In the 2023-24 season, some NBA stars have distinguished themselves from the rest when it comes to impact and star power. This article distinguishes the Mega-Stars from the Superstars, All-Stars, and Stars. That means we aim to separate NBA stars such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Luka Doncic into different categories. It won’t be easy, but only five NBA players can be considered Mega-Stars.
The upper echelon, known as Mega-Stars, boasts only five elite players who have proven they can carry a franchise and are the faces of the NBA right now. There are also a host of superstar players who are on the cusp of proving they are the faces of the NBA but are yet to reach that new level. Here is the ranking of all the NBA’s best players in 2023-24.
Mega-Stars
– Nikola Jokic, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant
At the heart of the Mega-Stars constellation, Nikola Jokic reigns as the best player in the league for the Denver Nuggets. The Serbian center’s uncanny playmaking abilities, often reserved for guards, redefine the role of a traditional big man. His back-to-back MVP seasons in 2021 and 2022, along with the NBA title and Finals MVP last year prove the Serbian is on top of his game right now. Developing into the lowest-drafted MVP in NBA history, the ‘Joker’ doesn’t just dominate the stat sheet; he transforms games, guiding his team with finesse that belies his formidable presence in the paint.
Of course, LeBron James is not merely a superstar player; he’s at the top of his game. The four-time NBA champion and four-time Finals MVP has transcended eras, shaping the league with his unparalleled skill set and basketball IQ. His move to the Los Angeles Lakers brought a storied franchise back into contention, clinching the 2020 title in a season dedicated to the late Kobe Bryant. Even at 39 years old and playing for the slumping Lakers, James remains the face of the NBA and he doesn’t have to play another game again to have his legacy confirmed as a top-five player ever.
Stephen Curry has revolutionized the game with his transcendent shooting and unrivaled handles. The two-time MVP not only led the Golden State Warriors to four championships. The 2015-2016 season witnessed Curry shattering records, including an unprecedented 402 three-pointers, securing his place among the greatest shooters in NBA history. As the most popular player in the league, Curry is the baby face of the league for good reason.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Greek Freak, has evolved from an intriguing prospect to back-to-back NBA MVPs and a Finals MVP. His journey with the Milwaukee Bucks culminated in a 2021 championship, where Giannis delivered a historic 50-point performance in the decisive Game 6. Standing at the intersection of power and finesse, Giannis combines rim-rattling dunks with a defensive prowess that earned him a Defensive Player of the Year award. Posting 31.0 points and 11.7 rebounds per game this season, Giannis is still the best two-way player in the league.
As the final member in the Mega-Stars category, Kevin Durant embodies scoring artistry and clutch performances. The two-time NBA champion and Finals MVP has seamlessly transitioned from the Golden State Warriors to the Brooklyn Nets and now the Phoenix Suns, where he forms a potent trio with Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Even if he is criticized for not winning a championship outside of Golden State, Durant is a mega star because everybody knows who the best scorer on the floor is whenever he plays.
Superstars
– Joel Embiid, Kawhi Leonard, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jayson Tatum
The reigning MVP and two-time scoring champion, Joel Embiid, looms as a dominant force in the Superstars tier. His status as a two-way big man is undisputed, yet the unimpressive playoff performances and injury concerns have cast a shadow over his legacy. As the Philadelphia 76ers’ linchpin, Embiid faces the challenge of translating individual accolades into postseason success. If he can navigate the 65-game requirement this season (to win the third scoring title and second MVP) and make a significant impact in the playoffs, Embiid could solidify his place among the league’s elite.
The only champion and Finals MVP in this category, Kawhi Leonard remains a linchpin in the Superstars tier, despite facing injury challenges. His reputation as a lockdown defender and clutch performer is etched in NBA lore, yet concerns about his durability have tempered the expectations of his impact in the 2023-24 season. While Leonard’s legacy secures him a place in the Hall of Fame, the question lingers – can he transcend into Mega Star status, or is his pivotal role in the championship-winning Raptors merely a peak in his illustrious career?
A modern-day Larry Bird, Luka Doncic is a Superstar who has revitalized the Dallas Mavericks. With near triple-double averages and dazzling offensive prowess, Doncic has elevated his team’s status. But, the absence of a Finals appearance and the stark reality that stats alone don’t define greatness have kept him from claiming the coveted Mega Star category. Doncic might be the face of the NBA at one point, but it hasn’t happened yet.
A rising star in the Superstars tier, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has transformed into an all-around force, securing a spot on the All-NBA First Team last year. The 25-year-old has displayed dominance as a scorer and looks poised for a second consecutive First Team nod in 2023-24. However, the raw edges of his game and the need to prove himself in playoff scenarios underscore his journey toward Mega Star status.
Leading the Celtics to the Finals in 2022, Jayson Tatum ascends to Superstar status on the strength of his incredible scoring abilities. Despite falling short in the championship series against the Warriors, Tatum’s impact as a go-to scorer elevates him to this tier. There isn’t an excuse for Tatum not to win a ring this year and if he does while performing as the best player, he might be a Mega Star.
All-Stars
– Tyrese Haliburton, Donovan Mitchell, Damian Lillard, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, Devin Booker, Domantas Sabonis, De’Aaron Fox, Bam Adebayo
Emerging as a rising star, Tyrese Haliburton secures a spot among the All-Stars with his exceptional playmaking and basketball IQ. It won’t be long before Haliburton starts climbing the categories because he just needs a strong playoff showing to prove he is a bonafide superstar reminiscent of the legendary Steve Nash.
A perennial All-Star, Donovan Mitchell continues to be in the argument for being the best shooting guard in the world. His explosive scoring ability, combined with leadership qualities, has propelled the Jazz to contention in the Western Conference before his new chapter with the Cavaliers started.
Damian Lillard, synonymous with clutch shots and deep three-pointers, maintains his All-Star status as the heartbeat of the Portland Trail Blazers. The eight-time All-Star has consistently delivered breathtaking performances and he is posting 25.1 points per game this season despite being the second option behind Giannis Antetokounmpo and made the Eastern Conference All-Star starting lineup.
As a perennial All-Star and former NBA champion, Anthony Davis stands tall among the league’s elite. The versatile big man has been a linchpin for the Los Angeles Lakers, contributing on both ends with his shot-blocking, rebounding, and scoring abilities. Even if he has been harshly criticized, he has answered the call this season by being a contender for Defensive Player of the Year.
In his ascent to All-Star status, Anthony Edwards has become a dynamic force for the Minnesota Timberwolves. The explosive scoring ability and highlight-reel dunks have captured the league’s attention, showcasing Edwards as a player with the potential to be a cornerstone for the franchise. His rapid development and impact on both ends of the court mark Edwards as a rising star in the All-Star category.
Devin Booker’s journey from scoring 70 points in a game to three All-Star appearances has been marked by his scoring proficiency and offensive versatility. As a key figure in the Phoenix Suns’ resurgence, Booker’s ability to create and score in various situations has made him a contender for the title of league’s best shooting guard alongside Donovan Mitchell.
Domantas Sabonis, an All-Star caliber big man, has been a consistent force for the Sacramento Kings. His exceptional passing for a player of his position and scoring in the paint makes him a unique and valuable asset. Sabonis’ three All-Star selections highlight his impact as a key contributor to the Kings’ success, leading them to the playoffs last year alongside De’Aaron Fox.
De’Aaron Fox’s blazing speed and playmaking skills have earned him a place among the Western Conference All-Stars. As the Sacramento Kings’ floor general, Fox’s ability to navigate defenses and create opportunities for his teammates has elevated his status in the highly competitive guard landscape.
A versatile big man, Bam Adebayo has earned his spot in the All-Star category with his exceptional skills on both ends of the floor. Without disrespect to Jimmy Butler, Adebayo has become Miami’s best player on both ends of the floor and seems to be the only untouchable player on the roster in 2023-24.
Stars
– Kyrie Irving, Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, Lauri Markkanen, Alperen Sengun, Zion Williamson
Despite being an elite scorer and ball-handler, Kyrie Irving finds himself in the Stars tier, emblematic of his second-option role behind Luka Doncic in Dallas. While Kyrie’s skills remain undeniably elite, his reputation has taken a hit due to previous leadership challenges, notably with the Celtics and the Nets. However, his skills and numbers still make him a star player.
Emerging as a potential All-Star, Tyrese Maxey is navigating the Stars tier with a trajectory that hints at greater heights. Developing into a dynamic player, Maxey is a contender for the Most Improved Player award, showcasing his ability to impact games thanks to a bigger role. While he faces competition from more established guards, the second half of the season holds the promise of Maxey reaching a new level.
Since leaving Indiana, Paul George has grappled with the challenge of being a second or third option, making it difficult to secure consistent All-Star nods in the modern NBA landscape. Injuries have further complicated George’s journey, impacting the trajectory of his career. He is still an excellent two-way swingman.
Lauri Markkanen, the reigning Most Improved Player, continues to validate last season’s success with an impressive showing. Averaging 23.5 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, Markkanen has evolved into an excellent forward, demonstrating that his breakout year was no fluke.
In the midst of a breakout season, Alperen Sengun has transformed into a dominant inside scorer, making him a compelling candidate for the Most Improved Player award. Posting impressive averages of 21.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, Sengun is a driving force behind the Rockets’ playoff push. As he battles for a play-in spot with the potential to make the playoffs, Sengun’s rapid ascent solidifies his status in the Stars tier.
While possessing the talent to be the face of the NBA, Zion Williamson’s trajectory has been marked by challenges, including a perceived lack of a leadership mentality. Despite two All-Star appearances, his career has been overshadowed by off-court narratives. Zion was given too much too soon, and that has robbed his production to start his career despite being a player with an unlimited ceiling.
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