The 2024 NBA season is over and it was one heck of a ride. The Boston Celtics managed to win the NBA championship after finishing with the best record in the NBA (64-18), only losing three games in the playoffs and one in the Finals. Jaylen Brown earned the Finals MVP trophy after posting efficient shooting numbers and playing elite defense on Luka Doncic, so where does he rank among the 25 best players in the world? We all know Jayson Tatum is among the top 10 after finishing among the leaders in the regular-season MVP race, but where does he fall exactly? Did Luka Doncic do enough to be crowned the best player in the world? Here are the rankings of the 25 best players in the world after the 2024 NBA Finals.
1. Nikola Jokic
Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 26.4 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 9.0 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.9 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 28.7 PPG, 13.4 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, has cemented his place as the best player in the world with his third MVP award. Despite the Nuggets falling in the second round of the playoffs, Jokic's individual performance remained unparalleled. His combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking makes him the most dominant force in the NBA.
Jokic's skill set is unmatched, as he can dictate the flow of the game with his vision and passing, a rare trait for a big man. His presence on the court elevates the performance of his teammates, making the Nuggets a perennial contender. As he continues to refine his game, Jokic is expected to remain at the pinnacle of the NBA hierarchy for the foreseeable future, consistently competing for MVP honors and leading his team deep into the playoffs.
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 30.4 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.1 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: N/A
Despite missing the playoffs due to injury, Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the best two-way player in the world. His blend of size, athleticism, and skill allows him to dominate both ends of the floor. As a two-time MVP, former Defensive Player of the Year, and NBA champion, Giannis's resume speaks for itself. With Damian Lillard now by his side, the Bucks are poised for a strong comeback next season, and Giannis will undoubtedly be in the MVP conversation again.
Giannis's ability to impact the game in multiple ways, from scoring and rebounding to defending and playmaking, makes him a unique talent. As he continues to develop his game and build chemistry with Lillard, Giannis is expected to lead the Bucks to new heights and reestablish himself as a dominant force in the league.
3. Luka Doncic
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 33.9 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 9.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 28.9 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 8.1 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Luka Doncic led the NBA in scoring and finished third in the MVP race, earning All-NBA First Team honors. His dominant performance in the playoffs, where he led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals as a sixth seed, showcased his ability to elevate his game when it matters most. Doncic's all-around game and clutch performances have made him one of the most exciting young talents in the league, with many predicting he will win his first MVP award soon.
Doncic's combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ allows him to control the game like few others. His ability to score, create for his teammates, and make big plays in crucial moments sets him apart and the Slovenian will build upon his Finals loss to become an even bigger star in basketball.
4. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 30.1 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.0 SPG, 0.9 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 30.2 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.7 BPG
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander finished second in the MVP voting and led the Thunder to the best record in the West. His emergence as a dominant scorer and clutch performer has solidified his place among the league's elite. Finishing third in Clutch Player of the Year and seventh in Defensive Player of the Year, Gilgeous-Alexander's all-around game continues to improve, making the Thunder a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.
Gilgeous-Alexander's versatility and ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor make him a unique talent. His growth as a leader and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations have been key to the Thunder's success as the team looks to win a title someday.
5. Joel Embiid
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 34.7 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.7 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 33.0 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 5.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.5 BPG
Joel Embiid was a frontrunner for the MVP award this year before injuries limited his season to just 39 games. Despite this, his dominance as a two-way center remains undeniable. Embiid's ability to score, rebound, and protect the rim makes him one of the most impactful players in the league.
However, his inability to stay healthy and lack of an NBA Finals appearance keep him just outside the top three. Embiid's combination of size, skill, and athleticism allows him to dominate both ends of the floor. His presence in the paint and ability to stretch the floor with his shooting make him a matchup nightmare for opponents as he is the second-best big man in the world behind Nikola Jokic.
6. Anthony Edwards
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 25.9 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 27.6 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Anthony Edwards emerged as a superstar in the playoffs, leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals with a breakout season. His incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive potential make him one of the most exciting young players in the league. At just 22 years old, Edwards has shown the potential to become the best player in the world, competing with Luka Doncic as the face of the NBA.
Edwards's combination of physical tools and skill set allows him to impact the game in multiple ways. His ability to take over games with his scoring and make big plays in crucial moments has been key to the Timberwolves' improvement as the third seed in the Western Conference.
7. Jayson Tatum
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 26.9 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 25.0 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Jayson Tatum struggled with his shot in the playoffs (38.8% FG, 26.3% 3-PT FG) but improved his all-around game, becoming an elite passer, defender, and rebounder. His contributions helped lead the Celtics to the NBA championship, with Jaylen Brown winning Finals MVP. Tatum's development as an all-around player and his ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him the best player in Boston and a top player in the league.
His growth as a leader and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations have been key to the Celtics' success this season and as he continues to refine his game and build on his impressive performances, Tatum is expected to remain a top player in the league and a perennial MVP candidate for the foreseeable future.
8. LeBron James
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 25.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.3 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 27.8 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 8.8 APG, 2.4 SPG, 1.0 BPG
LeBron James , even as he approaches 40 years old, can still control the pace of a game and be an elite passer and leader. Although no longer in the top five due to his age, LeBron's basketball IQ and ability to elevate his teammates make him a significant force for the Lakers. His experience and leadership will be crucial as he continues to play alongside Anthony Davis, keeping the Lakers competitive next season.
LeBron's longevity and ability to adapt his game have been remarkable. As he approaches the end of his career, LeBron's impact on the game and his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time remain unquestioned and his presence on the court continues to make the Lakers a formidable team in the Western Conference.
9. Stephen Curry
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 26.4 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: N/A
Stephen Curry remains the best point guard in the NBA and the greatest shooter in the world. His ability to destroy defenses with his shooting and playmaking keeps him among the league's elite. While the Warriors need more help to win another championship, Curry's individual talent and leadership continue to make him one of the most impactful players in the game.
Curry's combination of shooting, ball-handling, and basketball IQ allows him to control the game like a few others as he shot 40.8% from three this season. As long as he gets more help this summer, Curry is expected to remain a top player in the league and a perennial MVP candidate, making Golden State a dangerous team in the Western Conference.
10. Kevin Durant
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 27.1 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 5.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 26.8 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 3.3 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.5 BPG
Kevin Durant, despite not finding postseason success since leaving the Warriors, remains an elite individual talent. His scoring ability, shooting, and overall skill set make him one of the most dangerous players in the league. If Durant does not achieve postseason success next year, he risks falling out of the top 10, but his talent and impact on the game remain undeniable.
Durant's combination of size, skill, and scoring ability allows him to dominate on the offensive end. His ability to take over games and make big shots in crucial moments has been key to his success. As he continues to build chemistry with his teammates including Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, Durant is expected to lead his team to new heights and establish himself as one of the top players in the league.
11. Donovan Mitchell
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 26.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 29.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Donovan Mitchell has overtaken Devin Booker as the best shooting guard in the NBA after a dominant postseason where he posted 29.6 points per game on 47.6% from the field and 35.4% from three. His offensive prowess, athleticism, and emerging leadership qualities make him one of the most exciting players in the league.
Mitchell's ability to take over games and lead his team in crucial moments has solidified his place among the league's elite. His growth as a leader and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations have been key to his success and if he stays in Cleveland, can be a perennial MVP candidate going forward.
12. Devin Booker
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 27.1 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 6.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 27.1 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 6.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Devin Booker, while still one of the best shooting guards in the NBA, has found himself playing second fiddle at times to Kevin Durant. Booker's ability to score at will and his offensive skill set make him a significant threat. However, to crack the top 10, Booker needs to improve his leadership qualities and continue to develop his all-around game.
Regardless, Booker can make big shots and create for his teammates at a superstar level offensively. Next season, Booker is expected to remain a top player in the league and a perennial All-Star, making his team a dangerous opponent with title aspirations.
13. Anthony Davis
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 24.7 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 2.3 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 27.8 PPG, 15.6 RPG, 4.0 APG, 0.4 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Anthony Davis remains a dominant big man in the NBA, behind only Jokic and Embiid. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, earning All-Defensive First Team and All-NBA Second Team honors, solidifies his place as one of the top players in the league.
Davis' presence in the paint and his ability to stretch the floor make him a key player for the Lakers' success. His impact on both ends of the floor and his ability to perform in clutch situations make him a key player for the Lakers' championship aspirations and he had one of the best individual seasons of his career in 2024.
14. Jaylen Brown
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 23.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 23.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Jaylen Brown proved himself as a superstar player during the 2024 Finals, earning the Finals MVP award after averaging 20.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. His improved defensive skills and unstoppable ability in fast breaks solidify his place among the top players in the league.
Brown's impact on both ends of the floor and his unselfishness to share the spotlight with Jayson Tatum make him a key player for the Celtics' success. His development as a player and his ability to continue improving make him a threat to be one of the top players in the league for years to come.
15. Jalen Brunson
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 28.7 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 6.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 32.4 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 7.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Jalen Brunson had a breakout year as the best point guard in the NBA behind Stephen Curry. His impact on the Knicks, leading them to the second seed in the Eastern Conference and coming close to the Eastern Conference Finals, solidifies his place among the top players in the league.
Brunson's ability to score, pass, and lead his team in clutch situations makes him a key player for the Knicks' success. His development as a player and his ability to continue improving make him a threat to be one of the top guards in the league going forward, especially after he averaged 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game.
16. Kawhi Leonard
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 23.7 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.9 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 12.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 2.0 APG, 2.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Kawhi Leonard remains a dominant two-way player in the NBA, despite ongoing concerns about his health. His impact on both ends of the floor, playing 68 games, his most since the 2016-17 season, solidifies his place among the top players in the league.
Leonard's ability to defend multiple positions and score efficiently makes him one of the most impactful stars in the world. If he can stay healthy, the superstar has a chance to make the Clippers title contenders although he will need help in case Paul George walks in free agency.
17. Tyrese Haliburton
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 20.1 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 10.9 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.7 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 18.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Tyrese Haliburton has been compared to a modern Steve Nash due to his passing and shooting ability. His impact on the Pacers, leading them to the Eastern Conference Finals alongside Pascal Siakam, solidifies his place among the top players in the league.
Haliburton's ability to score, pass, and lead his team in clutch situations makes him a key player for the Pacers' success. His development as a player and his ability to continue improving make him a threat to guide the Indiana Pacers to another deep postseason run in 2024-25.
18. Kyrie Irving
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 25.6 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 22.1 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Kyrie Irving bounced back this year and led the Mavericks to the Finals alongside Luka Doncic. His impact on the Mavericks, despite struggling in the Finals by posting 19.8 points per game on 41.4% from the field and 27.6% from three, solidifies his place among the top players in the league. As the second option, Irving showed a willingness to share the spotlight with one of the best players in the world.
Irving's leadership and determination make him a valuable asset for the Mavericks, and as he continues to refine his game, expect Irving to establish himself as one of the driving forces behind a potential title contender next year. However, we still have to admit that we were disappointed with Irving’s final performances considering his elite status.
19. Damian Lillard
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 24.3 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 7.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 31.3 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Damian Lillard was not healthy during the postseason but remains one of the top 20 players in the world. His elite shooting ability and potential to be a top-3 point guard in the league, alongside his partnership with Giannis Antetokounmpo, make the Bucks contenders for the title. Coach Doc Rivers will continue to find ways to make Lillard get to his best because he can take over games with ease.
Lillard's ability to perform in clutch situations and lead his team to success solidifies his place among the top players in the league and Giannis will be praying they can both stay healthy to have a deep postseason run next year.
20. Jimmy Butler
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 20.8 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: N/A
Jimmy Butler remains a confident leader, dominant defender, and talented scorer, despite being unhealthy in the playoffs for the Heat. His impact on both ends of the floor solidifies his place among the top players in the league even if Pat Riley seems to be annoyed with his best player’s “trolling” and inability to stay healthy.
Butler's ability to perform in clutch situations and lead his team to success make him a key player for the Heat's success in recent seasons and if Miami wants to continue to compete for a title, they will have to consider re-signing the superstar to an extension.
21. De’Aaron Fox
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 26.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 5.6 APG, 2.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: N/A
De'Aaron Fox missed out on the All-Star Team this year but remains an excellent scorer and passer. His impact on the Kings, despite not leading them to the playoffs, solidifies his place among the top players in the league.
Fox's ability to score, pass, and lead his team in clutch situations makes him a key player for the Kings' success. His development as a player and his ability to continue improving make him a threat to be one of the top guards in the league and his partnership with Domantas Sabonis is more than impressive.
22. Domantas Sabonis
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 19.4 PPG, 13.7 RPG, 8.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: N/A
Domantas Sabonis is the best passing big man in the NBA after Jokic, a dominant rebounder, and led the NBA in rebounds this season. His impact on the Kings, alongside Fox, solidifies his place among the top players in the league because his all-around skill set at 6’10” is hard to ignore.
Sabonis' ability to score, pass, and lead his team in clutch situations makes him a key player for the Kings' success and the team will be looking to make another playoff push as they did in 2021-22. However, the Kings might need to make more moves to get Sabonis (and Fox) some help on both ends of the court.
23. Pascal Siakam
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 21.7 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 4.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 21.6 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Pascal Siakam is a dominant athlete in the modern power forward position, capable of running the floor, passing, and scoring. His impact on the Pacers, making them a great team since his acquisition (reaching the Eastern Conference Finals), solidifies his place among the top players in the league.
Siakam's ability to score, defend, and lead his team in clutch situations makes him a key player for the Pacers' success. The big man’s versatility and athleticism make him a valuable asset for the Pacers, and as he continues to refine his game alongside Tyrese Haliburton, his value will only be higher going forward.
24. Bam Adebayo
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 19.3 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.9 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 22.6 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Bam Adebayo is one of the best defensive players in the NBA, earning All-Defensive First Team honors and finishing third in DPOY voting. Adebayo's ability to defend multiple positions, rebound, and score efficiently make him a key player for the Heat and might also become the most untouchable player on the roster.
Adebayo's leadership and determination make him a valuable asset for the Heat, and as he continues to refine his game, expect Adebayo to establish himself as one of the faces of the NBA when it comes to playing elite defense every game.
25. Jamal Murray
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2023-24 Season Statistics: 21.2 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG
2023-24 Playoff Statistics: 20.6 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Jamal Murray is incredible in the playoffs, making two game-winning shots against the Lakers in the first round and winning an NBA title last year. His impact on the Nuggets, alongside Jokic, solidifies his place among the top players in the league even if he looked shaky in the series against the Timberwolves.
Murray's ability to score, shoot from the outside, and perform in clutch situations makes him a key player for the Nuggets' success going forward and Nikola Jokic will need the point guard at his absolute best to guide the team to another championship run.
This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.
