What's Happening?
A panel of 12 NBA experts from the USA TODAY Network has released their rankings of the top 25 NBA players for the 2025-26 season. The rankings were determined by a weighted average of votes from the panelists, who considered a field of 40 players. Notably, the list excludes players expected to miss most of the season due to injuries, such as Jayson Tatum and Kyrie Irving. Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets topped the list, receiving 10 first-place votes. Jokic, known for his exceptional passing and scoring abilities, has been a dominant force in the league, finishing first or second in MVP voting for the past five seasons. Other top-ranked players include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who led his team to an NBA championship, and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks, recognized for his two-way play.
Why It's Important?
These rankings provide insight into the current landscape of the NBA, highlighting the players who are expected to have significant impacts on their teams and the league as a whole. Nikola Jokic's top ranking underscores his status as a transformative player, capable of influencing games with his unique skill set. The inclusion of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo in the top three reflects their contributions to their teams' successes and their individual prowess. These rankings can influence fan expectations, team strategies, and player marketability, as well as provide a benchmark for player performance throughout the season.
What's Next?
As the 2025-26 NBA season progresses, these rankings will be closely watched to see how accurately they reflect player performances. Players like Luka Doncic, who recently joined the Los Angeles Lakers, and Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, will be under scrutiny to see if they can live up to their high rankings. Additionally, the performance of players returning from injuries, such as Joel Embiid, will be pivotal in determining their future rankings and their teams' success. The rankings will likely be revisited and debated as the season unfolds, especially as players strive to improve their standings.
