The Top 25 NBA Players of 2024-2025: A Comprehensive Ranking by The Ringer

1. Nikola Jokić – Denver Nuggets

The reigning MVP continues to dominate with his exceptional playmaking and scoring abilities, leading the Nuggets to a strong start this season.

2. Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis's versatility on both ends of the floor keeps the Bucks competitive, showcasing his relentless drive and athleticism.

3. Luka Dončić – Dallas Mavericks

Dončić's offensive prowess and leadership have been pivotal for the Mavericks, as he consistently delivers high-scoring performances.

4. Kevin Durant – Phoenix Suns

Durant's scoring efficiency and veteran presence have been instrumental in the Suns' offensive schemes, maintaining his status as one of the league's premier scorers.

5. Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors

Curry's unparalleled shooting and offensive creativity continue to make him a focal point of the Warriors' success.

6. Joel Embiid – Philadelphia 76ers

Embiid's dominance in the paint and defensive presence have been crucial for the 76ers, solidifying his role as a top-tier center.

7. LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers

Even in his 21st season, LeBron's all-around game and leadership remain invaluable to the Lakers' aspirations.

8. Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics

Tatum's scoring versatility and defensive capabilities have propelled him into the upper echelon of NBA talent.

9. Anthony Davis – Los Angeles Lakers

Davis's defensive prowess and inside scoring make him a cornerstone of the Lakers' frontcourt.

10. Kawhi Leonard – Los Angeles Clippers

Leonard's two-way excellence continues to be a significant asset for the Clippers, especially in high-stakes situations.

11. Damian Lillard – Milwaukee Bucks

Lillard's clutch shooting and leadership have been pivotal in the Bucks' backcourt dynamics.

12. Jimmy Butler – Miami Heat

Butler's tenacity and all-around contributions keep the Heat competitive in the Eastern Conference.

13. Devin Booker – Phoenix Suns

Booker's scoring ability and playmaking have been essential to the Suns' offensive success.

14. Paul George – Philadelphia 76ers

George's two-way skills and scoring versatility continue to make him a key player for the Sixers.

15. Ja Morant – Memphis Grizzlies

Morant's explosive athleticism and playmaking have been central to the Grizzlies' dynamic offense.

16. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Oklahoma City Thunder

Gilgeous-Alexander's emergence as a premier scorer and leader has been a highlight for the Thunder.

17. Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers

Mitchell's scoring bursts and defensive efforts have been instrumental in the Cavaliers' backcourt strength.

18. Zion Williamson – New Orleans Pelicans

Williamson's dominant inside presence and athleticism make him a formidable force when healthy.

19. Karl-Anthony Towns – Minnesota Timberwolves

Towns's offensive versatility and rebounding continue to be vital for the Timberwolves' frontcourt.

20. Bradley Beal – Phoenix Suns

Beal's scoring acumen adds significant firepower to the Suns' perimeter offense.

21. Jaylen Brown – Boston Celtics

Brown's two-way play and athleticism complement the Celtics' wing positions effectively.

22. Trae Young – Atlanta Hawks

Young's playmaking and deep shooting range keep the Hawks' offense dynamic and unpredictable.

23. Bam Adebayo – Miami Heat

Adebayo's defensive versatility and playmaking from the center position are crucial to the Heat's schemes.

24. De'Aaron Fox – Sacramento Kings

Fox's speed and scoring ability have been key factors in the Kings' offensive strategies.

25. Rudy Gobert – Minnesota Timberwolves

Gobert's rim protection and rebounding anchor the Timberwolves' defense, maintaining his reputation as a defensive stalwart.

These rankings reflect the players' performances and contributions up to December 31, 2024, as assessed by The Ringer's comprehensive analysis.