The modern NBA landscape is worlds away from the rigid positional structures that once defined it. In today’s league, flexibility and versatility reign supreme. Traditional roles have dissolved, making way for players who can adapt from game to game, even from possession to possession. This shift has led to the rise of combo guards, versatile wings, and multifaceted big men, a trend reshaping our understanding of basketball dynamics.
Consider Zion Williamson, a 6-foot-6 power forward whose skill set defies conventional categorization. Often initiating plays from the perimeter, Williamson embodies the evolution of the modern player. Similarly, Giannis Antetokounmpo, officially listed as a four, orchestrates much of his play from the perimeter, while also competently defending opposing centers. Despite frequent playoff injuries, Giannis ranks in the top-15 in scoring, rebounding, and assists each season, consistently proving his versatility.
Rim protection remains a critical aspect of the game, exemplified by players like Rudy Gobert and Joel Embiid. Gobert is celebrated for his defensive prowess and ability to guard the rim. As Jasmyn Wimbish notes, “He has already established himself as one of the best rim protectors in the league.” Meanwhile, Embiid combines a face-up jumper with a dominant post game and top-notch rim protection, making him a formidable presence on both ends of the court.
Stretching defenses has also become essential, with big men like Karl-Anthony Towns and Lauri Markkanen providing perimeter shooting threats. Towns's ability to shoot from the outside forces opposing defenses to adapt, creating more space on the floor. Markkanen, currently with the Utah Jazz on a five-year, $238 million extension, averaged 23 points and 8 rebounds last season, boasting an impressive true-shooting percentage that highlights his efficiency.
The rise of players with guard-like skills in bigger bodies further illustrates this transformation. Chet Holmgren, now making waves with the Oklahoma City Thunder, is known for his guard-like handle and three-point shooting ability. Victor Wembanyama’s stats post-All-Star break in his rookie season—23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game—are equally remarkable, showcasing the type of unprecedented talent entering the league. As Sam Quinn insightfully puts it, “We’re not just talking about the next great NBA player here. We’re talking about the sort of player this sport has never seen.”
Bam Adebayo exemplifies a player thriving within this new mold. “Adebayo has been a full-time starter for five years and has never missed an All-Defense selection,” Quinn observes. His career-high attempts at three-pointers and mid-range shots last season signal a significant evolution in his game. Domantas Sabonis also fits this profile; leading the league in rebounds and ranking eighth in assists last season, he is a unique playmaking hub for the Kings. Jack Maloney affirms this by stating, “He is a true playmaking hub for the Kings,” a player who managed to join Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to average at least 19 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists in a season.
Further demonstrating this evolving landscape, Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic shows that versatility is key to modern success. Following his Rookie of the Year season, he earned his first All-Star selection, becoming the first Magic player since Mike Miller to achieve such a remarkable feat in their rookie year.
Anthony Davis, who recorded nearly 75% of his shot attempts in the paint last season—a career-high percentage—represents the enduring importance of dominating the interior. His season was his best since winning the 2020 championship, according to Sam Quinn. “Davis just had his best season since winning the 2020 championship,” he notes, emphasizing the significance of his performance.
No discussion of modern versatility is complete without mentioning Nikola Jokic. Often touted as the world's best player, Jokic combines offensive facilitation with defensive improvements. Brad Botkin recognizes this unique dominance, saying, “Jokic’s dominance occurs both in plain sight and on less visible margins.” His unparalleled ability to facilitate makes him an invaluable asset to his team.
The evolution of the NBA is clear: adaptability and versatility have replaced rigid positional roles, creating a more dynamic and unpredictable game. As the league continues to grow and evolve, these multifaceted players are setting new benchmarks, continually redefining what it means to be an NBA star.