As basketball enthusiasts look ahead to the 2025-26 NBA season, early head-to-head points league rankings have sparked conversations among fans and analysts alike. These rankings based on both past player performance and future potential give a good picture of who is likely to control the game from different positions. We’ve seen players like LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic take up that mantle. With standout performances all season, these players are setting the standard for their respective positions.
LeBron James has recently shown just how unstoppable he is. He received the highest rank as a small forward (SF1) and then as a power forward (PF1). Reggie Jackson’s versatility makes him one of the more dynamic rosters in the league, which makes him a crucial fantasy basketball piece. Yet this is the positional hierarchy Giannis Antetokounmpo holds, ranked as power forward (PF1) and center (C). It’s that multifaceted skill set that has made him the reigning two-time MVP. Nikola Jokic, known for his exceptional playmaking ability, is positioned as the top center (C1), further establishing his dominance in the league.
Rankings Breakdown
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stands out as the top point guard (PG1), reflecting his rapid development and consistent performance over the past few seasons. His exceptional scoring ability, two-way play and playmaking skills have raised him into the tier of elite players. Jalen Brunson is right there behind him, ranking third among point guards. He alluded to his impressive development as an important two-way piece on the hardwood.
Victor Wembanyama centers C1 and has already caused a stir as C2. He’s changing the minds of many doubters with his excellent potential to become a future star. While Joel Embiid takes the seventh spot (C7) on our list, he is still a dominant force when healthy. On the other hand, Karl-Anthony Towns’ C5/PF rank truly highlights his versatility and strong scoring skills.
Domantas Sabonis continues to be an All-Star quality center and power forward. His rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism allow him to wreak havoc all over the field. Pascal Siakam and Kevin Durant are right there behind him as PF3 and PF4. Each of these players holds enormous experience and talent, making them indispensable in any championship run, as they provide valuable experience and poise under pressure.
Key Player Insights
Donovan Mitchell cards steal the show, getting top ranked SG2 and PG. Through all of this he continues to demonstrate his exceptional talent at succeeding in so many different roles. His ability to put points on the board and play solid defense will have a lot of fantasy teams considering taking him high. Tyrese Haliburton’s achievement of being ranked PG4 and SG one further shows how his versatility and growing importance in the league played out this year.
One of the biggest surprises on the list is Ja Morant ranking at PG13. Though he’s dealt with issues all career long, his explosiveness and playmaking ability make Morant a fixture near the top of the best player list. Stephen Curry carrying PG10’s position reflects a year-on-year drop off. For all that, it remains an interesting reflection of his continuing stature in the league.
Future Implications
With the 2025-26 season on the horizon, these early rankings will continue to change as players develop and teams rethink their approaches. As we’ve seen with other times emerging talent like Wembanyama has come along, public sentiment can change pretty quickly as they establish themselves on the court. Injuries and team compositions can change quickly, throwing projections off course. As such, these rankings are ever-changing and only indicative of what could happen.
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