Our annual Top 100 NBA player rankings have once again ignited the passion of basketball fans and analysts alike. This year's list, reflecting an aggregate projection, highlights significant shifts and emerging talents in the league. Among these changes, one name stands out for his meteoric rise: Victor Wembanyama. The young sensation catapulted from 58th to 12th in the rankings. His post-All-Star break performance was nothing short of spectacular, averaging 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game.
As Sam Quinn passionately states, "We're not just talking about the next great NBA player here. We're talking about the sort of player this sport has never seen, the next step in its evolution." Wembanyama represents the ultimate blend of size and skill, embodying the future of basketball. "He is the ultimate marriage of size and skill, the culmination of everything this sport has been building towards for the past decade," Quinn adds.
Another notable ascension in the rankings is Chet Holmgren, who jumped from 68th to 30th. Jasmyn Wimbish, another respected voice in the sports world, sees a bright future for Holmgren. "Holmgren is on a career trajectory to be a mainstay at the All-Star Game, as well as a frequenter of end-of-season awards ballots like All-NBA and All-Defense." Holmgren's ability to adapt his game both on and off the ball makes him a versatile threat. Jack Maloney concurs, observing that "Holmgren has the on-and-off-ball skills to easily scale up and down depending on the situation."
While rookies didn't make it into the top 100 this year, several players made significant leaps. Alperen Sengun, for example, moved from 85th to 47th. His prowess around the rim has not gone unnoticed. "Sengun's strength and finesse around the rim make it difficult to defend him when he catches the ball on the move," praises Wimbish. Tyrese Maxey also saw a considerable rise, jumping from 60th to 24th in the rankings, reflecting his growing influence on the court.
Several previously unranked players now find themselves in the Top 100. Brandon Miller, Jalen Suggs, and Coby White have secured spots at 66th, 70th, and 71st, respectively. Isaiah Hartenstein is another new entrant, now positioned at 73rd. Derrick White and Jalen Williams also made significant moves, climbing to 36th and 37th, respectively. White's ascent is particularly noteworthy, aligning with the broader trends and data supporting his improved performance.
However, the rankings aren't just about upward momentum. Some players experienced declines. Andrew Wiggins and Josh Giddey, previously ranked 48th and 61st, respectively, did not make the cut this year. Wiggins' fall comes during a challenging personal time. "His father, former NBA player Mitchell Wiggins, recently died, and Andrew had taken multiple leaves of absence the past two years as his father's health was in decline," notes Brad Botkin.
Brook Lopez fell from 50th to 88th, while Marcus Smart dropped from 56th to 93rd. Zach LaVine's ranking slipped from 43rd to 76th, and Klay Thompson fell from 67th to 99th. Bradley Beal also saw a significant drop, moving from 38th to 69th. Chris Paul and Malcolm Brogdon found themselves out of the rankings entirely. Botkin provides some context, stating, "Brogdon is a good player but not a top-100 guy under these conditions."
Changes in the rankings reflect broader trends and individual trajectories within the NBA. Draymond Green, for instance, moved from 30th to 56th—a spot he occupies due to shifts in his performance and the evolving landscape of the league.
These rankings underline the dynamic nature of the NBA, showcasing the rapidly changing fortunes of its players. They offer a snapshot of the current and future state of the league, celebrating those who are emerging as new stars while acknowledging the shifting performances of established talents. As the season progresses, these rankings will undoubtedly continue to spark debates, discussions, and excitement among the NBA's passionate fanbase.