RADIO
10. Dyson Daniels, Atlanta Hawks
Dyson Daniels has quickly emerged as one of the key pieces for the Atlanta Hawks, contributing heavily on the defensive end. He leads the league in steals, averaging 3.0 per game, with 74 total steals so far this season—24 more than the next closest player. While he’s not a big scorer, averaging 13.4 points per game, his rebounding and defensive contributions are invaluable.
At just 21 years old, Daniels continues to develop his game, especially his shooting, which currently sits at 30.2% from three—a key area he will need to improve moving forward. His all-around play has helped the Hawks win 7 of their last 10 games, with Daniels playing a crucial role in their recent success.
9. Norman Powell, Los Angeles Clippers
Norman Powell has been one of the biggest surprises for the Los Angeles Clippers this season. With Kawhi Leonard sidelined, not many expected the Clippers to make noise, but Powell has helped keep them afloat with his stellar play. He’s stepped up as the team’s leading scorer, averaging 23.2 points per game, and has shown he’s more than capable of handling a bigger role.
Beyond his scoring, Powell also chips in with 3.0 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game. While he doesn’t always get the spotlight, his contributions have been key to the Clippers’ success, and his ability to impact games in different ways has made him a vital part of the lineup.
8. Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls
Zach LaVine remains the go-to scorer for the Chicago Bulls as they fight for a spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Known for his athleticism and scoring ability, the 29-year-old has stepped up with great efficiency. This season, LaVine has been remarkably accurate, shooting 50.1% from the field and 42.8% from beyond the arc.
With averages of 21.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, he’s been an all-around contributor. Despite trade rumors surrounding his future in Chicago, LaVine has stayed focused and continues to prove why he’s one of the league’s top shooting guards.
RJ Barrett has been one of the few bright spots for the Toronto Raptors this season, despite the team’s struggles in the Eastern Conference. The 24-year-old is having a well-rounded season, posting career highs in scoring, assists, and rebounding. While Toronto has faced injury issues and inconsistent play, Barrett has shown that he could be a key piece for the franchise.
His shooting could still improve, especially his 34.6% from three and 71.4% from the free-throw line. However, Barrett’s talent and athleticism make him a constant threat on the floor. With averages of 23.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, he continues to be a difference maker on the court.
6. Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns
Devin Booker remains one of the top scoring guards in the NBA, consistently putting pressure on defenses and excelling at getting to the free-throw line. While his shooting has dipped slightly this season (43.7% FG), Booker continues to log heavy minutes, averaging 37.0 per game.
After a hot start to the year, Phoenix has cooled off, and Booker will need to keep playing at a high level while also getting back to being more efficient. Averaging 25.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists, he’ll be key in helping the Suns stay competitive in the tough Western Conference and push for a playoff spot.
5. Tyler Herro, Miami Heat
Tyler Herro has evolved into a versatile player for the Miami Heat, often filling the point guard role despite being primarily a shooting guard. While Miami doesn’t have a traditional point guard, Herro’s ability to score and create plays has made him invaluable. At 24 years old, he has stepped up as the team’s leading scorer.
Averaging 24.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, Herro has been incredibly efficient this season. He’s shooting 48.4% from the field, 42.7% from three, and 90.0% from the free-throw line. His scoring and playmaking have been key in keeping the Heat competitive in the Eastern Conference.
4. Josh Hart, New York Knicks
Josh Hart may not be a flashy scorer, but he’s a crucial piece of the puzzle for the New York Knicks. Known for his defense, hustle, and elite rebounding, Hart brings value in ways that often don’t show up on the stat sheet. His role has been a big factor in the Knicks’ success this season, and if they want to contend for a title, he’ll play a key part.
Hart is incredibly efficient, shooting 59.4% from the field and 40.4% from three, along with a career-high 82.1% from the free-throw line. With averages of 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, he’s been a consistent contributor across the board.
3. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards has proven to be one of the NBA’s most exciting and talented scorers. He’s known for his explosive play on both ends of the floor, and he helped lead the Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals last season. This year, things have been a bit tougher for Minnesota. They are hanging just outside the top six in the West, but Edwards has the potential to step up and help the team push for another deep playoff run.
So far this season, Edwards is averaging 26.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. He’s also posting a career-best 42.4% from three, showcasing his growing efficiency as a player.
2. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers have jumped out to the league’s best record, and Donovan Mitchell deserves a ton of credit for their success. The All-Star guard has been a driving force, bringing his scoring and defensive energy every night. His leadership has helped Cleveland stay consistent, proving they’re a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference.
Mitchell is averaging 23.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game this season, as he impacts the game on both ends of the floor. With the Cavaliers making serious noise, Mitchell’s play will be key to keeping them on top.
1. Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
Jaylen Brown has proven himself to be one of the NBA’s best two-way players and a vital piece for the defending champion Boston Celtics. His ability to make an impact on both offense and defense played a huge role in Boston’s title run last season. Whether he’s attacking the basket, drawing fouls, or locking down opponents, Brown’s presence is felt in every game.
This year, Brown is putting up 23.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. His blend of athleticism and skill continues to keep Boston at the top of the league, as he remains one of the most versatile guards in the game.
