The NBA's upcoming season promises to be as thrilling as ever, with several guards poised to make significant impacts. Among these elite players, 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 and Tyrese Maxey: Rising Stars
Kyrie Irving is ranked 10th among guards and 25th overall for the upcoming NBA season. Despite turbulent times, Irving remains an offensive juggernaut. 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 still has the best handle in the league, can easily get to the rim and score from all three levels."
Meanwhile, Tyrese Maxey, ranked 9th among guards and 24th overall, has emerged as a dynamic force. After James Harden's departure from Philadelphia, Maxey embraced a pivotal role. Jack Maloney highlights his ascent: "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 and Tyrese Haliburton: Making Strides
Donovan Mitchell, ranking 8th among guards and 19th overall, had a breakout season with career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals. He took full control of the Cleveland Cavaliers' offense. Brad Botkin illuminates his impact: "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."
Tyrese Haliburton, 7th among guards and 17th overall, also made significant strides. Despite facing an injury midway through the season, Haliburton’s performance with the Indiana Pacers was remarkable. Sam Quinn underscores his value: "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 and Devin Booker: Overcoming Obstacles
Ja Morant, holding the 6th spot among guards and 16th overall, has faced his share of challenges. Injuries and suspensions have limited him to just 70 games over the past two seasons. However, his potential remains undeniable. As 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."
On the other hand, Devin Booker, ranked 5th among guards and 14th overall, has flourished by taking on the point guard role for Phoenix. Jasmyn Wimbish praises Booker: "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 and Stephen Curry: Consistent Performers
Jalen Brunson, placing 4th among guards and 13th overall, showcased his scoring prowess by hitting 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games. James Herbert chronicles his feats: "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."
Stephen Curry, ranked 3rd among guards and 6th overall, remains a beacon of offensive brilliance even at 36. "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," states Brad Botkin.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic: At the Pinnacle
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, sitting 2nd among guards and 4th overall, continues to dominate. James Herbert provides insights: "Last year's MVP runner-up... led the NBA in drives for the fourth straight season... shot 69% at the rim and 51% from midrange... nobody recorded more steals than Gilgeous-Alexander."
Finally, Luka Doncic, ranked 1st among guards and 3rd overall, is coming off the best statistical year of his career, leading the league in scoring. Jasmyn Wimbish marvels at his progression: "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."
The upcoming NBA season will surely be electrifying as these guards are set to showcase their remarkable talents. From experienced veterans like Stephen Curry to rising stars like Tyrese Maxey, the backcourt promises both excitement and excellence.