The 2025-26 NBA regular season is shaping up to be full of excitement, featuring standout performances and notable struggles across teams. Here’s a detailed look at the current state of the league, highlighting key contributors to each team’s success.
NBA Power Rankings: Unsung Contributors Make Their Mark
As of mid-November 2025, several players are carving out roles that significantly impact their teams despite not being the main stars. With the season well underway, we explore the most vital role players on each of the NBA’s 30 teams.
Top Teams and Their Unsung Heroes
- Oklahoma City Thunder (Record: 14-1)
- Isaiah Hartenstein: Averaging career highs of 12.9 points and 10.9 rebounds, Hartenstein has solidified his role as a crucial contributor.
- Denver Nuggets
- Tim Hardaway Jr.: Contributed 11.4 points with a remarkable 47.1% shooting from beyond the arc, enhancing bench scoring.
- Detroit Pistons (Record: 13-2)
- Ausar Thompson: His defensive prowess and ability to generate fast-break opportunities have been key to the Pistons’ success.
Other Significant Players Across the League
- Houston Rockets (Record: 10-5)
- Reed Sheppard: A consistent scorer off the bench with 15.7 points, showcasing his shooting skills.
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Lonzo Ball: His playmaking and defensive efforts have been pivotal, especially with Darius Garland sidelined.
- Atlanta Hawks
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: Step-up performance in Trae Young’s absence, averaging 19.4 points since Young’s injury.
Emerging Talents and Consistent Contributors
- New Orleans Pelicans
- Derik Queen: Impressive early contributions as a starter, including a standout 26-point game.
- Portland Trail Blazers
- Jerami Grant: Averaging 17.7 points off the bench, now relied upon due to recent injuries in the roster.
- Sacramento Kings
- Keon Ellis: Gaining momentum with increased playing time during a challenging stretch for the team.
The 2025-26 season is continuing to unfold, and the contributions of these role players are becoming increasingly critical for their teams as the playoff picture starts to take shape. With each player showcasing unique talents, their impacts create ripples throughout the league, and they will be vital as their teams strive for success.
