93 OVR

The Houston Rockets became serious contenders this past offseason with the addition of Kevin Durant. The soon-to-be 37-year-old may be in the back half of his career, but he still possesses explosive athleticism and an unguardable bag. Last season, Durant consistently displayed his elite shot-creating and silky smooth jumpshot with efficiency, averaging a 59% effective field goal percentage, which Ranked in the top 20 among all players. Bringing a wealth of experience and All-Star-caliber playmaking to his new team, Durant is well-positioned to make a deep playoff run this season.

 94 OVR

Two years into his NBA career, Wembanyama has led the league in blocks both years. The former No. 1 overall pick anchors the San Antonio Spurs defensively and bolsters them offensively with a career average of 22.5 points per game. It’s incredibly rare to see a player with Wemby’s 7’3” frame that can dribble and shoot like a guard, which is why he’s one-of-one. The former 2023-2024 rookie of the year has a bright future in the league.

94 OVR

Before suffering a tragic season-ending injury during the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Jayson Tatum looked determined to repeat as an NBA champion. The 26-year-old star and NBA 2K25 cover athlete finished fourth in MVP voting, earned his third consecutive All-NBA selection, and averaged a robust 26.8 points, 6 assists, and 8.7 rebounds during the regular season. While his season ended unceremoniously, Tatum is expected to make a full recovery and return to his all-around excellence.

94 OVR

Forty years old and still going strong, LeBron James is an anomaly who’s somehow managed to slow down Father Time. Entering a historic 23rd NBA season, James is in uncharted territory, becoming the first player to reach the impressive milestone. But what’s more impressive is how he continues to play at an elite level despite his age. The 21-time All-Star is still widely regarded as a top 10 player in the league, finishing sixth in MVP voting last season.

94 OVR

In his own words, retirement isn’t a consideration for Stephen Curry right now—only championships. The future Hall-of-Fame guard is determined to add a fifth Larry O’Brien trophy to his ever-growing list of records and accolades, and he remains a threat to do so given his prolific talent. The 11-time All-Star carried the brunt of the Warriors’ offense last season—until the arrival of Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline—finishing top 3 in 3-pointers made with 311. Curry’s elusiveness and effortless shot-making continue to make him one of the premier players in the league.

95 OVR

Anthony Edwards used his international experience with Team USA last year to kickstart his best NBA season to date in 2024-2025. With Karl Anthony-Towns traded to the New York Knicks and Edwards firmly in the Timberwolves driver’s seat, the 23-year-old powered a high-octane offense with a league-leading 320 3-pointers and 27.6 points per game, both career-highs. For the second year in a row, Edwards led his squad to the Western Conference Finals and proved he’s the No. 1 option. 

95 OVR

Several months later, and it’s still surreal seeing Luka Dončić in a Los Angeles Lakers uniform. The Slovenian superstar dealt with unique circumstances last year, recovering from a lower leg injury before being a part of one of the biggest blockbuster trades in sports history; however, he didn’t let it negatively affect his production on the court. In 28 games with the Lake Show, Dončić shined with 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game. Much gets made about No. 77’s offensive repertoire, but it’s worth noting he averaged a career-high 1.8 steals per game last season, as well.

97 OVR

Giannis is reminiscent of a time when big men ruled the court with overpowering strength and raw athleticism, but the Milwaukee Bucks superstar has done a lot to improve his game in other areas. While the Greek Freak excels at playing downhill, he’s developed his mid-range game by playing with his back to the basket, getting to his spots in the post. This season, the 30-year-old power forward tapped into Dirk Nowitzki’s patented one-leg fadeaway to enhance his low-post package. If Giannis can make this iconic move a staple in his game, he’ll be even harder to stop.

98 OVR

The NBA 2K26 cover athlete earned the title of MVP and became an NBA champion in 2025. SGA has been trending toward these achievements the past few years, improving on his skills each season with smooth playmaking and calculated decision-making to become an unguardable force. The Oklahoma City Thunder entered the season as the youngest team in the league with an average age of 24.148 years old, but SGA led his team with poise and a veteran’s presence to capture the second NBA championship in franchise history.

98 OVR

Nikola Jokić has redefined what it means to be a dominant center in the modern age. The three-time MVP’s ascent as arguably the best player in the NBA continued last season, posting a career-high 29.6 points and 10.2 assists per game. Jokić’s greatness stems from a high basketball IQ, finesse you can’t teach, and borderline supernatural court vision to dissect defenses. Unstoppable in the paint and beyond the arc, the Nuggets' big man is a do-it-all player in the middle of his prime.