As the new NBA season looms, fans and analysts alike are buzzing about the top players who will dominate the courts. Among guards, the rankings feature a mix of established stars and emerging talents, each bringing a unique set of skills and storylines to the season. Let's dive into the profiles of these top guards and what makes them standout performers.
Kyrie Irving: Master of the Handle
Ranked 10th among guards and 25th overall, Kyrie Irving continues to prove he's one of the best in the league. Jasmyn Wimbish praises him, noting, "Irving still has the best handle in the league, can easily get to the rim and score from all three levels." Despite a tumultuous season, Irving managed to put together one of his best performances to date, playing a critical role in elevating his team's chances. Without him, it's hard to imagine the Mavericks reaching the NBA Finals.
Tyrese Maxey: The Rising Star
Tyrese Maxey, ranked 9th among guards and 24th in the top 100 NBA players, has firmly established himself as a key player in Philadelphia. After James Harden's departure, Maxey seized the opportunity to step into the No. 2 role for the team. Jack Maloney highlights this transformation: "After James Harden's departure, Maxey stepped into the No. 2 role in Philadelphia last season and made the leap... rewarded with the Most Improved Player award.” Maxey's rise is a testament to his hard work and resilience.
Donovan Mitchell: The Cleveland Catalyst
At 8th among guards and 19th overall, Donovan Mitchell had a career-defining season. He achieved career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals while assuming the role of the lone playmaker for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Brad Botkin observes, "Mitchell registered career highs... he assumed total control of the offense... he is virtually unstoppable when he gets going downhill as a pull-up shooter." Mitchell's ability to take control and drive his team's offense cements his position as a top guard.
Tyrese Haliburton: The Pacers’ Playmaker
Tyrese Haliburton is ranked 7th among guards and 17th overall, even though he faced an injury that cut his season short. Sam Quinn notes, "When Tyrese Haliburton got hurt on Jan. 9, he was averaging 23.6 points per game... that's a total of 55.9 points of offense generated." Despite the setback, Haliburton's impact on the Indiana Pacers was undeniable, showcasing his talent and resilience.
Ja Morant: A Tale of Perseverance
Sitting at the 6th spot among guards and 16th overall, Ja Morant has faced his share of challenges, from injuries to suspensions, limiting him to just 70 games in the past two seasons. However, when he’s on the court, he is electrifying. Jack Maloney comments, "At his best, Morant is one of the most exciting guards in the league... whether or not Morant can return to an All-NBA level is one of the biggest storylines to watch." His journey through adversity adds layers to his story and intrigue to his future performance.
Devin Booker: An Underrated Powerhouse
Ranked 5th among guards and 14th overall, Devin Booker embraced the role of point guard for the Phoenix Suns last season. Jasmyn Wimbish asserts, "Booker has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league... he’s liable to drop 40+ points on you... it resulted in a career-high year in assists for Booker." Booker's ability to adapt and excel in new roles makes him a versatile and valuable player.
Jalen Brunson: The Playoff Prodigy
Jalen Brunson, ranked 4th among guards and 13th overall, made headlines with his phenomenal playoff performances. James Herbert recalls, "In May, Brunson became the fourth player in NBA history... to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games... he had a total of 16 40-point games in 2023-24." Brunson's breakout series demonstrated his scoring prowess and solidified his reputation as a clutch performer.
Stephen Curry: The Timeless Sharpshooter
At 3rd among guards and 6th overall, Stephen Curry remains a formidable presence in the NBA. Despite being 36 years old, his skills haven't waned. Brad Botkin remarks, "Curry is still an offense unto himself with his inimitable movement and pure shot-making talent... he needs better talent around him to make his way back into title contention." Curry's influence on the game with his shooting and movement continues to be unmatched.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Relentless Driver
Sitting at the 2nd spot among guards and 4th overall, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's relentless drive has made him a standout player. James Herbert notes, "Last year's MVP runner-up... led the NBA in drives for the fourth straight season... shot 69% at the rim and 51% from midrange... nobody recorded more steals than Gilgeous-Alexander." His consistent stats and defensive prowess make him a key player to watch.
Luka Doncic: The Statistical Phenomenon
Luka Doncic tops the list of guards and sits 3rd overall, coming off the best statistical year of his career. At just 25 years old, Doncic continues to redefine expectations and lead the league in scoring. Jasmyn Wimbish captures his essence: "Even after six years in the league... he plays at the pace of paint drying on a wall, and yet... the most elite defenders couldn't stop him... he's still only 25 years old." Doncic's calculated, almost leisurely style belies his phenomenal effectiveness on the court.
As the NBA season approaches, the anticipation builds for these top guards to showcase their talents and possibly exceed their previous achievements. From seasoned veterans like Curry to young stars like Doncic and Maxey, the guard position is brimming with exceptional talent and compelling narratives.