NBASep 25
Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander and Wembanyama headline tight ESPN NBA Rank race
Only three voting points separated the leading contenders as ESPN assessed expected regular-season impact for 2026-27.
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Little room at the top
Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama finished separated by just three voting points in ESPN’s latest NBA Rank, underscoring how closely its panel viewed the league’s leading stars. Each received the top spot on at least one panelist’s ballot. The rankings project contributions during the 2026-27 regular season, weighing both performance and availability rather than postseason expectations. ESPN also changed its process, combining individual lists from seven experts instead of using the broader voting pool of more than 100 staff members employed in previous editions.
Breakthroughs earn recognition
Cade Cunningham reached the top 10 after earning first-team All-NBA recognition and helping Detroit record its first 60-win season in 20 years. His next challenge is managing the offensive burden: he averaged 5.6 turnovers during the Pistons’ playoff run, with limited spacing and secondary playmaking complicating his assignment. Donovan Mitchell also moved into the top 10 after Cleveland reached the Eastern Conference finals. His postseason scoring declined from his previous playoff standards, but he remains central to an offense that also features James Harden.
Established stars face new tests
Jayson Tatum’s outlook hinges on his continued recovery from an Achilles tear, with Boston needing him to carry more responsibility after trading Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia. Anthony Edwards enters with LaMelo Ball as a new backcourt partner following a career-best scoring season. Meanwhile, reigning Finals MVP Jalen Brunson faces the challenge of keeping New York on course after leading the Knicks to their first championship in over 50 years.
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