NBA's Top Duos for the Upcoming Season: New Faces and Familiar Legends Shine
With the NBA set to return from its summer break, fans eagerly anticipate some fresh pairings on the court. This ranking highlights the top twelve duos heading into the new season, featuring both established stars and new combinations. Steph Curry and Draymond Green The Warriors' iconic duo enters their 15th season together, boasting four NBA titles. However, with Curry’s injury history and both nearing 40, uncertainty looms over their future in Golden State. Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren Cunningham shone as the Pistons' best player, but Duren’s unresolved contract situation raises questions. Both players have the potential to elevate their performance, but Duren's playoff struggles complicate matters. Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley Mitchell made the Second Team All-NBA, and despite some playoff setbacks, he teams with Mobley, who remains under contract for four more years. This duo aims to solidify the Cavaliers' status in the Eastern Conference. Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball With Edwards leading in scoring and Ball providing elite passing, this duo promises excitement. Their ability to mesh on the court will be crucial for the Timberwolves. Jayson Tatum and Derrick White After Brown's departure, Tatum and White take center stage for the Celtics. Both have impressive defensive stats, but their success hinges on Tatum's recovery from an Achilles injury. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo The Heat’s acquisition of Giannis raises expectations, although questions about offensive spacing remain. Both are defensive stalwarts and must find balance offensively. Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves The Lakers' new core, led by Dončić and Reaves, will look to make waves. With LeBron now in Philadelphia, their performance will be pivotal in the Western Conference. Sixers' Best Duo With Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe, the Sixers have flexibility. This trio can dominate on any given night, depending on matchups and Embiid’s health. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams After a championship run, this duo remains a vital part of the Thunder's future. Both players are signed long-term, ensuring stability and continued growth. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns Brunson, often underestimated, led the Knicks to their first title in over five decades. Towns emerged as a key player during the postseason, making this duo one to watch. Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray The reigning MVP runner-up, Jokić, combined with an in-form Murray, presents a formidable partnership. Both players had career years, emphasizing their prime status. Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle/Dylan Harper Wembanyama, the youngest player to make First Team All-NBA, is a generational talent. His potential partnership with either Castle or Harper signifies a bright future for the Spurs.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-08-21