The Best Players in NBA 2K16

Nail clutch three-pointers and glide to the basket controlling the NBA’s finest.

NBA 2K16 comes with a variety of cool features, from online competition to making a created player stand out in the NBA to taking part in a Finals matchup for the ages. You can even design custom uniforms and courts.

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We already pointed out the 10 best teams in NBA 2K16, but now it’s time to give individual players their due, as they will no doubt be the ones driving up the score in the final moments of games. Whether it’s a powerful dunk or nailing a key three-pointer from the outside, these are the guys to turn to in the clutch.

LeBron James (Cleveland Cavaliers)

One thing James brings to the virtual court is consistency. He had it in previous years playing for the Heat, and he continues his dominance with the Cavaliers. Controlling him in NBA 2K16 gives you plenty of room to maneuver, whether you prefer to shoot from behind the arc or make your way to the rim for an earth-shattering dunk. He’s almost unstoppable, and should opposing players double (LeBron will always draw extra attention), kick out to Kevin Love or Kyrie Irving.

Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder)

Another well-rounded player who performs well all over the court, Durant helped put the Thunder on the map. His virtual persona in NBA 2K16 is capable of filling up the stat sheet in a hurry, as you can score from anywhere. Drain the three or hit a cutting Durant for the alley-oop. Similar to LeBron, teams will put added emphasis on KD, but you should still be able to put up a ton of points despite the defensive pressure.

Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)

While Curry may not be the strongest defensive player, he’s good in one key area – shooting threes. Having him outside the line and taking aim at the basket practically guarantees points. However, he’s also good for passing to teammates inside, and if you feel like taking lay-ups, he’s quick enough to easily get to the rim.

James Harden (Houston Rockets)

The left-handed Harden brings plenty of skills to the hardwood, whether you’re taking him to the rim or unleashing a long-distance shot from the outside. If you get in trouble, dump the ball inside to Dwight Howard for the slam. Plus, you have to love Harden’s beard.

Chris Paul (Los Angeles Clippers)

Pairing Chris Paul with the likes of Blake Griffin is one of the most lethal combinations in the NBA. He’s versatile on the court, making most of his shots with ease, especially in the clutch, as he showed in last year’s seven-game matchup against San Antonio. Without question one of the most dominant point guards in the league.

Surprise, the Clippers are more entertaining than the Lakers this year. Sorry, Kobe fans.

Anthony Davis (New Orleans Pelicans)

The Pelicans’ Anthony Davis will have a big year, and 2K Sports realized this when creating his 2K16 incarnation. He’s an absolute beast, mainly because he can drive down the line faster than most players (and can keep up with LeBron, believe it or not). Not only does he shoot lights out on the court, but he performs solid on defense as well.

Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder)

Kevin Durant is a machine, but let’s not deny the power of his cohort, Russell Westbrook, who can keep up with Durant on any given day. His dunks are incredibly powerful, and he creates a highlight reel in NBA 2K16 worth watching. Few defenses know what to do when Westbrook and KD are on the court at the same time. Break down the defense with Westbrook’s point guard play and pass the ball to the open man.

Marc Gasol (Memphis Grizzlies)

Pau Gasol isn’t the only name in the NBA making waves – his sibling Marc Gasol is a big reason why Memphis is a contender. His virtual self is just as stunning on the court as the real deal, driving up a huge number of points and delivering both inside and outside the paint. He also shoots with great accuracy, so it’s nice to have him on the inside for an easy two when you need it most.

Tim Duncan (San Antonio Spurs)

Despite nearing the big 4-0, Tim Duncan hasn’t shied away from basketball greatness. He’s been playing incredible ball with the Spurs over the last few years, and continues to have strong presence on the court – both in real life and NBA 2K16. His skill lies in balanced team play. He can do quite well on his own with shooting and defense, and he meshes so well with his teammates.

John Wall (Washington Wizards)

The Wizards have changed quite a bit over the years, but one thing the team continues to bring is consistency, thanks to players like John Wall. This point guard has excellent shooting in NBA 2K16 no matter where you seem to be on the court, and works well within both offense and defense to keep things flowing smoothly. There’s a reason he racks up a high point percentage in nearly every game he plays.

Jimmy Butler (Chicago Bulls)

While some players believe Derrick Rose is the way to go (since, you know, he’s not injured in the game), more attention should be paid to shooting guard Jimmy Butler. He maintained strong numbers last season, and hits shots with ease in 2K16. He’s also a strong rebounder, as he can snag a ball and head on back down the court without breaking a sweat.


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Prima Games Staff
The staff at Prima Games.