RADIO
10. Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks
Damian Lillard remains one of the most dangerous scoring threats in the NBA. Averaging 25.7 points per game while shooting 37.1% from beyond the arc, Lillard’s deep range continues to stretch defenses, creating significant space for his teammates. His 91.4% free throw shooting is a major asset, especially in close games.
Despite Lillard’s individual success, the Bucks have yet to meet the lofty expectations set for them this season. As the team continues to find its rhythm, Lillard will need to translate his personal achievements into more team success if the Bucks hope to be a serious contender this year.
9. LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets
Despite the Charlotte Hornets struggling this season, LaMelo Ball’s individual performance has been a bright spot. Ball is currently the third-leading scorer in the NBA, averaging 31.1 points per game, while also contributing 5.4 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game. His skill set and playmaking ability remain at an elite level, making him a key piece of the Hornets’ future.
While Ball’s turnovers, at 4.5 per game, and his efficiency could use some improvement, his overall impact on the court cannot be denied. After recently being sidelined by an injury, the hope is that he returns to full health soon and continues his strong play from the start of the season.
8. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
Cade Cunningham continues to solidify himself as one of the most promising young stars in the NBA. At 6’6″, Cunningham has the size and versatility to be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. He can score at all levels, facilitate for his teammates, and impact the game in multiple ways. His ability to make plays and contribute in various facets of the game has been vital for the Detroit Pistons.
The Pistons are showing signs of improvement as a team, and Cunningham will be at the center of their potential playoff push this season. His growth is evident, particularly in his efficiency. He’s shooting a career-high 45.5% from the field and 39.3% from beyond the arc, both of which are significant improvements. With Cunningham leading the charge, Detroit could be on the rise.
7. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
Trae Young is having an interesting season. While his scoring numbers remain solid, his three-point shooting has dipped to a career-low 31.0%, and his efficiency could use improvement. However, he has been a superb playmaker, leading the league in assists with 12.2 per game, a significant margin over any other point guard. His playmaking ability has been a huge factor in keeping the Atlanta Hawks in the playoff conversation.
If Young can improve his shooting and scoring efficiency, the Hawks could make more strides this season and potentially surprise other teams in the East. His ability to create for teammates and impact the game in multiple ways continues to be a major asset to Atlanta.
6. Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks
Kyrie Irving may not have to carry the team alone since joining forces with Luka Doncic, but he remains an elite playmaker. His ball-handling skills and ability to score are among the best in the NBA, but it’s his efficiency this season that stands out. Irving leads all point guards in three-point shooting, with 47.0% from beyond the arc, while also shooting an impressive 50.4% from the field.
Averaging 24.3 points per game, Irving has continued to show he can score with the best of them. He has found a great fit in Dallas and played a key role in helping Dallas reach the NBA Finals last season. With Irving and Doncic leading the way, the Mavericks are looking to replicate their success and make another deep playoff run this year.
5. James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers
James Harden has been pivotal in one of the biggest surprises this season, as the Clippers hold a spot in the top six of the highly competitive Western Conference. With Kawhi Leonard sidelined, Harden has stepped up as both a scorer and a playmaker, averaging 21.6 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 8.5 APG, and 1.6 SPG. Known for his ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line—earning 7.2 attempts per game—Harden remains one of the league’s toughest players to guard.
While Harden’s shooting efficiency this season (37.9% FG, 33.8% 3PT) is below his career averages, his ability to put pressure on defenses keeps him a valuable asset for the Clippers. If he can regain his shooting rhythm, Harden’s impact could help the Clippers continue their strong start and remain competitive in the playoff race.
4. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Jalen Brunson continues to solidify himself as one of the most efficient guards in the NBA. His leadership and steady play have been instrumental in the New York Knicks’ success, as the team sets its sights on making a deep playoff run. Brunson’s impressive stats this season—49.5% FG, 25.4 PPG, 42.9% 3PT, and 7.7 APG—underscore his ability to excel both as a scorer and playmaker.
In addition to his offensive contributions, Brunson brings toughness and grit to the court, embodying the heart of the Knicks’ identity. Whether it’s taking a charge on defense or hitting clutch shots, Brunson knows how to impact the game in meaningful ways, making him a cornerstone of the Knicks’ aspirations this season.
3. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
The greatest shooter in NBA history continues to redefine the game with his incredible play. Despite averaging just 30.4 MPG, Curry’s impact remains undeniable, with the Warriors sitting in the top six of the Western Conference. His leadership, poise, and scoring efficiency (41.7% 3PT, 93.4% FT) make him one of the most dependable and effective players in the league. Curry’s ability to create space for teammates and deliver in crucial moments reinforces his status as a game-changer.
Curry’s contributions go far beyond his shooting. He sets screens, moves intelligently without the ball, and consistently makes winning plays, all while averaging 23.0 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 6.6 APG, and 1.3 SPG. His all-around excellence has kept Golden State competitive and running at a high level, proving why he remains one of the NBA’s elite talents.
2. Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
Luka Doncic continues to make his presence felt as one of the most skilled and versatile players in the NBA. With an elite basketball IQ and unmatched playmaking ability, Doncic controls the game at his own pace, finding ways to get to his spots on the court and create opportunities for himself and his teammates. His averages of 28.7 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 8.1 APG, and 1.9 SPG are a testament to his well-rounded game and ability to dominate in multiple facets.
Playing alongside Kyrie Irving, another elite guard, Doncic helps make the Dallas Mavericks one of the most dangerous teams in the Western Conference. His unique blend of skill, size, and basketball savvy makes him nearly impossible to defend, solidifying his place as one of the NBA’s premier stars.
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to solidify his place among the NBA’s elite, building on his MVP-caliber season last year. His game is a masterclass in skill and poise, seamlessly combining efficiency with grace. Averaging 29.8 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, and 1.0 BPG, Gilgeous-Alexander impacts the game on both ends of the court. His 50.8% shooting from the field underscores his offensive efficiency, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Even with star teammate Chet Holmgren sidelined due to injury, Gilgeous-Alexander has propelled the Thunder to the top of the Western Conference standings. As the engine of Oklahoma City’s success, his ability to make winning plays and lead his team is unmatched, cementing his status as the league’s premier point guard this season.
