Ratings day always gets people talking, but the useful part isn't just arguing over a number on a screen. It's figuring out what that number means once you're actually building a lineup. The early NBA 2K27 list puts Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic on 97 OVR, with Luka Doncic, Jalen Brunson and Giannis Antetokounmpo right behind them. That's a serious group, no question. Still, anyone planning to use 2K27 MT should look past the headline names. In MyTEAM, a card's release, defensive movement, size and position can matter more than a one-point gap in overall rating. You'll notice it quickly when a lower-rated wing keeps getting stops or when a famous scorer can't fit the way you play.
The 81 to 85 OVR Range Has Real Value
Starting with the lower end of the list, Walker Kessler at 81 OVR feels fair enough. His health has been part of the conversation, yet his rim protection still gives him a clear job on the floor. Tobias Harris at the same rating feels a bit light, especially for players who need steady scoring without forcing every possession. Alex Caruso is another name that jumps out at 81. He isn't built around flashy box scores, but he does the small stuff that wins online games: fighting over screens, rotating early and making life awkward for opposing guards. Ayo Dosunmu and Dejounte Murray could also look better once the season settles in. At 82 OVR, Dillon Brooks, Jrue Holiday and Paul George seem like players whose two-way value isn't fully captured. Holiday in particular has the kind of defensive presence that players notice straight away. At 84, Ja Morant and Rudy Gobert come with different questions. Morant needs to rediscover his efficiency, while Gobert's defensive impact remains hard to ignore. Ausar Thompson and Zion Williamson at 85 feel more understandable, though Zion's availability will always affect how people view him.
The 86 to 88 OVR Debate Is About Role
This is where the arguments get more personal. LaMelo Ball at 86 OVR may feel low if you value passing flair, shot creation and the ability to make something out of a broken possession. He can turn a quiet offensive set into an open three in a second. Trae Young sits one point higher at 87, and that gap will raise eyebrows. Young is still one of basketball's best creators, but opponents will go after him on the other end. An 85 or 86 could have reflected that trade-off. James Harden at 87 creates a similar debate. His passing and scoring instincts are still there, but some players will feel that his rating leans heavily on what he has done over the years. Austin Reaves at 88 may be the tougher call. He can run an offence and make big shots, but an 86 or 87 would not have shocked many people. Paolo, also at 87, has a stronger case for a small bump after showing more in high-pressure games.
The 91 to 97 OVR Group Draws the Loudest Reactions
Once the ratings reach 91 and above, every place on the list gets picked apart. Jaylen Brown at 91 is probably the number that will keep coming up. His recent form, physical defence and ability to carry stretches of offence make 93 or 94 easy to understand. Tyrese Haliburton at 92 still reflects how dangerous he can be when healthy. Donovan Mitchell and Jayson Tatum both sit at 93, while Kawhi Leonard gets the same mark. Leonard could look underpriced if he stays on the court and brings that late-season level into the new campaign. Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Cade Cunningham also land on 93, though they offer very different styles. Anthony Edwards rises to 95, which suits a player who has added more range and control to his attacking game. Giannis at 96 makes sense. Brunson at 96 is the more divisive call, especially with Luka also on 96. Then come Jokic, Wembanyama and SGA at 97. SGA's place at the summit is easy to defend after his MVP-level year, even if some fans will say a 98 was there for the taking.
Final Thoughts
The launch list is only a snapshot, and it won't stay still for long. Strong months, injuries, new roles and team moves will shape future updates. That's why it pays to avoid building around OVR alone. Look at who actually fills the gaps in your squad, whether that's a defensive guard, a tall forward who can switch, or a centre who protects the paint without slowing everything down. If you decide to buy NBA 2K MT, having that plan first can keep your spending focused on players you'll genuinely use. Big names are fun, sure, but the best lineup is usually the one that feels right in your hands and holds up when the match gets tight.
