50 Best NBA Players Right Now, 2023

50 Best NBA Players Right Now, 2023

2023 stands as a pivotal year in the NBA landscape. The league is witnessing an influx of transcendent talent and the renaissance of seasoned veterans. As the game continues to progress, so too does the list of elite players who dominate the hardwood night in and night out.

From the calculated brilliance of strategic maestros to the explosive athleticism of aerial artists, these players embody the diverse skill sets that make the NBA the global phenomenon it is today. With statistics as our compass and highlight reels as our evidence, these most electrifying players define the pulse of the league in 2023. 

As we dissect the unique attributes, remarkable stories, and unparalleled dedication that define these players, let us find out who are the 50 best NBA players right now.

1. Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokić, a Serbian player, serves as the centre for the Denver Nuggets in the NBA. The Nuggets drafted Jokić during the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft.

He earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2016 and has been chosen for the NBA All-Star Team five times, with three of those selections being first-team honours. Additionally, he secured the NBA Most Valuable Player Award in both the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons.

Jokić ranks among the top 10 players in NBA history with the highest number of triple-doubles, both in regular season and postseason play. He also holds the record for the quickest triple-double, achieving it in just 14 minutes and 33 seconds.

Furthermore, he contributed significantly to the Serbian national basketball team’s success, winning a Silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics.

In the 2022-23 NBA season, he was named NBA Finals MVP after leading the Nuggets to their inaugural NBA championship. As the season begins, he stands out as the most formidable player in the game.

Learn more about the other ranking basketball players to ever come from Serbia besides Nikola by checking out this piece.

2. Luka Doncic

At just 24 years old, Luka Doncic, a point guard/small forward for the Dallas Mavericks, stands out as one of the NBA’s most promising and thrilling emerging talents. As a fifth-year veteran, Doncic has now ascended to superstar status and will certainly play a significant role in the 2023 season.

Standing at 6-foot-7, Doncic possesses extraordinary court awareness, exceptional ball-handling abilities, and a remarkable knack for scoring. He is widely recognized as one of the premier playmakers in the league, effortlessly creating scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates. Doncic exhibits proficiency in shooting from all three levels of the court.

During the previous season, Doncic boasted impressive statistics, averaging 28.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game. Additionally, he demonstrated proficiency in long-range shooting, with a 35.3% success rate from beyond the arc, and an overall field goal percentage of 45.7%.

Notably, Doncic led the Mavericks to the Western Conference Semifinals for the first time since 2011 and earned a spot on the All-NBA First Team.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo is a professional basketball player of Greek-Nigerian descent, currently playing for the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. His combination of nationality, along with his impressive physical attributes including size, speed, strength, and ball-handling skills, has earned him the moniker “Greek Freak”.

Antetokounmpo is widely recognized as one of the premier power forwards in the history of the game, as well as one of the greatest European players to ever step on the court.

In terms of accolades, Antetokounmpo is among the most decorated players in NBA history. He achieved back-to-back NBA Most Valuable Player Awards in 2019 and 2020, a feat matched only by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James in winning two MVPs before turning 26.

Additionally, he received the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2020, placing him in the esteemed company of Michael Jordan (1988) and Hakeem Olajuwon (1994) as one of the few players to secure both awards in the same season. In 2021, Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to their first NBA championship since 1971 and was named the Finals MVP.

With the acquisition of Damian Lillard, Giannis is poised to form a formidable partnership with the point guard, aiming to wreak havoc in the NBA with the aspiration of securing a second championship ring for the Bucks.

4. Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid, a professional basketball player from Cameroon, currently plays for the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA. He holds both French and American citizenship. Embiid achieved the distinction of leading the NBA in scoring for both the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, marking the first time a centre accomplished this since Shaquille O’Neal in 2000.

Furthermore, he became the first centre since Moses Malone in 1982 to maintain an average of over 30 points per game, and notably, he was the first foreign player to secure the NBA scoring title. He’s poised to kick off this season with great momentum.

5. Jayson Tatum

A notable young talent in the NBA is Jayson Tatum, a 25-year-old small forward for the Boston Celtics. Tatum, currently in his sixth season with the Celtics, holds a prominent role within the team and is anticipated to make a significant impact in 2023.

Standing at 6-foot-8, Tatum possesses remarkable versatility and an impressive scoring ability. As one of the league’s premier scorers, he demonstrates proficiency in scoring from all areas of the court. Additionally, Tatum contributes to the team in various ways, excelling as both a rebounder and passer.

In the previous season, Tatum averaged 27.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Furthermore, he achieved a 35.3% success rate from beyond the arc, along with a 45.3% overall field goal percentage.

Tatum’s exceptional performance earned him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team, and he led the Celtics to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2018.

6. Stephen Curry

Curry is widely recognized as one of basketball’s all-time greats, despite his diminutive stature, and his ability to consistently outshoot much taller opponents from long distances.

His remarkable knack for effortlessly sinking shots from afar, often without even seeing where they’ll land, is his defining characteristic and a testament to his illustrious reputation.

This unwavering confidence in his long-range shooting showcases his mastery of one of basketball’s most crucial skills. Stephen Curry’s influence on the game goes beyond his skills; he has transformed the sport by inspiring players to pursue excellence in three-point shooting.

Keeping pace with the evolving scoring trends, offensive strategies now heavily rely on players’ proficiency in hitting three-pointers. While Curry is undoubtedly hailed as the greatest shooter of all time by a significant margin, his playmaking abilities often go overlooked.

The future Hall of Famer from Davidson University boasts an impressive resume, including four NBA championships, one Finals MVP award, and one regular-season MVP accolade.

7. LeBron James

LeBron James embodies the essence of greatness. He has consistently lied up to, and even exceeded, the immense expectations placed upon him since his high school days in Akron, Ohio. From his very first dribble in an NBA game up until the present moment, LeBron has consistently demonstrated his exceptional talent and prowess.

During his time with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013, James secured his initial two NBA championships, accompanied by both league MVP and Finals MVP accolades in both years.

Then, in 2016, he orchestrated a remarkable comeback against the Golden State Warriors, clinching the Cavaliers’ first championship and putting an end to the longstanding Cleveland sports drought, all while overcoming a 3–1 deficit.

In 2018, James exercised his contract option to depart from the Cavaliers and joined the Lakers, subsequently clinching the 2020 NBA championship and his fourth Finals MVP.

Now, with a revamped Los Angeles Lakers team, LeBron James is poised to lead the young players towards another title as the 2023 season presents a plethora of opportunities for success once again.

8. Kevin Durant

Durant’s place among this year’s greats is bound to spark diverse opinions. Nevertheless, one indisputable aspect is his extraordinary proficiency in scoring when in possession of the basketball. He maintains an impressive career average of 27.0 points per game and boasts the title of four-time NBA scoring champion.

His decision to join the Golden State Warriors, an already dominant force, raised many eyebrows. However, it proved to be a fruitful move as he clinched two NBA titles with the team and was named Finals MVP on both occasions.

It’s important to note that Durant has also earned the NBA MVP award. Now, as a member of the Phoenix Suns and partnering with talented players like Devin Booker, is it plausible to suggest that this could be the year he secures a championship ring for the Suns?

9. Devin Booker

Devin Booker is a professional basketball player who competes for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. After a single season of NCAA basketball with the Kentucky Wildcats, Booker was drafted by the Suns as the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft.

He gained recognition for being the youngest player, at 20 years old, to score over 60 points in a game, achieving an impressive 70-point performance against the Boston Celtics in 2017.

At just 22 years old, Booker made NBA history in 2019 by registering consecutive 50-point games. He also contributed to the USA’s gold-winning Olympic team in Tokyo in 2020. As a three-time All-Star, Booker played a vital role in the Phoenix Suns’ journey to the 2021 NBA Finals.

His outstanding performance led to his selection for the All-NBA First Team in 2022, contributing significantly to the Suns’ franchise-record 64 victories.

Teaming up with Durant this season, Booker is anticipated to play a crucial role in guiding the Suns towards a championship ring.

10. Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis is a professional basketball athlete affiliated with the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association. He serves as a power forward and also takes on the role of a centre.

Throughout his NBA journey, Davis has earned selection to four All-NBA First Teams and four NBA All-Defensive Teams. In his inaugural season with the Lakers in 2020, he secured victory in the NBA Finals.

Additionally, he received the honour of being named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021. Alongside LeBron James, he is anticipated to lead the Lakers in their pursuit of another championship this season.

11. Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler is a distinguished American professional basketball player who currently competes for the Miami Heat in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

He boasts an impressive record, having been selected to the NBA All-Star team six times, honoured as a member of the All-NBA Team on five occasions, and recognized on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team five times as well. Butler also earned a gold medal as part of the 2016 U.S. Olympic team.

In July 2019, he officially joined the ranks of the Miami Heat. In his inaugural season with the team, Butler advanced to the NBA finals. Notably, in 2021, he led the league in steals. 

In 2023, he spearheaded the eighth-seeded Heat to their second NBA finals appearance in four years. The question on everyone’s mind is whether this will be the season Butler secures a championship ring with the Heat or not.

12. Anthony Edwards

Anthony Edwards is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves in the National Basketball Association.

Following a challenging 2022-23 season where, despite an impressive 29-point, 8-rebound, 7-assist, and 2-block performance by Edwards in Game 5, the Timberwolves were ultimately ousted from the playoffs by the eventual NBA champions, the Nuggets.

However, Edwards appears to be in excellent form and is poised to lead the team towards redemption and victory.

13. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, often referred to as SGA, is a 25-year-old point guard and shooting guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. He stands out as one of the most intriguing young talents in the league, and he is poised for a potentially standout season in 2023-2024.

Standing at 6’6”, SGA possesses exceptional speed, top-tier ball-handling skills, and impressive shooting proficiency. His ability to score effectively from various parts of the court makes him one of the league’s most dynamic players.

In the previous season, SGA maintained an average of 24.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. He also boasted field goal and three-point percentages of 45.3% and 39.1%, respectively. SGA’s outstanding performance earned him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team, notably leading the Thunder to their first playoff appearance since 2016.

14. Damian Lillard 

Damian Lillard is a professional basketball player from the United States, currently playing for the Milwaukee Bucks in the National Basketball Association. Following his selection by the Portland Trail Blazers as the sixth overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft, Lillard earned the title of NBA Rookie of the Year through unanimous voting.

He is famously known as “Dame Time” for his track record of making crucial shots in high-pressure situations. Remarkably, he has secured seven NBA All-Stars and seven All-NBA Team selections, a distinction held by no other player in Trail Blazers franchise history. 

Now, Lillard is bringing his skills to Milwaukee, where he’ll have the opportunity to join forces with Giannis for an anticipated showdown, with hopes of clinching a championship ring in the upcoming season.

15. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Anthony Leonard is an American basketball player presently competing for the Los Angeles Clippers in the National Basketball Association. He has established a prominent reputation in the NBA, boasting two championship wins.

Leonard boasts an impressive record with five All-Star appearances and five All-NBA Team selections, three of which are First-Team honours.

His extraordinary ball-hawking skills and notably large hands have earned him the nicknames “Claw” and “Klaw”. With teammates like Westbrook and Paul George, Kawhi is determined to pursue yet another championship ring this season.

16. Trae Young

The Atlanta Hawks’ point guard, Trae Young, stands out as one of the NBA’s most intriguing young talents. Entering his fifth season with the Hawks, Young is already a well-established player and is expected to make a significant impact in the 2023-2024 season.

Measuring 6 feet 1 inch, Young possesses exceptional shooting skills and an impressive ability to read the court. He is recognized as one of the league’s premier shooters, showcasing a wide array of shooting techniques.

During the previous season, Young maintained impressive statistics, averaging 28.4 points, 9.7 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game. He also boasted field goal and three-point percentages of 45.6% and 38.2%, respectively.

This outstanding performance earned Young a spot on the All-NBA Second Team and propelled the Hawks to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2015.

17. Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell Jr. is a professional basketball athlete from the United States, currently playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. He holds the distinction of being a four-time NBA All-Star.

In his debut season with the Utah Jazz, Mitchell garnered recognition by earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team and securing victory in the Slam Dunk Contest in 2018. His career took a turn in 2022 when he was traded from the Jazz to the Cavaliers.

Donovan is anticipated to make a significant impact in Cleveland, aiming to reinvigorate the team, particularly in the wake of LeBron James’ departure and the last championship victory in 2016.

18. Tyrese Haliburton

Tyrese John Haliburton is a professional basketball player from the United States, currently playing for the Indiana Pacers in the NBA. He was selected by the Sacramento Kings in the 2020 NBA draft.

In 2022, Haliburton became part of the Indiana Pacers in a trade deal involving Domantas Sabonis. His exceptional performance led to his first All-Star Game selection as an Eastern Conference reserve in 2023.

The forthcoming season holds great potential for this gifted player, and he is poised to lead Indiana towards a strong finish.

19. Jaylen Brown

Jaylen Marselles Brown is a highly accomplished American basketball player who is currently a key member of the Boston Celtics in the NBA. Following his freshman year, Brown made the decision to enter the 2016 NBA draft, where he was selected by the Celtics as the third overall pick.

Throughout his professional journey, he has showcased his adaptability by excelling in both shooting guard and small forward roles.

With an impressive track record of being named a two-time NBA All-Star, Brown played a pivotal role in driving the Celtics to the 2022 NBA Finals. Now, he is poised to form a dynamic duo with Jayson Tatum, aiming to lead the Celtics to a championship after falling short in the 2022 NBA finals.

20. De’Aaron Fox

De’Aaron Fox, a 25-year-old point guard, stands out as one of the most captivating young talents in the NBA, currently playing for the Sacramento Kings in his sixth season. Fox has already established himself as a pivotal figure for the Kings and is poised to make a notable impact in 2023.

At 6-foot-2, Fox possesses exceptional speed, agility, and scoring ability, making him one of the fastest players in the league with a diverse range of shooting capabilities. With his adept passing and ball-handling skills, Fox can create plays for both himself and his teammates.

In the previous season, Fox averaged 25.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. He maintained an impressive field goal percentage of 51.2% along with a three-point percentage of 32.2%.

As a rising NBA star, Fox poses a significant challenge for defenders due to his ability to score from virtually anywhere on the court. His versatility creates mismatches against most opponents, enabling him to generate scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

21. Paul George

Paul George, an American professional basketball player, currently plays for the Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA. He has earned eight selections to the NBA All-Star Game and has been honoured six times on the All-NBA Team, as well as four times on the NBA All-Defensive Team.

George was chosen by the Indiana Pacers as the 10th overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft. Known for his versatility, George excels in scoring, rebounding, and defensive play at an elite level. He has been named to the All-NBA First Team twice and is widely regarded as one of the premier players in the NBA.

 His exceptional skills are anticipated to be on full display this season, especially with the prospect of teaming up with Westbrook and Kawhi once again.

Although he is one of the most talented players in the NBA, did you know that Paul George has always been overlooked among other players? Click here to find out the Unsung heroes in the NBA.

22. Ja Morant

Ja Morant, a 24-year-old point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, is undeniably one of the most captivating young talents in the NBA. Currently, in his fourth season, Morant has already become a pivotal figure for the Grizzlies and is expected to exert a significant impact in 2023.

Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, Morant possesses remarkable speed, athleticism, and basketball IQ, making him one of the fastest players in the league.

During his previous season, Morant maintained impressive averages of 27.4 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. He also displayed proficiency from beyond the arc, making 34.4% of his three-point attempts, and boasted a 49.3% overall field goal percentage.

Morant’s exceptional performance propelled the Grizzlies to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2015, earning him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. This season he is hopeful to be a key point in the Grizzlies excelling on the grandest stage, playoffs.

23. James Harden

James Harden is a skilled left-handed shooting guard currently playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. He stands out as one of the NBA’s most prolific scorers and is widely regarded as the premier shooting guard in the league.

Selected as the third overall pick by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2009 NBA Draft, Harden’s talent was evident early on. During his time with the Thunder, he earned the title of “NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year” in 2012, contributing significantly to the team’s journey to the finals, where they narrowly lost to the Miami Heat in five closely contested games.

 Harden’s exceptional abilities make him a crucial asset, and it is anticipated that he will join forces with Embiid to lead the 76ers to their full potential.

24. Pascal Siakam

Pascal Siakam is currently a player in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and competes for the Toronto Raptors. He boasts a two-time NBA All-Star status and has earned All-NBA recognition. Notably, in 2019, Siakam played a pivotal role in helping the Raptors secure the NBA championship.

As a rookie in 2017, he led Toronto’s affiliate team to a league title in the NBA Development League (now the G League) and was honoured with the Finals Most Valuable Player award.

Siakam made history by becoming the first athlete to win an NBA championship in the same season he was voted the NBA’s Most Improved Athlete in 2019.

The following season, he led Toronto to the second-best record in the league, earning a place on the All-NBA Second Team and securing his first start in an NBA All-Star Game. Siakam achieved another significant milestone by being the first player to start an All-Star game and compete in the G League.

After a four-year gap since winning the 2019 NBA championship, Pascal is determined to bring another championship ring to Toronto in the upcoming 2023-2024 season.

25. Domantas Sabonis 

Domantas Sabonis is a professional basketball player with Lithuanian-American nationality, currently competing for the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. He holds the distinction of being a three-time NBA All-Star and was honoured with a spot on the All-NBA Team in 2023.

Sabonis is renowned for his multifaceted skills, excelling in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. In 2023, he played a pivotal role in leading the Kings to the third seed in the Western Conference, breaking their 17-year playoff drought and setting a new NBA record.

Together with Fox, he is poised to collaborate in revitalizing the Sacramento Kings and potentially guiding them to a resurgence of glory.

If you are looking to recruit the best talents for your fantasy team this 2023-2024 Domantas is among them. Check out the entire list by clicking here.

26. Jamal Murray

Jamal Murray serves as the point guard for the Denver Nuggets and is a key player for the national team of Canada. Following a single season of college basketball with the Kentucky Wildcats, he was selected by the Denver Nuggets as the seventh overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft.

Murray showcased an outstanding performance on February 4, 2023, during a game against the Atlanta Hawks, achieving a season-high of 41 points, along with five rebounds and seven assists in a 128-108 victory.

Teaming up with Jokic, they played a crucial role in leading the Denver Nuggets to clinch the 2023 NBA championship. Their aim is to bring another championship ring to the city in the upcoming season.

27. LaMelo Ball

LaMelo Ball, a budding point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, stands out as one of the most captivating young talents in the NBA. Currently, in his third season with the Hornets, Ball has already established himself as a prominent figure on the team and is poised to make a significant impact in 2023.

Standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 6 inches, Ball excels in both passing and shooting. He is recognized as one of the league’s premier playmakers, effectively creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Ball’s shooting proficiency extends across the entire court, making him a skilled scorer.

During the previous campaign, Ball achieved impressive statistics, averaging 20.1 points, 7.6 assists, and 6.7 rebounds per game. He displayed excellent accuracy in three-point shooting, making 38.6% of his attempts, and maintained an overall field goal percentage of 43.5%.

28. Bam Adebayo

Bam Adebayo is a professional American basketball player currently competing for the Miami Heat in the NBA. The Heat chose him as the 14th overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft.

Adebayo has earned the distinction of being a two-time NBA All-Star and a four-time NBA All-Defensive Second Team honoree. He played a crucial role in helping the Heat reach the NBA Finals in both 2020 and 2023. Additionally, he secured a gold medal as a member of the 2020 U.S. Olympic team in Tokyo.

This season, alongside Butler, they are determined to make a concerted effort for the NBA championship, having experienced two previous unsuccessful attempts.

29. Zion Williamson

Williamson effortlessly eludes his defender in one fluid motion, delivering powerful dunks. He seamlessly transitions to long-range three-point shots and can effortlessly sink uncontested shots in the subsequent play. Additionally, he displays the capability to create separation off the ball and score from the midrange.

His versatility and proficiency in scoring from various areas of the court make Williamson a formidable challenge for any defence.

His unique skill set often creates mismatches against the majority of players on the court, opening up scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates.

With his exceptional talent, athleticism, and leadership, Williamson is poised to ascend to the ranks of the NBA’s elite players. He is certainly a player to watch closely in the 2023 season and beyond.

30. Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. He was chosen by the Los Angeles Lakers as the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft and received recognition on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.

Upon his trade to New Orleans, Ingram secured his first NBA All-Star appearance and was honoured as the NBA Most Improved Player in 2020 during his inaugural season with the Pelicans.

In the upcoming season, he is eager to join forces with Zion Williamson to rejuvenate the spirited New Orleans team and set their sights on a championship.

31. Karl-Anthony Towns

Karl-Anthony Towns Jr. is a professional basketball player who currently plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA. He was chosen as the first overall pick in the 2015 NBA draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves and subsequently earned the title of NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2015–16 season.

Towns has garnered three All-Star selections and also clinched the victory in the 2021–22 NBA Three-Point Contest. Alongside Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, there are high expectations for KAT this season.

32. Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine is the shooting guard for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA. In the 2014 NBA Draft, he was selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the 13th overall pick in the first round.

LaVine earned spots on the NBA All-Star team in both 2021 and 2022, and he has also claimed victory in the Slam Dunk Contest twice. He contributed to the USA Olympic team’s gold medal win during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

LaVine’s NBA debut with Minnesota saw him winning the Slam Dunk Contest, and he later secured a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. 

Despite a slow start with the Bulls, there are high hopes for LaVine to recapture his prime form, and Chicago is eager to rekindle the glory days reminiscent of Michael Jordan’s era.

Zach LaVine is among the highest-paid NBA players this season and to find out how much the talented shooting guard is pocketing this season, find out here.

33. Mikal Bridges

Mikal Bridges is an American professional basketball player now with the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA. Initially chosen as the tenth overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2018 NBA draft, he was swiftly traded to the Phoenix Suns on draft night.

While with the Suns, Bridges played a pivotal role in the team’s journey to the 2021 NBA Finals. Recognized as “the Warden,” Bridges currently holds the active record for the most consecutive games played, having not missed a single game since being drafted into the NBA.

With his move to the Nets, Mikal aims to elevate the Brooklyn Nets into a formidable force in the league.

34. Jalen Brunson

Jalen Marquis Brunson is an American professional basketball player now with the New York Knicks in the NBA. He was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks with the 33rd overall pick on June 21, 2018, and later signed with the New York Knicks on July 12, 2022.

In the previous season, Brunson’s efforts to lead the Knicks to a competitive finish did not yield the desired results. However, this season, he is determined to alter that narrative and has a clear vision of propelling the Knicks into championship contention.

35. Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Andrew Irving, a basketball player holding both Australian and American citizenship, is presently a member of the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA. He was granted the title of Rookie of the Year following his selection as the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2011 NBA draft.

Boasting eight All-Star selections and three nods to the All-NBA Team, Irving reached the pinnacle of NBA success by winning a championship with the Cavaliers in 2016. His exceptional ball-handling skills have solidified his reputation as one of the finest in the history of the sport. 

With the new look Dallas Mavericks and teaming up with Luka Doncic, Kyrie is expected to bring a ring to Dallas with his last coming back in 2016 while playing for the Cavaliers.

36. Cade Cunningham

Cade Cunningham is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming 2023-24 NBA season. He’s entering his third season with the Detroit Pistons and has already established himself as one of the team’s standout performers.

Standing at 6-foot-8, Cunningham boasts exceptional size and athleticism for a point player. His scoring prowess is evident across the entire court, complemented by his adept ball-handling and passing skills.

Last season, Cunningham achieved an impressive triple-double average of 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, with a three-point shooting accuracy of 41.6%.

While Cunningham acknowledges areas for improvement in his game, he already possesses a wealth of talent. He’s a skilled playmaker and scorer, and he’s no slouch on defence either. Additionally, Cunningham exudes a natural leadership quality, displaying a level of maturity beyond his years.

With key acquisitions made by the Pistons in the offseason, Cunningham is poised to elevate his performance. Surrounded by young and promising talents like Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, and Isaiah Stewart, Cunningham plays a vital role in the team’s future prospects.

For NBA enthusiasts, keeping an eye on Cade Cunningham during the 2023-2024 season is a must. He stands out as one of the league’s most intriguing young players, poised to potentially ascend to superstar status.

37. Jaren Jackson Jr. 

Jaren Walter Jackson Jr. is a professional basketball player competing for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. Memphis chose him as the fourth overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft.

In 2023, he earned his first NBA All-Star selection and also clinched the Defensive Player of the Year award in the same season. Jackson has topped the league in blocks per game for two consecutive seasons. He is poised to play a crucial role in the Memphis team alongside Ja Morant in the upcoming season.

38. Paolo Banchero

The Orlando Magic’s Paolo Banchero, a 20-year-old power forward, is one of the most rapidly emerging young talents in the NBA. Despite being only in his second season, Banchero has already become a vital contributor to the Magic and is expected to make a significant impact in 2023.

Standing at 6 feet 10 inches, Banchero possesses an extraordinary combination of size, athleticism, and skill. Apart from his adeptness at passing and rebounding, he has the ability to score from virtually any spot on the court.

Banchero maintained an impressive season-high average of 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. Additionally, he achieved a shooting percentage of 47.6% and connected on 33.2% of his three-point attempts.

Paolo is among the best young talents around but do you know who the other young talents you should be watching out for are? Check out here.

39. Darius Garland

If you’re a fan of the NBA, make sure to keep an eye on Darius Garland in the 2023 season. He’s one of the most captivating young talents in the league and has the potential to ascend to superstardom.

Garland posted averages of 21.7 points, 8.2 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game in the previous season. He also displayed impressive shooting percentages, making 38.3% of his three-point attempts and achieving a 46.2% field goal rate.

Garland’s gameplay is notably dangerous due to his knack for creating scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates. His skill set sets him apart, and he’s capable of leading his team to victory in crucial moments.

With his talent, speed, and leadership, Garland has the potential to rise to the top echelons of the NBA. Keeping an eye on him in the 2023 season and beyond is highly recommended.

40. Rudy Gobert

Rudy Gobert, a French-born professional basketball player, currently serves as the centre for the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA and represents France in international competitions. He is widely recognized as one of the premier rim protectors in the NBA.

Gobert is tied for the third-most appearances of being named Defensive Player of the Year in NBA history. He has earned All-NBA Team honours four times, made the All-Defensive First Team six times, and secured a spot on the NBA All-Star Team three times.

Furthermore, Gobert led the league in both blocks and rebounds during the 2016–17 and 2021–22 seasons, respectively. He was included in the All-NBA Second Team in 2017, and in 2019, 2020, and 2021, he was named to the All-NBA Third Team. It will be fascinating to witness what Rudy can accomplish this season alongside KAT and Edwards.

Did you know that Rudy Gobert is among a star-studded French squad?

Find out who are the other 19 greatest French basketball players of all time by clicking here.

41. Evan Mobley

Evan Mobley, a forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers, is one of the most promising young talents in the NBA. As he enters his third season with the Cavaliers, Mobley has already established himself as an integral part of the team and is poised for a standout year in 2023.

Standing at an imposing 7 feet, Mobley possesses exceptional athleticism, versatility, and skill. Alongside his impressive scoring ability, he excels in passing and rebounding.

Mobley’s stats from the previous season tell the story, averaging 15.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.7 blocks. Furthermore, he demonstrated proficiency beyond the arc with a 38.3% success rate on three-point attempts and an impressive field goal percentage of 50.8%.

Mobley’s defensive prowess is equally noteworthy, displaying the capability to defend against both smaller, quicker players on the perimeter and larger, stronger opponents in the post, often within the same play.

On the offensive end, he offers a dual threat: setting up screens for pick-and-roll plays leading to layups, or running fast breaks and finishing with emphatic dunks.

With his exceptional talent, versatility, and leadership qualities, Mobley is poised to ascend to the ranks of the NBA’s elite players. He is undoubtedly a player to watch in the 2023 season and beyond.

42. DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan is an accomplished American basketball player currently competing for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA. He was chosen as the ninth overall pick by the Toronto Raptors in the 2009 NBA draft. DeRozan boasts an impressive record with six NBA All-Star selections and three All-NBA Team honours.

He spent a significant nine seasons with the Raptors, participating in five playoff campaigns, before transitioning to the San Antonio Spurs in 2018 and subsequently joining the Bulls in 2021. Together with Zach, DeRozan aims to elevate Chicago’s standing in the conference and work towards restoring the team to its former glory.

43. Tyrese Maxey

Maxey exhibits exceptional ball-handling skills, enabling him to snatch the ball from his defender and swiftly execute a fast-break layup. He demonstrates proficiency in three-point shooting, effortlessly sinking uncontested shots. Moreover, Maxey displays an aptitude for creating separation off the ball, allowing him to score effectively from midrange.

Defending Maxey poses a considerable challenge due to his scoring versatility across the court. His ability to create scoring opportunities, both for himself and his teammates, sets him apart, often causing mismatches against opposing players.

With his remarkable talent, athleticism, and leadership qualities, Maxey is poised to ascend to the upper echelons of the NBA. In the 2023 season and beyond, he emerges as a player worthy of close attention.

44. Desmond Bane

Bane, a 6-foot-6 guard renowned for his exceptional shooting prowess, stands out as one of the premier marksmen in the league, boasting a diverse array of shooting techniques. His proficiency extends beyond scoring, as he excels in facilitating plays for both himself and his teammates, showcasing adept passing and ball-handling skills.

In the preceding season, Bane posted impressive averages of 18.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. Notably, he exhibited remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc, connecting on 41.4% of his three-point attempts, while maintaining an overall shooting percentage of 43.6%.

Despite being in the process of refining his game, Bane exhibits a complete skill set, underpinned by a keen basketball intelligence. His ability to score, distribute, and handle the ball positions him as a multifaceted player with leadership qualities and a maturity level beyond his years.

With key acquisitions bolstering the Grizzlies’ roster in the offseason, Bane is poised to elevate his performance.

Surrounding him are young, highly-talented players such as Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., collectively contributing to the Grizzlies’ status as one of the league’s most dynamic teams, with Bane playing a pivotal role in their success.

45. Myles Turner

Myles Turner is a professional basketball player hailing from the United States, currently playing for the Indiana Pacers in the NBA. After a single season with the Texas Longhorns, he declared for the 2015 NBA draft and was chosen by the Pacers as the 11th overall pick.

Turner’s performance in the recent season has been nothing short of exceptional, and there are no signs of him letting up in the near future.

46. Jrue Holiday

Jrue Holiday is a professional basketball athlete presently affiliated with the Boston Celtics in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers as the 17th overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft.

Holiday dedicated four seasons to the 76ers before a trade led him to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2013. He holds the honour of being a two-time NBA All-Star and a five-time member of the NBA All-Defensive Team.

In 2021, his contributions played a crucial role in the Milwaukee Bucks’ journey to an NBA championship victory, and he also secured a gold medal with the 2020 U.S. Olympic team.

Now, partnering with Tatum and Jaylen in the Celtics, Jrue is poised to play a pivotal role in the quest for an NBA championship ring.

47. Fred VanVleet

Fredderick Edmund VanVleet Sr. is currently an NBA professional competing for the Houston Rockets. He rose to prominence as a crucial player for the Raptors, culminating in an NBA championship win with the team in 2019.

VanVleet holds the distinction of achieving the highest single-game points record not only for the Raptors but also for any undrafted NBA player, achieving 54 points against Orlando in 2021. He secured a spot in his first NBA All-Star Game in 2022.

Now, alongside a youthful Houston Rockets roster, Edmund is eager to vie for an NBA championship this season, leaving us in anticipation of what’s to come.

48. Bradley Beal

Bradley Beal, an American professional basketball player, now joins the Phoenix Suns in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was drafted by the Washington Wizards as the third overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft.

Over his 11 seasons with Washington, Beal earned accolades such as All-Rookie First Team in 2013 and All-NBA Third Team in 2020. Additionally, he secured a spot in the All-Star team three times.

Beal currently holds the second spot in the Wizards’ all-time leading scorer list. With his new team, the Phoenix Suns, and alongside Durant and Booker, Beal aims to make a championship push this season.

49. Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama, a standout French basketball player, now dons the San Antonio Spurs jersey in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Widely regarded as one of the most promising talents in basketball today, he was the top pick in the 2023 NBA draft, selected by the Spurs.

As the season kicks off, the spotlight is firmly on him. With the guidance of Coach Popovich and a team tailored to his strengths, Wembanyama is resolute in his pledge to Spurs fans: the pursuit of a championship ring.

50. Scoot Henderson

Scoot Henderson, known as “Scoot,” is currently playing professional basketball for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. At just 17 years old, Henderson made headlines by signing with the NBA G League Ignite after graduating high school early, making him the youngest player in G League history.

In his second season, he earned the honour of being selected as a captain for the G League Next Up Game. Henderson’s talent didn’t go unnoticed, and he was chosen as the 3rd overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft by the Blazers.

As he steps into the Blazers’ roster at a pivotal time, with Damian Lillard departing, Scoot aims to step up and make his mark, striving for a championship ring in the upcoming season.

As the 2023-2024 NBA season unfolds, these players stand at the pinnacle of skill, dedication, and athletic prowess. Each possesses a unique blend of talent that contributes to the ever-evolving narrative of basketball excellence. The court is their canvas, and they paint a masterpiece with every game.