Our annual Top 100 NBA player rankings have become a much-anticipated tradition, capturing the collective imagination of basketball fans and analysts alike. This year's rankings, an aggregate projection, have showcased some remarkable moves, led by a trio of young players who have significantly altered their standings.
Victor Wembanyama’s Astounding Leap
Victor Wembanyama has made an unprecedented leap from 58th to 12th in this year's rankings. His post-All-Star break performance was nothing short of phenomenal, averaging 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. Sam Quinn lauded Wembanyama, saying, "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." He added, "He is the ultimate marriage of size and skill, the culmination of everything this sport has been building towards for the past decade."
Rising Stars: Chet Holmgren and Tyrese Maxey
Chet Holmgren has also moved significantly, ascending from 68th to 30th in the rankings. Jasmyn Wimbish highlighted Holmgren's potential, stating, "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." Jack Maloney further emphasized, "Holmgren has the on-and-off-ball skills to easily scale up and down depending on the situation."
Tyrese Maxey made a considerable jump from 60th to 24th, showcasing his growth and potential in the league.
Unexpected Climbers and Notable Drops
Alperen Sengun climbed from 85th to 47th, a testament to his hard work and skill development. Jasmyn Wimbish noted, "Sengun's strength and finesse around the rim make it difficult to defend him when he catches the ball on the move."
Brandon Miller, Jalen Suggs, and Coby White were previously unranked but have now secured spots at 66th, 70th, and 71st, respectively. Isaiah Hartenstein has made his presence felt, positioned now at 73rd.
However, the journey wasn’t as prosperous for everyone. Andrew Wiggins, formerly at 48th, and Josh Giddey, previously at 61st, are now unranked. Additionally, players like Brook Lopez fell from 50th to 88th, and Marcus Smart slipped from 56th to 93rd.
Zach LaVine, once 43rd, now finds himself at 76th. Klay Thompson dropped from 67th to a precarious 99th. Bradley Beal also saw a notable descent, falling from 38th to 69th.
Notable Exits and Steady Risers
Chris Paul and Malcolm Brogdon have moved out of the rankings. As Brad Botkin succinctly put it, "Brogdon is a good player but not a top-100 guy under these conditions."
On the other hand, Derrick White and Jalen Williams moved to 36th and 37th, respectively. Draymond Green, previously 30th, adjusted his position to 56th. Despite the changes, Derrick White's rise to 36th showcases his undeniable talent and impact on the game.
It's a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport, where hard work, talent, and circumstances intertwine to shape the careers of these athletes. As the NBA continues to evolve, the rankings reflect the dynamic shifts and emerging talents that keep the game exciting.