Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo

Top 20 NBA Players Right Now (2025 Edition)

September 25, 2025 Kris Isaksen

From MVP contenders to legendary veterans still dominating the court, the NBA is stacked with talent heading into the 2025/2026 season. This countdown highlights the league’s top 20 stars based on recent performances, team impact, accolades, and undeniable skill. Let’s dive in — starting with number 20 and working our way to the very best.

20. Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers

Mitchell remains a scoring powerhouse for Cleveland, even if the team’s lack of playoff progress dents his ranking. He’s electric from mid-range and beyond the arc, and when he catches fire, few can match his offensive output.

19. Karl-Anthony Towns – New York Knicks

Towns played a major role in the Knicks' resurgence, spacing the floor with elite shooting for a big man. While his defense can be questioned, his offensive versatility keeps him near the top tier of NBA talent.

18. Jalen Williams – Oklahoma City Thunder

Williams stepped up massively during OKC’s title run, proving to be a reliable two-way force alongside MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. With over 20 points and 1.5 steals per game, his growth has been pivotal in the Thunder’s rise.

17. Anthony Davis – Dallas Mavericks

Davis may have been overshadowed in the blockbuster Luka Doncic trade, but his elite production remains undeniable. Nearly averaging a double-double with high defensive numbers, AD is central to Dallas' championship hopes.

16. Devin Booker – Phoenix Suns

Booker continues to be a consistent 25-point scorer on a Suns team searching for direction. His playmaking has quietly improved, and Phoenix must build a contending roster around their star guard before his prime slips away.

15. Cade Cunningham – Detroit Pistons

Despite Detroit’s struggles, Cunningham emerged as a franchise cornerstone with his leadership and all-around play. Averaging over 26 points and 9 assists, he’s the type of guard you build a team around for the future.

14. Kevin Durant – Phoenix Suns

At 36, Durant is still one of the most lethal scorers in the league, even amid Phoenix's chaotic season. Trade speculation looms, but with 26.6 points per game on elite efficiency, KD remains a game-changer wherever he lands.

13. Evan Mobley – Cleveland Cavaliers

Mobley took a major leap last season, highlighted by a Defensive Player of the Year award and All-NBA Second Team honors. His offense is finally catching up to his elite defense, and he’s now a true two-way threat.

12. Kawhi Leonard – Los Angeles Clippers

Leonard finally had a healthy playoff run and didn’t disappoint, showcasing vintage dominance on both ends. His Game 2 explosion against Denver reminded everyone why he’s still among the league’s best wings.

11. Victor Wembanyama – San Antonio Spurs

In just his second year, Wemby has made a massive impact, both offensively and defensively. An injury cut his season short, but averaging 24 points and nearly 4 blocks, he’s already on a superstar trajectory.

10. Jalen Brunson – New York Knicks

Brunson has thrived as the Knicks’ go-to guy, elevating his game to lead New York back into serious contention. His relentless scoring and leadership have made him one of the league’s most improved stars.

9. Tyrese Haliburton – Indiana Pacers

Haliburton silenced doubters by leading the Pacers to the NBA Finals, proving his elite playmaking under pressure. Despite a current injury, his court vision and leadership are essential to Indiana’s success.

8. LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers

Even at 40, LeBron continues to defy age with elite all-around production and IQ. Now playing alongside Luka Doncic, the King might have his best shot at another ring since the 2020 bubble.

7. Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors

Curry remains the most feared shooter in NBA history, and his offensive gravity still warps defenses at age 37. Injuries derailed the Warriors’ playoff hopes, but Curry continues to produce at an elite level.

6. Anthony Edwards – Minnesota Timberwolves

Edwards has evolved into a full-fledged superstar, leading the Timberwolves deep into the playoffs with explosive scoring and highlight-reel plays. At just 24, he’s already the face of the franchise and the league’s future.

5. Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics

Tatum was the driving force behind Boston’s title run before an ACL injury derailed his postseason hopes. A complete two-way player, his ability to carry a team on both ends puts him firmly in the NBA’s top five.

4. Luka Doncic – Los Angeles Lakers

Doncic’s move to the Lakers shocked the NBA, but he’s already showing signs of superstardom in LA. With elite scoring, passing, and rebounding, he and LeBron form a terrifying duo in the West.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis continues to put up historic numbers and remains one of the most dominant forces in the game. With Milwaukee’s future in flux, the Greek Freak may soon be the most sought-after player on the market.

2. Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets

A three-time MVP and triple-double machine, Jokic remains a one-of-a-kind talent at the center position. Despite a quieter team season, his individual brilliance keeps him near the top of every ranking.

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Oklahoma City Thunder

Fresh off an MVP season and an NBA title, SGA has officially arrived as the league’s best player. His scoring, defense, and poise in crunch time have led the Thunder into a new golden era — and he’s just getting started.