As the NBA season approaches, the spotlight intensifies on the league’s top guards, each vying for dominance in a realm defined by agility, precision, and a relentless drive to excel.
Luka Doncic: The Apex Guard
Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks stands tall, ranked as the leading guard and third overall in the NBA. Doncic, only 25 years old, is coming off the best statistical year of his career, leading the league in scoring. According to Jasmyn Wimbish, "Even after six years in the league... he plays at the pace of paint drying on a wall, and yet... the most elite defenders couldn't stop him."
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: A Rising Star
Oklahoma City Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander follows closely, sitting second among guards and fourth in the top 100 NBA players. Last season, Gilgeous-Alexander led the NBA in drives for the fourth straight year. As James Herbert noted, "Last year's MVP runner-up... shot 69% at the rim and 51% from midrange... nobody recorded more steals than Gilgeous-Alexander."
The Unstoppable Stephen Curry
At 36 years old, Stephen Curry continues to defy the sands of time. Ranking third among guards and sixth overall, Curry remains an offensive juggernaut. Brad Botkin reflects on Curry's enduring brilliance, stating, "Curry is still an offense unto himself with his inimitable movement and pure shot-making talent."
Jalen Brunson: The Playoff Prodigy
New York Knicks' Jalen Brunson takes the fourth spot among guards and 13th overall. Brunson’s playoff performance was nothing short of spectacular, scoring 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games. James Herbert highlights his achievements: "In May, Brunson became the fourth player in NBA history... to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games."
Devin Booker: Underappreciated Yet Unyielding
Touted as one of the most underrated players, Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns ranks fifth among guards and 14th overall. Transitioning into the role of point guard for his team last season, Booker posted a career-high year in assists. Jasmyn Wimbish describes him aptly: "Booker has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league... he’s liable to drop 40+ points on you."
Ja Morant: A Rollercoaster Ride
Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies occupies the sixth spot among guards and 16th overall. Despite his struggles with injuries and suspensions, Morant remains one of the most electrifying guards. Jack Maloney ponders, "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."
Tyrese Haliburton: The Pacers' Beacon
Indiana Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton finds himself ranked seventh among guards and 17th overall. Despite an injury midway through the season, Haliburton's impact was undeniable. Sam Quinn offers insight into his season: "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: Cleveland's Catalyst
Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers places eighth among guards and 19th overall. Last season, Mitchell achieved career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals. As Brad Botkin observed, "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: Philadelphia's Flourish
Tyrese Maxey of the Philadelphia 76ers is ranked ninth among guards and 24th in the top 100 NBA players. Maxey's role expanded significantly after James Harden's departure, earning him the Most Improved Player award. Jack Maloney elaborates, "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: The Enigmatic Talent
Kyrie Irving rounds out the top ten guards, ranked 25th in the top 100 NBA players for the upcoming season. Despite facing criticism, Irving continues to captivate with his unparalleled skill set. Jasmyn Wimbish remarks, "he put together one of his best seasons to date without ruffling any feathers... Irving still has the best handle in the league, can easily get to the rim and score from all three levels."
These rankings serve as a testament to the exceptional talent and unyielding spirit of these NBA guards. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on these stars, each carrying the hopes of their teams and the passion of their fans.