Over the last fifty years we have seen many greats grace the NBA. Larry Bird, Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jaabar, Hakeem Olajuwon and of course Michael Jordan have all been touted as GOATS at one time or another and there are a string of current players who want to muscle in on that debate.

In this article, our NBA expert Kate Richardson will take a look at the greatest players who are currently plying their trade in the NBA today. All will want to be remembered alongside those who have been considered as the best players of all time.

1. LeBron James

‘There is a lot of pressure put on me, but I don’t put a lot of pressure on myself. I feel if I play my game, it will take care of itself’. 

When it comes to arguing who is the greatest basketball player of all time, many believe that only LeBron James comes close to matching the legacy of Michael Jordan.

A four time NBA Champion and four time MVP, James is the all-time leader in points and sits in the top five when it comes to assists and overall minutes played.

Now almost 40, he is still one of the best basketball players in the world and on his way to the top he has helped develop the talents of several NBA players such as Kawhi Leonard and Russell Westbrook.

Although James is close to retiring, he will want to end his career on a high note. One of the most popular NBA players of all time, James is a legend in Miami, Cleveland and LA. James’ best days may be behind him, few would bet against him ending his career with another championship.

2. Stephen Curry

Whilst nobody can argue that LeBron James isn’t one of the greatest basketball players of all time, another man deserving of that accolade is current Golden State Warriors star, Stephen Curry.

Like James, Curry has developed into one of the most loved NBA players and is a four time NBA champion and has won two MVP titles.

The one area of the game that Curry will always be remembered for his three point shooting. The all-time three point scorer he has made over 3,700 three point shots. A critical member of one of the best basketball teams of all time, in 2016 Curry alongside Kevin Durant helped lead the Warriors to a 73-9 record and they still boast the best regular season record in the history of the NBA.

Whereas basketball was regarded as a ‘big man’s game’, Curry has reshaped the basketball landscape due to his ability to shoot the three from almost anywhere. The three point has never been as valuable and that is largely due to the skills of Curry.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo

‘It’s my nature to be fearless’ Upon entering the NBA, Giannias Antetokounmpo has certainly led up to his fearless mantra.

Known as the ‘Greek Freak’, ever since Giannis Antetokounmpo made his debut for the Milwaukee Bucks back in 2013 he has taken the NBA by storm. A powerhouse at both ends of the court, he has often been compared to former NBA great Tim Duncan and he has the ability to take over games like very few in the sport.

He was at his best in 2021 when he led the Bucks to their second ever NBA Championship ending a forty year title drought for the franchise.

A two time MVP, Giannis still has miles in the tank and will be hopeful of claiming a second ring for his beloved Bucks when this season comes to an end. Betting sites all over the world have the Bucks as one of the favourites for NBA glory. And will definitely continue to advise betting on it. If you want to find out more about the outright NBA Championship markets, it could be worth taking a look at our detailed guide to the best betting sites in India.

4. Nikola Jokic

In recent years Nikola Jokic has emerged as one of the best players in the NBA. Alongside Luka Doncic, he is regarded as one of the best European players to have played in the NBA since Dirk Nowitzki.

Many believe that Jokic is currently the best basketball player in the world. A force in the paint, Jokic belies his size and is a tremendous shooter and is constantly setting up his teammates with a variety of tremendous passes.

Fact: Jokic rarely has an off night and was the driving force behind the Denver Nuggets winning their first ever NBA Championship last season.

A two time league MVP, Jokic was also voted as the 2023 Finals MVP.

Having helped the Nuggets become one of the greatest sides in the Western conference, there is every chance that Jokic could lead his side back to another championship this year.

5. Jayson Tatum

Heading into the 2023 / 2024 season, the heavy favourites for NBA glory were the Boston Celtics and that was largely due to the presence of Jayson Tatum.

Ever since entering the league back in 2017, Tatum has quickly established himself as one of the world’s top players and has earnt 2 x All-NBA First Team nominations and is a five time NBA All Star.

A brilliant shooter, Tatum can be a physical presence and is a menace at either end of the glass. The one criticism that has been labelled at Tatum is his inability to lead the Celtics to a Championship. Having suffered near misses, he will hope to flip the script this year and lead the heavily fancied Celtics to their first NBA title since 2008.

Although we have revealed five of the best NBA players who are currently playing, the NBA is awash with talent and there are so many other players who could have made our list. Joel Embiid, Luka Doncic, Jaylen Brown and Damian Lillard are all stars and are all genuine MVP contenders.

Despite the Celtics, Bucks and Nuggets being tipped to win this year’s NBA finals, either one of the players we have highlighted has the ability to turn their team into champions.

By Chris Bates