Here are the 15 players NBA 2K27 rated ahead of LeBron James, ending NBA star's absurd streak image
LeBron James is a virtual basketball superstar. The 76ers star has authored a legendary career on the real hardwood, producing more points and field goals than any other player in history.
Virtually speaking, James is even more prolific. The four-time MVP is the greatest player of the NBA 2K generation, producing points and highlights at all parts of the floor.
James has lived in the upper echelon of 2K's ratings for the better part of two decades. In 2026, however, his rating dropped precipitously — at least when compared to his peak.
Here's a look at how James' NBA 2K27 rating compares to that of some of his peers.
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What is LeBron James' NBA 2K27 rating?
James carries a 91 overall rating in NBA 2K27. He enjoyed a solid campaign in Year 23, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists on 51.5% shooting. James was an All-Star, although he missed out on an All-NBA team for the first time since his rookie year.
The newly minted Sixers standout remains one of the best wing players in the league, posting the 20th-best player efficiency rating in the league (20.8). Still, his performance waned when compared to the heights of his pinnacle. NBA 2K's rating gurus appeared to take stock of his dwindling displays at his advanced age, stripping his rating back by three compared to his 2K26 figure.
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Every player ahead of LeBron James in NBA 2K27 ratings
James finds himself comfortably outside the top-10 for the first time in more than two decades. He is superseded by a gaggle of players, some of whom are half his age.
Here's a list of the players who boast a rating higher than James' 91.
Rank Player Team Age Rating
1. Nikola Jokic Nuggets 31 98
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Thunder 28 98
3. Victor Wembanyama Spurs 22 97
4. Luka Doncic Lakers 27 97
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo Heat 31 97
6. Jalen Brunson Knicks 29 96
7. Anthony Edwards Timberwolves 25 96
8. Stephen Curry Warriors 38 95
9. Kevin Durant Rockets 37 93
10. Cade Cunningham Pistons 24 93
11. Kawhi Leonard Raptors 35 93
12. Jayson Tatum Celtics 28 93
13. Donovan Mitchell Cavaliers 29 93
14. Karl-Anthony Towns Knicks 30 93
15. Tyrese Maxey 76ers 25 92
Among the players taking their place above James on the totem pole of 2K ratings is fellow elder statesmen Stephen Curry (95) and Kevin Durant (93). He falls one overall point below his new teammate, Tyrese Maxey, who leads the way for the Sixers. Maxey and James are two of four players to earn 90+ ratings — they're joined by Jaylen Brown (90) and Joel Embiid (90).
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Last time LeBron James was ranked outside top 10 in 2K
The last time James' rating fell out of 2K's top-10 was in ESPN NBA 2K5, released in 2024. The game featured Ben Wallace on the cover — he was the first player other than Allen Iverson to earn the honor of cover athlete.
James posted a 90 overall that year, the 12th-highest mark among players that year.