We are now in the era of “Big Threes” in the NBA, and the Boston Celtics recently showcased theirs to secure the 2023-24 NBA championship (though some may argue they had a “Big Six”). Heading into the 2024-25 season, several Big Threes will be competing, with key player trades and signings this summer creating new combinations. We’ve ranked each NBA team’s Big Three ahead of the new season, and there could be some surprising placements in the rankings.
1. Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday
The Celtics’ trio of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Jrue Holiday exemplifies elite two-way basketball. Tatum, fresh off an All-NBA season, is considered one of the top five players in the league. Brown adds to the duo with his top-tier athleticism and improved performance in clutch moments, making them one of the most iconic duos in Celtics history. The addition of Jrue Holiday enhances the team’s defense, as he’s a consistent All-Defensive Team member, known for handling the toughest backcourt challenges while also contributing as a secondary playmaker.
This Big Three led the Celtics to their first championship in over a decade in 2023-24, and with their mix of youth, experience, and defensive mindset, they seem well-positioned for another championship run in 2024-25. Their depth and two-way capabilities make them one of the most balanced and dangerous trios in the league, not to mention Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White’s contributions.
2.Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson
The Mavericks have created one of the most intriguing Big Threes by adding Klay Thompson to join Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Doncic is a consistent MVP contender, having averaged 33.9 points and 9.8 assists last season, claiming the scoring title. Pairing him with Kyrie Irving, who remains one of the most skillful ball-handlers and efficient scorers, gives Dallas a unique backcourt duo.
Though slightly past his peak, Klay Thompson still offers elite three-point shooting and valuable championship experience. His ability to space the floor will be crucial, providing room for Doncic and Irving to operate. Despite some defensive decline, his off-ball movement and experience playing with stars like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green make him an ideal third option. This combination could position Dallas for another deep playoff run.
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3. Philadelphia 76ers: Joel Embiid, Paul George, Tyrese Maxey
Joel Embiid, the 2023 MVP, is the cornerstone of the second-best Big Three in the Eastern Conference. Embiid’s dominance in the paint, both offensively and defensively, is unparalleled—he led the league in scoring with 34.7 points per game and remains a force with his shot-blocking and rebounding. The addition of Paul George brings a proven two-way player to the team, capable of defending elite wings and contributing as a secondary playmaker. Though George has dealt with injuries, when healthy, he’s an elite perimeter scorer, shooting over 41.3% from deep last season.
Rounding out this trio is Tyrese Maxey, who brings energy and scoring ability. Maxey took a significant leap last season, averaging 25.9 points and winning the Most Improved Player award. While health will be critical to their success, this combination of talent gives the 76ers their strongest chance at contending for a championship in years.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, Rudy Gobert
The Timberwolves are counting on Anthony Edwards to fully emerge as a superstar, forming a formidable Big Three with Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert. Edwards had a breakout season, averaging 25.9 points and stepping up in clutch moments. Towns, known as one of the best shooting big men in NBA history, stretches the floor with his range and provides a steady inside presence.
Gobert, on the other hand, anchors their defense, having secured his fourth Defensive Player of the Year award last season. After making the Western Conference Finals last year, the Timberwolves, with their top-tier defense, are poised to make another deep playoff push if everything falls into place.
5. Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton
Milwaukee’s new Big Three is arguably the league’s most feared offensive unit. Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP and dominant force, teams up with Damian Lillard, one of the NBA’s most clutch scorers, to create a lethal inside-out duo. Giannis, who averaged 30.4 points and 11.5 rebounds last season, is nearly unstoppable driving to the basket, while his defensive prowess keeps the Bucks competitive.
Adding Lillard, who averaged 24.3 points and 7.0 assists in Portland, brings a dependable perimeter threat who thrives in late-game situations. Khris Middleton, a key figure in the Bucks’ 2021 title run, fits seamlessly alongside them with his ability to create offense and hit crucial shots. While health has been a concern for both Lillard and Middleton, if they remain on the court, this Bucks trio could reclaim the championship.
6. Denver Nuggets: Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon
The reigning 2023 NBA champions head into 2024-25 with a well-established Big Three. Nikola Jokic, a two-time MVP and the current Finals MVP, continues to be the driving force behind the Nuggets, aiming for his fourth MVP award. Jamal Murray remains vital to Denver’s title hopes and looks to build on his strong playoff performance last season. Together, Jokic and Murray manage much of the team’s offensive load.
Aaron Gordon, the third key player, plays an essential role as the team’s defensive anchor and versatile utility player. His willingness to take on tough defensive assignments, along with his ability to thrive in transition and as a cutter, makes him a perfect complement to Jokic and Murray. This trio will need to maintain their high level of play, especially after losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in free agency.
7. Oklahoma City Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams
The Thunder’s young Big Three is one of the league’s most exciting, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who emerged as a superstar in 2023-24, earning All-NBA First Team honors and averaging 30.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.5 rebounds. Chet Holmgren, entering his second season after missing his rookie year due to injury, brings elite potential as a rim protector and floor spacer, with hopes of making his first All-Star appearance.
Jalen Williams, the 2023 Rookie of the Year runner-up, completes this trio with his all-around skills on both ends of the floor. His ability to play multiple positions, defend, and provide secondary playmaking adds another dimension to the team. As they gain playoff experience, this Thunder group is gearing up for a championship push in the near future.
8. Los Angeles Lakers: LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell
The Lakers’ Big Three is still anchored by LeBron James, even as he nears the end of his legendary career. At 39, James posted impressive numbers last season, averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. His performance in the 2024 Paris Olympics also reaffirmed his status as a top 10 player globally. Anthony Davis, when healthy, is one of the league’s most dominant two-way players and also ranks among the NBA’s top 10 talents. In 2023-24, Davis averaged 24.7 points and 12.6 rebounds while leading one of the best defenses in the league.
D’Angelo Russell, the third member of the group, brings scoring and playmaking from the point guard position. Though inconsistent at times, his shooting and chemistry with James and Davis are key to balancing the Lakers’ offense. Health, especially for James and Davis, will be the deciding factor in their success during the 2024-25 season.