Our annual Top 100 NBA player rankings have turned into a much-anticipated tradition, and this year is no different. The 2023 list reflects a comprehensive aggregation of projections, sparking conversations across the basketball community. A look into the latest rankings reveals significant shifts, unprecedented leaps, and unexpected declines among some of the most prominent players in the league.
Rising Stars
Perhaps the most striking development this year is the meteoric rise of Victor Wembanyama. Vaulting from 58th to 12th in the rankings, Wembanyama has made the most significant leap of any player. After the All-Star break, he showcased his all-around brilliance, averaging 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. His exceptional skill set and towering presence have earned him accolades, with Sam Quinn remarking, "We're not just talking about the next great NBA player here. We're talking about the sort of player this sport has never seen, the next step in its evolution."
Another player making headlines is Chet Holmgren, moving up from 68th to 30th place. His career trajectory, as noted by Jasmyn Wimbish, positions him as a future staple at All-Star games and a frequent contender for end-of-season awards like All-NBA and All-Defense. Jack Maloney adds, "Holmgren has the on-and-off-ball skills to easily scale up and down depending on the situation," underscoring his versatility and importance to his team.
Alperen Sengun's rise from 85th to 47th also commands attention. Wimbish highlights his unique blend of strength and finesse around the rim, which makes him difficult to defend when he secures the ball on the move. Likewise, Tyrese Maxey’s remarkable ascent from 60th to 24th signifies his growing influence and pivotal role in his team's success.
New Entrants
This year, several players who were previously unranked have made their mark on the Top 100. Brandon Miller, Jalen Suggs, and Coby White debuted on the list at 66th, 70th, and 71st, respectively. Each of these players has demonstrated significant improvement and consistency, earning them well-deserved spots among the league’s elite. Isaiah Hartenstein, now positioned at 73rd, has also made a notable entry into the rankings.
Notable Declines
While several players have risen, others have experienced considerable declines. Andrew Wiggins, once ranked 48th, and Josh Giddey, previously 61st, have both fallen out of the Top 100. Brad Botkin sheds light on Wiggins’ situation, stating, "His father, former NBA player Mitchell Wiggins, recently died, and Andrew had taken multiple leaves of absence the past two years as his father's health was in decline." This personal hardship has undoubtedly impacted Wiggins' performance and ranking.
Brook Lopez saw a significant drop from 50th to 88th, while Marcus Smart slipped from 56th to 93rd. Zach LaVine's ranking fell from 43rd to 76th, and Klay Thompson, once 67th, now finds himself near the bottom at 99th. Bradley Beal also experienced a notable decline, moving from 38th to 69th.
Draymond Green’s descent from 30th to 56th further highlights the dynamic nature of these rankings and the constantly shifting landscape of NBA performance levels.
Fallen Out
Some players, despite their undeniable talent, have not managed to secure a spot in this year's list. Chris Paul and Malcolm Brogdon are among the significant names that have moved out of the rankings. As Botkin succinctly points out, "Brogdon is a good player but not a top-100 guy under these conditions."
A Dynamic Landscape
The 2023 Top 100 NBA player rankings epitomize the evolving and competitive nature of professional basketball. Stars rise, fall, and new names emerge, each season bringing fresh storylines and shifts in the hierarchy of talent. As the league continues to grow and develop, these rankings offer a snapshot of the present and a glimpse into the future of basketball, reflecting both the triumphs and challenges of its players.