Determining the best current NBA player isn't just about scoring titles or highlight reels—it's a blend of statistical dominance, team impact, longevity, and influence on the game. While opinions vary across fans, analysts, and players, certain names consistently rise to the top in 2024: Nikola Jokić, Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and rising stars like Joel Embiid and Luka Dončić. Each brings a unique combination of skill, leadership, and legacy to the conversation.
This article breaks down the leading candidates, analyzes performance metrics, explores expert perspectives, and explains why the answer may depend on how you define \"best.\"
Nikola Jokić: The Unconventional Maestro
As the two-time MVP and reigning champion with the Denver Nuggets, Nikola Jokić has redefined what it means to be a dominant center in the modern NBA. Unlike traditional big men, Jokić operates as a point-center—leading the league in assists among centers and posting near triple-double averages over multiple seasons.
In the 2023–2024 season, Jokić averaged 26.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game, shooting over 58% from the field. His basketball IQ, passing vision, and footwork rival some of the greatest guards in history—despite standing 6'11\".
“Jokić sees the floor like a quarterback reads a defense. He’s not just scoring; he’s orchestrating.” — Brian Windhorst, ESPN Senior NBA Insider
LeBron James: Ageless Excellence
At 39 years old, LeBron James continues to perform at an All-NBA level, defying age and expectations. In 2023–2024, he averaged 25.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.1 assists while playing all 82 regular-season games—the first time since 2011. His durability, court vision, and late-game execution remain elite.
What sets LeBron apart is his sustained excellence over two decades. With four championships, four MVPs, and 20 All-Star selections, he holds the all-time lead in total points, playoff points, and career wins among active players.
While his defensive intensity has waned, his leadership and clutch performance keep him in the conversation for best player—even if he no longer leads in raw stats.
Why LeBron Still Belongs at the Top
- Longevity: 21 seasons of high-level production.
- Adaptability: Transitioned from explosive slasher to efficient playmaker.
- Impact: Lakers’ offense ranks top-10 when he plays, bottom-10 when injured.
Stephen Curry: The Game-Changer
Stephen Curry revolutionized basketball with his long-range shooting and off-ball movement. Even at age 36, he remains the most feared shooter in NBA history. During the 2023–2024 season, Curry led the league in three-pointers made (448) and posted a career-high true shooting percentage of 65.3%.
Though the Warriors missed the playoffs, Curry’s individual brilliance kept them competitive. His ability to create space, draw defensive attention, and elevate teammates makes him invaluable.
“Curry doesn’t just shoot well—he changes how teams defend entire games.” — Mark Jackson, former Warriors head coach
Key Strengths of Curry’s Current Game
- Unmatched off-ball movement and screen navigation.
- High-efficiency scoring despite increased defensive focus.
- Mentorship role for younger players like Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis.
Emerging Contenders: Dončić, Embiid, and Tatum
While legends dominate headlines, a new generation is pushing for recognition. Three names stand out:
| Player | Team | 2023–2024 PPG | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luka Dončić | Dallas Mavericks | 33.9 | First player since Jordan with 33+ PPG, 9+ APG in a season |
| Joel Embiid | Philadelphia 76ers | 34.6 | 2023 MVP; highest scoring average in 50 years |
| Jayson Tatum | Boston Celtics | 27.1 | Finals MVP runner-up; elite two-way performer |
Luka Dončić, in particular, has become a nightly triple-double threat, combining scoring explosiveness with elite decision-making. Embiid’s dominance in the paint and mid-range game earned him the 2023 MVP, though injuries have limited his postseason availability. Tatum blends offensive versatility with improved defense, anchoring the East’s top team.
Expert Insight: How Analysts Define “Best”
The criteria for “best player” vary significantly depending on context. Some prioritize current season stats, others value championship success or overall impact.
“The best player isn’t always the one with the most points. It’s who elevates their team the most, especially in pressure moments.” — Doris Burke, NBA Analyst and Hall of Fame Broadcaster
Burke’s perspective highlights a shift in evaluation—from box score stats to advanced analytics like:
- Win Shares: Jokić led the league in 2023–2024.
- Player Impact Estimate (PIE): Measures overall statistical contribution.
- On/Off Court Rating: How much better is the team when a player is on the floor?
By these metrics, Jokić often ranks #1, even when others score more.
Fan Polls vs. Reality: What the Data Says
Sports polls reveal interesting divides. In the 2024 NBA All-Star voting, LeBron James received the most votes, followed by Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Yet, in media MVP predictions, Jokić was the overwhelming favorite.
This disconnect shows that popularity and performance don’t always align. Fans celebrate legacy and charisma, while voters and analysts lean into efficiency and team success.
Mini Case Study: Jokić’s 2023 Championship Run
In the 2023 NBA Finals, the Denver Nuggets defeated the Miami Heat in five games. Jokić averaged 30.2 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 7.2 assists, shooting 58% from the field. In Game 5, he recorded a 28-point, 16-rebound, 10-assist triple-double to close the series.
What made this run exceptional wasn’t just the numbers—it was his control of pace, composure under pressure, and ability to neutralize Miami’s defensive schemes. Despite being double-teamed regularly, he maintained a 6.0 assist-to-turnover ratio throughout the Finals.
This performance cemented his status not just as the best player on a title team, but as the most impactful force in today’s NBA.
Checklist: How to Evaluate the Best Current NBA Player
Use this checklist to form your own informed opinion:
- ✅ Assess current season averages (PPG, RPG, APG, FG%)
- ✅ Review advanced stats (PER, Win Shares, On/Off rating)
- ✅ Consider team record and playoff success
- ✅ Evaluate durability and consistency
- ✅ Weigh leadership and intangible impact
- ✅ Compare against historical standards at their position
- ✅ Factor in age and sustainability of performance
FAQ
Is LeBron still the best player in the NBA?
While LeBron remains elite, most analysts rank him behind Jokić, Embiid, and Dončić in current impact. However, his combination of scoring, playmaking, and experience keeps him in the top tier.
Why does Jokić get less media attention than others?
Jokić plays for a smaller-market team (Denver), has a reserved personality, and doesn’t rely on athleticism—traits that generate fewer viral highlights. Despite this, coaches and peers consistently rate him as the toughest matchup in the league.
Can Steph Curry still be considered among the best?
Absolutely. Though the Warriors aren’t title favorites, Curry’s offensive gravity reshapes defenses nightly. His ability to maintain elite efficiency at his age is unprecedented for a guard.
Conclusion: Defining the Best Is Personal—But Data Helps
There’s no single answer to who the best current NBA player is—but the evidence increasingly points to Nikola Jokić. His combination of scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and team success—with minimal reliance on athleticism—makes him the most complete player in the league today.
Yet, greatness comes in many forms. LeBron’s endurance, Curry’s innovation, and Dončić’s audacity each represent different facets of basketball excellence. The beauty of the current era is that fans don’t have to choose just one legend—they get to witness multiple all-time greats simultaneously.
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