The modern NBA is undergoing a seismic shift, where the traditional positions of the past are increasingly irrelevant, giving way to a new era of positional fluidity and versatility.
In this evolved landscape, players are no longer confined to fixed roles. Instead, they morph and adapt, delivering impact across the positional spectrum from game to game, or even possession to possession.
Versatile Stars Redefining Roles
Take Zion Williamson, for instance. Standing at 6-foot-6, the power forward challenges conventional roles by frequently initiating plays from the perimeter, showcasing his versatility. Similarly, Giannis Antetokounmpo, listed as a four, operates primarily from the perimeter while effectively defending opposing centers. Giannis's adaptability is one of the many reasons why he ranks in the top-15 in scoring, rebounding, and assists each season, though his playoff campaigns are often marred by injuries.
On the other end of the spectrum, Rudy Gobert remains celebrated for his defensive prowess and rim protection. As Jasmyn Wimbish notes, “He has already established himself as one of the best rim protectors in the league.” Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns stretches defenses with his perimeter shooting, reflecting a trend where big men are expected to have multifaceted skill sets.
The Youth Movement
Up-and-coming stars are also making significant waves. Lauri Markkanen, currently with the Utah Jazz on a five-year, $238 million extension, averaged 23 points and 8 rebounds with an impressive true-shooting percentage last season. Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder is another exemplar of this new breed, known for his guard-like handle and three-point shooting ability.
The Orlando Magic's Paolo Banchero made history by becoming the first Magic player since Mike Miller to win Rookie of the Year, following it up with his first All-Star season. Victor Wembanyama is setting his own records, averaging 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game post-All-Star break in his rookie season.
Dominance on Both Ends
Several players are setting benchmarks with their skills on both offense and defense. Domantas Sabonis led the league in rebounds and was eighth in assists last season, joining Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to average at least 19 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists in a season. Jack Maloney aptly describes Sabonis as “a true playmaking hub for the Kings.”
Bam Adebayo, described by Sam Quinn as a player who “has been a full-time starter for five years and has never missed an All-Defense selection,” also attempted a career-high number of three-pointers and mid-range shots, demonstrating his offensive evolution. Then there’s Anthony Davis, who had nearly 75% of his shot attempts come in the paint last season, his highest percentage with the Lakers. Quinn adds, “Davis just had his best season since winning the 2020 championship.”
The Unstoppable Elite
No discussion of contemporary NBA greats would be complete without mentioning Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic. Embiid combines a face-up jumper with a dominant post-game to remain one of the most versatile offensive threats in the league, while his rim protection is top-notch. Brad Botkin notes, “Embiid has made great strides as a hub.”
Jokic, often considered the world's best player, exemplifies the modern center with his unparalleled ability to facilitate. Brad Botkin captures his essence perfectly: “Jokic’s dominance occurs both in plain sight and on less visible margins.” Despite being known primarily for his offensive genius, Jokic has also made significant defensive improvements.
Conclusion
The modern NBA, with its emphasis on versatility and fluidity, showcases a new breed of players who defy old-school positional norms. From emerging stars like Paolo Banchero to established big men like Jokic and Embiid, today's athletes are rewriting the rulebook, demonstrating that in this era of basketball, adaptability and multifaceted skill sets are the keys to success.