As the NBA season approaches, the rankings and expectations for players are stirring the basketball world. Among guards, familiar names have emerged, showcasing a mix of seasoned talents and rising stars vying for prominence in an intensely competitive league.
The Ascendancy of Tyrese Maxey
Tyrese Maxey's rapid climb in the rankings is bolstered by his newfound role in Philadelphia. Slotted at 9th among guards and 24th overall, Maxey stepped up following James Harden's departure. His newfound responsibilities saw him "step into the No. 2 role in Philadelphia last season and make the leap," commended Jack Maloney. Maxey's efforts didn't go unnoticed, as he clinched the Most Improved Player award, a testament to his growth and tenacity.
Donovan Mitchell: A Year of Career Highs
Ranked 8th among guards and 19th overall, Donovan Mitchell's performance last season was nothing short of impressive. Taking "total control of the offense," Mitchell registered career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals. Brad Botkin noted that "he is virtually unstoppable when he gets going downhill as a pull-up shooter," underscoring his offensive prowess as the Cleveland Cavaliers' lone playmaker.
Resilience Amidst Adversity: Tyrese Haliburton
Despite facing challenges, Tyrese Haliburton proved his mettle with the Indiana Pacers. Ranked 7th among guards and 17th overall, Haliburton's season was impactful until an injury midway through the year. Sam Quinn highlighted that when Haliburton got injured on January 9, he was "averaging 23.6 points per game," illustrating his significant contribution to the team's offense.
Ja Morant's Battle with Consistency
Ja Morant, holding the 6th spot among guards and ranked 16th overall, has faced his share of hurdles. His struggle with injuries and suspensions has limited his gameplay to only 70 games in the past two seasons. Nonetheless, Jack Maloney emphasized that "at his best, Morant is one of the most exciting guards in the league," making his return to an All-NBA level a critical storyline to monitor.
Devin Booker's Evolution
Devin Booker, ranked 5th among guards and 14th overall, saw a role shift last season, stepping into the point guard position for the Phoenix Suns. Jasmyn Wimbish remarked that there were moments when Booker "has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league," highlighting his ability to drop 40+ points with ease. His efforts culminated in a career-high year in assists, reflecting his adaptability and skill.
The Playoff Prowess of Jalen Brunson
Sitting 4th among guards and 13th overall, Jalen Brunson demonstrated his scoring ability in the playoffs. James Herbert reflected on his achievements, noting that Brunson "became the fourth player in NBA history to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games," accumulating a total of 16 40-point games in the 2023-24 season. His standout performances have solidified his reputation as a clutch player under pressure.
Stephen Curry's Enduring Legacy
At 36 years old, Stephen Curry continues to be a formidable presence on the court. Ranked 3rd among guards and 6th overall, Curry's exceptional movement and pure shot-making talent remain unrivaled. Brad Botkin labeled Curry "an offense unto himself," indicating his pivotal role in the Golden State Warriors' title aspirations, though he may need stronger talent around him to achieve those goals.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Consistent Dominance
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's remarkable consistency has earned him the 2nd spot among guards and 4th in the overall rankings. Last season, he led the NBA in drives for the fourth consecutive year. James Herbert praised his efficiency, stating that Gilgeous-Alexander "shot 69% at the rim and 51% from midrange," along with leading the league in steals, showcasing his dual impact on both ends of the court.
The Brilliance of Luka Doncic
At the pinnacle of the guard rankings stands Luka Doncic. Ranked 1st among guards and 3rd overall, Doncic is coming off the best statistical year of his career, where he led the league in scoring. Despite being only 25 years old, his maturity on the court is evident. Jasmyn Wimbish observed, "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."
As the new NBA season dawns, these guards are set to either maintain their elite status or rise even higher. Watching their performances unfold will undoubtedly be one of the most thrilling aspects of the upcoming basketball season.