Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo

The NBA’s elite: 15 stars defining the present and future of the league

November 6, 2025 Kris Isaksen

The league is loaded with transcendent talents — veterans pushing for one last title, and rising stars reshaping the game. From Jalen Williams to Nikola Jokic, here are 15 of the NBA's most important players right now, ranked from No. 15 to No. 1, each bringing something unique to the hardwood.

15. Jalen Williams – The rising two-way wing

Williams is a key piece in Oklahoma City's ascension. With impressive defensive chops, smart decision-making, and a growing offensive bag, he’s quickly establishing himself among the league’s top young wings.

14. Kawhi Leonard – When healthy, still elite

Leonard remains a lockdown defender and midrange assassin. But persistent injuries have turned him into one of the game’s greatest what-ifs — still impactful, but often unavailable when it matters most.

13. Cade Cunningham – A modern-day floor general

Cunningham’s size, patience, and poise make him a high-usage engine in Detroit. He’s still refining his game, but already commands the floor like a seasoned vet.

12. Anthony Davis – Defense with a dash of fragility

When locked in, Davis is a top-tier defender and inside scorer. Yet injury concerns and offensive inconsistency continue to cloud what could be a Hall of Fame trajectory.

11. LeBron James – The ageless wonder

At 40, LeBron is still putting up All-NBA numbers. His court vision and feel for the game remain unmatched — a generational icon refusing to fade quietly.

10. Kevin Durant – Still the smoothest scorer alive

Durant continues to score at elite efficiency, blending size and finesse like no one else. He’s chasing one more ring, but age and injuries add urgency to his mission.

9. Jalen Brunson – The Knicks’ new heartbeat

Brunson’s footwork, savvy, and late-game heroics have made him a Madison Square Garden legend-in-the-making. A true lead guard who thrives when the lights are brightest.

8. Donovan Mitchell – Built to get buckets

Mitchell is a dynamic scorer with deep range and explosive drives. He’s taken steps as a playmaker and defender — now the next challenge is leading a contender.

7. Stephen Curry – Still bending reality

Curry’s gravity, off-ball movement, and limitless range remain unparalleled. Even in his 17th season, he’s the centerpiece of any defense’s nightmare.

6. Victor Wembanyama – The future of basketball

At 7'4", Wemby moves like a wing and protects the rim like a fortress. The league has never seen a player quite like him — and his ceiling is truly otherworldly.

5. Anthony Edwards – Explosiveness meets star power

With unreal athleticism and a magnetic personality, Edwards is becoming a face of the league. His two-way play and growing offensive polish make him a threat on every possession.

4. Luka Doncic – The maestro of modern offense

Luka’s blend of size, vision, and scoring touch is unmatched among guards. He controls tempo, breaks down defenses, and delivers in crunch time — now it’s just a matter of winning it all.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo – Relentless and unstoppable

Giannis dominates with force and effort, scoring at will and crashing the boards with purpose. Already a champion, he continues to expand his game and push his limits.

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Craft, control, and clutch

Shai plays at his own pace, lulling defenders before slicing through them. He’s become a true MVP-level threat, leading OKC with style and substance to the league’s elite tier.

1. Nikola Jokic – The game’s undisputed genius

Jokic is the most complete player in the NBA today. A three-time MVP, NBA champion, and passing savant, he sees the game on a different plane — a true basketball artist with brute efficiency.