The buzz around the 2024-25 NBA season is already building, with just five weeks to go until the official start. As training camps loom on the horizon, teams and fans alike are gearing up for another thrilling year of basketball. The preseason action kicks off on October 4, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying season.
Top 100 Players of 2024-25
This year’s eagerly anticipated top 100 players list has been unveiled, crafted by an esteemed panel of analysts including Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson. Notably, no rookies have made the cut this year, reflecting the panel's focus on proven talent and seasoned performers.
Every NBA team is represented, with the New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves each boasting six players on the list. The Boston Celtics are not far behind, with five players making the grade. Following closely, the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets each have four players featured.
Veterans and Rising Stars
Among the veterans, Draymond Green is poised to enter his 13th NBA season. Meanwhile, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant continue to demonstrate their elite status, maintaining their positions as top-10 players. Rising stars also shine brightly, with Zion Williamson coming off a career-high 70-game season. Austin Reaves of the Lakers impressed with an average of 15.9 points per game, playing in all 82 games last season. Additionally, Alperen Sengun of the Rockets is emerging fresh from a breakout year.
Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal have experienced a dip in their rankings, while Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed the coveted top-10 spots. The Celtics' Jrue Holiday and Derrick White are poised to lead a championship charge for Boston in 2025, highlighting the team's strategic ambitions.
Team Highlights and Player Performances
The Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards find themselves with just one player each in the top 100 list, emphasizing the disparity in talent distribution across the league.
In another notable mention, Nikola Jokic stands out, having been unanimously selected by the expert panel as the top player for the forthcoming season. This recognition underscores his exceptional skills and the significant impact he is expected to have on the court.
Last season's performances have set high expectations for several players and teams. For instance, Dereck Lively II was instrumental in the Dallas Mavericks' impressive run to the NBA Finals. His contributions have not gone unnoticed, as fans and analysts alike look forward to his continued development.
Looking Ahead
As the new season approaches, the excitement is palpable. With a blend of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and teams looking to make a statement, the 2024-25 NBA season is brimming with potential.
Fans can anticipate thrilling matchups and standout performances, making this season one to watch. As always, the courts will serve as the ultimate proving ground, where predictions and rankings give way to the reality of the game.