Every NBA Team’s Best Player For The 2024-25 Season

Naming every NBA team’s best player heading into the 2024-25 season.

As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, every team is relying on their standout player to steer them toward success, whether that’s competing for a championship or building a foundation for the future. But who stands as the best player on each team heading into this pivotal season? Let’s dive in, and you might be surprised by a few names.

Atlanta Hawks: Trae Young

Trae Young remains the face of the Atlanta Hawks as their undisputed best player entering the 2024-25 season. Coming off another elite scoring season, Young averaged 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game in 2023-24, proving his ability to both light up the scoreboard and set up his teammates. Despite Atlanta’s up-and-down performance, Young’s leadership and ability to take over critical games keep him their cornerstone.

With Dejounte Murray taking wom3 playmaking responsibilities last season, Young refined his role, focusing on efficient shooting and honing his passing game. His defensive struggles are well-documented, but Young’s offensive firepower outweighs those limitations. Even with No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher on the team, Young is still the best player in Atlanta.

Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum

Jayson Tatum took another leap in 2023-24, averaging 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while leading the team to the NBA championship. Tatum’s size and skill set, combined with his smooth scoring ability from all three levels, make him one of the most dynamic forwards in the NBA.

Adding Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday gave Tatum more space to operate, and with Jaylen Brown as his co-star (and Finals MVP), the Celtics remain a championship contender and the favorite to go back-to-back. Tatum’s improved playmaking and leadership qualities make him even more valuable as a potential MVP candidate.

Brooklyn Nets: Cam Thomas

Cam Thomas emerges as the Brooklyn Nets’ best player for the 2024-25 season, stepping up as the team’s primary scoring option after a breakout year. In 2023-24, Thomas averaged 22.5 points per game, displaying an elite scoring ability and confidence as a shot-creator. With the Nets in a rebuilding phase following the departures of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, Thomas took full advantage of the opportunity to lead Brooklyn’s offense.

His fearless approach, particularly in isolation and crunch-time moments, has quickly made him a fan favorite. As the team continues to develop younger players, Thomas’ scoring prowess will be the centerpiece of the Nets’ hopes to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.

Charlotte Hornets: LaMelo Ball

Despite battling injuries with only 22 appearances last season, LaMelo Ball remains the Hornets’ most impactful player. In 2023-24, he posted impressive averages of 23.9 points, 8.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. Ball’s court vision is unparalleled, making him one of the best passers in the NBA, and his 6’7″ frame gives him a significant advantage at the point guard position.

Charlotte has been stuck in the middle of a rebuild for years, but with Ball healthy and at the helm, the Hornets have the foundation to become a playoff contender as long as Brandon Miller continues to improve his game. His health is the biggest concern, as he missed a good chunk of the season, but when on the floor, Ball is the clear leader and engine of this team.

Chicago Bulls: Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine remains the focal point of the Chicago Bulls, even as the team has embraced a rebuild and look to trade him. In 2023-24, LaVine averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, continuing his role as one of the league’s most lethal scoring guards even if he only played 25 games last year.

The Bulls may be in a state of flux, with questions surrounding their roster construction, but LaVine’s talent is undeniable. His scoring versatility allows him to thrive in different offensive schemes, but the Bulls will need to figure out how to better rebuild around Coby White and Josh Giddey as early as possible.

Cleveland Cavaliers: Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell wasted no time asserting himself as Cleveland’s leader in 2023-24, averaging 26.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and a career-high 6.1 assists per game while leading the team to the second round of the playoffs. His explosive scoring and ability to take over games have made him indispensable for a young Cavaliers team on the rise.

Cleveland’s roster is built around its backcourt, and Mitchell is the spearhead alongside Darius Harland. He consistently delivered in clutch situations last season, helping the Cavaliers secure the fourth seed in the East. If Cleveland can solidify its supporting cast around him and Evan Mobley, Mitchell has the potential to lead the Cavs on a deep playoff run in 2024-25.

Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic

Luka Doncic continues to be the heartbeat of the Dallas Mavericks, coming off another MVP-caliber season in which he averaged a league-high 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists while making the NBA Finals. His blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a nightmare matchup for any defense, and he’s been carrying a significant load for Dallas.

Dallas’ future success is tied to Doncic’s ability to elevate his team. Despite pairing with Kyrie Irving, Luka is still the engine that drives everything. The Mavericks will need to improve their defense and find the right pieces around Luka, but his individual brilliance keeps them competitive in any matchup with a second Finals appearance a distinct likelihood next year.

Denver Nuggets: Nikola Jokic

Fresh off winning his fourth MVP, Nikola Jokic solidified his status as the best player on Denver Nuggets—and in the entire league. Jokic averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game, doing so with remarkable efficiency and grace. His unique combination of playmaking, rebounding, and scoring ability makes him unlike any other center in NBA history.

Jokic is the foundation of the Nuggets’ championship hopes, and his unselfishness sets the tone for Denver’s offense. With a deep supporting cast led by Jamal Murray, Jokic can focus on making everyone around him better while still dominating when needed. Hopefully, the Nuggets can find enough help after losing another key piece of their roster this summer.

Detroit Pistons: Cade Cunningham

Cade Cunningham is the Detroit Pistons’ rising star, showing glimpses of his potential as a franchise player in 2023-24, despite being slowed down by injuries in prior seasons. He posted solid numbers with 22.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game, flashing his all-around skill set. Cunningham’s size, versatility, and ability to operate as both a scorer and playmaker make him the centerpiece of Detroit’s rebuild.

The Pistons are still a few years away from playoff contention, but Cunningham’s development will dictate how quickly they can rise. Entering 2024-25, the Pistons are banking on a fully healthy Cunningham to take the next step toward stardom and lead a talented young core that includes Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren.

Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry

Even as Stephen Curry approaches 37 years old, he remains the undisputed best player on the Golden State Warriors, proving age is just a number in 2023-24 with averages of 26.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. Curry continues to redefine what a superstar looks like as he remains the engine of Golden State’s championship aspirations, even with the loss of Klay Thompson this summer.

The Warriors’ success still hinges on Curry’s brilliance, even as they transition younger players such as Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski into bigger roles. Curry’s leadership on and off the court is irreplaceable, and his ability to dominate in the biggest moments remains unmatched.

Houston Rockets: Alperen Sengun

Alperen Sengun enters the 2024-25 season as the Houston Rockets’ best player, having solidified his role as the team’s anchor in the paint. In 2023-24, Sengun averaged 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, showing off his rare combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking for a big man.

His ability to facilitate the offense from the post, coupled with his footwork and creativity, makes him the focal point of Houston’s attack. With the Rockets’ young core, including Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr., still developing, Sengun’s high basketball IQ and versatility have made him their most consistent and impactful player.

Indiana Pacers: Tyrese Haliburton

Tyrese Haliburton cemented his status as the leader of the Indiana Pacers during the 2023-24 season, where he averaged an impressive 20.1 points, a league-high 10.9 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game while leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals. Haliburton’s elite court vision, combined with his efficiency as a shooter, makes him one of the best point guards in the NBA.

The Pacers have their eyes set on returning to playoff contention, and Haliburton will be the engine that drives their resurgence. His ability to control the pace of the game and make high-IQ decisions ensures Indiana’s offense runs smoothly with star Pascal Siakam running alongside him.

Los Angeles Clippers: Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard, despite continued load management and injury concerns with 68 games played last year, remains the Clippers’ best player when on the floor. In 2023-24, Leonard averaged 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while playing his typically stellar defense. When healthy, Leonard is one of the most efficient two-way players in the league, with the ability to take over games offensively and lock down the opposition’s best player on defense.

The Clippers’ championship hopes rest on Leonard’s availability, and that will be the question heading into 2024-25. Paired with James Harden, since Paul George is gone, Kawhi needs to show that he can still elevate the Clippers to contender status, but the franchise needs to manage his health to avoid a repeat of previous injury-marred seasons.

Los Angeles Lakers: LeBron James

LeBron James continues to defy time, remaining the Los Angeles Lakers’ best player heading into the 2024-25 season as he approaches 40 years old. In 2023-24, James averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists, continuing his status as an elite playmaker and scorer at age 39.

While Anthony Davis is a co-star, it’s LeBron who orchestrates the Lakers’ offense and steps up in the biggest moments. The Lakers will once again rely heavily on LeBron’s brilliance to chase another title in the 2024-25 season, though managing his minutes will be key to preserving his longevity. The problem is: who can the Lakers rely on when James rests?

Memphis Grizzlies: Ja Morant

Ja Morant is the Memphis Grizzlies’ franchise player, coming off a season marred by suspension and injury. Despite that, we expect Morant to return to his superstar form and become one of the most exciting players in the league because he is one year removed from posting 26.2 points and 8.1 assists per game in 61 appearances.

Even if off-the-court issues and injuries have raised questions about Morant’s durability and focus, Memphis has built a strong roster around him, but for them to reach their potential, Morant will need to continue maturing as both a leader and a player. If he can stay healthy and avoid distractions, Morant can carry the Grizzlies deep into the postseason in 2024-25.

Miami Heat: Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler, despite the constant trade rumors that are surprisingly swarming him this summer, remains the Miami Heat’s best player heading into the new season. Butler averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists during the regular season but is best known for his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.

Miami’s success in 2024-25 hinges on Butler’s ability to once again take over in big moments. He doesn’t always put up gaudy regular-season stats, but his value is undeniable in the postseason. With a well-rounded roster led by Bam Adebayo and Erik Spoelstra’s coaching, the Heat will rely on Butler’s grit and determination to remain among the Eastern Conference elite as long as he wants to stay with the team.

Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo is unquestionably the Milwaukee Bucks’ best player heading into 2024-25, and he continues to be one of the most dominant forces in the league. In 2023-24, Giannis averaged 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game, showcasing his unparalleled combination of size, athleticism, and versatility.

The Bucks will continue to be a title contender as long as Giannis is leading the way alongside superstar point guard Damian Lillard. As Milwaukee looks to build another championship run, Giannis remains the heart and soul of the team, providing leadership and setting the tone for their defense and fast-paced offense but he needs to be available in the playoffs for that to happen.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards

Anthony Edwards has taken over as the face of the Minnesota Timberwolves, becoming their best player heading into 2024-25. The 2023-24 season saw Edwards take a leap, averaging 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. His explosive athleticism, coupled with his ability to score at all three levels, has elevated him into the conversation as one of the league’s top players.

With Karl-Anthony Towns’ role evolving and Rudy Gobert focusing on defense, Edwards has become the go-to option offensively for Minnesota. The expectations are that he will solidify his place as a top 10 player in the world and potentially an MVP candidate next season with a Finals appearance in the cards. The 2024-25 season could be Edwards’ true breakout into superstardom.

New Orleans Pelicans: Zion Williamson

Zion Williamson, despite injury concerns, remains the New Orleans Pelicans’ most talented and impactful player when healthy. In the 2023-24 season, Williamson played 70 games and averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, demonstrating his rare combination of size, strength, and explosiveness.

The Pelicans have built a solid team around Williamson, with Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, and newcomer Dejounte Murray providing scoring and leadership. However, their success hinges on Zion’s health. If he can stay on the court, the Pelicans have the potential to make a deep playoff run.

New York Knicks: Jalen Brunson

Jalen Brunson has emerged as the New York Knicks’ most reliable and impactful player, earning his spot as the team’s best player heading into the 2024-25 season. In 2023-24, Brunson averaged 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds, finishing fifth in the MVP race. His ability to create his own shot, run the offense, and deliver in clutch moments solidified his role as the leader of the Knicks and the face of New York.

Brunson’s leadership and steady hand have turned the Knicks into a consistent playoff team. With the presence of supporting players like Julius Randle, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby, New York is aiming to build on their postseason last year and look to make a run to the NBA Finals.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has transformed into a legitimate superstar for the Oklahoma City Thunder and is undoubtedly their best player heading into 2024-25. In 2023-24, SGA averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game while leading OKC to the second round of the playoffs.

The Thunder have a promising young core, and with SGA at the helm, they are poised to be a force in the Western Conference for years to come. His leadership and calm demeanor under pressure provide a stabilizing presence for this young team. As Oklahoma City continues to develop its young talent, Gilgeous-Alexander will be the engine driving their championship hopes in 2024-25.

Orlando Magic: Paolo Banchero

After winning Rookie of the Year in 2023, Paolo Banchero established himself as the franchise cornerstone for the Orlando Magic and enters 2024-25 as their best player. In 2023-24, Banchero averaged 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game while making his first All-Star appearance. Banchero’s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams and he will only get better.

The Magic are a young team on the rise, and Banchero will be expected to lead them back to playoff contention after making it to Game 7 of the first round last year. In 2024-25, Banchero is primed to take the next step toward stardom, continuing to refine his game and solidify himself as one of the league’s top players with a chance to be a potential MVP candidate if the Magic win enough games.

Philadelphia 76ers: Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid is the driving force of the Philadelphia 76ers, fresh off another dominant campaign where he averaged 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game although he only played 39 games. Embiid’s dominance on both ends of the floor, coupled with his unmatched ability to score in a variety of ways, makes him the Sixers’ undisputed leader.

The Sixers’ future hinges on Embiid’s ability to stay healthy and lead them deep into the postseason. With enough talent around him including Tyrese Maxey and Paul George, the team’s reliance on Embiid will be even greater in 2024-25. We are praying Embiid can play at least 68 games to have a chance to win his second MVP trophy next year.

Phoenix Suns: Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant continues to be the Phoenix Suns’ most important player, despite playing alongside superstar talents like Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. In 2023-24, Durant averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, reminding everyone that he remains one of the most efficient scorers and versatile forwards in the league.

Durant’s leadership and experience will be critical for the Suns in 2024-25 as the franchise aims to return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2020-21. With a top-heavy roster, including Booker and Beal, Phoenix has championship aspirations but they will need a little more from the supporting cast to compete in a stacked West.

Portland Trail Blazers: Scoot Henderson

Scoot Henderson enters the 2024-25 season as the Portland Trail Blazers’ best player and future face of the franchise after a promising rookie season. In 2023-24, Henderson averaged 14.0 points, 5.4 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, showing glimpses of his potential as an explosive playmaker and offensive catalyst.

With Damian Lillard now part of the Milwaukee Bucks, the Blazers are handing the keys of the offense to Henderson. He’s expected to take a massive leap in his second season, continuing to develop his outside shooting and defensive consistency. Portland’s future looks bright with Henderson leading the charge, and as he grows into a potential All-Star, the Blazers’ young core, including Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons, will thrive around him.

Sacramento Kings: De’Aaron Fox

De’Aaron Fox remains the engine behind the Sacramento Kings’ offense, establishing himself as the team’s best player for the 2024-25 season despite the presence of Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan. In 2023-24, Fox averaged 26.6 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, solidifying his status as one of the premier point guards in the NBA.

The Kings broke their long-standing playoff drought in 2023 and are now looking to build on that success with the addition of DeRozan this summer. Fox’s continued growth as a clutch scorer and leader will be vital as the Kings aim to make deeper postseason runs and establish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference.

San Antonio Spurs: Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama enters the 2024-25 season as the San Antonio Spurs’ most important player and potentially a generational talent. After a much-anticipated rookie season in 2023-24, where he averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and a league-leading 3.6 blocks per game, Wembanyama has already demonstrated his unique skill set as a 7’4″ phenom. His ability to protect the rim, shoot from deep, and handle the ball at his size makes him unlike any player the league has seen.

The Spurs’ future revolves around Wembanyama, and 2024-25 will be the year where he solidifies his role as the cornerstone of the franchise. With Gregg Popovich guiding his development and Chris Paul coming on board, Wembanyama is expected to make an immediate impact on both ends of the floor and potentially become a top 10 player in the world sooner rather than later.

Toronto Raptors: Scottie Barnes

Scottie Barnes takes center stage as the Toronto Raptors’ best player for the 2024-25 season, following a strong campaign in 2023-24 where he averaged 19.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. Barnes’ growth as an all-around player, capable of impacting the game on both ends of the floor, has made him the heart of Toronto’s lineup.

His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, initiate offense, and dominate the boards, making him invaluable to the Raptors’ evolving identity. With franchise cornerstones Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, and OG Anunoby gone, Barnes is primed to take full control of Toronto’s leadership mantle.

Utah Jazz: Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen has blossomed into the Utah Jazz’s best player, entering the 2024-25 season after an outstanding 2023-24 campaign where he averaged 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds. Markkanen’s evolution from a solid role player to a legitimate star has been one of the league’s best stories.

The Jazz, led by Markkanen and an emerging young core, are building toward long-term success. Markkanen’s continued development as an all-around player and leader will be key to Utah’s growth. With a mix of young talent and future draft assets, the Jazz have positioned themselves to be a better team but might need to stimulate the growth of the role players.

Washington Wizards: Kyle Kuzma

With Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis gone, Kyle Kuzma stepped into the spotlight as the Wizards’ primary offensive weapon and a versatile forward capable of creating his own shot and facilitating for others. Kuzma posted 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game last season which are impressive numbers for a former No. 27 overall pick.

His growth as a leader and scorer has been crucial for a Washington team navigating a rebuild. Kuzma’s ability to elevate his game in big moments will be pivotal as the Wizards develop their young core—but is he ready to embrace being the face of the franchise or will he be traded to start the season?