The anticipation builds as the start of the 2024-25 NBA season is now just five weeks away. Training camps are imminent, and teams are gearing up for the preseason, which tips off on October 4. Analysts have already sparked discussions and debates by unveiling their annual list of the top 100 players, curated by a distinguished panel consisting of Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson.
This year's list comes with notable observations and intriguing patterns. For the first time, no rookies have broken into the top 100, showcasing the analysts' preference for proven talent over potential. Every NBA team boasts at least one representative on the list, but some franchises have clearly stocked up on top-tier talent.
Powerhouses in the League
The New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves each have an impressive six players in the top 100, a testament to their depth and star power. These teams will undoubtedly be exciting to watch as they utilize their extensive talent pools to challenge opponents throughout the season.
Close behind, the Boston Celtics have five players on the list, driven by their championship aspirations. Slated to lead the charge for a title in 2025 are Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, both highly regarded for their defensive prowess and playmaking abilities.
Several other teams are well-represented with four players each, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets. This widespread distribution highlights the league's depth of talent and the competitive nature of the upcoming season.
Veterans and Rising Stars
Among the season's most discussed players are veteran stars and rising talent who promise to deliver captivating performances. Draymond Green is embarking on his 13th NBA season, continuing to bring his trademark defensive intensity and leadership to the court. Meanwhile, the perennial talents of Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant keep them firmly in the top 10, continuing to show why they're among the league's elite.
Zion Williamson, who played a career-high 70 games in the previous season, will look to build on his momentum and further elevate his game. Austin Reaves of the Lakers also had a standout season, playing all 82 games and averaging 15.9 points per contest, solidifying his role as a key contributor.
Not to be overlooked, Alperen Sengun of the Rockets is coming off a breakout season and will aim to maintain his upward trajectory. The Dallas Mavericks' exciting run to the NBA Finals last season was bolstered by the performances of players like Dereck Lively II, whose contributions were pivotal in their deep playoff push.
Shifts in Rankings
The list also reflects some shifts in player rankings, with Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal seeing their positions drop this year. This adjustment sparks curiosity about how these seasoned players will respond and adapt their game to regain their standing.
Close calls in the rankings add to the anticipation, as Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed breaking into the top 10. Their near-inclusion signifies their rising stock and the expectation that they will continue to elevate their play.
Team Highlights and Unanimous Selections
Four teams - the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards - are represented in the top 100 by only one player each, emphasizing the contrasting concentration of talent across the league.
In a decisive selection, Nikola Jokic was unanimously chosen by the panel of experts as the top player for the upcoming season. His consistent dominance and unparalleled skills have clearly left an indelible impression, setting high expectations for his performances in the months to come.
As the NBA season approaches, fans and analysts alike eagerly await the exploits of these top 100 players. With storylines ranging from veteran leadership and emerging stars to team dynamics and individual rankings, the 2024-25 season promises to be an exhilarating chapter in NBA history.