Top 10 Players to Watch in the Eastern Conference for 2025-26
The NBA offseason presents an opportunity for players to improve away from the spotlight. The progress made during these quieter months helps athletes transition from being good to great. This is the time for players to refine their skills, work on weaknesses, and prepare to showcase new abilities in the upcoming season.
This list highlights the best players in the Eastern Conference heading into 2025-26, noting that Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics) and Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers) will miss the entire season due to Achilles injuries. As a result, other notable players like Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors), Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), and Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers) were edged out. Here are the ten players to watch:
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis remains a league elite, boasting two MVP awards, an NBA championship, and a Finals MVP. He’s perhaps the best two-way player while still in his prime. Despite his free-throw and three-point shooting struggles, his averages of 30 points and nearly 12 rebounds per game over the last four seasons set him apart.
2. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Brunson has solidified his place as one of the top point guards, making back-to-back All-NBA teams and earning recognition as the Clutch Player of the Year. Rising from a second-round pick to a franchise leader, he combines skillful dribbling and effective mid-range shooting, although passing could improve.
3. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
After making the All-NBA First Team, Mitchell is a transformative player for the Cavaliers. A strong rebounder and defender, his scoring dipped but remains impactful, particularly in clutch moments where he ranked highly for total clutch points.
4. Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic
Banchero, limited to 46 games due to injury, is poised for a breakout season. His offensive versatility shows great promise, averaging 25.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game last season. Improvements as a rim protector would enhance his two-way potential.
5. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
Projected to continue his upward trajectory, Cunningham proved himself as an All-Star and All-NBA player, elevating the Pistons. His seamless gameplay and ability to create opportunities make him a crucial asset as he leads the franchise towards success.
6. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
Ranked sixth, Embiid’s place reflects concerns about his health, as he has struggled to stay on the court but remains an MVP contender when fit. With impressive scoring statistics and defensive prowess, he can dominate when in shape.
7. Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers
As the reigning Kia Defensive Player of the Year, Mobley’s capability to guard multiple positions and his impressive shot contesting make him a rising star for the Cavaliers. His offensive development is ongoing, but he represents a cornerstone for future success.
8. Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
Following a strong 2023-24 season, where he earned Finals MVP, Brown continues to be an exceptional No. 2 option. With Tatum sidelined, he has the chance to showcase more of his skills, maintaining efficiency as a shooter.
9. Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
Towns, a five-time All-Star, is known for being one of the best shooting big men in the NBA. His scoring and rebounding stats demonstrate his reliability, though he occasionally has lapses during games.
10. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
Young is recognized as an elite scorer and passer, leading the league in assists multiple times. Despite a drop in shooting efficiency and defensive challenges, his offensive talent keeps him a constant threat on the court.
