As the highly anticipated NBA 2K26 prepares for its September launch, Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown has secured a prominent spot among the game’s top overall ratings. Brown received an overall rating of 90, placing him alongside notable players such as Kyrie Irving, Trae Young, and Jalen Williams.
This rating positions Brown ahead of former MVP James Harden and former Rookie of the Year Paulo Banchero, both rated slightly lower at 89, highlighting the growing recognition of Brown’s impact in the league.
Comparing Career Trajectories and Recent Performance
James Harden, an 11-time All-Star and a former MVP, will be 36 years old at the start of the 2025-26 season, whereas Brown, with four All-Star appearances in the last five years, will turn 29 in October. Harden recently averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds in 35.3 minutes per game across 79 matches during the 2024-25 season, making his first All-Star team in three years.
In comparison, Brown posted 22.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists while averaging 34.3 minutes in 63 games last season, underlining his consistent contribution on both ends of the court.
Additional Celtics and League Players Also Recognized
Alongside Brown, Celtics forward Sam Hauser and guard Derrick White received commendations for their skill sets, ranking highly in three-point shooting and defensive ability respectively within the game’s player evaluations. This inclusion reflects the broader respect for Boston’s roster as NBA 2K26 finalizes its top 100 player ratings.
Implications for NBA 2K26 and Player Recognition
Brown’s rise in the NBA 2K26 rankings represents not only his personal growth but also emphasizes the shifting landscape among NBA stars as veterans age and emerging talent steps forward. The game’s rating system serves as a reflection of current performance and projected future influence, underlining Brown’s status as one of the league’s elite players entering the new season.