Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo

The 15 best NBA players right now (2025)

October 25, 2025 Kris Isaksen

As the 2024–25 NBA season wraps up, it's clear that the league is in a golden age of talent. From generational superstars to young prodigies, this year's top performers have delivered unforgettable moments and elite-level stats. Here’s our countdown of the 15 best players in the NBA right now — starting from 15 and working our way to number 1.

15. Cade Cunningham – Detroit’s cornerstone emerges

Cade Cunningham has turned the corner from potential to production, leading a revitalized Pistons team to the playoffs. With 26.1 points and 9.1 assists per game, he’s proving himself as a true franchise point guard.

14. Kevin Durant – Still elite, still efficient

At 36, Kevin Durant is showing no signs of slowing down, averaging 26.6 points with a remarkable 64.2% true shooting. Despite Phoenix’s playoff miss, KD remains one of the league’s most dangerous scorers.

13. Evan Mobley – Defense meets offensive growth

Mobley took a leap in 2025, especially on the offensive end, where he averaged a career-best 18.5 points. His defensive prowess earned him Defensive Player of the Year and All-NBA Second Team honors.

12. Kawhi Leonard – Back to full strength

Kawhi finally had a healthy season and reminded everyone why he’s a two-time Finals MVP. His 39-point explosion in Game 2 against Denver was vintage Kawhi, even if the Clippers came up short.

11. Victor Wembanyama – Already a force

In just his second season, Wembanyama was a leading DPOY candidate before a health issue cut his year short. Still, his 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game show just how special he already is.

10. Jalen Brunson – New York’s superstar

Brunson has transformed the Knicks with his relentless scoring and leadership. Averaging 26 points per game, he led New York to the Eastern Conference Finals and proved he’s far more than a sidekick.

9. Tyrese Haliburton – Answering the critics

After being labeled overrated by some peers, Haliburton responded by leading Indiana to the NBA Finals. His passing (9.2 assists per game) and poise under pressure have made him a top-tier guard.

8. LeBron James – Timeless greatness

Even in his 40s, LeBron continues to impact the game like few others, with 24.4 points and 8.2 assists per night. The arrival of Luka Doncic has helped him shift into a more balanced role in L.A.

7. Stephen Curry – The shot still falls

At 37, Steph is still the Warriors' engine, putting up 24.5 points a game and stretching defenses like no one else. His presence alone keeps Golden State in the playoff mix every season.

6. Anthony Edwards – Built for the big stage

Edwards is one of the league’s most exciting players, powering Minnesota to the Western Conference Finals. With 27.6 points per game and a growing all-around game, he’s rising fast.

5. Jayson Tatum – Boston’s balanced leader

Before his ACL injury, Tatum was once again leading the Celtics with 26.8 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. He remains one of the most complete players in the league on both ends of the floor.

4. Luka Doncic – Now a Laker, still elite

The blockbuster move to L.A. hasn’t slowed Luka down, as he continues to fill the stat sheet with 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists. Paired with LeBron, the Lakers are contenders once again.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo – Dominant and consistent

Giannis put up historic numbers once again — 30.4 points and 11.9 rebounds per game — even amid uncertainty in Milwaukee. His all-around impact is second to none when healthy and motivated.

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – MVP and champion

Shai delivered a dream season, winning MVP and leading the Thunder to a championship. His elite scoring (32.7 PPG) and defensive presence have made him the complete package.

1. Nikola Jokic – The best in the game

Jokic may have lost the MVP race, but with 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, he’s still the league’s most impactful player. A true generational talent, Jokic holds the top spot.