Last week, we released our annual Top 100 NBA player rankings, revealing that seven of the top 10 players, as determined by our panel of 10 analysts, come from the Western Conference. Historically, the Western Conference has been recognized as the more talent-rich half of the league.
However, the disparity in the remainder of the list isn’t as pronounced as one might expect given the alleged West-East imbalance. In reality, 10 of the 21 teams that secured at least four players on the top 100 list are from the East, and after the top 10, the next 50 players are evenly divided (25 from the West and 25 from the East).
the top 100 features 54 players from the West and 46 from the East. This balance feels appropriate. The West, in terms of both individual talent and team performance, remains the stronger conference on the whole. Interestingly, however, a significant amount of top-tier talent has relocated to the East over the last three years.
Specifically, eight of the top 30 players in this year’s top 100 have changed conferences through trades or free agency since 2022, with five of them (Paul George, Damian Lillard, Jalen Brunson, Donovan Mitchell, and Tyrese Haliburton) moving from West to East. In contrast, only Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Domantas Sabonis have transitioned from East to West.
This illustrates that the East should not be underestimated. The Celtics are the reigning champions, and the Knicks have arguably entered the title discussion following their acquisition of Mikal Bridges. The Sixers enhanced their roster by bringing in Paul George as well. The conference is filled with legitimate stars, ranging from Super to All caliber players, as shown in CBS Sports’ 2024-25 ranking of the top 25 Eastern Conference players below.
Due to a shoulder injury incurred in late January, Randle did not participate in the Knicks’ playoff journey. It’s easy to overlook his contributions before his injury, especially given how well the team performed in his absence. In the 2024 calendar year, New York recorded a remarkable 12-2 record in the 14 games he played, including two 39-point outings, four additional games of 30-plus points, and a triple-double. While his absence pushed the Knicks to diversify their offensive strategies, by the season’s end, they realized they missed his scoring and ability to attract double teams. His future role on the evolving team remains uncertain, but he should at least facilitate easier scoring chances for Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Mikal Bridges. — James Herbert
Wagner leveraged a breakout performance at the 2023 FIBA World Cup to propel himself to a career year last season. He averaged his highest stats yet, although his 3-point shooting declined. Alongside Paolo Banchero, he was instrumental in leading the Magic to the playoffs. As a 6-foot-10 forward capable of guarding multiple positions, his finishing ability around the rim makes him a challenging matchup, despite his struggles from beyond the arc last season. He secured a max rookie extension this offseason, which is well-deserved as the Magic consider him a key piece of their future franchise. — Jasmyn Wimbish
Cunningham has advanced significantly since his rookie season, where he posted high averages but faced considerable efficiency issues. After concluding a career year, his accomplishments went largely unrecognized due to playing for a 14-win Pistons team. This is unfortunate, as Cunningham displayed all the attributes of a franchise player. He shot exceptionally well from various distances, including an impressive 35% from 3-point range, marking a vital progression in his development. Furthermore, he ranked ninth among guards in potential assists, demonstrating his ability to make correct passes and reads, even though his teammates often failed to convert. With a new coach, Cunningham has the opportunity to build on last season’s performance and gain the recognition he deserves as one of the league’s most promising young talents. — Jasmyn Wimbish
Evan Mobley plays as a center while appearing to be a power forward. Each year, discussions about his development focus on the necessity of a jump shot, especially since he shares a lineup with Jarrett Allen. However, the recent playoffs demonstrated that a jump shot may not be essential for him. When playing center within a well-spaced offense, Mobley’s abilities shine across the board. He excels as a pick-and-roll player, adept at finishing near the basket and creating shots when facing the hoop.
On the defensive front, Mobley embodies the modern center model, akin to Bam Adebayo, and he doesn’t necessarily need to contest other centers. His seven-foot frame enables him to guard elite wings on the perimeter, making him a significant asset. Once Cleveland releases him from the constraints of playing alongside another center, Mobley’s rankings could soar dramatically. His shooting limitations make it challenging to optimize his game next to another center, but once that center is removed, his overall talents will truly come to light. – Sam Quinn
21. OG Anunoby, New York Knicks
OG Anunoby epitomizes the 3-and-D player archetype. He consistently converts 36-40% of his three-point attempts with a reasonable volume and possesses the ability to defend all five positions on the court. This is the essence of OG Anunoby’s contribution—it’s what he does best. Although there have been discussions in Toronto about enhancing his offensive game, it seems Anunoby has embraced a role in New York primarily as a spot-up shooter who efficiently attacks closeouts. He may not be a consistent 20-point scorer, and his durability raises concerns, but the 3-and-D skill set is invaluable to any team looking to build a contender. Players who excel in these areas hold significant worth, regardless of their additional contributions or limitations. — Sam Quinn
Only five players managed to average at least 19 points, eight rebounds, and six assists last season. Barnes, who made his first All-Star appearance, was among this elite group, joining names like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Domantas Sabonis. With an impressive 1.5 blocks per game, Barnes consistently filled the stat sheet. Add to this his defensive prowess, which combines great mobility, range, and athleticism across all positions, and it’s clear why the Raptors secured him with a five-year, $225 million maximum extension. He is now the franchise’s cornerstone. — Brad Botkin
19. Mikal Bridges, New York Knicks
Bridges has been involved in trades for high-profile players like Kevin Durant and was recently sent to the Knicks in exchange for five first-round picks. This reflects the value associated with acquiring transformative talent. Although some might argue that Bridges isn’t that caliber of player, he is undoubtedly one of the most impactful role players for a championship-contending squad. His high trade value stems from his elite and versatile defense, combined with a three-point shooting ability that approaches automatic. He performs well with or without the ball, can effectively guard the best perimeter players on opposing teams, and will make teams regret leaving him unguarded beyond the arc. – Jasmyn Wimbish
Porzingis has found the ideal environment with the Celtics. Unlike his tenure with the Knicks, he isn’t tasked with carrying a struggling franchise. He is not required to be a flawless second option as he was in Dallas, nor is he stuck accumulating hollow stats on a mediocre team like he was with the Wizards. His absence due to injuries in Boston wouldn’t send shockwaves, but when healthy, he transforms into a formidable asset.
As a rim protector, Porzingis still commands respect; he can score efficiently from beyond the arc and excels as a pick-and-roll partner, taking advantage of mismatches against smaller defenders. Last season, he posted his most efficient scoring year despite having the second-lowest shot attempts per game in his career. Even though he missed a majority of Boston’s playoff games, his contributions when called upon in the Finals were significant. — Sam Quinn
Jasmyn Wimbish
Two years ago, White was absent from this list, but now he ranks at No. 36. His rise can be attributed to the increased visibility gained from playing with the Celtics, yet it is his development into the quintessential role player that has secured this high ranking. Each night, he adapts to fulfill the Celtics’ needs on both sides of the court. His remarkable performance during the championship run even earned him a place on Team USA. To highlight his remarkable versatility, consider this statistic: last season, he became one of only three players—joining Larry Bird and Kevin Durant—to average at least five assists and one block per game while shooting 39% from beyond the arc. — Jack Maloney
Young has established himself as one of the most trustworthy and productive offensive players available. Last season, he dished out a career-best 10.8 assists per game and has earned the title of the league’s top playmaker. Additionally, he has multiple seasons with averages of at least 25 points and 10 assists, a feat matched only by Russell Westbrook. However, what does this achievement amount to? Aside from the unexpected Eastern Conference finals run in 2021, Young has only won three playoff games in total, and the Hawks did not even qualify for the postseason last year. According to ESPN’s “The Hoop Collective,” he remains in Atlanta mainly because other teams showed little interest in trading for him over the summer. — Jack Maloney
Siakam’s introduction significantly contributed to Indiana’s defensive improvement, an outcome that is anything but coincidental. Offensively, he provides the needed secondary scoring alongside Tyrese Haliburton. A force in transition and a master of footwork, Siakam has the ability to create outside the conventional system. I maintain that he possesses more three-point shooting capability than his statistics suggest. During playoff stretches, Siakam exhibited play fitting of a true star, prompting the Pacers to reward him with a max contract. — Brad Botkin
No player has ever been as overqualified for their current role as Jrue Holiday is today. Remember, he was selected for the 2023 All-Star Game as Milwaukee’s primary ball-handler, and then transitioned smoothly to Boston, where he quickly took on the role of a No. 5 option without any noticeable decline in performance. This lighter offensive workload enabled Joe Mazzulla to utilize Holiday in unconventional ways. Need him to guard opposing guards? It’s a task he’s excelled at for a decade. Need him to defend centers? While unconventional, this is Jrue Holiday we are discussing, so it’s entirely possible. And could you perhaps average a career-high in rebounds during your 33rd year? Why not?
When the top team in the NBA acquires one of the most versatile players in the league, they gain the ability to assign him unique tasks for seven months. Then, when the Eastern Conference finals come, and he is needed to dominate the undersized Pacers for 28 points to capture Game 1, he is more than capable of delivering. Jrue Holiday’s ability to excel in any role secures his high ranking on our list. — Sam Quinn
13. Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic
After becoming the first Magic player since Mike Miller in 2001 to win Rookie of the Year, Banchero followed up with a season characterized by significantly improved efficiency. As the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 Draft, he still struggles with consistency from three-point range, but that’s largely irrelevant given his ability to power his way to the basket and capitalize on mid-range opportunities. He secured his first All-Star selection and led Orlando to its first playoff berth in four years. — Jasmyn Wimbish
Viewing Lillard’s first season in Milwaukee through a pessimistic lens: he negatively impacted the Bucks’ defense, faced challenges adjusting to his role as the second option, and experienced a decline in efficiency, which is not unexpected for a 33-year-old point guard. However, a more optimistic perspective reveals that despite the adjustments to a new team, city, role, and two coaches, Lillard maintained numbers comparable to his career averages during the regular season and, during the
During the playoffs, he had a couple of outstanding performances after returning from a groin injury, only to further aggravate an Achilles issue.
I tend to have an optimistic view, especially since Lillard’s last season in Portland was the best of his career, and he’s set to benefit from a more conventional offseason this year. (He mentioned to Doc Rivers that he wasn’t in proper shape for the 2023-24 season because his summer workouts were minimal, as he was concerned about injury while anticipating a trade, according to Rivers.) Even though Lillard turned 35 in July, he was ranked No. 10 on this list just last year. Don’t be surprised if he proves this ranking to be disrespectful. — James Herbert
After James Harden left, Maxey assumed the No. 2 spot in Philadelphia last season, transitioning from an exciting young talent to an All-Star. His performance earned him the Most Improved Player award. It will be intriguing to observe how Maxey’s role might shift with Paul George joining the team. The positive news for the Sixers is that he possesses the skills to adapt to both on- and off-ball situations, making it easy for him to scale his game as needed. In fact, he may prove most effective as an overqualified No. 3 option, considering his exceptional catch-and-shoot percentages (44.4% last season). — Jack Maloney
The player we recognize Adebayo to be is undeniably a top-25 pick. As a full-time starter for five years, he has never missed an All-Defense selection during that duration. A skilled passer, his talents may be more appreciated if it weren’t for the Jokic era. He rebounds when the Heat require it, scores when needed, and with Udonis Haslem now retired, he steps up as a leader for the team.
All of these qualities alone make him a strong candidate for a top-25 selection. However, a significant development last season was Adebayo’s eagerness to expand his shooting range. Although the attempt volume remains low, he took a career-high of 42 three-pointers and 189 mid-range shots last season. This trend continued into the Olympics, where he exhibited a remarkable comfort level from beyond the arc. Should Adebayo introduce any consistent floor-spacing elements to his already impressive skill set, his potential could elevate from top-25 to somewhere between top-15 or even higher. — Sam Quinn
Butler is consistently who he is: an exceptional player who manages his energy during the regular season to showcase superstar performances in the postseason. His statistics reflect excellence, and his overall impact is undeniable. Last season, the Heat outperformed opponents by 1.7 points per 100 possessions, according to Cleaning the Glass; when Butler was on the court, that figure soared to plus eight points per 100. The critical question remains: Are the Heat still strong enough to allow Butler to shift into playoff mode, or is this a team in decline that may consider trading Butler before his next, likely final, significant contract? — Brad Botkin
8. Paul George, Philadelphia 76ers
George finally enjoyed a healthy season last year, reaching the 70-game mark for the first time since 2019. However, once again, the Clippers’ aspirations were hampered by an injury during the playoffs, this time affecting Kawhi Leonard. Five years after returning to Los Angeles, George decided to sign with Philadelphia in free agency. While he is not the player he was at his peak, and concerns about injuries persist, he remains a fantastic two-way wing who should complement Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey exceptionally well. — Jack Maloney
7. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
A consistent top-10 scorer in the league, Mitchell posted career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals last season. He was remarkable when Darius Garland was sidelined, taking full control of the offense as the primary playmaker. He becomes virtually unstoppable when driving downhill as a pull-up shooter, given his strength; however, his pull-up shooting percentages (35% overall and 30% from three) experienced a significant drop last season. — Brad Botkin
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6. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers
When Tyrese Haliburton suffered an injury on January 9, he was putting up impressive numbers—averaging 23.6 points per game along with creating another 32.3 points through assists, which totals to an astounding 55.9 points of offense. This figure would have easily set a new record for the highest combined total in the tracking era. The image many now have of Haliburton is shaped by the limited version we observed during the second half of the season and the playoffs. He has become somewhat of a meme due to his role as the captain of bench vibes during the Olympics.
Nonetheless, it’s important to remember that he was picked for one of the most talented Olympic teams of the 21st century for a reason. Haliburton is a human fast break, a unique stylistic influence that enables the Pacers to compete effectively despite their relatively modest roster, helping them reach the Eastern Conference finals. — Sam Quinn
Almost ten years ago, Brown entered the league facing boos from Celtics fans who were unhappy with his selection as the third overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Today, he has become a franchise icon and is cherished by Boston fans. He solidified his status with a remarkable playoff performance, making critical shots—the game-tying 3-pointer in the dying seconds of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals and the game-clinching jumper in Game 3 of the Finals. He ended up being named both the Eastern Conference finals MVP and the Finals MVP. These days, jokes regarding Brown’s left hand and his $300 million contract have notably faded. — Jack Maloney
4. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
In May, Brunson made history by becoming the fourth player ever in NBA history—and the first since Michael Jordan in 1993—to score 40 points or more in four consecutive playoff games. He accumulated a remarkable total of 16 games with 40 or more points throughout the 2023-24 season, including the postseason; his former teammate Luka Doncic was the only player to exceed 10 such performances. This is quite impressive for a player standing just 6 feet 2 inches tall, but with a wingspan of 6 feet 4 inches, especially considering he went undrafted six years ago and initially struggled to earn a four-year, $55 million contract from the Mavericks heading into his fourth season.
Now regarded as a bona fide superstar, Brunson signed a four-year, $156.5 million extension this summer, which was seen as a significant concession. This deal allows the Knicks to continue constructing a contender around Brunson, alongside three of his former college teammates for the long term. The addition of Mikal Bridges and the return of Julius Randle will hopefully alleviate the pressure on Brunson, who was overly relied upon for scoring last season. During that period, the team’s offensive performance mirrored that of the Celtics with him on the court, but resembled the Blazers when he was off it. The only player whose presence had a larger impact on their team’s offensive effectiveness is the three-time MVP who’s ranked at the top of this list. — James Herbert
Tatum is now an
Despite not always showcasing the best defensive range and movement, he remains an extremely effective rim protector. — Brad Botkin
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Last season felt like déjà vu for the Greek Freak, as he delivered yet another historic performance. He ranked among the top 15 in scoring, rebounding, and assists, joining the ranks of Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson as the only players to average at least 30 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in multiple seasons. However, once again, an injury rendered him a non-factor in the playoffs. While things haven’t unfolded as planned for Antetokounmpo and the Bucks in recent years, he continues to be one of the most formidable forces in the league on both ends of the court. — Jack Maloney
Top 25 players in East by team
- Celtics: 5
- Knicks: 4
- 76ers: 3
- Bucks: 2
- Cavs: 2
- Heat: 2
- Magic: 2
- Pacers: 2
- Hawks: 1
- Pistons: 1
- Raptors: 1
Shifting Powers: Analyzing the Eastern Conference’s Rising Talent in the NBA
The Evolution of the NBA’s Eastern Conference
The NBA’s Eastern Conference has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, shifting the balance of power within the league. With teams investing in young, dynamic talent, the East is no longer dominated by a few powerhouse franchises. Instead, a new generation of players is stepping up, making the conference more competitive and exciting than ever.
The Rising Stars of the Eastern Conference
As we look closer at the Eastern Conference, several rising stars stand out as key players who are reshaping their franchises’ futures. Here’s a breakdown of some of these exceptional talents:
- LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets) – Known for his flashy passing and incredible court vision, Ball has quickly become the face of the Hornets, leading them into a new era.
- Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics) – A versatile scorer and strong defender, Tatum has developed into a cornerstone for the Celtics, consistently elevating his game in crucial moments.
- Trae Young (Atlanta Hawks) – With his deep shooting range and playmaking ability, Young is not just a star; he’s a game-changer for the Hawks.
- Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers) - Haliburton’s intelligence and shooting efficiency make him a rising star to watch in Indiana, providing a bright future for the franchise.
- Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies) – Although currently in the Western Conference, his impact on the game warrants acknowledgment, especially since the Grizzlies have Eastern Conference ties historically.
Key Factors Contributing to the Rise of Eastern Conference Teams
Several factors are contributing to the resurgence of talent in the Eastern Conference:
1. Smart Drafting and Player Development
Teams are increasingly focused on drafting high-potential players and investing in their development. For example:
- The Boston Celtics drafted Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, carefully nurturing their skills.
- The Atlanta Hawks traded up to select Trae Young, recognizing his potential for stardom.
2. Strategic Trades
In addition to smart drafting, strategic trades have played a pivotal role. Teams have been proactive in acquiring players who fit their systems, enhancing overall team performance.
3. Emphasis on Analytics
Modern NBA front offices are increasingly relying on analytics to evaluate player potential and performance, allowing them to make informed decisions that foster growth.
Impact of Rising Talent on Team Dynamics
As new stars emerge, the dynamics of their teams change significantly. Here are some impacts observed:
- Increased Competition: With more teams boasting young talent, the level of competition in the Eastern Conference has intensified.
- Fan Engagement: Rising stars attract fans, resulting in higher attendance and viewership, which directly benefits franchises.
- Franchise Longevity: Building around young talent ensures a stable foundation for future success, allowing franchises to plan long-term.
Case Studies of Successful Teams in the Eastern Conference
Let’s explore a few case studies of teams successfully leveraging their young talent:
Boston Celtics
The Celtics have effectively built a contender around Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Their strong performances in the playoffs have instilled a winning culture within the team. The combination of skilled veterans and rising stars has created a balanced lineup ready for championship contention.
Atlanta Hawks
After acquiring Trae Young, the Hawks made significant strides in team performance. Young’s unique style of play has redefined their offensive strategy, pushing them into the playoffs and raising expectations among fans.
Chicago Bulls
With the emergence of players like Zach LaVine and the addition of DeMar DeRozan, the Bulls have positioned themselves as a playoff contender. Their blend of experienced and youthful talent has reinvigorated the franchise, leading to an exciting brand of basketball.
Benefits of Focusing on Young Talent
Teams that prioritize developing young talent enjoy several benefits:
- Cost-Effective Rosters: Young players often come with lower salaries, allowing teams to allocate resources to other areas.
- Long-Term Success: Building around young talent fosters continuity and sustained success.
- Increased Flexibility: With a roster filled with young players, teams have more flexibility to make trades or adjustments as needed.
Practical Tips for Fans to Engage with Rising Stars
As fans, there are numerous ways to engage with the emerging talents in the Eastern Conference:
- Follow Team Social Media: Stay updated with player highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and interviews.
- Attend Games: Experience the excitement firsthand by attending games to support rising stars.
- Participate in Fantasy Leagues: Engage with the NBA by incorporating rising stars into your fantasy teams.
- Join Online Communities: Connect with fellow fans on platforms like Reddit or Twitter to discuss and celebrate player performances.
Rising Talent by the Numbers
To illustrate the growth and performance of these rising stars, here’s a simple table showcasing their key statistics:
| Player | Team | Points per Game | Assists per Game | Rebounds per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LaMelo Ball | Charlotte Hornets | 20.1 | 7.6 | 6.6 |
| Jayson Tatum | Boston Celtics | 26.4 | 4.3 | 7.4 |
| Trae Young | Atlanta Hawks | 24.3 | 9.4 | 3.9 |
| Tyrese Haliburton | Indiana Pacers | 17.5 | 7.3 | 4.3 |
| Jaren Jackson Jr. | Memphis Grizzlies | 16.3 | 1.2 | 5.8 |
First-Hand Experience: Watching Young Talent in Action
Attending a game featuring rising stars in the Eastern Conference can be an exhilarating experience. Witnessing the energy and skill of players like LaMelo Ball or Trae Young firsthand is something every basketball fan should embrace. The atmosphere in arenas packed with enthusiastic fans adds to the excitement, making each game memorable.
Whether it’s the electric atmosphere or the incredible talent on display, following the Eastern Conference’s rising stars offers fans a thrilling journey filled with potential highlights and unforgettable moments.
The Future of the Eastern Conference
The emerging talent in the Eastern Conference is not just a passing trend; it’s a testament to the strategic planning and investment made by franchises. As these young stars continue to develop, they will shape the landscape of the NBA for years to come, ensuring that the Eastern Conference remains a focal point of excitement and competition within the league.
