LeBron, Curry, Durant Dethroned in NBA Rank

ESPN’s NBA Rank 2025 put Stephen Curry (No. 7), LeBron James (No. 8) and Kevin Durant (No. 9) behind six younger stars, and league voices told Tim Bontemps they largely agree. A Western coach said, “They should be there. They’re just not top-five guys anymore,” with scouts adding, “They are for sure [top 10] as long as they are healthy.” Age, availability and rising young cores explain the shift — but the trio still matters. Merlin sees a passing of the torch that’s more ceremony than exile. Their resumes and steady play keep them influential; yet the future — Jokic, Dončić, SGA, Giannis, Wembanyama, Edwards — is staking claim. Durability will decide whether veterans tilt a title race or watch the new kings rule.