Guard Rankings for the Upcoming NBA Season: An Analytical Dive
As the new NBA season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating which players will dominate the court. Among the guards, the rankings showcase a combination of seasoned veterans and rising stars, each bringing unique skills and potential to their teams.
Starting with the upper echelon, Luka Doncic tops the list among guards, ranked 1st and securing the 3rd spot overall. Doncic, who is just 25 years old, is coming off the best statistical year of his career and led the league in scoring. His ability to control the game at a deliberate pace has made him nearly unstoppable, even against the most elite defenders. "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," notes Jasmyn Wimbish.
Trailing Doncic is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, ranked 2nd among guards and 4th overall. Gilgeous-Alexander led the NBA in drives for the fourth straight season, demonstrating his relentless attacking ability. His impressive shooting percentages—69% at the rim and 51% from midrange—alongside his defensive prowess with the most recorded steals, underscore his all-around impact. James Herbert aptly summarized his contributions, "Last year's MVP runner-up... shot 69% at the rim and 51% from midrange... nobody recorded more steals than Gilgeous-Alexander."
Stephen Curry, coming in at 3rd among guards and 6th overall, continues to amaze at 36 years old. Curry remains an offensive powerhouse, renowned for his inimitable movement and unparalleled shot-making talent. He still needs better support around him to re-enter title contention, but his individual brilliance is undiminished. As Brad Botkin puts it, "Curry is still an offense unto himself."
Jalen Brunson, ranked 4th among guards and 13th overall, showcased his scoring ability in the playoffs by becoming the fourth player in NBA history to score 40 points or more in four consecutive games. This impressive feat, highlighted by James Herbert, emphasizes Brunson’s capability to perform under intense pressure.
Devin Booker, holding the 5th spot among guards and 14th overall, assumed the role of point guard for the Phoenix Suns last season. Booker's versatility was on full display, leading to a career-high in assists. Jasmyn Wimbish praises him as one of the most underrated players, "he’s liable to drop 40+ points on you."
Ja Morant, 6th among guards and 16th overall, has struggled with injuries and suspensions, playing only 70 games over the past two seasons. Despite this, his electrifying play style keeps him among the top guards. Jack Maloney captures his essence, "At his best, Morant is one of the most exciting guards in the league."
Tyrese Haliburton, ranked 7th among guards and 17th overall, demonstrated his worth with the Indiana Pacers despite suffering an injury midway through the season. Sam Quinn highlights his impact, noting that before his injury, Haliburton was averaging 23.6 points per game, significantly contributing to the team's offense.
Donovan Mitchell is ranked 8th among guards and 19th overall. Mitchell achieved career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals last season, taking control as the lone playmaker for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His ability to score efficiently, especially when driving downhill, makes him a formidable force. Brad Botkin describes him as "virtually unstoppable when he gets going downhill as a pull-up shooter."
Tyrese Maxey, ranked 9th among guards and 24th overall, stepped into a significant role for the Philadelphia 76ers following James Harden's departure. His efforts were recognized with the Most Improved Player award. Jack Maloney highlights Maxey's pivotal season, "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."
Finally, Kyrie Irving rounds out the top 10 guards, ranking 25th overall. Despite the ups and downs, Irving's skills remain top-notch. Jasmyn Wimbish notes, "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."
The NBA landscape is ever-evolving, but these rankings offer a compelling glimpse into who might shine brightest in the upcoming season. Each player's unique contributions and standout abilities make for an exciting anticipation as the first tip-off approaches.