National Basketball Association

NBA Player Power Rankings: An All-Time Season Continues

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 11:51 p.m. ET

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All 30 teams have officially reached or passed the quarter-mark of the 2016-17 NBA regular season. Who is the MVP of the Association thus far?

December 5, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) celebrates after making a three-point basket during the second quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

The 2016-17 NBA regular season is gaining traction and beginning to hold weight. The first full calendar month of the season has been completed and teams have either reached or passed the quarter-mark in terms of games played.

Though most expected the players off to hot starts to come back down to earth by now, a number of players aren’t adhering to those expectations.

The NBA is evolving before our very eyes and the changes are coming suddenly and abruptly. The roles of a position are being redefined in 2016-17 as big men, point guards, and small forwards expand the limitations of their respective spots.

With team success seeming to follow these new-age pioneers, it’s only right that they be honored for the lanes they’re opening.

In the previous NBA Player Power Rankings, the topic was the MVP award and who deserved it after the month of November. The topic remains the same, but the competition has grown even more fierce.

The question is: who are the Top 20 players in the NBA?

December 5, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) celebrates after scoring a three-point basket against the Indiana Pacers during the third quarter at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Pacers 142-106. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Honorable Mention: Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors

Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 26 (2/8/1990)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .476/.387/.887
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.8 MPG, 22.0 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 3.0 3PM

One could argue that Klay Thompson hadn’t been playing at a Top 20 level prior to this past week. I’ve been one of the people making that case, as Thompson has been strong, but simply wasn’t playing at a Top 20 level.

The Golden State Warriors rebounded from a loss to the Houston Rockets with four consecutive wins, however, and Thompson was the defining force.

Thompson began the week by posting 26 points on 10-of-17 shooting from the field and a 6-of-7 mark from distance. He bookended the week by posting 24 points against the Los Angeles Clippers and 10 points and six rebounds at the Utah Jazz.

Strong as those performances were, we all know the reason why Thompson has made the Top 20: he dropped 60 points in 29 minutes against the Indiana Pacers.

If you somehow missed it, Thompson scored 60 points on 21-of-33 shooting from the field. He held the ball for less than 90 seconds and somehow managed to post 60 in what may have been the most efficient scoring performance ever.

Thompson has been closer to Top 30 status than Top 20 in 2016-17, but he’s earned his place on this list.

Dec 8, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) attempts a shot against the Denver Nuggets during the second half at Verizon Center. The Washington Wizards won 92-85. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

20. John Wall, Washington Wizards

Position: Point Guard
Age: 26 (9/6/1990)
Experience: 7th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .454/.366/.824
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.0 MPG, 23.6 PPG, 9.5 APG, 4.3 RPG, 2.2 SPG, 1.4 3PM

It simply wouldn’t be fair to exclude Washington Wizards star John Wall from this list. Not only has he been in and out of the Top 20 all season, but he just had one of the best performances in recent memory.

For those who missed it—and because it’s the criminally underrated Wall, not too many people are talking about it—the 26-year-old dropped 52 points and eight assists on the Orlando Magic.

The difference between Wall and Klay Thompson, who competed for the No. 20 spot, is that Wall is on a losing team. The other difference is the Wizards’ best scorer, facilitator, and on-ball defender, while Thompson is the No. 3 scoring option on the Warriors.

The more pertinent difference is that Wall has been the better player in 2016-17 and even had a better overall week.

Wall picked up 17 points, 15 assists, and three steals to open the week against the San Antonio Spurs. He then had 25 points, 13 assists, and three steals on 10-of-19 shooting during a 118-113 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.

Both Thompson and Wall closed the week out in lackluster manner, but Wall has been the better player in a bigger role in 2016-17.

Dec 5, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) brings the ball up the court during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

19. Isaiah Thomas, Boston Celtics

Position: Point Guard
Age: 27 (2/7/1989)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .425/.331/.886
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.3 MPG, 26.0 PPG, 6.1 APG, 2.6 RPG, 2.2 3PM

Isaiah Thomas is one of three players currently averaging at least 26.0 points and 6.0 assists per game. The only other players who qualify for that distinction are MVP candidates James Harden and Russell Westbrook.

Thomas has been relatively inefficient, but he also helped the 13-9 Celtics overcome Al Horford missing nine games and Jae Crowder being absent for eight.

When the Celtics needed someone to step up and put them on their back, it was Thomas who took on the challenge and kept the team afloat. Thomas came close to falling out of the Top 20, but his overall production and a recent performance saved him.

Hassan Whiteside was also in the running for this spot, but as dominant as he’s been individually, it’s Thomas who’s posting gaudy numbers on a winning team.

For those who missed it, Thomas went off for 37 points and seven assists on 11-of-19 shooting during a 107-106 escape of the Philadelphia 76ers. With Boston up two points with 4:46 remaining, he scored 12 consecutive points to put the Sixers away.

Horford could soon usurp Thomas in the Top 20, but he’s missed nine games and played in just 12. Thus, Thomas getting the nod.

Dec 5, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) gestures toward the Cleveland Cavaliers bench during the first half at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

18. Kyle Lowry, Toronto Raptors

Position: Point Guard
Age: 30 (3/25/1986)
Experience: 11th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .445/.429/.844
2016-17 Season Averages: 37.4 MPG, 20.8 PPG, 7.6 APG, 4.9 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 3.0 3PM

For as brilliant as DeMar DeRozan has been in 2016-17, it’s becoming clearer by the game that Kyle Lowry is still the catalyst to the Toronto Raptors’ success. Just as he has been the past three seasons, Lowry is the best player on the Raptors and the driving force on both ends.

He may not be appreciated for the special player he is, but as DeRozan makes headlines for his scoring, Lowry is pacing the Raptors to a sensational season.

Lowry is one of the most versatile players in the NBA and this past week proved it. He recorded 24 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and a steal on 8-of-12 shooting against the Los Angeles Lakers, which was a sign of the way he’s simplifying his game.

The next time out, Lowry torched Dennis Schroder and the Atlanta Hawks for 17 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, one block, and three 3-point field goals on 6-of-9 shooting.

Toronto may have lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers, but it was a four-point game that Lowry was sensational in. He posted 24 points, nine assists, and four 3-point field goals while shooting 7-of-14 from the field and tying for the best +/- of any Raptors starter.

Toronto is solid up top and deep throughout the second unit, but it’s still Lowry who will take them as far as they can go.

Dec 5, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) gestures to team mates after sinking a three point basket against Toronto Raptors in the second half at Air Canada Centre. Cleveland won 116-112. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

17. Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers

Position: Point Guard
Age: 24 (3/23/1992)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .483/.421/.880
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.0 MPG, 24.6 PPG, 4.8 APG, 3.1 RPG, 2.6 3PM

Though it’s still the LeBron James Show in Northeast Ohio, there’s a new player leading the charge as a scorer. James is still the best all-around player and Kevin Love is looking like a star again, but Irving has been the go-to scorer in 2016-17.

James is grooming Irving to one day become the franchise player, and thus far, he’s proven to be capable of filling that role from a scoring perspective.

Cleveland has the best record in the Eastern Conference at 15-5 and Irving has been a primary reason why. He’s averaging a team-high and career-best 24.6 points per game and maintaining an elite level of efficiency with a slash line of .483/.421/.880.

James has heralded Irving as a future MVP in the past—a bold claim that’s been somewhat corroborated by his hot start and NBA Finals heroics.

Irving had quite the week, starting with the 20 points, eight assists, and six rebounds he posted against the Chicago Bulls. He then tallied 24 points and seven assists against the Toronto Raptors and had 28 points and six assists in 30 minutes against the New York Knicks.

One could argue that Irving isn’t yet ready for the role of a No. 1 player, but at 24 years of age, the signs of his potential are clear as day.

Dec 7, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) looks to shoot over Dallas Mavericks forward Dwight Powell (7) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Kings defeat the Mavericks 120-89. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

16. DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings

Position: Center
Age: 26 (8/13/1990)
Experience: 7th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .461/.396/.752
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.4 MPG, 28.8 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 2.4 ORPG, 3.4 APG, 1.4 BPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.8 3PM

Stop me if you’ve heard this before: DeMarcus Cousins is posting Hall of Fame type numbers, but the Sacramento Kings aren’t winning games. Sacramento is admittedly a respectable 4-4 over its past eight games, but it’s just 8-13 overall.

It’s hard to penalize Cousins for the quality of his team, but it’s also impossible to overlook the fact that he’s posting great numbers on a bad team.

Cousins began the week with 26 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks against the Boston Celtics, but shot just 10-of-26 in the loss. He put up 36 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks against the New York Knicks, but shot just 9-of-30 in the loss.

Some of that is by necessity, but there’s also a part of it that’s the result of Cousins never playing for an NBA coach who taught him how to pace himself.

Michael Malone was well on his way towards doing so, but ownership decided to part ways with him for—well, we’re still waiting for a real reason. Dave Joerger could do so, but the Kings will have a hill to climb if they keep splitting wins and losses while five games back of .500.

Fortunately, Cousins finished the week with 24 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks on 10-of-16 shooting in a 120-89 victory over the Dallas Mavericks.

Dec 5, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) reacts while walking off the court after the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

15. Kemba Walker, Charlotte Hornets

Position: Point Guard
Age: 26 (5/8/1990)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .467/.414/.780
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.5 MPG, 23.6 PPG, 5.0 APG, 4.0 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 2.7 3PM

Kemba Walker hasn’t even entered the prime of his NBA career. Let that marinate before you convince yourself that the best player on the 13-9 Charlotte Hornets is destined to hit a decline at some point this season.

It’s entirely possible that Walker will slow down before season’s end, but he deserves the faith of the masses for his progressive development.

Walker currently leads the 13-9 Hornets in points, steals, and 3-point field goals made per game. He’s second on the team in assists per game and has made quality contributions to one of the best rebounding teams in the NBA.

This past week, Walker reminded the Association of what it is that truly makes him special: how comfortable he is in clutch situations.

Walker scored 14 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter of an 87-77 victory against the Detroit Pistons. He also paced the Hornets to a victory over the Dallas Mavericks with 19 points on 8-of-15 shooting and tallied 22 points and eight assists against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Walker has yet to make an All-Star Game appearance, but if he continues playing at this level, he could make an All-NBA Team.

Dec 2, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) shoots and scores a basket against the Los Angeles Lakers at Air Canada Centre. The Raptors beat the Lakers 113-80. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

14. DeMar DeRozan, Toronto Raptors

Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 27 (8/7/1989)
Experience: 8th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .476/.282/.839
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.9 MPG, 28.0 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.3 SPG

Many expected DeMar DeRozan to suffer a severe decline in production once the 2016-17 NBA regular season gained traction. He may not be averaging upwards of 30 points per game, but DeRozan is actually taking a more well-rounded approach than he was during the opening weeks.

The new version of DeRozan is actually more effective than the explosive scoring threat, which is why he continues to place in the Top 20.

DeRozan began the week with a poor performance, recording 16 points and six assists on 6-of-18 shooting. He followed with 21 points on 8-of-16 shooting and picked up 31 points, five assists, four boards, and three steals against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

It was an outstanding performance by DeRozan, who may not be as high as he was earlier in the 2016-17 season, but remains a Top 20 player.

DeRozan closed out the week by going toe-to-toe with rising stars Zach LaVine and Andrew Wiggins. He tallied 27 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, which helped balance his week in a positive manner.

DeRozan is on pace to become a three-time All-Star and secure his first career All-NBA selection in 2016-17.

Dec 7, 2016; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) holds the ball away form Milwaukee Bucks guard Tony Snell (21) and center Greg Monroe (15) during the fourth quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Milwaukee won 115-107. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

13. Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers

Position: Point Guard
Age: 26 (7/15/1990)
Experience: 5th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .457/.360/.889
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.7 MPG, 27.6 PPG, 5.5 APG, 4.9 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 2.6 3PM

The Portland Trail Blazers have endured a rough and unpredictable start to the 2016-17 NBA regular season. Significant roster alterations were made and injuries have been suffered, however, which makes Portland’s 12-12 record easy to forgive.

Portland is also in a tie for the most games played in 2016-17, which makes the resilience of both Lillard and the team quite impressive.

Lillard began this past week with 19 points and six assists on 6-of-19 shooting from the field against the Miami Heat. He was far more efficient the next time out, tallying 30 points, seven assists, four rebounds, two blocks, and a pair of steals on 11-of-24 shooting.

Lillard then tallied 30 points, seven rebounds, and six assists against the Milwaukee Bucks, and 19 points on 6-of-18 shooting against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Lillard is the unquestioned leader of the Trail Blazers and both the go-to scorer and primary facilitator. He’s been significantly better as a distributor in recent games, recording averages of 26.8 points and 6.9 assists entering the clash with the Grizzlies.

Whether or not you have Lillard as one of the Top 10 players in the NBA through his 24 appearances, he’s undoubtedly been Top 15.

Dec 3, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) brings the ball up court against the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

12. Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls

Position: Small Forward
Age: 27 (9/14/1989)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .465/.351/.887
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.3 MPG, 25.4 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.2 3PM

Jimmy Butler and the Chicago Bulls had a strange week. Butler was stellar throughout, but the Bulls went from defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers to losing three in a row, including a 25-point blowout to the 4-17 Dallas Mavericks.

A win over the defending NBA champions is certainly something to hang a team’s hat on, but the Bulls have lost four of five and are 3-6 over the past nine games.

Butler did it all with 26 points, eight rebounds, six assists, three steals, and a pair of blocks during the 111-105 victory over the Cavaliers. It was a brilliant team performance that displayed the upside of a talented Bulls team.

One game later, Butler’s 26 points and nine rebounds couldn’t save Chicago from a 107-82 loss to the 4-17 Mavericks.

Butler followed with 26 points, seven rebounds, five assists, two blocks, and a steal, but Chicago lost 112-110 to the Portland Trail Blazers. He then erupted for 32 points against the Detroit Pistons, but the Bulls lost 102-91.

It’s still early in the 2016-17 NBA regular season, but one can’t help but plead with Butler to continue playing his game and not be discouraged.

Dec 2, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; LA Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) controls the ball against New Orleans Pelicans guard Tim Frazier (2) during the second half at the Smoothie King Center. The Clippers defeat the Pelicans 114-96. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

11. Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers

Position: Power Forward
Age: 27 (3/16/1989)
Experience: 7th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .469/.227/.748
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.0 MPG, 20.7 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 2.1 ORPG, 4.6 APG, 11.1 SPG

The Los Angeles Clippers had an opportunity to establish themselves as a legitimately elite team with a win against the Golden State Warriors. Instead, the Clippers gave a lackluster effort during a 115-98 loss that left their reputation in shambles.

Griffin had an otherwise sensational week, but he shot just 5-of-20, coughed up seven turnovers, and committed four personal fouls against the Warriors.

It was a disappointing end to what was an otherwise sensational string of performances. That began with Griffin posting 27 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks on 12-of-22 shooting against Anthony Davis and the New Orleans Pelicans.

Griffin then went off for 24 points, 16 rebounds, four offensive boards, five assists, two blocks, and a steal against the Indiana Pacers.

Griffin was well on his way to moving up this list, but he falls after a horrendous showing in the biggest game of the year. He easily maintains his Top 1015status, but he’s been passed in the Top 10 because of that shockingly poor result.

The Clippers are still a 16-7 force to be reckoned with, but Griffin and his teammates have a devastating loss to overcome.

Dec 5, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) reacts after hitting a three pointer in the final seconds of the fourth quarter of a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Pelicans 110-108 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

10. Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies

Position: Center
Age: 31 (1/29/1985)
Experience: 9th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .458/.440/.798
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.8 MPG, 19.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.6 BPG, 0.9 SPG, 1.6 3PM

Marc Gasol is the type of player whom you have to watch in order to truly and fairly appreciate. He’s one of the few players who can bring a crowd to its feet for a standing ovation without even touching the ball.

Whether he’s taking up the entirety of the floor as a roaming defender, facilitating the offense, scoring from the post, or knocking down a game-winner, Gasol does it all.

When the Grizzlies need a win, they trust that Gasol will do what needs to be done to get them the W. See: Memphis playing its past six games without the injured Mike Conley and Gasol leading them to five wins in his six appearances.

Also see: Gasol posting 28 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, two blocks, two steals, and three 3-point field goals during a 110-108 double-overtime victory over Anthony Davis and the New Orleans Pelicans.

In addition to the triple-double, Gasol sank the game-tying 3, made a game-saving block, and hit the game-deciding jumper. Gasol also had 19 points and eight assists against the Los Angeles Lakers, 26 points and 12 rebounds against the Philadelphia 76ers, and 36 points against the Portland Trail Blazers.

For perspective, the 16-8 Grizzlies have net ratings of +5.6 with Gasol and -12.3 without him. The All-NBA First Team center and Defensive Player of the Year candidate is back.

Dec 7, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) controls the ball against LA Clippers center DeAndre Jordan (6) in the second quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

9. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

Position: Point Guard
Age: 28 (3/14/1988)
Experience: 8th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .489/.401/.929
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.5 MPG, 25.9 PPG, 5.8 APG, 4.0 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 3.9 3PM

Prior to Wednesday’s clash between the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers, Stephen Curry was No. 11 on this list. He’s responsible for less than other superstars due to the fact he’s teammates with three All-NBA players in their prime.

During Wednesday’s game, however, Curry outplayed Chris Paul on both ends of the floor and firmly solidified his Top 10 ranking.

Curry began the week by scoring 31 points on 15 shots against the Phoenix Suns. He scored just 13 points against the Indiana Pacers, but he tallied 11 assists in 29 minutes while recording a grand total of zero turnovers.

Curry may have only tallied 19 points and six assists against the Clippers, but he came up with seven steals and helped win the game with his defense.

Statistics are never going to tell the story for the Warriors when one considers how many stars Golden State has on the roster. Even on a night where Curry went 0-of-8 from beyond the arc, he still made a powerful impact.

In case you forgot about his two MVP awards and three All-NBA selections, Curry has been reminding people of his brilliant all-around game.

Dec 3, 2016; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) looks to pass against Brooklyn Nets forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (24) in the second quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

8. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

Position: Point Forward
Age: 22 (12/6/1994)
Experience: 4th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .519/.239/.773
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.5 MPG, 22.0 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 6.1 APG, 2.3 BPG, 2.2 SPG

Russell Westbrook is averaging a triple-double, LeBron James is The King of Versatility, and James Harden is posting all-time statistics. In terms of being versatile on both ends of the floor, however, Giannis Antetokounmpo may have them all beat.

Antetokounmpo currently leads the 11-9 Milwaukee Bucks in points, rebounds, assists, blocks, and steals per game.

Milwaukee has won six of its past eight games and Antetokounmpo has been the driving force behind that success. He’s recorded two triple-doubles, six double-doubles, and a 34-point game during that run.

Bigger than the traditional metrics for versatility, however, is the fact that Antetokounmpo is just as dynamic on the defensive end of the floor.

Antetokounmpo is on pace to become the first player in NBA history to average 20.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 2.0 steals per game. He’s well above those marks and only seeming to get better on both ends.

If Antetokounmpo ever adds a consistent outside shot, he may become the most versatile player of all-time—and there’s no hyperbole about that.

Dec 6, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) moves to the basket in the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves center Cole Aldrich (45) at Target Center. The San Antonio Spurs beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 105-91. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

7. Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs

Position: Small Forward
Age: 25 (6/29/1991)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .464/.387/.911
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.0 MPG, 24.4 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, 2.0 SPG, 1.9 3PM

Tim Duncan may have retired, but he helped build a culture that Kawhi Leonard is honoring and harvesting. The San Antonio Spurs are off to yet another brilliant start to the season and Leonard has been the star of the show through 23 games.

Leonard is essentially a perimeter version of Duncan—subtle statistically, but invaluable in the actual context of games.

Leonard led the Spurs to an 3-1 record this past week, recording a number of performances that reaffirmed his status as a rising star. That began when he posted 23 points and hit the game-winner during a 107-105 victory over the Washington Wizards.

The following time out, Leonard had 21 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks during a 97-96 win over the Milwaukee Bucks.

Leonard’s best performance of the week came against Andrew Wiggins and the Minnesota Timberwolves. He went off for 31 points and four assists on 11-of-15 shooting in a dominant display against a rising star.

Leonard isn’t posting the gaudy statistics he managed to record earlier this season, but that’s a sign that he’s found an easier way to win.

Dec 7, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; LA Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) shoots against Golden State Warriors center JaVale McGee (1) in the third quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

6. Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers

Position: Point Guard
Age: 31 (5/6/1985)
Experience: 12th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .458/.397/.898
2016-17 Season Averages: 31.5 MPG, 17.7 PPG, 9.0 APG, 5.2 RPG, 2.5 SPG, 2.1 3PM

Chris Paul and the Los Angeles Clippers have been magnificent in 2016-17, but they’ve hit an early wall. Los Angeles has lost five of its past seven games since opening the regular season at 14-2 and securing a number of early signature victories.

Paul continued to play like a superstar this past week, but the one exception happened to come in the biggest game of the year.

Paul helped the Clippers secure a win over the Cleveland Cavaliers last Thursday and followed up with another big showing against the New Orleans Pelicans. He torched his former team for 17 points, 13 assists, and eight rebounds on 6-of-11 shooting from the field.

Paul then posted 18 points and 11 assists against the Indiana Pacers, although the Clippers ultimately fell 111-102.

What hurts Paul’s ranking and pushes him out of the Top 5 is how poorly he played against the Golden State Warriors. He recovered from a slow start to tally 15 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, but it was too little, too late during the 17-point loss.

Paul can recover from that performance, but the Clippers have team-wide issues that need to be sorted out before this rough patch gets out of hand.

Dec 5, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Langston Galloway (10) is embraced by forward Anthony Davis (23) after missing a three point basket as time expired during a second overtime quarter in a game against the Memphis Grizzlies at the Smoothie King Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Pelicans 110-108 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

5. Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans

Position: Power Forward
Age: 23 (3/11/1993)
Experience: 5th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .498/.260/.823
2016-17 Season Averages: 38.1 MPG, 31.4 PPG, 11.4 RPG, 1.9 ORPG, 2.2 APG, 2.8 BPG, 1.6 SPG, 0.6 3PM

The New Orleans Pelicans continue to waste sensational performances from 23-year-old phenom Anthony Davis. Already an All-NBA First Team honoree, Davis is in the midst of one of the greatest individual seasons of all-time.

The Pelicans are just 7-16, however, and have lost four consecutive games and six times in the last seven outings.

Davis had a pedestrian—for him—21 points against the Los Angeles Clippers, but was explosive the rest of the way. He poured in 37 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks against the Oklahoma City Thunder and had 28 points, 17 rebounds, and four blocks against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Davis also recorded 26 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks against the Philadelphia 76ers in yet another superb statistical performance.

Dominant as he’s been individually, Davis’ team continues to lose and the players in front of him are winning. Thus, while it may be fair to believe he’s deserving of a Top 5 spot individually, at some point the Pelicans’ shortcomings must be factored in.

Davis would be a top choice for a number of NBA general managers if they had a chance to start their franchise anew, but his season is being wasted.

Dec 8, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) shoots the ball over Utah Jazz forward Joe Johnson (6) during the first quarter at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

4. Kevin Durant, Golden State Warriors

Position: Small Forward
Age: 28 (9/29/1988)
Experience: 10th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .549/.407/.860
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.4 MPG, 26.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.7 BPG, 1.4 SPG, 1.9 3PM

When the Golden State Warriors signed Kevin Durant, everyone in the NBA community knew what to expect. He’s already an MVP, four-time scoring champion, and five-time All-NBA First Team honoree with an NBA Finals appearance on his resume.

Durant may be coming back down to earth with his production and efficiency, but he’s still producing at an all-time level.

Durant began the week with 20 points and eight assists on just seven field goal attempts against the Phoenix Suns. He added 20 points and eight rebounds in 22 minutes against the Indiana Pacers and tallied 16 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Durant closed out the four-game stretch with 21 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and a steal in the Warriors’ 106-99 win over the Utah Jazz.

Durant’s low scoring numbers may be an accurate reflection of what’s to come. He’ll still go off when need be, but the Warriors are going to start blowing teams out now that they’re developing team chemistry.

No matter what the numbers look like, one thing is perfectly clear: Durant is still one of the best players in the NBA.

Dec 7, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers small forward LeBron James (23) controls the ball against New York Knicks shooting guard Courtney Lee (5) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

3. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers

Position: Small Forward
Age: 31 (12/30/1984)
Experience: 14th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .502/.349/.716
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.4 MPG, 23.9 PPG, 9.1 APG, 7.6 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.5 3PM

LeBron James is discovering an approach that could extend his NBA career. He’s currently shifting between pure statistical dominance and subtle leadership, and the end result could lead to the winningest stage of his career.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have bounced back strong from a string of poor performances by riding James’ leadership to tremendous success.

James had 27 points, 13 assists, and five rebounds on 13-of-22 shooting during a 111-105 loss to the Chicago Bulls. He helped the Cavaliers bounce back with 34 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and two steals in a four-point win over the Toronto Raptors.

The next time out, James put up 25 points, seven assists, six rebounds, two blocks, and a steal before flipping a water bottle to pass time during a 126-94 blowout of the New York Knicks.

James is making the game easier for himself by trusting his teammates and being more methodical in his approach. That’s made the burden less significant on his body and enabled him to be more patient in searching for his shot.

As if James could get any better than he already was, he’s now playing a more mature and decisive game than ever before.

Dec 5, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) brings the ball up the court during the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

2. James Harden, Houston Rockets

Position: Point Guard
Age: 27 (8/26/1989)
Experience: 8th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .451/.361/.844
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.7 MPG, 28.5 PPG, 11.4 APG, 7.5 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 3.0 3PM

The Houston Rockets’ decision to move James Harden to point guard has revolutionized the position. In a throwback to the 1960s, when positions were relatively obsolete—see: Jerry West and Gail Goodrich playing both guard spots—Harden is doing it all.

Beyond the position talk, Harden and Russell Westbrook are on pace to be the first players to average at least 28.0 points and 11.0 assists per game since Tiny Archibald in 1972-73.

In any other season, Harden would be the runaway favorite for the NBA MVP award. He’s scoring and facilitating at elite levels, rebounding at a similar rate, and has even been surprisingly less erratic on defense.

This past week was surprisingly unproductive for Harden—you know, if averaging 27.3 points, 7.7 assists, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.7 steals in 32.8 minutes over a three-game span is unproductive.

Harden tallied 20 points, seven assists, and six rebounds in a 128-110 blowout of the Denver Nuggets. He also tallied 25 points and eight assists in three quarters during a 134-95 obliteration of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Between those performances, of course, Harden went off for 37 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, and three steals in a 107-106 win over the Boston Celtics.

Dec 5, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) celebrates a three-point basket as Atlanta Hawks forward Thabo Sefolosha (25) is shown on the play in the third quarter at Philips Arena. The Thunder won 102-99. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

1. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder

Position: Point Guard
Age: 28 (11/12/1988)
Experience: 9th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .428/.333/.810
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.7 MPG, 31.0 PPG, 11.3 APG, 10.9 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 1.9 3PM

What Russell Westbrook is doing right now is nothing short of ridiculous. 22 games into the 2016-17 NBA regular season, the Oklahoma City Thunder superstar is averaging a triple-double—and he’s doing so quite comfortably.

If Westbrook can maintain this pace for 60 more games—no easy task, I know—he’d be the first player to average a triple-double since Oscar Robertson in 1961-62.

Westbrook has recorded a triple-double in six consecutive games and the Thunder are on a six-game winning streak—no coincidence. He already has 18 double-doubles and 11 triple-doubles through 22 games and is averaging a career-best 1.9 3-point field goals made per game.

For perspective, Westbrook currently ranks in the Top 10 in the NBA in points, assists, and rebounds per game.

Westbrook will need to cut down on his turnovers and find a way to make the game easier for himself as the season progresses. Even with his high turnover average, however, he’s accounting for 57.0 points per game—31.0 from scoring and 26.0 from his assists.

As for the Robertson comparison, The Big O averaged 25.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per 36 minutes, while Westbrook checks in at 31.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per 36 minutes.

At the quarter-mark of the 2016-17 NBA regular season, Westbrook is the clear choice for MVP.