Who tops 2026-27 NBA shooting guard rankings? Anthony Edwards or Donovan Mitchell?

As the shooting guard position boasts a myriad of talents, determining the top players for the 2026-27 season proves challenging. Anthony Edwards, Donovan Mitchell, and Devin Booker stand out as notable contenders, alongside defenders like Stephon Castle, Amen Thompson, and Derrick White. In this article, I'll be ranking the top 10 shooting guards entering the 2026-27 season based on individual success, injury concerns, player trajectory, and contributions to winning.

No. 10: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers

Damian Lillard recently returned from a torn Achilles injury that sidelined him for the entire 2025-26 season. Despite this setback, Lillard averaged nearly 25 points per game before his injury and maintained lethal shooting form when winning last season's 3-Point Contest. With age 36, Lillard's ranking is primarily based on his impressive shooting and consistency.

No. 9: Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans

Trey Murphy III had a strong 2025-26 season, averaging 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.8 turnovers per game. Playing in 66 games after fewer than 60 games in each of the previous two seasons, Murphy displayed strong shooting splits of 47% from the field and 37.9% from three-point range. His consistency and all-around play secured his ninth position on the list.

No. 8: Derrick White, Boston Celtics

Despite high expectations, Derrick White's 2025-26 season was marked by inefficient shooting, with a career-low 39.4% from the field and 32.1% from three-point range. However, White's defense was solid, earning him an All-Defensive first team selection with an average of 1.3 blocks and 1.1 steals. With Jaylen Brown now gone, White could return to the top-five conversation if he improves his shooting.

No. 7: Desmond Bane, Orlando Magic

Desmond Bane's consistency was the highlight of the Orlando Magic's 2025-26 season, as he suited up for all 82 games after dealing with numerous injuries. Bane averaged 20.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.0 steal, and 2.0 turnovers per game while maintaining strong shooting splits of 48.4% from the field, 39.1% from three-point range, and 90.8% from the free-throw line. Known for his strong motor and physicality, Bane remains an invaluable contributor to the Magic's offense.