If you’re an NBA fan, 2023 is shaping up to be a thrilling year. Watching the games becomes more exhilarating when you know which players to keep an eye on. First on the list has to be Luka Doncic. According to ESPN’s data, this young prodigy has been averaging 28.8 points per game, which is a jaw-dropping figure for someone who’s just 24 years old. It feels like every time he touches the ball, there’s an electric sense in the air. The Mavericks are definitely on a winning trajectory with this guy leading them.
Then there’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, a name that practically rolls off the tongue when we talk about excellence on the court. Recently, in a news interview, Giannis mentioned how every offseason he puts in hundreds of hours improving his free-throw percentage, which has gone from a shaky 63% to a commendable 74%. His relentless drive for perfection is what sets him apart. Can you imagine someone who’s 6’11” moving with the agility of a guard? It’s almost a cheat code, making him one of the most fascinating players to watch.
And of course, we can’t forget about Stephen Curry. There’s a unique thrill to watching Steph launch three-pointers from what feels like the parking lot. This season, his shooting average remains around 42.8% from beyond the arc. For context, the league average for three-point shooting is typically around 35%, making Curry an astonishing outlier. Every game he plays garners major coverage, turning regular season matchups into must-watch events. His performance on Christmas Day against the Suns was particularly iconic, scoring 33 points and ensuring a Warriors victory at a crucial moment in the season.
Jayson Tatum has also been making waves, with a remarkable performance in the playoffs last year that carried his Boston Celtics team to the Eastern Conference Finals. Tatum is averaging 26.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game this season. His efficiency at the forward position makes him a dual threat, always exciting to watch. Fans vividly recall the game against the Bucks last May, where he dropped 46 points, single-handedly turning the game around for the Celtics. High-pressure situations just seem to fuel his fire.
Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, has continued to impress everyone in the 2023 season. Jokic averages a triple-double with 24.3 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game. Yes, you read that right—a center averaging a triple-double. The last time a player consistently achieved this was back in Oscar Robertson’s era. His basketball IQ and ability to make team members better reflect qualities that make games with him extraordinarily engaging.
Then there are the young guns like Ja Morant. Watching Ja is like observing a highlight reel in real-time. Every time he plays, there’s a buzz of anticipation in the air. He has this remarkable ability to accelerate through defenses, finishing with gravity-defying dunks that make you question the laws of physics. His recent performance against the Lakers, where he scored 41 points, left the crowd and experts awestruck. With his incredible speed and athleticism, he’s guaranteed to make any Grizzlies game a spectacle.
Let’s not overlook the veteran LeBron James, who despite his years continues to defy age. The NBA icon is closing in on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record, something many thought would never be broken. At 38 years old, LeBron is still averaging above 25 points per game. Just last week, he secured a triple-double against the Cavaliers, proving he’s not done yet. This feat alone is monumental, a testament to his longevity and resilience. Watching him play feels like partaking in a historical moment, time and again.
Kevin Durant is another player who commands attention. KD’s finesse and ability to score from anywhere on the court make him a perfect highlight machine. His current average stands at 29.2 points per game, maintaining a shooting efficiency that is matched by very few in the league. His time with the Nets has shown that he’s capable of leadership and elevating his team’s performance. Fans can’t forget his 55-point game against the Hawks last season—a clear demonstration of his extraordinary talents.
Zion Williamson’s return to the court also brings a lot of excitement. After spending significant time injured, Zion is back and playing at an elite level, contributing to the Pelicans’ burgeoning success. Since his return, he’s been averaging around 27 points and 7.3 rebounds, showing us why he was one of the most anticipated players coming out of college. His power and agility make him a unique player who’s impossible to ignore when he’s on the floor.
There are so many dynamic players in the league right now that it’s hard to cover them all, but one thing is clear—2023 is a year you don’t want to miss a single game. Whether it’s the explosiveness of young stars or the seasoned dominance of veterans, there’s no shortage of talent and excitement this season. Make sure to catch all the action on arena plus for an immersive experience.