Guard Rankings for the Upcoming NBA Season Highlight Diverse Talents
As the new NBA season approaches, we are provided with a glimpse of the top guards poised to dominate the court. At the forefront of these rankings is Luka Doncic, who continues to amaze with his exceptional skills. Ranked first among guards and third overall, Doncic is coming off the best statistical year of his career. At just 25 years old, Doncic has firmly established himself as a force in the league, especially after leading the league in scoring. "Even after six years in the league," says Jasmyn Wimbish, "he plays at the pace of paint drying on a wall, and yet... the most elite defenders couldn't stop him."
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Meteoric Rise
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander holds the second spot among guards and fourth overall. His continued brilliance was underscored by leading the NBA in drives for the fourth consecutive year. Gilgeous-Alexander's all-around excellence has made him indispensable to his team. "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," says James Herbert.
Stephen Curry: An Offense Unto Himself
At 36 years old, Stephen Curry remains as pivotal as ever, ranking third among guards and sixth overall. Curry's unique combination of inimitable movement and pure shot-making talent makes him a perennial threat. "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," according to Brad Botkin.
Jalen Brunson's Playoff Masterclass
Securing the fourth position among guards and 13th overall, Jalen Brunson showcased his scoring prowess last season. Notably, Brunson scored 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games, an incredible feat that underlines his importance. "In May, Brunson became the fourth player in NBA history... to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games," notes James Herbert.
Devin Booker's Underrated Excellence
Coming in fifth among guards and 14th overall, Devin Booker is another name to watch. He took on the added responsibility of the point guard role for Phoenix last season, resulting in a career-high year in assists. "Booker has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league... he's liable to drop 40+ points on you," observes Jasmyn Wimbish.
Ja Morant's Rollercoaster Seasons
Ja Morant, ranked sixth among guards and 16th overall, remains one of the most exciting players despite his struggles with injuries and suspensions. Morant's ability to captivate audiences is well-documented. "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," says Jack Maloney.
Tyrese Haliburton's Impactful Season
Tyrese Haliburton is ranked seventh among guards and 17th overall, having had an impactful season with the Indiana Pacers despite an injury midway through. 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."
Donovan Mitchell's Career Highs
Donovan Mitchell warms the eighth spot among guards and 19th overall. His last season was highlighted by career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals. Performing as the lone playmaker for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Mitchell was virtually unstoppable. Brad Botkin captures it perfectly: "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."
Tyrese Maxey's Meteoric Rise
Tyrese Maxey, who ranks ninth among guards and 24th overall, has taken on a more prominent role in Philadelphia following James Harden's departure. Rewarded with the Most Improved Player award, Maxey has stepped into the No. 2 role with aplomb. Jack Maloney notes, "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."
Kyrie Irving's Steady Brilliance
Rounding out the top ten guards is Kyrie Irving, who ranks 25th overall. Despite off-court controversies, Irving's on-court contributions remain invaluable. As Jasmyn Wimbish puts it, "He put together one of his best seasons to date without ruffling any feathers... The Mavericks certainly wouldn't have made it to the NBA Finals without him... Irving still has the best handle in the league, can easily get to the rim and score from all three levels."
As we gear up for another thrilling NBA season, these guards are set to dazzle and dominate, each bringing their unique style and talent to the hardwood. The upcoming season promises to be a captivating chapter in the storied legacy of these exceptional players.