The upcoming NBA season promises a mix of rising stars and established veterans poised to make substantial impacts, stirring up excitement across the league. Among the key narratives, the performances of guards such as Kyrie Irving, Tyrese Maxey, Donovan Mitchell, Tyrese Haliburton, Ja Morant, Devin Booker, Jalen Brunson, Stephen Curry, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Luka Doncic stand out.
Kyrie Irving: Still A Maverick Marvel
Kyrie Irving remains a perennial figure in discussions about elite NBA guards. Ranked 10th among guards and 25th overall, Irving’s recent seasons have been marked by standout performances. As Jasmyn Wimbish notes, "he put together one of his best seasons to date without ruffling any feathers... The Mavericks certainly wouldn't have made it to the NBA Finals without him." Irving’s unmatched ball-handling skills allow him to penetrate defenses and score from all three levels, maintaining his position as one of the league’s premier talents.
Tyrese Maxey's Meteoric Rise
Tyrese Maxey, taking on a larger role in Philadelphia after James Harden's exit, has ascended to 9th among guards and 24th overall. His elevated play earned him the Most Improved Player award. Jack Maloney underscores this leap: "After James Harden's departure, Maxey stepped into the No. 2 role in Philadelphia last season and made the leap... rewarded with the Most Improved Player award."
Donovan Mitchell's All-Around Game
Donovan Mitchell, ranked 8th among guards and 19th overall, delivered career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals, illustrating his growth as a complete player. Tasked with leading the Cleveland Cavaliers’ offense, Mitchell was virtually unstoppable. Brad Botkin captures his prowess: "Mitchell registered career highs... he assumed total control of the offense... he is virtually unstoppable when he gets going downhill as a pull-up shooter."
The Resilience of Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton made a significant impact with the Indiana Pacers, earning the 7th spot among guards and 17th overall despite an injury. Sam Quinn highlights his season: "When Tyrese Haliburton got hurt on Jan. 9, he was averaging 23.6 points per game... that's a total of 55.9 points of offense generated."
Ja Morant’s Flash and Questions
Ja Morant, known for his thrilling style of play, holds the 6th spot among guards and 16th overall. His struggle with injuries and suspensions, limiting him to 70 games over the last two seasons, raises questions about his future form. Jack Maloney points out, "At his best, Morant is one of the most exciting guards in the league... whether or not Morant can return to an All-NBA level is one of the biggest storylines to watch."
Underrated Devin Booker
Devin Booker’s contributions as the Phoenix Suns’ point guard last season have cemented his reputation, ranked 5th among guards and 14th overall. Jasmyn Wimbish emphasizes his undervalued impact: "Booker has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league... he’s liable to drop 40+ points on you... it resulted in a career-high year in assists for Booker."
Jalen Brunson’s Playoff Heroics
Jalen Brunson, placing 4th among guards and 13th overall, showcased his scoring prowess by becoming the fourth player in NBA history to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games. James Herbert details his achievements: "In May, Brunson became the fourth player in NBA history... to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games... he had a total of 16 40-point games in 2023-24."
Unyielding Stephen Curry
At 36, Stephen Curry remains a potent force, ranked 3rd among guards and 6th overall. Known for his unparalleled movement and shooting talent, Curry’s success often hinges on the quality of talent surrounding him. Brad Botkin underscores this need: "Curry is still an offense unto himself with his inimitable movement and pure shot-making talent... he needs better talent around him to make his way back into title contention."
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Drive
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, ranking 2nd among guards and 4th overall, led the NBA in drives for the fourth consecutive season. James Herbert highlights his defensive contributions and efficiency: "Last year's MVP runner-up... led the NBA in drives for the fourth straight season... nobody recorded more steals than Gilgeous-Alexander."
Luka Doncic's Ascendancy
Occupying the top spot among guards and 3rd overall, Luka Doncic is just 25 years old and is coming off the best statistical year of his career. Jasmyn Wimbish summarizes his dominance: "Even after six years in the league... he plays at the pace of paint drying on a wall, and yet... the most elite defenders couldn't stop him... he's still only 25 years old."
As these players prepare for the upcoming season, their stories of persistence, skill, and undeniable impact promise a thrilling spectacle for NBA fans worldwide.