NBA Season Preview: Key Takeaways and Top Performers
The anticipation is building as the 2024-25 NBA season is set to start in just five weeks. With training camps on the horizon and the preseason tipping off on October 4, fans and analysts are buzzing with excitement. This year's top 100 players list, a collaborative effort by NBA analysts including Brad Botkin, James Herbert, Jack Maloney, Sam Quinn, Jasmyn Wimbish, Bill Reiter, John Gonzalez, Ashley Nicole Moss, Adam Finkelstein, and Avery Johnson, has sparked both intrigue and debate across the basketball community.
No Rookies, All Stars
It's interesting to note that no rookies have made it into this year’s top 100 players list. Despite the influx of fresh talent, the analysts have chosen to highlight seasoned players. Every NBA team has at least one representative on this prestigious list, underscoring the depth of talent spread throughout the league.
Among the teams, the New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves each boast an impressive six players within the top 100. The Boston Celtics follow closely behind with five players, while several teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and Houston Rockets, each have four players making the cut.
Seasoned Veterans and Rising Stars
As we look at the players who have maintained their elite status, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant once again find themselves in the top-10. Their enduring skills and leadership continue to set them apart. On the other end of the spectrum, Draymond Green is entering his 13th NBA season, proving his longevity and resilience in a league that demands peak physical performance.
This season will also mark a milestone for Zion Williamson, who played a career-high 70 games last season. Although injuries had previously marred his career, Williamson’s presence on the court has been nothing short of electrifying. Another rising star, Austin Reaves of the Lakers, showcased his reliability by averaging 15.9 points per game and playing in all 82 games last season.
Among the breakout players, Alperen Sengun of the Houston Rockets stands out. His performance last season caught the attention of many, signaling a promising future ahead. For Dallas Mavericks fans, Dereck Lively II was instrumental in their exciting run to the NBA Finals last season, adding another chapter to his young yet impactful career.
Movers and Shakers
Rankings can be volatile, and this year's list is no exception. Khris Middleton and Bradley Beal have experienced a drop in their standings, sparking discussions on how they intend to bounce back. Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama narrowly missed out on breaking into the top 10, both of whom have shown tremendous potential and will be players to watch closely this season.
The Boston Celtics are gearing up for a championship push, led by Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. Their leadership and experience will be crucial as the Celtics aim to reclaim their glory. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic was unanimously selected as the top player for the upcoming season by the expert panel, further solidifying his dominance in the sport.
Teams with a Lone Star
Not every team enjoys the luxury of multiple top-100 players. The Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards each have just one player featured on the list. This underscores the challenges these teams may face in competing against more talent-rich rosters, yet also highlights the standout performances of their respective stars.
As the 2024-25 season approaches, the league is poised for another thrilling chapter. The dynamic mix of revered veterans, emerging talents, and resilient teams sets the stage for what promises to be a memorable season in NBA history.