When the NBA 2020-21 season rolls around, fans will have plenty to be excited about. There’s been a number of new young stars that have arrived on the hardwood, ushering in the next generation of talent. At least one of them is likely to have the NBA 2K21 cover athlete. We present here five picks for the potential star on the front of the next NBA 2K game.
Who will be the NBA 2K21 cover athlete? Top picks
Zion Williamson – If there’s a top pick for who will grace the cover of NBA 2K21, one has to think it’s this guy. Zion played a shorter season than many had hoped for, but in the limited time he played, he showed his capabilities. The No. 1 pick averaged 23.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game with a nearly 59 percent shooting rate. The Pelicans were also chasing one of the West’s playoff spots thanks to Zion and his talented teammates.
The other vote of confidence for the young star to get the nod? NBA 2K partnered with Zion to help promote the game going forward. So he seems like a safe bet for the “Next” cover star.
Luka Doncic – It’s a game with popularity in many parts of the world. Basketball talent has been coming from all parts of the globe, but doesn’t always bring NBA superstardom. Enter Luka Doncic, who seems on track.
The NBA’s reigning Rookie of the Year has emerged as one of the league’s elite stars in just his sophomore season. Before the season was cut short, Luka was amongst early MVP candidates too. The Mavs star averaged a near-triple-double with 28.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 8.7 assists a game.
Keep in mind, there was a rumor months ago that Luka would be the new NBA Live 20 cover star. However, the game never arrived. So it’s possible if he gets that future NBA Live cover, he won’t be on NBA 2K21.
Three other potential cover stars
Ja Morant – While Williamson is our favorite to become NBA 2K21 cover athlete, another rookie made headlines this season ahead of Zion’s debut on court. The No. 2 pick Ja Morant was the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year based on his impressive numbers with the Memphis Grizzlies. He also had a few impressive dunk highlights and near-dunks in his early time in the NBA, giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come. Could an NBA 2K cover be in his future?
Kawhi Leonard – He’s quiet and doesn’t show as much as emotion as most other players. However, fans still respect Leonard’s skills and game. He’s shown himself to be a great representative for the league, and class act role model. Winning championships with the Spurs and Raptors helps, as well as the fact he now plays in Los Angeles. Could Kawhi be the next guy?
James Harden – A former NBA MVP seems like a smart choice to appear on the next NBA 2K21 cover. He also appeared on one of the covers for 2K17. Harden has continued to light up opponents and lead the league in scoring, showing he’s amongst the top stars in the league. An eight-time All-Star and two-time scoring champ, the man known as “The Beard” would be a recognizable star on the front of 2K21.
There you have it. Five solid predictions, but in our honest opinion, the game’s cover will most likely go to Zion Williamson, unless 2K decides upon a Kobe Bryant tribute. The Black Mamba seems to be a fitting option for the Legend Edition, though.
Visit our NBA 2K news page for more of the latest updates.