NBASep 25
LeBron falls outside top 10 as NBA rankings weigh the season ahead
The latest rankings place James outside the leading group for the first time, while availability and changing roles shape expectations for established stars.
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A milestone for LeBron
LeBron James is outside NBA Rank’s top 10 for the first time in the countdown’s 15-year history, a notable shift as the league approaches the 2026-27 season. The latest installment covers players ranked 50-11, bringing together veteran stars and emerging talent. The rankings project regular-season contributions, weighing both performance and availability rather than career accomplishments or postseason expectations.
Availability shapes the outlook
Embiid and Davis illustrate how much playing time matters to those projections. Since his MVP season in 2023, Embiid has appeared in 96 of a possible 246 games. His scoring remains a major asset for Philadelphia, but his availability is central to the team’s outlook. Davis enters the season healthy after a hand injury delayed his Washington debut. He has played just 29 games since late-January 2025, and extension discussions were put aside during the summer. His return to the court will help determine his longer-term future with the Wizards.
Opportunity for rising talent
In San Antonio, Dylan Harper is positioned for a larger offensive role after an impressive postseason. His development adds pressure on Fox, whose playoff shooting will need to improve for the Spurs. Charlotte also has a different look after moving LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges. Miller, who led the Hornets with 20.2 points per game last season, and Knueppel now face greater responsibility as the franchise changes direction.
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