Top 10 Players going into the 2025-26 NBA Season
The NBA landscape is constantly evolving, but some players are shaping the future in ways mainstream media can’t always capture. From rising stars to veteran legends, this list ranks the real top 10 NBA players going into 2025—based on stats, advanced metrics, news insights, and playoff potential, rather than hype or popularity.
Whether you’re a fantasy basketball player, a content creator, or a bettor looking for an edge, the BallersCulture Top 10 NBA players will give you a true insider look at who’s likely to dominate next season.
Honourable Mention – Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers)
Stats: 24.7 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 2.2 BPG
Anthony Davis remains the best two-way player in the NBA, capable of impacting the game on both ends. Last season, split between the Lakers and Mavericks, Davis averaged 24.7 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. The primary concern is health—he has never played a full season, with his career high being just 51 games, and he’s currently recovering from an eye injury, AD if he played more last year could have cracked the top 10, but injuries justed missed him out.
Prediction: If AD can stay healthy and log 65+ games, he’s a lock for All-NBA recognition and could help the Mavericks make a deep playoff push.
#10 Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
Stats: 24.5 PPG, 6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 311 3PM in 70 games
Curry is still one of the league’s elite scorers, but the Warriors roster may not be strong enough to compete with other top squads. Injury concerns persist, including a recent hamstring strain, though his brother Seth joining Golden State could add chemistry.
Prediction: Expect another high-scoring season, likely 25+ PPG, an All-Star nod, and contention for the 3-point title. Playoff success may be limited to a second-round exit.
#9 Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
Stats: 26 PPG, 7.3 APG, 1.1 SPG
Brunson has been on fire recently, leading the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years, falling in a tight 7-game series. His offensive consistency is undeniable, but defensive limitations could cap his ceiling this season. I was also highly considering dropping Brunson for AD, Brown or even a guy like Cade for the top 10, but none have taken that leap yet.
Prediction: 27+ PPG, All-NBA consideration, potential for a deep East playoff run.
#8 Kevin Durant (Houston Rockets)
Stats: 26.6 PPG, 6 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.1 BPG
After a surprising trade to Houston, Durant becomes the cornerstone of one of the West’s most intriguing rosters. With Devin Booker sharing scoring duties and other players like Amen Thompson and Reed Shepard adjusting, KD will likely see more of the ball in crucial moments. Ranked 8th all-time in scoring, he’s still a lethal two-way player. Even in Year 19, still top 10.
Prediction: 28+ PPG, All-NBA, deep playoff contention.
#7 LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
Stats: 24.4 PPG, 8.2 APG, 7.8 RPG
LeBron enters his 23rd NBA season with incredible efficiency. Last year, he earned All-NBA honors, finished 6th in MVP voting, and made his 21st All-Star appearance. With Luka Doncic, Ayton, Reaves, Hachimura, Smart, and his son Bronny in the lineup, the Lakers could push to the Western Conference Finals. 2 DECADES in and top 10 in the NBA.
Prediction: 25+ PPG, All-NBA, All-Star, potential West Finals.
#6 Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Stats: 27.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 39.5% 3P
Edwards has ascended to being arguably the best shooting guard in the league, surpassing Donovan Mitchell in impact. His efficiency is climbing, and with veteran support from Gobert and Conley, the Timberwolves could be Western Conference contenders. Comparisons to a young Michael Jordan aren’t far-fetched, especially given his scoring potential. From #10 to #6 in the top 10 NBA player list is WILD.
Prediction: 30+ PPG, All-NBA, All-Star, possible West Finals appearance.
#5 Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
Stats: 30.4 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 6.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Giannis remains dominant statistically, finishing 2nd in league scoring and earning All-NBA 1st Team and All-Defense 1st Team honors. However, roster chemistry questions loom, and his desire to remain in Milwaukee could impact team performance.
Prediction: 31+ PPG, All-NBA 1st, All-Defense, MVP contender, playoff success uncertain.
#4 Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
Stats: 24.3 PPG, 11 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 3.8 BPG
After recovering from deep vein thrombosis and training with legends like Kevin Garnett and Hakeem Olajuwon, Wembanyama is primed to dominate. His post skills, footwork, and defensive instincts make him a two-way threat. Spurs young talent like Devin Vassell and Dylan Harper should complement him perfectly.
Prediction: 26+ PPG, All-NBA 1st, Defensive Player of the Year.
#3 Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
Stats: 28.2 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 7.5 APG, 1.6 SPG
Luka enters 2025 healthy and motivated, having led Slovenia to the EuroBasket quarterfinals this summer. His scoring, rebounding, and playmaking ability make him an MVP frontrunner, especially with LeBron out early in the season to manage workload.
Prediction: 30+ PPG, All-NBA 1st, MVP contender, deep playoff push.
#2 Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)
Stats: 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG
Jokic averaged a triple-double last season, joining an elite historical group. With roster improvements like Jonas Valanciunas and Cam Johnson, he’s positioned to dominate the West while maintaining his unmatched efficiency and versatility.
Prediction: 30+ PPG, 12+ RPG, All-NBA 1st, MVP contender.
#1 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Stats: 27.3 PPG, 6.4 APG, 5 RPG, 1.7 SPG, 1 BPG, 37.5% 3P
SGA had one of the most efficient scoring seasons in NBA history, leading the Thunder to a top-tier record. With improved playmaking and defensive metrics, he’s primed for back-to-back MVP contention.
Prediction: 28+ PPG, All-NBA 1st, MVP, Finals contender.
The 2025 NBA season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. From SGA’s historic efficiency to Luka’s versatility and Wembanyama’s defensive dominance, these top 10 players will define the league narrative. Whether you’re betting, playing fantasy, or creating content, knowing the real top 10 players gives you an edge before the mainstream hype catches up.
