not necessarily.
Mitchell’s skill set makes him a standout, particularly with his effectiveness in high ball screen situations and as a pull-up shooter. Although he might not always use his quickness to drive to the basket, his scoring ability is undeniable, having delivered both incredible playoff performances. You can bet we’ll see some clutch performances yet again this postseason assuming Mitchell can get fully healthy.
16. Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY SportsJamal Murray’s dynamic partnership with Nikola Jokic is huge, as it secured a championship — and you wouldn’t bet against them adding even more. Even without Jokic, he can wreak havoc against defenders with ease. However, Murray’s frequent injuries have kept him from playing more than 65 games in a season since 2018-19, which might limit his chances for All-NBA honors. Despite this, he’s proven to be a standout performer when it matters most, during the playoffs. The question of making an All-Star team becomes less significant when you have a championship ring.
15. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Brad Penner-USA TODAY SportsJalen Brunson is really solidifying himself as one of the NBA’s best, and his trajectory is pointing him to continue climbing this list. The second-round draft pick has become a major player for the Knicks, despite doubts due to his size and being seen as a secondary option in Dallas. Brunson shone after moving to New York in 2022, proving his worth by leading the team to the second playoff round. Critics who thought he was overpaid were proven wrong by his performance. Although an injury slowed him down, Brunson has already made a significant impact, reviving New York basketball and living up to the city’s high expectations.
14. Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat
Jim Rassol-USA TODAY SportsWe know Jimmy Butler can put in playoff performances. He went toe-to-toe against LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, and Anthony Davis in two NBA finals in the past four years. The 5x All-NBA player is rock-solid when the stakes are the highest. While stats don’t fully explain his impact, his improved three-point shooting has been noteworthy. He’s one player you do not want to count out under any circumstance. Additionally, his ability during the playoffs is a big reason why nobody wants to see Miami in a series.
13. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
Matt Krohn-USA TODAY SportsWe can argue on the validity of the Michael Jordan comparisons, but the fact he is even being considered in these discussions is perhaps a major testament in itself. Edwards is as athletic as anyone we’ve seen in recent memory. His explosion towards the rim is downright scary, and the advancements he’s made as both a shot-maker and as an on-ball defender are noteworthy. With more playoff experience, we expect him to take another leap as a bonafide superstar in this league.
12. Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY SportsDurant could be the top player in any game, with any team. However, since leaving Golden State, being the best doesn’t always mean his team wins. His average stats of 28 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists might not feel as impactful as before. Durant is still a top player in the game, but we’re ultimately left wanting more for him to push higher in this list. Phoenix has underachieved massively based on preseason expectations. Can Durant revive the team as it slumps into the playoffs? We’ll see.
11. Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns
Jacob Kupferman/Getty ImagesAveraging more than 25 PPG for seven straight seasons is reason enough to call him one of the most elite shooting guards around. On the court, Booker moves with purposeful grace and has been considered a key player for a team that reached the Finals when he was still young. This season, he’s also stepped up as a playmaker for Phoenix, delivering his best assist numbers while keeping turnovers low. For Booker, no challenge on offense is too great.
10. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY SportsRight now, it’s obvious that LeBron isn’t quite the player he was of yesteryear. However, he is still absolutely a top-10 player in the league. Constantly wreaking havoc in the paint, he often single-handedly drags the Lakers to victories. His age has allowed him to adapt his game even further with his slick passing and post-play. Whether or not the Lakers can make any progress in the playoffs is a question of being fit and healthy — as with Anthony Davis. But if they are, the Lakers will be a formidable opponent for anyone.
9. Anthony Davis
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Arguably the biggest story of Anthony Davis’ reemergence as a superstar was his pair of ho-hum campaigns following the Lakers’ title win in 2020. Davis posted career-low numbers in ’21 followed by another injury-riddled campaign the next year. Right now, however, he’s healthy and balling. Davis has been a dominant force for a Lakers team that has desperately needed it. He’s engaged on both ends of the floor, and has dominated the paint on both ends of the floor. With Davis playing like this, the Lakers have to be considered a threat despite an underwhelming regular season.
8. Steph Curry
Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY SportsThe Golden State Warriors dynasty appears to be showing its age. Regardless, Steph Curry’s magical abilities on the court are unrivaled. As Curry approaches two decades in the league, the focus shifts to whether his team can consistently support his exceptional play. Curry’s game is defined by incredible endurance, unmatched shooting ability, and skilled ball handling. More than just a player, he’s a transformative figure in basketball who has adapted over the years, including sharing the spotlight with Kevin Durant, only to lead the Warriors to further success. Curry stands out as a strategic genius on the court, always finding ways to overcome challenges.
7. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY SportsWe’ve heard the arguments already. Yes, if Jayson Tatum can make a more substantial run into the Finals, he will undoubtedly climb higher up this list. He still needs more to show before he truly becomes one of the greats. Still, we would bet on him to achieve that at some point. Still only 26, Tatum has already become a seasoned player in the playoffs, with his ability to score in various ways, defend multiple positions, and even set a record for the most points in a Game 7 with 51 against Philadelphia. This spring offers him another opportunity to prove himself, but until then, he remains just outside the circle of the league’s most celebrated stars.
6. Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers
Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY SportsHas Kawhi Leonard finally conquered his injury woes? It’s certainly looking promising. He will be looking to pass the 60-game mark for the first time in seven years, thanks to effective load management. He’s also close to achieving impressive shooting percentages across the board. With James Harden taking some of the pressure off Leonard, he’s been able to focus more on his defense, showing off the skills that make him a standout player. This season, Leonard’s exceptional shooting and defense have proven he’s not just one of the best, but among the top players in the game.
5. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Eric Bolte-USA TODAY SportsWe are seeing a superstar blossom before our very eyes. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken his game to another level this season, which is saying something considering we said the same last season. SGA’s talent for moving through the court, quickly changing pace and direction, makes him incredibly hard to guard. Whether he’s maneuvering for a shot or setting up his teammates, SGA’s game adapts to any situation. He finds ways to score or assist despite defensive efforts to stop him. On this trajectory, he is easily an MVP candidate.
4. Joel Embiid, Philidelphia 76ers
Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesIf (big if) Embiid is on the court, he is a matchup nightmare for every team in the league. That being said, he does have the weakest playoff resume of the league’s top superstars. Despite these previous playoff disappointments, Embiid’s offensive game improved significantly from his MVP-level performance. Not only did he dominate defenses with his size, but his midrange jumper also became incredibly reliable, hitting half of his shots from that range. With James Harden’s departure, Embiid also showcased his playmaking abilities, matching the assist rates of elite point guards. Averaging 35.3 points per game, one of the highest in NBA history for a season, Embiid became an unstoppable force, blending his immense size with refined skill. Ultimately, both he and Harden have a lot to prove in the postseason this coming year (assuming Embiid comes back).
3. Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY SportsBe it scoring over seventy points in a game or notching a 60-point triple-double, it seems Luka Doncic is incredibly difficult to stop these days. With his clever play, strong build, slow-motion drives, and improved three-point shooting, he’s already made the All-NBA first team four times in just five seasons and continues to get better. Only LeBron James and Kevin Durant scored more points by the age of 24. Despite his impressive playoff performances, including nearly making the Finals at 22, Luka faces pressure to match his individual success with team achievements, especially after Dallas’s recent all-in approach to win now.
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY SportsAfter Giannis got over the championship hurdle, his game took another step forward. You can sense the confidence he plays with whenever he steps foot on the floor. Antetokounmpo plays with immense fire on both ends. Opponents may try to stop him with a strong defense, but he often proves too much to handle. His ability to power through defenders and score, especially when driving towards the basket, sets him apart. Even hard fouls don’t deter him; he simply works his way around or over defenders, making it hard for them to keep up.
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY SportsNikola Jokic is just phenomenal. Shooting up our rankings into #1 with ease, and he’s still under 30 years old. His performance in the finals last season and obtaining the Finals MVP was the last piece of the puzzle he needed to solidify his status as the best in the game right now. Making his teammates better seems effortless for him, thanks to his jaw-dropping passing ability that surprises even those receiving the ball. As the strongest scorer in the game, Jokic is unstoppable everywhere on the court. And while some doubted his defensive skills, he’s proven he can understand and overcome any challenge during a game.
