The wait is almost over — NBA 2K26 is right around the corner, and you know what that means: player ratings debates are officially back. With ratings for the top 10 players recently leaked, fans are already flooding Reddit threads, firing off hot takes on X (formerly Twitter), and getting into heated arguments over who's rated too high and who got snubbed.
As expected, some familiar faces remain at the top, but there are a few surprises too — including a potential final appearance for some all-time legends. So whether you're a sim purist or a MyTeam grinder, here's your official look at the NBA 2K26 top 10 player ratings, based on the latest reliable leaks.
1. Nikola Jokić – 98 OVR (↑ +1 from 2K25)
The Joker takes the top spot in NBA 2K26, and honestly, it's about time. While Denver's playoff run ended early thanks to OKC, Jokić made it crystal clear he's still the best basketball player alive. He's a one-man system — a do-it-all offensive engine who makes the game look like 4D chess.
This year, Denver's front office gave him better help, and 2K is rewarding that with a well-deserved boost. Expect a dominant post game, elite vision, and elite rebounding in-game. Jokić is a cheat code in 2K, and this year is no different.
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – 98 OVR (↑ +2)
Shai is living the dream: championship ring ✅, Finals MVP ✅, cover of 2K ✅. And now? A top-tier 98 rating, tied with Jokić and Giannis. SGA's methodical, slow-paced destruction of defenses is something 2K players are going to love this year. His midrange is deadly, and with OKC's young squad finally delivering on their potential, Shai is the league's smoothest killer. Love him or hate his foul-drawing skills, you can't deny his dominance — both in real life and on your console.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo – 98 OVR (↑ +1)
Dame's departure hurt, but Giannis keeps the Bucks relevant through sheer willpower. He averaged 28/11 while still being the most physically dominant force in the league. In 2K26, he's once again a nightmare in transition, with ridiculous speed, contact dunks, and a defense that covers the entire half-court. If you're not running Giannis at point in 2K, are you even playing correctly?
4. Luka Dončić – 96 OVR (↓ -1)
The biggest trade in NBA history sent Luka to L.A. in exchange for Anthony Davis. Dallas fans cried, Lakers fans rejoiced, and now Luka's looking slim, strong, and deadly in purple and gold. While his rating dropped slightly, Luka's game in 2K is still elite — high playmaking, clutch shooting, and elite stepbacks. Expect him to take over MyCareer storylines and be a fan favorite in online matchups.
5. LeBron James – 96 OVR (↑ +1)
Possibly his Final 2K Rating. Year 23. 96 OVR. Let that sink in. There's a real chance this is LeBron's final active-player rating in a 2K game, and if that's true, it's the end of an era. Still, he's putting up numbers and bringing leadership to a Lakers team entering the Luka era.
In-game, Bron is still a menace. Bullet passes, monster dunks, chase-down blocks — a fan-favorite and a rage machine online. Enjoy him while you can.
6. Stephen Curry – 95 OVR (=)
Still the top shooter in 2K. Still ruining online games with logo threes. Still impossible to guard if you don't pick him up at halfcourt. Though Curry's production has dipped slightly, in 2K he's a walking green release. New players, old players — everyone knows how deadly Steph can be if you give him even a second of space. Run plays, get open, and let it fly.
7. Jayson Tatum – 95 OVR (=)
Tatum's 2025 postseason ended in heartbreak with a season-ending Achilles injury, but his overall still reflects his elite two-way impact and undeniable star power.
In 2K26, he'll be on the roster (injury or not), and players will still use his silky smooth jumper, post-up game, and ability to play 1-4. Boston might be on pause for now, but JT's 2K game remains fire.
8. Anthony Davis – 95 OVR (↑ +1)
The Luka-for-AD trade shocked the league, but Dallas has built a deep squad around the Brow, with Kyrie, Klay, and rookie phenom Cooper Flagg forming a new super team. And when healthy? Davis is still that guy.
AD gives you elite rim protection, post moves, alley-oops, and spacing. He's a versatile big that's an absolute asset in any game mode. Injuries aside, he's still a dominant force in 2K26.
9. Anthony Edwards – 94 OVR (=)
The Next Superstar?
Ant-Man is built for 2K: explosive dunks, three-level scoring, high vertical, and nasty on-ball defense. He's flashy, fun, and already has a deep playoff run under his belt.
This year's rating didn't change, but Ant's popularity is only growing. Whether you're running ISO or cutting backdoor for posters, he's one of the most fun guards to use, period.
10. Donovan Mitchell – 94 OVR (=)
Mitchell remains one of the most slept-on elite guards in the league. He's quick, can score in bunches, and feels tailor-made for MyTeam and MyCareer players who love slashing and quick releases.
Cleveland may not be in the headlines, but Spida's game shines bright in 2K26. If you're hunting buckets with a smooth release and great animations, Mitchell's your guy.
Final Thoughts:
With LeBron and Steph possibly making their final appearances as active players in the 2K franchise, NBA 2K26 feels like the start of a new era. Jokic reigns supreme, Shai is the face of the game, and rising stars like Ant and Cooper Flagg (we see you) are ready to take the torch.
Still, it's wild to think that a few years from now, legends like LeBron, Steph, and even KD (who didn't make the top 10 this time) might be locked behind the All-Time rosters.
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