Top 10 shooting guards heading into the 2025–26 NBA season

October 21, 2025 Kris Isaksen

With just days until the new NBA season tips off, fans are gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling year on the hardwood. While superstars dominate headlines, the shooting guard position remains one of the most dynamic and versatile in the league. From breakout candidates to established stars, here are the top 10 shooting guards entering the 2025–26 season — starting from number 10 and counting down to the best of the best.

10. Coby White – Chicago Bulls

Coby White is entering the new season with momentum, fresh off a career-best campaign where he averaged 20.4 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.7 rebounds. Now the clear leader of a rebuilding Bulls team, White has a shot at his first All-Star appearance if he can keep Chicago in the Play-In mix.

9. Brandon Miller – Charlotte Hornets

Despite an early-season wrist injury last year, Brandon Miller has already proven he belongs in the NBA. The 6-foot-7 wing brings a polished offensive game and, if healthy, could lead a Hornets squad poised to take a step forward in the East.

8. Mikal Bridges – New York Knicks

Mikal Bridges had a steady first season in New York, helping the Knicks reach the Eastern Conference Finals. Known for his ironman streak and defensive reliability, Bridges will be even more vital under new coach Mike Brown as the team chases its first title in over 50 years.

7. Austin Reaves – Los Angeles Lakers

Austin Reaves continues his impressive rise, putting up career highs under coach J.J. Redick with 20.2 points and 5.8 assists per game. To solidify his place among the league's elite guards, Reaves must improve defensively and find consistent chemistry alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

6. Norman Powell – Miami Heat

Norman Powell had a career resurgence last season and now joins the Miami Heat with expectations to lead offensively. With Tyler Herro shifting to point guard, Powell’s scoring touch will be critical for a Heat team looking to stay competitive in the East.

5. Zach LaVine – Sacramento Kings

Zach LaVine quietly bounced back last season, averaging over 23 points per game with elite shooting efficiency. Now in Sacramento, he’ll pair with Domantas Sabonis in hopes of pushing the Kings past the Play-In threshold in a crowded Western Conference.

4. Desmond Bane – Orlando Magic

The Magic made a blockbuster move to acquire Desmond Bane, signaling their readiness to contend. A proven two-way player and sharpshooter, Bane perfectly complements Orlando’s young core and may be the missing piece to elevate them from playoff hopeful to contender.

3. Amen Thompson – Houston Rockets

Amen Thompson may be the least polished shooter on this list, but his athleticism and upside are undeniable. With Fred VanVleet injured and Kevin Durant now in Houston, the spotlight is on Thompson to take the leap and become an All-Star caliber guard.

2. Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers

Donovan Mitchell had a monster year, earning All-NBA First Team honors and leading the Cavaliers to 64 wins. Though Cleveland fell short in the playoffs, Mitchell’s scoring dominance in the postseason proved once again why he’s among the league’s elite.

1. Anthony Edwards – Minnesota Timberwolves

Anthony Edwards is not just the top shooting guard in the league — he's also a future face of the NBA. After another Western Conference Finals appearance and a leap in his shooting efficiency, Ant is ready to lead the Timberwolves into true title contention.