Continuing with our ongoing top 25 player rankings, we have our first player outside of the 20s: De’Aaron Fox. The Sacramento Kings guard is a dynamic scorer with an under-appreciated all-around game. Despite his stellar and consistent play, Fox is often forgotten about in star conversations. Let’s explore Fox’s game and spot on this list.
Top 25 NBA Players 2024-25: No. 19 – De’Aaron Fox
The League’s Most Underrated Star
When discussing the league’s best point guards Fox’s name rarely comes up. Notably, Fox has only been named to one All-Star team and was one of the biggest snubs this year. However, his production is just as good as many of the guards who people rank above him. Top-tier stars Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Stephen Curry, and Jalen Brunson are certainly above Fox. However, out of all guards in the next tier of stars, Fox is best suited to be a traditional number one option.
Fox is a dynamic 25-point scorer his lightning-quick speed makes him one of the best downhill scorers and finishers in the league. Fox has long been an elite mid-range scorer he is also rapidly improving as a three-point shooter. Furthermore, Fox is one of the league’s best clutch-time scorers. This skill set makes Fox the complete package as a scorer and gives him upside as a number one option. As a playmaker Fox is underrated his assist numbers don’t jump off the page; however, he is a quick decision-maker and versatile passer. Crucially, Fox is one of the few star guards who makes a positive defensive impact.
Some people believe Domantas Sabonis is the Kings’ best player due to his well-rounded impact. However, Fox’s elite scoring and creation skill set give him a significant advantage. There should be no doubt Fox is Sacermento’s number one option and most important player.
De Aaron Fox best moments of his career
(A thread 🧵) pic.twitter.com/lRBkXqmu97
— instantkings (@instantkings) April 1, 2024
Season Recap
Despite the Kings taking a step back this and missing the playoffs Fox quietly had a stellar season. Fox averaged 26.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists, on 45.6/36.9/73.8 shooting splits. Fox’s 26.6 points were a career-high. His 36.9 percent three-point shooting on 7.8 attempts were both career highs. Furthermore, Fox’s 2.0 steals per game lead the league.
The 2022-23 Clutch Player of the Year continued to be one of the league’s best clutch-time players; his 3.5 clutch-time points per game was tied for ninth in the league. Notably, Fox also shot 65.4 percent at the rim. The advanced stats highlight Fox’s extreme value; the Kings had a +6.6 offensive rating with him on the court and a +7.4 net rating. Ultimately, Fox’s season received little praise despite his high-level production and improvements within his game.
Season Outlook
With the Kings adding DeMar DeRozan this season Fox will be a crucial part of ensuring Sacramento’s new core fits smoothly. Considering the spacing concerns with this trio Fox’s development as a three-point shooter will be of the utmost importance. If Fox can be a consistent three-point shooter it greatly raises the Kings’ ceiling. Having two elite isolation scorers gives the Kings tons of offensive upside but Fox being a consistent deep-range shooter would take that to the next level.
Fox’s defense will also be important for Sacramento’s success this season. The Kings project to be a below-average defense. However, Fox’s perimeter defense could be a bright spot. With DeRozan in the mix Sacramento is eyeing to return to the playoffs. If the Kings make the playoffs even if they aren’t a three-seed like in the 2022-23 season Fox’s game will receive more mainstream recognition.
The Last Word
19 may seem a little high for Fox, and there are plenty of notable names, especially guards below him. Admittedly, there’s not a ton separating Fox from many players lower than him on this list and other star guards who barely missed it. However, Fox’s elite shot creation makes him better equipped to be a true number-one than many of his peer All-Star guards. This type of number-one upside combined with consistency gives Fox an advantage. Furthermore, Fox’s two-way abilities give the edge over similar guards. Overall, Fox’s incredible scoring and ability to carry an offense, combined with his all-around game, makes him one of the league’s best guards.
