Who Are the Top NBA Players Today? A 2024 Ranking Guide

When I sat down to compile this year’s NBA player rankings, I couldn’t help but reflect on what truly separates the greats from the generational talents. Defense, for one, has become an undeniable hallmark of elite players in today’s game—something that was vividly illustrated in a recent matchup I revisited, where TNT’s defense held Ginebra to a conference-low 36.1 percent shooting from the field. That kind of stifling performance doesn’t just happen by accident; it’s the result of discipline, preparation, and individual defensive mastery. And honestly, it’s players who impact the game on both ends of the floor who tend to climb my personal rankings year after year. So as we dive into the top NBA players of 2024, keep in mind that two-way prowess, consistency, and that unteachable clutch factor weigh heavily in my evaluation.

Let’s start with the obvious: Nikola Jokić remains in a stratosphere of his own. The Denver Nuggets’ big man isn’t just putting up numbers—he’s redefining what an offensive engine can look like. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve rewatched his games just to catch those subtle passes that break entire defensive schemes. Last season, he averaged something close to 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists per game—stats that barely capture his gravitational pull on the court. But here’s what impresses me even more: his improved positioning on defense. He may not be the most athletic shot-blocker, but his basketball IQ lets him disrupt plays and force opponents into tough shots. Think back to that Ginebra game I mentioned earlier—holding a team to 36 percent shooting is the kind of collective effort that starts with a dominant interior presence. Jokić gives you that, without ever seeming to break a sweat.

Right behind him, and nipping at his heels, is Luka Dončić. If you’ve followed my analyses before, you know I have a soft spot for players who control the tempo. Luka is a maestro in the half-court, capable of dropping 35 points or 15 assists on any given night. His step-back three is a thing of beauty, but what’s really elevated his standing this year is his commitment to conditioning. I’ve noticed he’s moving better on defense—not lockdown yet, but no longer a liability. And in the playoffs last season, he put up historic numbers: 32.5 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. That’s video-game stuff. Still, I’d like to see him cut down on turnovers. There were moments in the conference finals where his 5 turnovers per game almost cost Dallas the series. But when he’s on, there are very few players I’d rather have with the ball in their hands.

Then there’s Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak is an athletic marvel, and his relentless drives to the basket are as terrifying as ever. He averaged around 31 points and 11 rebounds this past season, and his defensive versatility allows Milwaukee to switch everything. I remember one game where his weak-side shot blocking completely dismantled the opponent’s pick-and-roll—reminiscent of that TNT defensive showcase against Ginebra. Giannis does have clear weaknesses, though. His jump shot remains inconsistent, and in late-game situations, you’ll often see defenses sag off him. That’s kept him just below Jokić and Luka in my book, but let’s be real: on any given night, he can still be the most dominant force in the league.

Stephen Curry, even at 36, continues to bend defenses with his shooting. Golden State’s system is built around his off-ball movement, and I’ve always admired how he creates chaos without even dribbling. Last season, he shot approximately 42 percent from beyond the arc on 12 attempts per game. Those aren’t just numbers—they’re a declaration of his lasting impact. And while he may not be known for lock-down defense, his quick hands and positioning led to nearly 1.2 steals per game. It’s that kind of two-way contribution that keeps him in my top five. I’ll admit, I’m biased toward players who change how the game is played, and Curry’s influence is immeasurable.

Joel Embiid, when healthy, is an unstoppable scorer and a defensive anchor. His mid-range game is virtually unguardable, and he put up 34 points per game before his injury last season. But availability matters, and it’s the reason I’ve slid him down a spot or two. Still, watching him command double-teams and still find ways to score—or get to the line 12 times a game—is a masterclass in offensive execution. Defensively, he averaged 1.7 blocks per game, and his presence alone forces opponents to alter their shot selection, much like what we saw in that Ginebra matchup where poor shooting doomed the offense.

Jayson Tatum has taken another leap, especially as a playmaker. He’s averaging around 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, and his ability to hit contested shots in the clutch is something I’ve grown to appreciate more each season. What holds him back, in my view, is his efficiency in big moments—his field goal percentage dips in the playoffs, and I’ve seen him settle for tough jumpers when driving could yield better results. But at 26, he’s only getting better, and his two-way flexibility makes Boston a nightmare matchup.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the new face of efficiency. His footwork is poetry, and he gets to his spots almost at will. Last season, he averaged 30.5 points on 53 percent shooting—absurd numbers for a guard. Defensively, he’s long and disruptive, tallying 2.1 steals per game. I see a lot of young Dwyane Wade in his game, and if he continues this trajectory, he’ll crack the top three sooner than later.

Kevin Durant, even in his late 30s, remains a scoring savant. He averaged 28 points and 6.5 rebounds while shooting over 50 percent from the field. His length allows him to get his shot off against anyone, and he’s still a capable rim protector. But Father Time is undefeated—I’ve noticed he’s a step slower on closeouts, and his durability is a growing concern.

Rounding out my top ten are LeBron James, a timeless wonder, and Devin Booker, whose mid-range mastery and improved playmaking have kept Phoenix competitive. LeBron, at 39, put up 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists—how is that even possible? Booker, meanwhile, is one of the best pure scorers I’ve ever seen, with a killer instinct that reminds me of Kobe.

As I look back at this list, it’s clear that the NBA’s talent pool has never been deeper. The blend of skill, IQ, and two-way impact defines today’s elite. Whether it’s Jokić’s genius or Shai’s rise, what stands out is how these players don’t just put up stats—they shape outcomes. And as the league evolves, so too will the criteria for greatness. For now, these are the names that, in my view, represent the very best of basketball in 2024.