The Best NBA Players By Jersey Number For The 2023-24 Season

For many NBA basketball players, a jersey number is something they carry with them throughout their careers. It starts in middle school or even earlier and they carry that same number with them over the course of their basketball careers. In turn, for many NBA legends, these numbers become iconic and synonymous with the players who wear them.

In 2023-24, 54 different jersey numbers are currently in use and at least one player wears them all. Below, number by number, we will count down the current NBA players who are representing those jersey numbers better than anyone else in the league today, and the players who have begun to make those numbers iconic in their own ways.

These are the best NBA players by jersey number for the 2023-24 season.

No. 00 – Jordan Clarkson

The first jersey number up is the iconic double zero worn by seven players in 2023-24. While all seven have been great in their specific roles for their teams, none have passed the longest-tenured wearer of the 00, Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz.

Clarkson has worn No. 00 since arriving in Utah during the 2019-20 season. In that time, Clarkson has gone from a former Sixth Man of the Year award winner to a full-time starter in 2023-24. After assuming a full-time starting role at shooting guard last season, Clarkson has started 15 of 16 games this season once again for the Jazz.

Through 16 games this season, Clarkson has averaged 18.3 points and 4.9 assists per game for the 6-11 Jazz as they continue to rebuild following their Summer 2022 exile of franchise stars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell. Clarkson is currently second on the team in scoring behind Lauri Markkanen and is shooting 41.4% overall from the field and just 31.2% from three on 5.8 attempts.

Honorable Mentions: Bennedict Mathurin, Jonathan Kuminga

No. 0 – Jayson Tatum

The No. 0 has long been a desired number of many former and future NBA legends and future Hall of Famers. Currently, there are 22 players who wear the No. 0 in the NBA in 2023-24 with four potential All-Stars for this season included in that number.

Of all the players wearing No. 0 this season, only one has been a consistent MVP candidate as well as had his team in position to compete for an NBA championship over the last few seasons and that is Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics. Tatum has been wearing the No. 0 since entering the NBA in 2017 and continues to dominate wearing the number in 2023-24.

Tatum has led the Celtics to a tremendous start in 2023-24 with a 12-4 start and first place in the Eastern Conference. He is currently averaging 27.8 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, leading Boston in scoring and rebounding through 16 games. He is also shooting 49.8% overall from the field and 36.5% from three during this stretch and has Boston primed for yet another run at the Eastern Conference Finals. Although, their eyes are focused on a much bigger prize this season.

Honorable Mentions: Tyrese Maxey, Damian Lillard, Tyrese Haliburton

No. 1 – Devin Booker

Currently in the NBA, there are 21 players who wear the number one. Veterans such as James Harden have made the change to one after being traded to a team where his number, 13, was already taken. Other young stars in the league are wearing the number as well such as Victor Wembanyama, Zion Williamson, and LaMelo Ball.

While the talent is fierce for the selection of the best player wearing one, only Devin Booker can lay claim to the title of the best player wearing the number right now. Booker struggled with his health to begin the highly-anticipated 2023-24 season for the Phoenix Suns. Since returning, it has been all good news as Booker has found his groove and in turn, so have the Suns.

After missing eight games at the beginning of the season, Booker has returned to help the Suns reach a 10-6 record, averaging 29.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game. He is shooting a scintillating 51.5% from the field overall including 45.2% from three on 5.3 attempts. The Suns are currently on a 7-game winning streak with Booker in the lineup as well and have moved into a tie for third in the Western Conference.

Honorable Mentions: LaMelo Ball, Zion Williamson, Victor Wembanyama, James Harden

No. 2 – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The number two is worn by 17 players in 2023-24 with just two having an argument to be called the best. While Kawhi Leonard would have most likely been the player we selected any other season, that distinction belongs to Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander early on in 2023-24.

Fresh off an All-Star and All-NBA First Team selection last season, Gilgeous-Alexander has carried the momentum over perfectly in 2023-24. Through 15 games played this season, he is currently averaging 30.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 6.2 assists, and an NBA-leading 2.3 steals per game. Gilgeous-Alexander is also shooting 53.4% from the field overall, 36.4% from three, and 93.7% from the foul line.

While many knew the rise of Oklahoma City was coming, few expected it to come as early as 2023-24 but this young core led by Gilgeous-Alexander may be ready for the next step. Currently, they are 11-5 on the season and hold second place in the Western Conference.

Honorable Mentions: Kawhi Leonard, Cade Cunningham

No. 3 – Anthony Davis

One of the most iconic numbers in NBA history is the number three, worn by such NBA legends as Allen Iverson, Dwyane Wade, and former Fadeaway World guest Dale Ellis. In 2023-24, there are 19 players donning the number on both sides of their jersey with only one who stands out above the rest.

Despite the calls for him to be more aggressive and take on a bigger leadership role with the Lakers, Anthony Davis is off to an incredible start in 2023-24. Currently, he is among the leaders for the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award while also averaging 21.8 points, 12.1 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 2.8 blocks per game.

Davis has been criticized in the past for situations beyond his control such as injury and fatigue but continues to be a force for the Lakers every time he steps on the court. In 2023-24, the Lakers are 10-7 through 17 games and reside in seventh place in the Western Conference. If Davis can remain healthy and continue to anchor the defense, that standing could improve drastically as time goes on.

Honorable Mentions: Bradley Beal, Chris Paul

No. 4 – Jrue Holiday

A trio of young stars have challenged for the title of the best player to wear No. 4 this season including Evan Mobley of the Cavaliers, Jalen Green of the Rockets, and Scottie Barnes of the Toronto Raptors. As great of a start each of them has had to the season, I am not ready to give them the reins just yet when it comes to the number four.

That honor still belongs to the veteran Jrue Holiday who has been a welcomed addition to the first-place Boston Celtics to start the season. Along with his elite perimeter defense, Holiday has helped the Celtics massively in his first season with them as they boast the best starting lineup in the NBA this season.

Through 15 games, Holiday has started every one and is averaging 12.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game. His numbers may not be better than the other three candidates with this jersey number but his impact has been substantially greater considering their spot atop the East and his defensive play which cannot be simplified down to just steals and blocks

Honorable Mentions: Evan Mobley, Scottie Barnes, Jalen Green

No. 5 – Anthony Edwards

The number five is another star-studded jersey number for the 2023-24 season, worn by a total of 24 players with five of them having potential All-Star seasons. De’Aaron Fox probably has the best case of all our honorable mentions but Paolo Banchero and Fred VanVleet are also having seasons worthy of notice as well.

That being said, the only selection for the best player wearing No. 5 today is Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Edwards is having a spectacular start to his 2023-24 season, one year after making his first All-Star appearance in 2022-23. Currently, the Timberwolves are first in the Western Conference thanks to Edwards and his 26.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.5 steals per game.

Edwards has assumed the leadership role with Minnesota and the rest of the roster has followed his lead into battle. While on some nights he may struggle offensively, he is still shooting 46.1% from the field overall and 37.5% from three while also making a tremendous impact with his perimeter defense.

Honorable Mentions: De’Aaron Fox, Paolo Banchero

No. 6 – Alex Caruso

With the NBA announcing that the No. 6 would be retired league-wide following the passing of Bill Russell last season, only seven players remain wearing the number in 2023-24. Of those seven players, only one is having an impact on the court worthy of being labeled the best to wear the number and that is Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls.

At the center of trade rumors amid a disastrous start to the season for Chicago, Caruso has been a bright spot off the bench. Currently, he is averaging 9.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in 15 appearances. Anyone who is out to acquire Caruso knows they are getting a passionate player with heart and defensive grit worthy of a significant role on their team. It is only a matter of time before we see him with a true contender this season.

Honorable Mentions: Jaylin Williams, Quentin Grimes

No. 7 – Jaylen Brown

In the NBA in 2023-24, there are currently 18 players who wear the number seven. Of those 18 players, the battle for the best truly lies in the top two between a veteran out of Boston and a super rookie out of Oklahoma City. While Chet Holmgren has impressed and taken control of the Rookie of the Year race for now, Jaylen Brown once again is the correct choice for the best player to wear this number.

Brown is in his eighth season with the Boston Celtics in 2023-24, and still in hot pursuit of the elusive NBA championship trophy that has slipped through his fingers the last few seasons. Brown was rewarded by the Celtics this last offseason with the largest deal in NBA history worth $304 million over the next five seasons starting in 2024-25.

So far, in 2023-24, Brown has been one of the best second options in the NBA once again alongside Jayson Tatum as the Celtics have gotten off to a 12-4 start and sit in first place in the Eastern Conference. Brown is currently averaging 21.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game in 15 starts this season. He is also shooting 44.4% from the field overall and 34.6% from three on 7.1 attempts.

Honorable Mentions: Chet Holmgren, Buddy Hield

No. 8 – Kristaps Porzingis

It is pretty unbelievable that the number eight will be worn by 21 players this season. Despite the large number of players wearing Kobe Bryant’s first number, only two can lay claim to being the best No. 8s in the NBA in 2023-24. With all of the controversy surrounding Zach LaVine right now including trade rumors and visible frustration in his current situation with the struggling Bulls, this distinction is going to Kristaps Porzingis for the 2023-24 season.

Porzingis is in his first season in Boston after being acquired in a sign-and-trade with the Wizards earlier this past summer. Even though he is currently dealing with injury, Porzingis has been an incredible addition for Boston, helping them earn the top spot in the Eastern Conference through 16 games with a 12-4 record.

Through 15 games, Porzingis is averaging 18.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game on 54.7% shooting overall and 32.4% from three. Porzingis has been a breath of fresh air offensively to Boston’s frontcourt where they have struggled mightily to get production from in the past. With Porzingis in their lineup, Boston has been one of the NBA’s best teams and is marching forward on their quest for an NBA championship.

Honorable Mentions: Zach LaVine, Josh Green

No. 9 – Nikola Vucevic

The number nine is another popular number in 2023-24 with 18 players taking a crack at it this season. Of those 18 players, only four have a real argument to be considered the best, including Dillon Brooks, RJ Barrett, and Derrick White. While each of those players has been consistent and impactful for their teams, veteran Nikola Vucevic of the Chicago Bulls still owns bragging rights to number nine.

Vucevic has started all 17 games for the Bulls this season and is averaging a double-double for the third straight season with 16.4 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. The Bulls are in a tailspin as an organization but one thing that has been reliable through all of it has been Vucevic being ready to go and playing at a high level.

After signing a deal to remain in Chicago through 2025-26 worth $60 million, it is unclear if Vucevic will be shopped as the Bulls seemingly head toward a rebuild at the trade deadline. Vucevic will definitely be a wanted commodity if made available but so far all signs point to him remaining in Chicago.

Honorable Mentions: Dillion Brooks, RJ Barrett, Derrick White

No. 10 – Domantas Sabonis

Since arriving with the Sacramento Kings at the 2021-22 trade deadline, Domantas Sabonis has been one of the best big men in the NBA. In 2022-23, he earned All-Star and All-NBA Team honors while leading the league in rebounds and helping the team break their 17-year playoff drought. His reign of dominance continues in 2023-24.

Through 15 games this season, the Kings are currently 9-6 and sit in sixth place in the West. Sabonis has averaged 19.9 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game while shooting 62.0% from the field and just 63.4% from the foul line. Sabonis’ partnership with teammate De’Aaron Fox has the team poised for another exciting playoff run as one of the best duos in the NBA for the 2023-24 season.

Honorable Mentions: Darius Garland, Tim Hardaway Jr.

No. 11 – Kyrie Irving

In 2023-24, the No. 11 is as star-studded as any other jersey number in the NBA. Former All-Stars such as DeMar DeRozan, Trae Young, and Klay Thompson still sport the number while future All-Stars like Jalen Brunson and Jaime Jaquez Jr. also wear it for their respective organizations. All of them have a case to be the player to represent the No. 11 on our list but only one has made a better case.

Kyrie Irving of the Dallas Mavericks has been spectacular since coming over to the team via trade last season and that has carried over to a fantastic start for the team in 2023-24. Irving has played 13 of 16 games for the 10-6 Mavericks this season, averaging 24.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.

Irving’s willingness to work alongside superstar Luka Donic has been a welcomed sight for Mavericks fans who are still reeling after missing the playoffs last season. The pair have given them a reason to be optimistic thanks largely in part to Irving’s play so far.

Honorable Mentions: Trae Young, Klay Thompson, DeMar DeRozan

No. 12 – Tobias Harris

When it comes to the star power of the No. 12 in 2023-24, it is a bit underwhelming. Ja Morant likely would have been an easy choice here but not playing due to a 25-game suspension so far in 2023-24 has lept him off the list for now. There are 12 players to wear the number this season with none of them showing any significant All-Star potential at this point. To find the best player wearing No. 12 this season, we have to look at the best of the role players for their respective teams which means we have to look no further than No. 12 for the Philadelphia 76ers.

After years of being lambasted for his overpaid NBA contract, Tobias Harris is having a great start to his 2023-24 season. Through 16 games, Harris is averaging 18.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game while shooting 52.7% from the field. These are some of his best numbers since the 2020-21 season and have helped the Sixers breathe a sigh of relief as they sit at 12-5 on the season comfortably in the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference standings.

Honorable Mentions: Ja Morant, De’Andre Hunter, Taurean Prince

No. 13 – Bam Adebayo

In one of the first surprises on this list, Bam Adebayo is the selection for the best player to wear No. 13 over stars such as Paul George and Jaren Jackson Jr. While George has been a superior scorer to Adebayo, there is no doubt who has had the larger impact on winning with superior play in other aspects of the game.

Adebayo and the Miami Heat are currently 10-7 on the season and sitting in the sixth spot in the East. Bam is having one of his most impressive seasons to date with a career-high 22.7 points, 10.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. He is headed for his second straight All-Star selection while playing defense worthy of consideration for Defensive Player of the Year.

At this point in the season, Bam Adebayo is the logical choice as the best player wearing the No. 13.

Honorable Mentions: Paul George, Jaren Jackson Jr.

No. 14 – Brandon Ingram

Ironically enough, the No. 14 is being worn by 14 NBA players for the 20223-24 season with just two in the debate for its best player. Running away with the selection is Brandon Ingram of the New Orleans Pelicans who has been an all-around offensive weapon through 14 games this season.

Through 18 games, the Pelicans are 9-9 and sitting in ninth in the West with three wins in their last five games. Through 14 games played, Ingram is averaging 24.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game on 50.2% shooting overall and 29.4% from three. Ingram is leading the Pelicans in scoring as one of three players on the team with over 20.0 points per game this season.

If Ingram can continue to play at a level worthy of All-Star consideration, the Pelicans will be in the thick of the Western Conference playoff picture once again with the chance to make some noise come playoff time.

Honorable Mention: Tyler Herro

No. 15 – Nikola Jokic

The No. 15 is one of the easiest selections on our entire list. Although worn by eight other players, the No. 15 belongs to one in 2023-24 and for many, many years to come. That player is reigning Finals MVP and two-time MVP Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets who is considered to be the best player in the world and with more than good reason.

Even if we forget about the remarkable championship run Jokic and the Nuggets had last season, he is still the easiest selection on this list. Jokic is having another MVP-caliber start to his 2023-24 campaign with 28.8 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game for the 11-6 Denver Nuggets who sit fourth in the Western Conference.

Jokic has once again stepped up his game in the face of adversity for the Nuggets who lost Jamal Murray earlier this month due to injury through at least the end of November. Still, Jokic has taken control of the offense and is torpedoing towards his third career MVP award if he continues to shred opposing defenses and the Nuggets continue to climb the standings.

Honorable Mentions: Austin Reaves, Clint Capela

No. 16 – Cedi Osman

Only four NBA players in 2023-24 will wear the No.16 on their jerseys with two players off their respective benches battling it out as the best. For this jersey number, we decided to go with Cedi Osman of the 3-14 San Antonio Spurs who has appeared in all 17 games for the team this year and played over 19.0 minutes per game.

Osman has been valuable off the bench for the reeling Spurs. He has provided consistent scoring with 8.4 points per game on 48.2% shooting and has gone for 11 points or more in three of his last five contests. Osman is not going to help improve the Spurs this season but has proven to be reliable when called upon so far. Be on the lookout for teams looking to trade for him as we near the trade deadline later this year.

Honorable Mention: Caleb Martin

No. 17 – Shaedon Sharpe

The No. 17 is also another number yielding very little competition with just 12 players wearing it in 2023-24. In one of the rare occurrences we decided to go with the younger star over the veteran on today’s list, Shaedon Sharpe gets the selection for this jersey number over players such as Dennis Schroder and Jonas Valanciunas.

Even as the Portland Trail Blazers have gotten off to a horrible 5-12 start, the 20-year-old Sharpe has given them something to look forward to. Through 16 games this season, Sharpe is averaging 16.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game on 39.1% shooting from the field. After being handed the keys to the franchise following the departure of Damian Lillard and injury to Anfernee Simons, Sharpe has responded in a way that can be one of the very few positives to be taken from the Trail Blazers’ start to the year.

Honorable Mentions: Dennis Schroder, Jonas Valanciunas

No. 18 – Shake Milton

While there may be eight NBA players to wear No. 18 this season, there are no notable standouts in their midst. That being said, Shake Milton is our selection for the best player to wear No. 18 for his play through 16 games so far with the Timberwolves in 2023-24.

Milton has seen a decline in minutes this season but has still made the most of his time on the court. In 15.9 minutes and 16 games played for the 12-4 Timberwolves, Milton is averaging 5.7 points and 2.1 rebounds per game. Milton edges out such players as Yuta Watanabe of the Phoenix Suns and Bismack Biyombo of the Memphis Grizzlies for this spot on our list.

Honorable Mentions: Yuta Watanabe. Bismack Biyombo

No. 19 – Jakob Poeltl

The No. 19 is our least represented number in 2023-24 so far with just three players wearing it this season. Both Luka Samanic and Jeenathan Williams have appeared in fewer than 10 games this season for their respective teams leaving Jakob Poeltl of the Toronto Raptors as the easy selection for the best player to wear No. 19 this season.

Poeltl has been the starter in all 17 games so far for the Toronto Raptors who are 8-9 on the season and is averaging 11.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Poeltl is currently shooting 72.7% from the floor which leads the NBA while taking just 7.1 shots per game.

Honorable Mentions: Luka Samanic, Jeenathan Williams

No. 20 – Gordon Hayward

The No. 20 will be worn by 13 players during the 2023-24 season with multiple players to be considered as the best. In the end, Gordon Hayward gets the selection for his bounceback start to the season with the Charlotte Hornets. In the final year of his massive deal that made him one of the most overpaid players of the last 20 seasons, Hayward has surprised his critics to start 2023-24.

Through 14 games, Hayward is averaging 13.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game for the Charlotte Hornets who have gotten off to a 5-10 start to the season. Hayward has started 14 of 15 games for Charlotte which is a positive sign considering he hasn’t played more than 52 games for the team since 2020.

As the best player to wear No. 20, Hayward edged out his John Collins, Jusuf Nurkic, and Dario Saric who all had compelling cases for this spot on our list.

Honorable Mentions: Jusuf Nurkic, Dario Saric, John Collins

No. 21 – Joel Embiid

When it comes to the No. 21, there isn’t much competition for the reigning MVP Joel Embiid. Although there are 14 other players who don the number in 2023-24, none of them come close to Embiid’s status as a player in recent history or this season.

Right now, Embiid is one pace for his third straight scoring title with 32.0 points per game to lead the NBA along with 11.3 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.9 blocks per game. Embiid is also shooting 49.8% from the field and attempting 11.8 free throws per game, converting 87.8% of those attempts.

Embiid’s MVP-caliber play once again has the Sixers near the top of the Eastern Conference at 12-5 through 17 games. If Embiid were to finish the season this way, it would be his third straight season with at least 30.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, 1.0 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game.

Honorable Mentions: Moritz Wagner, Daniel Gafford

No. 22 – Jimmy Butler

The No. 22 presents an interesting debate with the emergence of Franz Wagner as a potential All-Star this season. Despite this development, this jersey number is still Jimmy Butler’s to lose in the early going of the 2023-24 season.

Butler has the Heat off to a decent start at 10-7 on the season firmly in the throes of the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Butler is averaging 20.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game on 46.2% shooting from the field. Coming off a spectacular showing in the NBA playoffs to lead the Heat to the Finals, Butler has not done enough to lose his spot as the best player wearing No. 22 in the NBA today.

Honorable Mentions: Franz Wagner, Desmond Bane

No. 23 – LeBron James

As one of the most iconic numbers in NBA history, it is only right that the No. 23 still belongs to LeBron James. Made forever an iconic number by the GOAT, Michael Jordan, James decided to claim the number once again, switching from No. 6 to let the NBA honor the late Bill Russell last season.

Even at age 38 in his 21st season in 2023-24, James is still among the top 10 players in the NBA today. Through 17 games played this season, James has kept the Lakers afloat at 10-8 with 25.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game on 56.3% shooting. James continues to defy what we know about the human body as it pertains to a long and illustrious basketball career much to the delight of Lakers fans everywhere with high expectations for 2023-24.

Honorable Mentions: Lauri Markkanen, Draymond Green

No. 24 – Cam Thomas

Even in being limited to eight games in 2023-24 due to injury, Cam Thomas of the Brooklyn Nets is our choice for the best player to wear the No. 24 this season. Thomas started the season on a tear for the Nets and left the team no choice in inserting him into the starting lineup.

Prior to his ankle injury, Thomas was averaging 26.9 points per game for the Brooklyn Nets. He was also shooting a career-high 47.9% from the field even with a low 32.1% shooting percentage from three as well. Thomas is set to return to action over the next week or two with the Nets currently at 8-8 and in the final play-in tournament spot as the 10th seed in the East.

Thomas’ return will be a welcomed sight for a struggling Nets offense whether that be back in a starting role or a return to a bench role to slowly reintroduce him into the lineup.

Honorable Mentions: Devin Vassell, Norm Powell

No. 25 – P.J. Washington

Even with 15 players wearing the No. 25 for the 2023-24 season, the players to choose from as the best are on the lower end of the talent spectrum in the NBA. Keeping that in mind, the best player to wear No. 25 this season has to be P.J. Washington of the Charlotte Hornets. Coming off a breakout season in 2022-23, Washington has carried some of that momentum over to this year.

Washington has been the Hornets starter at power forward for most of the season, appearing in 14 of 15 games for the 5-10 Hornets. He is currently averaging 14.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for the struggling Hornets franchise, and shooting 44.7% from the field. The 25-year-old Washington is a former 12th overall pick of the team in 2019 and is still seeking his first taste of playoff basketball.

Honorable Mentions: Jalen Smith, Chris Boucher

No. 26 – Spencer Dinwiddie

The No. 26 has just four players representing it for the 2023-24 season with just one of those players being a starter for their respective team. Spencer Dinwiddie of the Brooklyn Nets is the only player wearing No. 26 receiving significant playing time in 2023-24. Dinwiddie has made 15 starts so far this season for the Nets at point guard.

In 15 starts this season, Spencer Dinwiddie is averaging 14.1 points and 6.3 assists per game for the 8-8 Nets. He is shooting just 41.4% overall but makes up for it with a decent 36.8% shooting rate from three. Dinwiddie is in his 10th NBA season in 2023-24, his first full season back with the Nets after two and a half seasons apart from 2021 to last year’s trade deadline.

Honorable Mentions: Dominick Barlow

No. 27 – Jamal Murray

Whether injured or not, Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets will get his roses as our selection for the best player to wear No. 27 this season. While Rudy Gobert is currently the leader of the NBA’s No. 1 defense in Minnesota, Murray is dearly missed by the Nuggets who have slipped to fourth in the West in his absence since November 4.

Before the injury, Murray was averaging 16.3 points and 7.4 assists on 43.3% shooting in seven games played. Despite his absence, it is hard to forget what he did just a few short months ago in leading Denver to their first NBA championship in franchise history. While Gobert has been brilliant, Murray still gets the vote for the best player to wear No. 27 this season until the Nuggets can be officially dethroned.

Honorable Mention: Rudy Gobert

No. 28 – Alperen Sengun

One of the few early-season frontrunners for the NBA’s Most Improved Player award has to be Alperen Sengun of the Houston Rockets. Sengun has already laid claim to the best No. 28 in the NBA in 2023-24 at the age of 21 with his sights set on bigger and better things down the road.

Sengun has been at the forefront of the surprising start for the Houston Rockets this season. Earning the nickname “Baby Jokic”, Sengun has come out of the gates averaging 20.2 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game through 14 games in 2023-24. Not only has he improved individually, but the Rockets are currently 8-6 and eight in the West so far, a surprising turnaround from the basement of the conference just a year ago.

Sengun is beginning to establish himself as Houston’s best player while already taking the title of the best No. 28 in the NBA.

Honorable Mentions: Rui Hachimura, Isaiah Stewart

No. 29 – Vasilije Micic

As it stands right now in 2023-24, Vasilije Micic of the Oklahoma City Thunder is the only player wearing the No. 29. Micic has appeared in eight games for the Thunder in a role off the bench, seeing 12.3 minutes of action in those appearances. Micic has averaged 3.4 points and 2.8 assists per game in those eight appearances and has shot only 37.5% from the field.

Honorable Mention: N/A

No. 30 – Stephen Curry

One look at Stephen Curry in 2023-24 and you would think he is back in his prime MVP form from nine years ago. Despite being 35 years old, Curry is still among the best point guards in the NBA while shooting at a volume and efficiency reminiscent of his days as a unanimous MVP in 2016.

With Curry putting up these kinds of numbers, his being the best player to wear No. 30 is a given every year at this point. Through 15 games this season for the Warriors, Curry is averaging 29.7 points and 3.9 assists on 48/44/94 shooting splits heading toward yet another 50/40/90 season if he keeps it up.

The Warriors are going to need every bit that Curry can provide them and more as they are 8-9 through 17 games and tied for 10th in the Western Conference. While Curry could be in MVP form, the Warriors’ dynasty could be over but I have said and heard that before and been completely wrong.

Honorable Mentions: Julius Randle, Seth Curry

No. 31 – Jarrett Allen

The No. 31 is another jersey number with just four players wearing it in 2023-24. Of those four players, Jarrett Allen is the only former All-Star for the Cleveland Cavaliers and is our selection for the best player for No. 31.

Allen is in his third full season with the Cavaliers ever since being dealt there in 2020-21 by the Nets. Coming off a down season in 2022-23, Allen has had a slow start to the 2023-24 season through 17 games for the 9-8 Cavaliers. In 14 games played so far this season, Allen is averaging 13.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game for the Cavaliers, shooting 66.7% from the field.

Allen’s defense has proven to be a more valuable asset to the Cavaliers, paired with All-Defensive power forward Evan Mobley in the frontcourt. Allen and the Cavaliers have yet to win a playoff series in his tenure with the team so far and they would love to change that in 2023-24.

Honorable Mentions: Thomas Bryant, Joe Harris

No. 32 – Karl-Anthony Towns

Just eight players are wearing the No. 32 in 2023-24 and only one is going to be competing for an All-Star roster spot. After a disappointing and injury-filled 2022-23 season, Karl-Anthony Towns has bounced back to start the 2023-24 campaign as the starting center for the first-place Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference this year.

After missing 53 games in 2022-23, Towns has played 14 of 16 games for the Timberwolves this season. He is currently averaging 21.8 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 50.6% from the field. Towns has also increased his three-point shooting this season, going for 40.0% on 5.0 attempts from that range.

Towns is in his ninth season in the NBA and with the Timberwolves this season. This group in front of him may be the most talented one yet, and the group with the most potential when it comes to being a playoff contender.

Honorable Mentions: Jeff Green, Dean Wade

No. 33 – Kyle Kuzma

When it comes to the No. 33, there are a few mid-level players who can take the crown as the best to wear it. For this number, we have decided to go with Kyle Kuzma of the struggling Washington Wizards as our selection, a controversial yet warranted selection for No. 33.

Kuzma and the Wizards have gotten off to an abysmal start, going 2-14 through 16 games to start the year. Kuzma has started all 16 of those games, playing for over 30.0 minutes per game and averaging 22.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. Despite Kuzma’s production, the Wizards have the worst defensively rated team in the NBA with a 121.0 rating giving up 125.1 points per game to their opponents which has led to their disastrous start.

Honorable Mentions: Nic Claxton, Myles Turner

No. 34 – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Although we have had some easy selections on this list so far, they do not get as easy as it is to come up with Giannis Antetokounmpo as the best player wearing No. 34 this season. Giannis is one of four players to wear 34 this season, a number made famous in the past by such legends as Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Hakeem Olajuwon.

Now, it is Giannis’ turn to be the dominant big man wearing No. 34 just as he has been for the last decade-plus. In 2023-24, the Milwaukee Bucks are still trying to adjust to life with Damian Lillard also in the lineup but behind their leader, have started the season 12-5 and are third in the East.

Through 16 games played, Antetokounmpo is averaging 29.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game for the Bucks. His play on both sides of the court has kept the bucks in most contests every night. While the pressure was said to be coming off Giannis with Lillard in the lineup this season, he has needed to remain his dominant self to keep Milwaukee as a top-three team in the East for the time being.

Honorable Mentions: Wendell Carter Jr., Jabari Walker

No. 35 – Kevin Durant

Of the seven players to wear No. 35 in the 2023-24 season, none of them come close to the Caliber of player Kevin Durant even in his 17th season at 35 years old. Durant has been a constant for the Phoenix Suns this season as injuries to both Bradley Beal and Devin Booker have held them back over their first 17 games.

Led by Durant, the Suns have gone 11-6 to start the season and despite injuries, sit in the third spot in the Western Conference at this moment. Durant is having an MVP-like season with 31.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game on 53/52/89 shooting splits. He currently leads the NBA with a 52.2% three-point shooting percentage while attempting 4.5 threes per game and remaining one of the greatest mid-range shooters ever.

Honorable Mentions: Robert Williams III, Christian Wood

No. 36 – Marcus Smart

Following Durant, we have a few jersey numbers in a row that are worn by just one player in 2023-24. The first of these jersey numbers with one occupant is the No. 36 worn by Marcus Smart and only Marcus Smart of the Memphis Grizzlies. Currently nursing an ankle injury, Smart is expected to miss 3-5 weeks of play for the underwhelming 3-13 Memphis squad.

Before the injury, Smart started and played in 11 games for the Grizzlies, averaging 12.5 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. He was shooting 42.5% overall and was among the worst three-point shooting guards this month at 29.5% on 5.5 attempts per game. Smart was acquired by Memphis this offseason in the three-team deal that sent Kristaps Porzingis to the Celtics.

Honorable Mentions: N/A

No. 37 – Matt Ryan

Matt Ryan of the New Orleans Pelicans is the only player in the NBA in 2023-24 to wear the No. 37 on his jersey. After appearing in 34 games for the Lakers and Timberwolves in 2022-23, Ryan signed with the Pelicans this offseason on a one-year deal.

Ryan has seen decent minutes and produced fairly well for the Pelicans this season. He has appeared in 13 of the Pelicans’ 18 games this season, averaging 9.3 points and 2.3 rebounds per game while shooting 45.8% overall and 47.1% from three on over 5.0 attempts. He is seeing a significant increase in his time on the court, going from less than 11.0 minutes per game last season to over 22.0 minutes per game with New Orleans in 2023-24.

Honorable Mentions: N/A

No. 38 – Saben Lee

Fourth-year point guard Saben Lee of the Phoenix Suns is the lone representative of the No. 38 this season in the NBA as well. Lee has been stuck at the far end of the Suns’ rotation this season, especially with the heavy presence of guards they have on their roster for 2023-24.

Lee has appeared in just three games in 2023-24 for the Suns for a total of 10 minutes of playing time. In those 10 minutes, he has logged a total of 6 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1 block. After being acquired by the Suns last season from Philadelphia, Lee appeared in 23 games down the stretch, averaging 6.3 points per game on 39.3% shooting.

Honorable Mentions: N/A

No. 40 – Ivica Zubac

With just five players wearing No. 40 for the 2023-24 season, the debate at this number comes down to the selection of Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers. Over the last several seasons, I have been on record stating that Zubac is one of the most underrated players in the entire NBA. While that may be far from true right now, he is still the best to wear No. 40 in the NBA this season.

With the Clippers in 2023-24, Zubac has started 16 games and is averaging 11.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. The Clippers have gotten off to a slow 7-9 start to their season in those 16 games and currently sit outside of the Western Conference playoff picture as a result. The team will need Zubac to not only remain healthy but push through and establish dominance against some of the top dogs in the Western Conference to help his team get back on track.

Honorable Mention: Harrison Barnes

No. 41 – Saddiq Bey

With only three players wearing the No. 41 for the 2023-24 season, Saddiq Bey of the Atlanta Hawks gets the selection for his work so far. Bey is in his first full season with the Hawks after being traded there from Detroit at last year’s deadline.

In 16 games played and four starts for the Hawks this season, Bey is currently averaging 11.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game in 28.3 minutes of play. While his 49.0% shooting from the field has been a nice addition to the Hawks’ inefficient lineup, it has been his defense that has been coveted the most by Atlanta. Currently, the Hawks are 8-8 through 16 games and in ninth place in the Eastern Conference.

Honorable Mentions: Trey Lyles, Kelly Olynyk

No. 42 – Al Horford

A host of NBA veterans don the No. 42 for the 2023-24 season including Kevin Love, Maxi Kleber, and Robin Lopez. Even though each of those veterans has been okay to start the 2023-24 season, Al Horford of the Boston Celtics is the easy choice as the best player wearing 42 in today’s game.

In a role he isn’t used to too often in his NBA career, Horford finds himself coming off the bench for Boston in 2023-24. The 37-year-old forward has clearly lost a step in his older age but is still an impactful defender against some of the premier big men in the NBA. Through 15 games this season, Horford is averaging 6.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game on 43.0% shooting from the floor. The Celtics are currently in first place in the East at 13-4.

Honorable Mentions: Kevin Love, Maxi Kleber, Robin Lopez

No. 43 – Pascal Siakam

Only two players in the NBA this season are wearing the No. 43 with zero competition for Pascal Siakam to be named the best. With two All-NBA Team selections in the last four seasons with the Toronto Raptors, Siakam clearly takes the title as the best to wear 43 over Thansis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks.

Siakam and the Raptors have had a slow start to their 2023-24 season, navigating the waters with a new coach and new roster in many ways. Siakam has been the leader for Toronto with 20.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game while playing over 34.0 minutes for the third season in a row.

Despite his slow start, Siakam has improved his shooting from a year ago, shooting 49.3% overall from the field. However, he is one of the worst three-point shooters in the NBA this month, shooting just 22.1% from three on 4.0 attempts.

Honorable Mention: Thanasis Antetokounmpo

No. 44 – Patrick Williams

In NBA history, the No. 44 has been synonymous with greats such as Jerry West and Pistol Pete Maravich. In 2023-24, only four players are wearing the number with Patrick Williams of the Chicago Bulls claiming the spot as the best to wear it this season.

Williams is leading the NBA with 18 games played so far this season with eight starts also under his belt. While seeing 23.6 minutes per game, Williams is averaging 7.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game on 37.6% shooting. Williams is in his fourth full season with the Bulls after he was made their fourth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Honorable Mentions: Paul Reed, Mason Plumlee, Andre Jackson Jr.

No. 45 – Donovan Mitchell

Even if there were more than four players wearing No. 45 for the 2023-24 season, there aren’t many who would be better than Donovan Mitchell. The electric shooting guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers is a perennial All-Star who is a three-level scoring threat and the No. 1 option for a Cavaliers team with high hopes as the year progresses.

Micthell has appeared in 12 of the Cavaliers’ 17 games this season as the team sits at 9-8 and in eighth in the Eastern Conference. In those 12 games, he is averaging a team-leading 27.0 points per game while also adding 4.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists. Mitchell is currently shooting 45.0% from the field as well and is in the third year of a five-year deal signed with Utah in 2020 worth $68.5 million through 2024-25.

Honorable Mentions: Jericho Sims, Dalano Banton

No. 46 – John Konchar

The No. 46 is yet another number being worn by just one player this season. That player is fifth-year guard/forward John Konchar of the Memphis Grizzlies. After consecutive seasons playing 72 games for the Grizzlies, Konchar has seen a significant dip in action in 2023-24 amid a disastrous start by the team at 3-13.

In 13 appearances with two starts, Konchar is averaging just 3.0 points and 4.2 rebounds per game shooting 34.9% from the field overall and 32.0% from three. Konchar’s role within the organization could be coming to an end in 2023-24 as they desperately will be seeking to improve their standing before it is too late and the season is lost.

Honorable Mentions: N/A

No. 50 – Aaron Gordon

The No. 50 will be worn by four players during the 2023-24 season with only two seriously vying for the title of its best player. Cole Anthony is currently in early Sixth Man of the Year talks for the surprising Orlando Magic. That being said, Aaron Gordon is playing superbly on both sides of the ball while also coming off a championship with the Nuggets in 2022-23.

Aaron Gordon gets the selection by a slim margin thanks to his defensive impact for the fourth-place Nuggets this season. In 16 games played, Gordon is currently averaging 13.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 48.6% from the field. Currently, Gordon is nursing a heel injury that will need to be monitored but it has not stopped him from being crowned the best No. 50 in the NBA for the 2023-24 season.

Honorable Mention: Cole Anthony

No. 51 – Boban Marjanovic

Between the two players wearing No. 51 for the 2023-24 season, you could flip a coin to come up with the best one. Boban Marjanovic is our choice despite playing in just three games this year and averaging 3.3 points and 2.7 rebounds per game. As one of the tallest and heaviest players in the NBA this season, it is hard to miss when he gets on the court.

The only other option would have been Ryan Arcidiacono of the New York Knicks who has made five appearances this season for just 2.2 minutes per game. He has yet to record a single point in those five appearances and will be stuck toward the end of the Knicks bench for the foreseeable future.

Honorable Mention: Ryan Arcidiacono

No. 54 – Sandro Mamukelashvili

The No. 54 is represented by one player in 2023-24 and that player is Sandro Mamukelshvili of the San Antonio Spurs. Although not a member of their regular rotation, Mamukelashvili has appeared in six games so far this season, his third in the NBA and first full one with San Antonio. In those six games, he is averaging just 2.7 points and 2.0 rebounds per game on 41.7% shooting from the field.

Honorable Mention: None

No. 55 – Derrick Jones Jr.

The famous “double nickel” No. 55 jersey will be worn by six players in the 2023-24 season. While players like Isaiah Hartenstein and Duncan Robinson have had good starts to their seasons, Derrick Jones Jr. has made the biggest impact for his team through the first 16 games.

Jones is in his first season with the Dallas Mavericks who are 10-6 on the year. Jones has played in all 16 games thus far, starting all of them at small forward. While being a welcome presence in their system, Jones is averaging 8.3 points and 3.4 rebounds per game while proving to be a useful rim-runner for Luka Doncic in the pick-and-roll. Although his numbers don’t jump off the page, his impact is clear to anyone who has watched Dallas play this year.

Honorable Mentions: Duncan Robinson, Isaiah Hartenstein

No. 72 – Rayan Rupert

Rayan Rupert is a 19-year-old shooting guard from France who is in the midst of his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers. He is the only player this year to wear the No. 72 as well, even if he is not seeing a ton of action on the court. In Portland’s 16 games, Rupert has appeared in just seven so far, averaging 0.7 points and 0.3 assists per game during that time.

Honorable Mentions: N/A

No. 77 – Luka Doncic

Even with three players wearing the No. 77 in 2023-24, the other two do not come close to topping the play of superstar MVP candidate Luka Doncic. Heading into his sixth season in the NBA, Doncic is off to a great start this year, leading the Mavericks to a 10-6 record through 16 games.

In those 16 starts, Doncic has been incredible with 30.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game shooting a career-high 39.4% from three and 48.7% overall. Doncic seems to be on a mission in 2023-24 after failing to lead Dallas to the playoffs in 2022-23. If he continues to play at this level and Dallas continues to win games, look for Doncic to be in the thick of the MVP race for the entirety of 2023-24.

Honorable Mentions: Omer Yurtseven, Lamar Stevens

No. 88 – Danilo Gallinari

Believe it or not, the No. 88 will be worn by three players in 2023-24 with Danil Gallinari being our choice for the best one. Gallinari is in his first season with the Washington Wizards in a minimized role off the bench. Gallinari is currently seeing 15.0 minutes of action after missing the entire 2022-23 season with a knee injury.

In 15 appearances off the bench, Gallinari is averaging 8.2 points and 3.1 rebounds per game on 46.3% shooting for the struggling Wizards who sit at 3-14 on the year. Gallinari is likely to be a trade candidate as the Wizards’ season continues to sink further and further toward an upper lottery pick in next year’s draft.

Honorable Mentions: Markieff Morris, Neemias Queta

No. 97 – Eugene Omoruyi

Only two numbers in the 90s will be used in 2023-24 with the first being the number 97. Eugene Omoruyi of the Washington Wizards is the only player to wear 97 in 2023-24. Omoruyi has appeared in 10 of 16 games for the Wizards in a limited role off the bench playing only 6.5 minutes per game. In that limited time on the court, Omoruyi has averaged 5.3 points and 2.0 rebounds per game on 64.5% shooting from the field.

Honorable Mentions: N/A

No. 99 – Jae Crowder

The final number in use for the 2023-24 NBA season is the number 99. Wearing it since the 2014-15 season with the Boston Celtics, Jae Crowder is once again the lone representative of 99 in 2023-24. Crowder is currently in his 12th season in the NBA and his second with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Crowder will be sidelined for eight weeks with an adductor tear and abdominal tear that was last updated on November 13. Before the injury, Crowder had appeared in nine games for the Bucks, mostly off the bench, averaging 8.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per game. The loss will not cripple Milwaukee but they will miss a productive part of their bench as Crowder was shooting 53.2% from the field overall and 51.6% from three.