NBA 2K26 just dropped its player ratings, and Cavs fans are scratching their heads! After a stellar 64-win season, are stars like Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen truly getting the respect they deserve? We break down the biggest snubs and surprising scores. What do YOU think about these controversial ratings?

As the highly anticipated NBA 2K26 prepares for its global launch, basketball fans and gamers alike are scrutinizing the recently unveiled player ratings, with a particular spotlight on the Cleveland Cavaliers. After an exceptional 64-win regular season, there’s a strong expectation that the Cavs roster should receive significant recognition; however, early indications suggest that some key players might be surprisingly undervalued, sparking debate among the community.

The foundation of any player’s rating should unequivocally rest on their full-season performance and impact. The Cavaliers demonstrated undeniable dominance throughout their regular season campaign, a body of work that should take precedence in NBA 2K’s evaluation. It would be a disservice to penalize the team solely for a challenging postseason run, especially considering various injuries that impacted their full strength.

Historically, NBA 2K’s rating system has never been without its controversies or perceived misfires, and this year appears to be no different. While the full list of player ratings remains unconfirmed, the initial release of the top 100 features reigning MVP Nikola Jokic and ascending star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the pinnacle. Cleveland’s own superstar, Donovan Mitchell, is highly rated at a 93 overall, securing the 11th spot just outside the top 10.

However, the most significant point of contention revolves around Evan Mobley’s rating. Awarded an 89 overall, Mobley finds himself just shy of the coveted 90 club. This rating seems perplexing for a player who not only made the All-NBA Second Team but also emerged as a quintessential two-way force, instrumental in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ regular season success and their rise as a title contender. His unique blend of defensive prowess and offensive versatility firmly establishes him as one of the league’s most talented big men.

Considering his profound impact and significant accolades, an 89 overall for Evan Mobley feels like a missed opportunity. Many argue that a 90 or even a 91 would more accurately reflect his current standing and contribution to an elite NBA team. The disparity becomes even more pronounced when observing other highly-rated players like Jaylen Brown, Trae Young, or Ja Morant, whose circumstances and individual statistics sometimes differ significantly from Mobley’s unique role.

Similarly, Jarrett Allen’s 84 overall rating, while not inherently insulting, raises questions about the nuanced considerations of the ratings panel. While an 82 might have been too harsh, one could argue that a slightly higher rating could have better reflected his consistent presence in the paint and his vital role as a defensive anchor for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His contributions often extend beyond raw statistics, providing crucial interior defense and rebounding that are essential for the team’s overall strategy.

Ultimately, accurate player ratings are crucial for both game realism and fan engagement within the NBA 2K community. While the game strives for authenticity, these specific ratings for key Cleveland Cavaliers players like Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen appear to overlook their substantial achievements and pivotal roles in what was an outstanding NBA season. Such discrepancies inevitably fuel lively discussions among fans, highlighting the ongoing challenge of perfectly encapsulating a player’s true value in a numerical rating.

As players and fans alike dive into the new edition, the debate over these ratings will undoubtedly persist, shaping perceptions and fueling countless virtual matchups. The hope remains that future adjustments will reflect a more comprehensive understanding of team success and individual contributions, particularly for those players who have demonstrably exceeded expectations in the most recent NBA season.