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Starting Point Guard On Every NBA Team For 2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 NBA season arrives amid some reshuffles: blockbuster trades, capped-out rosters, and injuries forcing some franchises' hands. In a league where pace, vision, and chemistry can define a title run, your point guard is the compass.

Whether it's a proven All-Star maestro or a developmental spark plug, each team has planted its flag at the position. From franchise pillars like Jalen Brunson in New York and Darius Garland currently orchestrating for Cleveland, to teams leaning on rising talents like Scoot Henderson in Portland and the era of Stephen Curry in Golden State, the league’s facilitators are as varied as their offenses.

Let's name every starting point guard for every franchise heading into the 2025-26 season.

Atlanta Hawks – Trae Young

Mar 18, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) brings the ball up court against the Charlotte Hornets during second quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 24.2 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 11.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Trae Young once again proved he's the engine of the Hawks' offense, leading the league with 11.6 assists per game while shouldering a hefty scoring load with 24.2 PPG. His ability to create in isolation and from the arc kept defenders on edge, though his efficiency (41.1% FG, 34.0% 3PT) remained a sticking point, and he continued to turn it over at a high rate.

Looking ahead, Young enters the 2025-26 season as the undisputed floor general. With emerging help from Dyson Daniels on defense and a revamped supporting cast in the wings and frontcourt, Atlanta hopes Young can refine his shot selection and reduce turnovers.

Boston Celtics – Derrick White

Apr 11, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) dribbles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 16.4 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Derrick White took over primary point guard duties alongside Jrue Holiday for Boston during 2024-25, averaging just under 5 assists per game while chipping in 16.4 PPG. His two-way versatility, courtroom discipline, and clutch playoff moments remained vital for a championship-caliber roster.

White’s defensive instincts, averaging nearly 1 steal and over 2 blocks per game from the guard spot, added a rare dimension to his production in the regular season. Heading into the 2025-26 season, White should anchor a more balanced Celtics backcourt if Payton Pritchard moves into a secondary reserve role, which we anticipate.

Brooklyn Nets – Egor Demin

Mar 27, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Brigham Young Cougars guard Egor Demin (3) drives to the basket against Alabama Crimson Tide guard Mark Sears (1) during the second half during an East Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: N/A (Rookie)

Egor Demin is listed as Brooklyn’s starting point guard according to Brooklyn's depth chart, often getting the first crack at orchestrating the offense. While his minutes and box score impact might be modest as a rookie, his on-ball defense and court awareness earned him trust in a rebuilding Nets squad looking to transition to younger options.

For 2025-26, expectations should be modest: he’ll be counted on to run set plays, help defensively on the perimeter, and offer leadership by example. If his game continues to mature, improving passing reads and scoring ability, he could surprise in a larger role.

Charlotte Hornets – LaMelo Ball

Mar 20, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) brings the ball up court against the New York Knicks during the second half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 25.2 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

LaMelo Ball began the 2024-25 season as the Hornets’ centerpiece and starting point guard, putting together stat-stuffing fireworks: 25.2 points and 7.4 assists with strong peripherals. Although injuries limited his overall season, his floor-flirting creativity and deep-range pull-up jumpers kept Charlotte relevant in multiple contests and excited about his upside.

As he heads into 2025-26 fully healthy and with another year of experience, LaMelo figures to be the fulcrum of Charlotte’s rebuild. With added roster pieces and a cleaner health slate, he could push toward 27 PPG and 7-8 APG while expanding his defensive effort.

Chicago Bulls – Ayo Dosunmu

Feb 28, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu (11) goes up for a shot during a game against the Toronto Raptors at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 12.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Ayo Dosunmu logged important minutes as the Bulls’ backup guard in 2024-25, reflecting usage-driven production: 12.3 points and 4.5 assists per night. His shooting from three hovered only at 32.8%, and while he sparked offense off the bounce, shooting inconsistencies limited his overall growth.

Entering 2025-26, Dosunmu is expected to remain Chicago’s starting point guard, though they could change if the Bulls decide to bring back Josh Giddey or make further improvements. If Ayo can improve his shooting and tighten his grip on playmaking duties, we could see him flirt with 15 PPG and 6 APG.

Cleveland Cavaliers – Darius Garland

Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) dribbles against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 20.6 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.1 BPG

As Cleveland’s floor general, Darius Garland’s 2024-25 campaign earned praise: he posted nearly 20 PPG and 5.8 assists while improving defensively with 1.9 steals per game. His Southpaw creation out of pick-and-roll was elite, and his deep shooting (over 40% from three) delivered efficient offense.

Garland’s chemistry with Donovan Mitchell fueled Cleveland’s rise to Eastern contender status. Looking at 2025-26, Garland will be the keystone of Cleveland’s backcourt with championship expectations. While Mitchell continues to draw focus, Garland’s growth in maturity and decision-making could push his assist clip upward.

Dallas Mavericks – D’Angelo Russell

Brooklyn Nets guard D'Angelo Russell (1) in action during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Brooklyn Nets at the American Airlines Center.

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

2024‑25: 12.6 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Last season, D'Angelo Russell took over significant ball-handling after joining Brooklyn mid-year, delivering reliable secondary playmaking with 12.6 points and 5.1 assists per game. He offered timely shooting, but efficiency fluctuated when he wasn’t expected to carry the offense nightly.

In 2025-26, Russell is projected to start at point guard while Kyrie Irving rehabs from ACL surgery. With the Mavericks re-signing Dante Exum for depth around Irving, Dallas expects Russell to be the steady presence: a scoring facilitator with range and screening awareness. If he can maintain his assist rate and improve consistency from deep, Russell should anchor their backcourt.

Denver Nuggets – Jamal Murray

Nov 25, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) dribbles the ball in the first quarter against the New York Knicks at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 21.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

For obvious reasons, Jamal Murray is the team’s primary point guard when healthy. Murray’s impact blends shotmaking, leadership, and familiarity with Nikola Jokic in high-leverage situations. While coming off a shortened season recovering from injury, he flashed enough to remind the league of his All-Star pedigree.

For 2025-26, a fully recovered and in-form Murray should return to his role as Denver’s offensive catalyst. With improved conditioning and spacing around him, he’s projected to settle into around 20 PPG and 6 APG with improved efficiency. His chemistry with the Jokic-driven scheme positions him to be one of the most lethal tandem duos in the West once more.

Detroit Pistons– Cade Cunningham

Apr 24, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) dribbles in the second half against the New York Knicks during game three of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 26.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 9.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Cade Cunningham’s breakout season vaulted him into MVP conversations: near double-double averages, a natural leadership aura, and strong defensive improvement. He proved capable of dominating in all facets, scoring from mid-range, facilitating via high-IQ playmaking, and showing surprising rim protection for a lead guard. His status as the league’s fantasy top guard further underscored his impact.

In 2025-26, Cunningham returns as Dallas’ undisputed floor general, with championship ambitions firmly in view. As surrounding pieces mature and defensive continuity strengthens, Cade should sustain elite usage while improving efficiency in fewer “hero ball” situations. If he can maintain high-level production across the board while sharpening shooting splits, expect him to be among the most complete lead guards in the league.

Golden State Warriors – Stephen Curry

San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) dribbles upcourt against the San Antonio Spurs in the second period at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 24.5 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Stephen Curry delivered another vintage season in 2024-25, recording 24.5 points and 6.0 assists per game while rediscovering high-efficiency shooting (three-point percentage at 39.7%). His deep-ball output and pull-up mastery helped keep Golden State competitive amidst age-related and supporting cast concerns.

Despite questions over roster depth and perimeter defense, Curry remains the league’s benchmark for shooting and offensive creativity. With few real alternatives, he’ll start at point guard again in 2025-26. If the Warriors can shore up supporting pieces and aging legs, Curry’s off-ball movement and gravity will continue to define Golden State's playoff hopes.

Houston Rockets – Fred VanVleet

Nov 6, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (5) brings the ball up the court during the third quarter against the San Antonio Spurs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Season Averages: 14.1 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Fred VanVleet delivered 14.1 points and 5.6 assists per game on 37.8% shooting from the field in the regular season. Despite missing 16 games with an ankle injury, he remained Houston’s assist leader and a stabilizing veteran presence. In the playoffs, he elevated his game, averaging 18.7 PPG and 4.4 APG, shooting better from deep (43.5%), including several clutch outings in Game 6 and 7 against Golden State.

For 2025-26, VanVleet returned on a two-year, $50M deal to anchor a Rockets roster now headlined by Kevin Durant and solid role players. As Houston shifts into contender mode, his playoff poise and defensive grit will be instrumental. If he stays healthy and maintains playoff-level efficiency, expect steady production (low-teens scoring, 5-6 assists) and shrinkage of the margin for error on offense and defense

Indiana Pacers – T.J. McConnell

Jun 16, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (9) brings the ball up court against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter in game five of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 9.1 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Tyrese Haliburton was firmly established as Indiana’s starting point guard before suffering a major Achilles injury in the NBA Finals, effectively halting his climb within the elite tier of NBA facilitators. Unfortunately, Haliburton is expected to be out for the entire 2025-26 season, marking a significant setback for the Pacers’ playmaking structure.

Unable to integrate him into their opening lineup, Indiana is likely to lean on T.J. McConnell, a bulldog of a point guard who will defend, make the right plays, and score if needed. McConnell showed he can control an offense with the ball in his hands, and the Pacers will need him to do that consistently next season.

Los Angeles Clippers – James Harden

Feb 23, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) dribbles the ball in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 22.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.7 BPG

James Harden returned to prime form in his first full season with the Clippers, starting all 79 games and posting 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game. Despite a dip in three-point accuracy (to around 35.2%), his playmaking remained elite; he ranked 5th in the league in assists. Harden earned All-NBA Third Team honors while carrying the offensive load night after night.

Looking to 2025-26, Harden re-signed with L.A. on a two-year, $81.5 million deal, committing to be the veteran anchor of a reshaped Clippers backcourt. His leadership and offensive versatility, especially in pick-and-roll and isolation, will be core to the team’s goals. Though postseason criticism lingers after an uneven Game 7 performance, Harden’s playoff record stands as both a leadership question and motivator heading into another title push.

Los Angeles Lakers– Luka Doncic

Mar 22, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) drives the ball against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 28.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 7.7 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Since joining the Lakers in February 2025, Luka Doncic instantly transformed the franchise’s direction, averaging 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game over 50 regular-season games. His on-court gravity and elite playmaking blended seamlessly with LeBron James and the rebuilt surrounding cast, anchoring L.A.’s resurgence in the Western Conference.

With a new three-year, $165 million extension in place, Doncic heads into the 2025‑26 season as the unambiguous floor general and franchise centerpiece. His improved physique and motivation to deliver a championship are clear, as the Lakers fortified their roster with Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton. If Doncic maintains his production and elevates efficiency in key moments, the Lakers will be a threat to win an NBA title.

Memphis Grizzlies - Ja Morant

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) looks on during the second quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at FedExForum.

Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 23.2 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Ja Morant was his usual dominant offensive self, delivering stellar averages of 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game across 50 games. His aggressive scoring and elite speed fueled the Grizzlies’ potent offensive pace (121 points per game with him on the floor) before a late-season hip injury clouded their playoff run.

Although his postseason ended early due to injury, Morant remains Memphis’s unquestioned floor general for 2025-26. If he enters the season healthy, free of hip or ankle concerns, the Grizzlies expect dynamic playmaking and elite slashing to return as their identity.

Miami Heat – Tyler Herro

Dec 21, 2024; Orlando, Florida, USA; Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro (14) drives to the basket against the Orlando Magic in the second quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 23.9 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 5.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Tyler Herro had to handle the ball as a point guard more than he would have probably liked last season, but nonetheless produced standout scoring numbers as a qualifying iteration of point guard, with 23.9 points and 5.5 assists per game in heavy secondary-creation roles. His scoring instincts and shooting made him Miami’s high-volume backcourt weapon.

Miami’s 2025-26 outlook leans on Herro assuming a more traditional lead-guard role, especially with roster shifts emphasizing athletic toughness and spacing around him. If he can sustain scoring while increasing assist output, even into the 6-7 APG range, and improve defensive consistency, he should continue as the backbone of a Heat offense built for playoff resilience.

Milwaukee Bucks – Kevin Porter Jr.

Apr 3, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Kevin Porter Jr (3) controls the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers in the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Season Averages: 10.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG

After Milwaukee waived Damian Lillard, the Bucks pivoted to Kevin Porter Jr. as their starting PG. In early action, Porter logged a triple-double and several high-assist games, showing promise as a playmaker when paired with Giannis. Consistency and decision-making remained concerns, however.

In 2025-26, Milwaukee expects Porter Jr. to serve as the primary ball-handler, blending scoring and playmaking alongside its established core. If he harnesses his assist upside and cleans up turnovers, he could settle into around 5-6 APG and mid-teens scoring. But defensive miscues and streaky shooting may limit his ceiling unless he shoulders greater maturity.

Minnesota Timberwolves – Mike Conley

Utah Jazz guard Collin Sexton (2) defends against the Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley (10) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 8.2 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG

In what many considered a twilight season for his 18th NBA year, veteran Mike Conley provided steady, low-risk leadership for the Timberwolves throughout 71 games, averaging 8.2 points, 4.5 assists, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 steals in 24.7 minutes per night. While his production paled by his standards, his decision-making and floor organization served as a stabilizing presence on a roster anchored by Anthony Edwards.

Despite a muted playoff showing, Conley's value extended beyond box scores; his guidance helped Minnesota earn the 6th seed in the West. Heading into the 2025-26 season, Conley is expected to open as Minnesota’s starting point guard in Chris Finch’s system that values defensive versatility and veteran wisdom.

New Orleans Pelicans - Dejounte Murray

Dec 15, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (5) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 17.5 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 7.4 APG, 2.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Dejounte Murray was off to a strong debut season in New Orleans before suffering a torn Achilles tendon on January 31, which abruptly ended his year. In 31 starts with the Pelicans, he averaged 17.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists, while ranking among the league’s top defensive guards with 2.0 steals per game.

Projected to return in 2025-26, Murray will reclaim the starting point guard role for a Pelicans team looking to rebuild around young pieces like Jose Alvarado and Trey Murphy III. Fully healthy, he’s expected to resume his dual-threat role: facilitating the offense, disrupting passing lanes, and anchoring perimeter defense.

New York Knicks – Jalen Brunson

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) reacts in the second quarter during game six of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 26.0 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 7.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Superstar Jalen Brunson continued to establish himself as one of the league’s premier lead guards in 2024-25, averaging 26.0 points and 7.3 assists per game. His all-around game, including dependable three-point shooting (38.3%), knack for clutch execution, and understated defense, made him the anchor of a balanced Knicks core.

He ranked among the top 10 scoring point guards league-wide and shouldered a large load in New York’s half-court sets. With the addition of Jordan Clarkson to provide secondary scoring punch off the bench, Brunson will remain New York’s undisputed floor general in 2025-26.

Clarkson offers valuable spark when Brunson rests, helping to preserve his effectiveness late in games. Expect Brunson to replicate last season’s productivity, mid-20s scoring with consistent assist volume, while leading the Knicks back into serious Eastern Conference contention.

Oklahoma City Thunder – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) reacts after being called for a foul against the Golden State Warriors in the first quarter at the Chase Center.

Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Season Averages: 32.7 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG

NBA champion and reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emerged as the league’s top scorer, delivering superstar-level impact with 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. He anchored OKC’s rise with elite on-ball creation, defensive activity, and versatility on both ends. OKC’s extension locked him in long-term as the face and facilitator.

For 2025-26, SGA will likely maintain high usage while distributing more opportunities across the roster as he looks toward a second-straight MVP trophy. If he preserves efficiency and leverages team balance, the Thunder can ride the wave as the favorites to win the NBA championship in consecutive fashion.

Orlando Magic - Jalen Suggs

Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (4) looks on against the Boston Celtics in the third quarter at Kia Center.

Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 16.2 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Jalen Suggs delivered his most productive NBA season yet before being ruled out in March due to knee surgery, averaging 16.2 points, 3.7 assists, 4 rebounds, nearly 1.5 steals, and almost one block per game, all on 41% shooting from the field. His hybrid playmaking and defensive versatility, particularly his ability to disrupt passing lanes and slide into help rotations, gave Orlando glimpses of a floor general in development.

Looking ahead to 2025-26, Suggs is expected to enter the season healthy and return as Orlando’s opening-night starter at the one. With the team adding playmaking wings and spacing threats around him, he’ll be tasked with anchoring both ends, running transition and half-court floor sets, and providing perimeter defense.

Philadelphia 76ers – Tyrese Maxey

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) controls the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 26.3 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Tyrese Maxey emerged as Philadelphia’s lead guard in 2024-25, averaging nearly 26.3 points and 6.1 assists per game. His explosiveness off the bounce, combined with deep shooting, helped compensate for vet guard departures. He handled heavy usage and delivered timing-critical buckets in an Eastern Conference contender.

With a deeper supporting cast expected to step into larger roles, including young guards and new draft picks, the 76ers intend to let Maxey steer the offense while balancing responsibility. If Embiid and George stay healthy, Maxey should remain the offensive catalyst: high-scoring with growing playmaking maturity and improved decision-making in crunch moments.

Phoenix Suns - Devin Booker

Feb 7, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) dribbles against the Utah Jazz during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 25.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 7.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Though traditionally a scoring guard, Devin Booker’s 2024-25 campaign saw him elevate as Phoenix’s primary playmaker, averaging 7.1 assists per game along with 25.6 points and 4.1 rebounds over 75 games. His shooting efficiency rebounded to 46.1% from the field while he continued to guide the offense through slower moments, operating as a de facto point guard despite positional labels.

He also cemented his long-term outlook by signing a two-year extension worth over $145 million, enshrining him as the Suns’ cornerstone moving forward. For the 2025-26 season, Booker returns as the undisputed on-ball initiating guard.

Despite criticism of surrounding roster volatility and past inefficiencies, the organization and coaching staff are relying on him to shape Phoenix’s identity. If Booker sustains his scoring while continuing to facilitate and lead a new era post-Durant and Beal.

Portland Trail Blazers - Scoot Henderson

Mar 21, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson (00) drives to the basket during the first half against Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 12.7 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Scoot Henderson showed flashes of the franchise-changing talent Portland drafted third overall, averaging 12.7 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game while shooting 41.9% from the field. In games he started, his numbers climbed: roughly 16 PPG, 6.6 APG, and 3.5 RPG, signaling potential as a dynamic dual-threat guard capable of driving pace and finishing aggressively in pick-and-roll action.

In 2025-26, Henderson is projected as the Trail Blazers’ full-time starting point guard as Damian Lillard rehabs his torn Achilles. With more trusted surrounding creators and improved spacing in the backcourt, he’ll have more room to attack closeouts and set teammates up.

Sacramento Kings - Zach LaVine

Mar 10, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine (8) dribbles the ball up the court against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 23.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Zach LaVine maintained his elite scoring efficiency in Sacramento, posting 23.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while shooting over 51% from the field and 44.6% from three across 74 appearances. As the Kings’ primary backcourt weapon, LaVine anchored the offense with three-level scoring and mid-range mastery.

LaVine is expected to assume point guard duties in 2025-26, not in a traditional facilitator role, but as the orchestrator of pick-and-rolls and isolation sets in Sacramento’s free-flowing offense. With more spacing around him and De’Aaron Fox traded, LaVine’s scoring gravity and improved playmaking will help structure possessions.

San Antonio Spurs – De’Aaron Fox

Mar 7, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox (4) looks on during the first quarter of the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 23.5 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Acquired mid-season, De'Aaron Fox emerged as San Antonio’s leading guard: posting 19.7 points and 6.8 assists before a season-ending finger surgery. His assertive scoring and quickness, paired with perimeter defense, already made him a go-to in late-game situations. Looking forward to 2025-26, the Spurs cemented Fox’s role with a 4-year, $229 million extension, making him the heart of their backcourt.

Flanked by top-draft prospects Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle and headlined by Victor Wembanyama in the frontcourt, Fox will be expected to lead an exciting young nucleus. If he thrives as both shot creator and distributor while anchoring perimeter defense, he could elevate San Antonio into the playoff conversation and validate his max-level status.

Toronto Raptors - Immanuel Quickley

Apr 4, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Immanuel Quickley (5) passes the ball against the Detroit Pistons in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 17.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 5.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Immanuel Quickley showed he can handle lead guard responsibilities for Toronto, averaging 17.1 points, 5.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. In stretch scenarios without RJ Barrett, Quickley elevated to 17.4 PPG and 7.6 APG, highlighting his burst as a primary playmaker when given full control of the backcourt. His offensive growth and continuity earned him more opportunities in late-game sets.

As Quickley heads into the 2025-26 season, the Raptors are expected to lean on him to run offense more consistently, particularly with younger guards developing around him. His ability to slide off screens, attack closeouts, and playmake off touch will define Toronto’s rotational identity.

Utah Jazz – Isaiah Collier

Mar 28, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (13) passes the ball in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

2024‑25 Averages: 8.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 6.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Collier earned the starting nod mid-season and roared into Utah Jazz history with franchise rookie records in assists, including 14 in one game, and averaged nearly 9.5 per game in February. He quickly became the team's most consistent facilitator, surpassing John Stockton’s rookie assists total.

Utah heads into 2025-26 with Collier firmly entrenched as the starting point guard. As he matures physically and assimilates NBA tempo, expect him to anchor Utah’s offense, pushing pace, setting rhythm, and providing elite floor vision. If his jump shot and defensive rotations develop, Collier could become one of the breakout names of the season and lead a rising Jazz core.

Washington Wizards - CJ McCollum

Mar 15, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (3) reacts after scoring a basket during the second half against the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

2025 Averages: 21.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Prior to a foot injury and subsequent trade, C.J. McCollum averaged 21.1 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game for New Orleans, extending a 10-year streak of 20+ PPG campaigns. His move to Washington officially placed him in the Wizards’ backcourt, adding veteran presence and shooting punch to a rebuilding roster.

Entering 2025-26, C.J. is expected to be Washington’s starting point guard despite being naturally a shooting guard, with the team looking for his playmaking and clutch scoring to stabilize a young core. If he can stay healthy and maintain scoring while facilitating, he’ll provide leadership and offensive spacing critical to the Wizards’ next phase of development.

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