The Most Hated Player From Every NBA Team

The NBA stands out as one of the most globally cherished sports leagues, owed largely to its intense competitiveness. Fanatic supporters exhibit unwavering loyalty, filling arenas night after night to witness the unparalleled skills of the world's premier athletes. However, this fervor also breeds animosity, and some players end up receiving immense hate as a result. We have collected the most hated player from every NBA team.

Delving into the league's dynamics, this list unveils the most disliked players for each NBA franchise, shedding light on the intriguing blend of rivalry, bias, and competition that fuels the widespread sentiment of disdain across the NBA landscape. Here is the most hated player on each of the NBA’s 30 teams, analyzing why they have targets on their backs.

Atlanta Hawks - Trae Young

Trae Young, an offensive maestro for the Atlanta Hawks, faces a curious lack of appreciation despite his elite skills. The diminutive point guard often irks opposing fans with his taunting gestures, particularly the "ice cold" shiver that accompanies his moments of peak performance. While his style of play, marked by high shot volume and a substantial usage rate, contributes to his polarizing image, there's an undeniable talent that some fans overlook.

Notably, New York Knicks fans hold a particular disdain for Young, fueled by his propensity to respond to arena chants and even risk getting technical fouls. His short temper despite his miniature size adds to the complex relationship between Young and those who may not fully recognize the consistent brilliance he brings to the basketball court.

Boston Celtics - Jaylen Brown

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Jaylen Brown's recent inking of the most expensive contract in NBA history during the offseason has ignited a storm of debate and criticism. Despite his undeniable talent, dissenting voices argue that Brown may not have deserved such a monumental deal, pointing to perceived shortcomings like his challenges with left-hand dribbling and a relative dip in performance during the past two playoff appearances.

The magnitude of Brown's contract has left many questioning whether he is overpaid, inevitably leading to a growing sentiment of dislike as fans grapple with the weighty expectations placed on the Boston Celtics' rising star when a player like Jayson Tatum is clearly the man in Boston right now.

Brooklyn Nets - Ben Simmons

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Ben Simmons finds himself in the crosshairs of NBA scrutiny, particularly after his controversial departure from the Philadelphia 76ers and his perceived failure to shoulder responsibility for the team's playoff collapse against the Atlanta Hawks in 2021. Despite being a talented star, Simmons's decision to step away from his team during crucial moments has cast a shadow on his reputation.

As the narrative unfolds into another year, the animosity towards Simmons appears to be escalating, fueled in part by his struggles in shooting and the added pressure of playing for the Brooklyn Nets, a team that has become a lightning rod for attention in NBA history. The Australian standout faces an uphill battle to regain favor with fans, requiring not just on-court prowess but a significant effort to mend his image in the eyes of the basketball community.

Charlotte Hornets - LaMelo Ball

LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets has undeniably become a magnetic force in the NBA, not just for his on-court prowess but also for his flashy style and lifestyle off the court. Ball's sartorial choices and vibrant persona have made him a trendsetter, garnering attention that extends beyond the basketball realm. However, this flamboyance, while appealing to some, has also rubbed opposing fans the wrong way, contributing to the polarized perception of the young star.

On the hardwood, Ball earns respect for his exceptional playmaking and scoring abilities. His flair with the ball in his hands, coupled with an innate ability to impact the game, has solidified his status as a rising star. Yet, Ball's nonchalant demeanor, though often celebrated by his supporters, places a figurative target on his back among opponents.

Chicago Bulls - Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls finds himself in a unique position as trade rumors swirl around him, adding an extra layer of scrutiny to his standing among fans. Despite his All-Star status and undeniable prowess as an elite dunker, LaVine faces criticism for not steering the Bulls to substantial success during his tenure. While his individual achievements shine, the lack of team success has become a focal point, casting a shadow over his popularity.

The ongoing trade discussions coupled with the demand for a max contract have intensified the scrutiny. Fans, while acknowledging LaVine's incredible athleticism and scoring ability, are keenly observant of his impact on the team's overall success. The pressure is on for the dynamic guard to not only showcase his individual brilliance but to elevate the Bulls to a more competitive standing in the league if he isn’t traded.

Cleveland Cavaliers - Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell's presence on the Cleveland Cavaliers has injected both skill and controversy into the mix. Renowned for getting under the skin of opposing players, Mitchell's on-court tenacity has earned him admiration from Cavs supporters but also garnered boos from rival fans who feel the sting of his impact. Despite his undeniable talent, Mitchell seems unfazed by the chorus of disapproval, embracing a role that isn't afraid to be the antagonist.

Adding to the intrigue, Mitchell's departure from Utah left a lingering sense of discord, particularly with his well-documented differences with Jazz teammate Rudy Gobert. As the future remains uncertain for Mitchell in Cleveland, the question of whether he will continue to be a polarizing figure, both loved and loathed, hangs in the balance.

Dallas Mavericks - Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving's tenure with the Dallas Mavericks has only added to the complex narrative surrounding the enigmatic point guard. Revered for his unparalleled ball-handling and scoring finesse, Irving finds himself among the most disliked players in the NBA. Much of this disdain stems from his outspoken comments off the court, controversial stances on issues such as the COVID-19 vaccine, and a perceived inability to assume a leadership role.

Irving's turbulent exits from the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Brooklyn Nets, despite being part of superteams, have left a lasting negative impression on fans and pundits alike. The once-admired guard's actions have fueled skepticism about his commitment to team dynamics, leaving many to question if he will ever regain the admiration he once enjoyed. In Dallas, Kyrie Irving continues to be a polarizing figure, both on and off the court, as fans grapple with the complexities of his persona and the impact it has on team chemistry.

Denver Nuggets - Michael Porter Jr.

In the realm of the Denver Nuggets, Michael Porter Jr stands as a polarizing figure for several reasons. Known for his high shot volume and reliance on being a volume shooter to find his rhythm, Porter Jr's playing style elicits diverse opinions even if he is an NBA champion.

Porter Jr's journey has been marked not only by on-court dynamics but also by his comments in the aftermath of the George Floyd incident. While his intentions were rooted in good faith, the reception was mixed and he has not been loved as much since then.

Detroit Pistons - Isaiah Stewart

Isaiah Stewart, a fiery presence for the Detroit Pistons at just 22 years old, has earned a reputation as a renowned hothead, inviting criticism from opposing fans. While his youth and relentless playing style are commendable, Stewart carries a figurative target on his back in the NBA, making him a player who isn't necessarily the most well-liked in the league by any means.

As he navigates the challenges of his early career, the intensity Stewart brings to the game is a double-edged sword, drawing both praise and disapproval from fans across the basketball landscape. Hopefully, he can improve his game to shut the haters up if possible.

Golden State Warriors - Draymond Green

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In the Golden State Warriors' dynamic roster, Draymond Green stands out as a player who excels at getting under opponents' skin, evident in his ongoing beef with multiple players across the league. Known for his tenacity and on-court confrontations, Green doesn't shy away from heated exchanges, and his clashes with various players run deep. His infamous kicks at opposing stars have further contributed to a polarized view of his playing style.

While Green is revered by Warriors fans for his selfless dedication to team success, his approach tends to draw disdain in most other arenas. Last year’s incident involving Jordan Poole has only added to the perception of Green as a disliked figure, emphasizing his commitment to playing for his teammates rather than seeking individual glory or highlight reels.

In the world of Draymond Green, the love from the Warriors faithful comes at the cost of being a divisive figure in the broader NBA landscape. Oh, and he already has an ejection to his name this season after getting into it with Donovan Mitchell.

Houston Rockets - Dillon Brooks

Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets has earned a reputation as one of the most disliked players in the NBA, often being mentioned in the same breath as Draymond Green in this regard. Brooks is known for his trash-talking on the court, occasionally crossing the line into physical play, all while exuding a confidence that seems unfazed by any deficiencies in his game.

Despite the criticisms, Brooks' undeniable prowess as an elite defender is a credit to his tenacity, and he is notorious for never backing down from a challenge, often "poking bears" and engaging with opponents head-on. The Rockets needed a change of culture and Brooks’ defensive-minded play and confidence might quicken that process in their favor.

Indiana Pacers - Myles Turner

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Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers has found himself entangled in constant trade rumors over the past few seasons, contributing to an unfair perception that he may not be as good as his actual prowess suggests. Despite being an excellent two-way big man, Turner's image has been somewhat tarnished by the persistent trade speculation.

Compounding matters, his bold declaration of becoming a first-time All-Star has placed a target on his back, prompting heightened expectations that, as of yet, are yet to be fully realized in terms of on-court production.

Los Angeles Clippers - James Harden

In the realm of the Los Angeles Clippers, the most disliked figure is undoubtedly James Harden, who has managed to surpass even the polarizing presence of players like Paul George and Russell Westbrook. Harden's tumultuous exits from Houston, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia have left fans bewildered, as he seems to grapple with finding contentment. This uncertainty has fueled a collective disdain among fans who despise him for what appears to be a lack of commitment or clarity in his career decisions.

Adding to the animosity, Harden's reputation as a playoff choker has cast a lingering shadow over his otherwise illustrious career. Despite his undeniable scoring prowess, the failure to silence the narrative of faltering in crucial postseason moments has only intensified the dislike towards him. In the Clippers' narrative, James Harden stands out not only for his on-court abilities but for the controversies and perceptions that surround his career decisions and playoff performances.

Los Angeles Lakers - Anthony Davis

In the realm of the Los Angeles Lakers, Anthony Davis finds himself in the unique position of being a player largely disliked by fans from other franchises. While LeBron James may be polarizing, he at least commands a level of respect from most. Davis, on the other hand, is met with mixed sentiments due to the unpredictability of his efforts on the court. Despite his undeniable talent, there's a prevailing uncertainty about what to expect from him, with his performances fluctuating between unstoppable and inconsistent.

When Davis is in top form, the Lakers appear nearly invincible, but the frequency of these peak performances leaves many fans frustrated. Some critics go as far as labeling him as "soft," questioning his resilience in challenging situations. The complex relationship between Anthony Davis and fans, therefore, hinges on the continuous quest for consistency and a reliable display of his exceptional skills, which can make or break the Lakers' aspirations.

Memphis Grizzlies - Ja Morant

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Ja Morant is young, rich, talented, and very brash. That checks all the boxes for a person being disliked across the world. The explosive point guard is tremendously aware of his abilities to dominate in the NBA, and he makes it known anytime he pulls off spectacular plays. However, Morant has brought heat on himself.

Being suspended for the first 25 games of this season, Morant has been unable to help his 2-8 Grizzlies side that looks lost. Ja’s off-court behavior has been despicable, to say the least, and it is truly a shame that a player so talented has to create a persona that nobody truly believes. Hopefully, Morant can get back on the court with focus because he can be one of the faces of the NBA going forward.

Miami Heat - Tyler Herro

In the Miami Heat realm, Tyler Herro's flashy demeanor both on and off the court has inevitably drawn its share of criticism. With a distinctive style of speaking and a penchant for unique attire, Herro has positioned himself in the spotlight, seemingly reveling in the attention more than many anticipated.

Given his talent, youth, and recent lucrative contract, Herro is bound to continue facing scrutiny across the NBA Universe. However, the possibility of mitigating some of the criticism might lie in toning down his distinctive attire, even though such a shift doesn't appear imminent in the near future. As Herro navigates the dynamics of fame and talent, the love-hate relationship with fans and critics alike is likely to persist.

Milwaukee Bucks - Damian Lillard

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There are those fans who have resentment for Damian Lillard leaving the Portland Trail Blazers and forcing his way out despite pledging loyalty. Many felt that his loyalty pledges were absolutely fake as he wanted to seem “old school”, and that is why he has hate coming his way more often than not.

Not to mention, those same fans probably don’t want to see Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo win a championship in their first season together. The Bucks can be considered a superteam considering the superstar dominance of the duo, and superteams generally are not held in the highest regard with hate naturally coming their way.

Minnesota Timberwolves - Karl-Anthony Towns

Karl-Anthony Towns endured a challenging stretch in the past few seasons, grappling with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many empathized with his struggles, recent comments from Towns about his own talents have sparked criticism, placing a significant target on his back because his potential coming into the league made it seem like he could be a top-10 player at some point.

Despite Towns' undeniable talent, claiming to be the best-shooting big man ever raises eyebrows, especially when considering the legacy of Dirk Nowitzki, who dominated defenses for over a decade and a half. The sentiment extends to the perception of Towns and his teammate Anthony Edwards, forming a duo that outside of Minnesota, is becoming less favored among fans. The notion of Towns being perceived as "soft" further complicates his standing, because some fans simply don’t like his finesse style of play.

New Orleans Pelicans - Zion Williamson

A player who was supposed to be the face of the league, Zion Williamson has suffered injury issues to start his career, and fans are frustrated by the player’s inability to stay healthy. Zion got his money, but will he work hard enough to become what we expect of him? Is he truly happy to be the star of the New Orleans Pelicans?

Williamson might need to lose weight because having his type of explosiveness at his size won’t fly in terms of longevity. Zion has a chance to become a dominant star in the league, but fans need to be convinced he is motivated enough to get there. So far, fans are divided on Zion but he does receive hate for only playing 122 games over five seasons.

New York Knicks - Julius Randle

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Julius Randle embarked on his New York Knicks journey at his best form, securing a spot on the All-NBA Team and establishing himself as one of the most promising young players globally. However, since the 2021 season, Randle's on-court production has experienced a decline, coupled with a noticeable shift in his demeanor, much to the concern of Knicks fans.

This apparent change has fueled tensions between Randle and Knicks supporters who yearn to witness more from the talented forward. Beyond the Knicks' faithful, fans and media across the league find it perplexing that Randle seems unaware of the weight of playing for one of the most iconic franchises in American sports. With the recent addition of Jalen Brunson, there's hope that Randle can rediscover his top form, providing Knicks fans with the performance they have been eagerly anticipating.

Oklahoma City Thunder - Chet Holmgren

Chet Holmgren is immensely talented and has exciting potential but he does receive hate for being a very confident young man without having proven himself in the NBA yet. The youngster is having a solid season so far, posting 16.4 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, but there are some in the audiences who are expecting more.

Victor Wembanyama’s arrival to the Spurs has placed a target on Chet’s back because he is of similar build and skill set and that lends itself to high expectations. The Thunder are a very exciting team for the future but we have to wait and see if they can manage to become what everybody expects them to be.

Orlando Magic - Paolo Banchero

Paolo Banchero, the reigning Rookie of the Year for the Orlando Magic, has quickly ascended as a highly talented and confident presence in the NBA. As he emerges as a star in the league, the natural consequence of heightened scrutiny has led to a dose of inevitable dislike from some quarters.

Notably, Banchero has already accumulated two technical fouls to his name, hinting at a developing outspokenness that is expected to evolve in the coming months and years, adding an intriguing layer to his rising profile in the basketball world.

Philadelphia 76ers - Joel Embiid

The Philadelphia 76ers have a heavily disliked player on their roster: Joel Embiid. Embiid is disliked by opposing fans because his flopping has been at an all-time high in the past two seasons and is a hound at drawing fouls. Not to mention, he does not always show up in the postseason despite being a two-time scoring champion and regular-season MVP.

Embiid is a top-5 player in the world regardless so as long as he continues being an MVP candidate, he will shut haters up with his play but again, everybody waits for him to not perform in the playoffs. Perhaps James Harden’s departure might place an underdog image on the Sixers and that might help Embiid’s image, but so far, it hasn’t.

Phoenix Suns - Kevin Durant

In the context of the Phoenix Suns, Kevin Durant's trajectory toward becoming one of the most polarizing figures in recent memory began with his move to the 73-9 Warriors. Despite his subsequent stint with the Brooklyn Nets, Durant's decision to force his way out and join another superteam in Phoenix has only intensified the target on his back.

Consequently, Suns fans might find themselves grappling with the reality that two of their players, including Devin Booker, are now perceived as figures many in the basketball world are reluctant to see succeed. The narrative surrounding Durant's career choices and the formation of superteams continues to shape the league's dynamics and fan sentiments.

Portland Trail Blazers - Deandre Ayton

Deandre Ayton arrives in Portland carrying a somewhat "soft" image, a perception that emerged during his time with the Suns, despite his instrumental role in leading them to the Finals in 2021. While still a young player with considerable potential for improvement, Ayton is yet to fully embody the self-proclaimed "Dominayton" moniker, currently averaging 11.4 points per game this season, leaving fans eager to witness the realization of his touted capabilities in a Trail Blazers uniform.

The expectations surrounding Ayton's performance and the ongoing quest to solidify his place as a dominant force in the league add a layer of anticipation and scrutiny as he embarks on this new chapter in Portland. Luckily, he is part of a rebuilding side and he might be left alone as the weeks go by as a result.

Sacramento Kings - De’Aaron Fox

De’Aaron Fox has consistently faced scrutiny regarding aspects of his game, particularly his below-average shooting, boasting a career 32.2% accuracy from beyond the arc. This deficiency becomes particularly pronounced for someone assumed to be the best player on the team, and Fox's struggle to enhance his shooting range remains a point of contention. Additionally, skeptics argue that the speedy point guard lacks innate playmaking ability, further adding to the criticisms directed his way.

While Fox is determined to showcase his passing and shooting skills, the progress appears slower than anticipated. His agility and scoring prowess, especially when attacking the rim, label him more as a scorer than an all-around playmaker. Until he can effectively dispel these doubts, critics are poised to discount the true potential of the 25-year-old, creating an ongoing challenge for Fox to silence the naysayers and assert his multifaceted capabilities.

San Antonio Spurs - Jeremy Sochan

Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs has done nothing to warrant disdain, consistently playing hard and showcasing improvement under the guidance of Gregg Popovich. However, his distinctive Dennis Rodman-esque appearance, characterized by flamboyant hair colors, has sparked a tinge of dislike from some quarters.

While Sochan's on-court contributions and dedication to improvement are commendable, the subjective nature of personal style choices adds an intriguing layer to his presence in the league, making him a player to watch in terms of how his unique aesthetic may influence fan sentiments.

Toronto Raptors - Pascal Siakam

Pascal Siakam experienced a remarkable tenure with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, contributing significantly as the often-overlooked sidekick to Kawhi Leonard. His defensive prowess, scoring ability, and rebounding played a pivotal role in securing the Raptors' championship. However, in the ensuing years, Siakam has become a target for constant criticism. Despite his breakout season, many fans and media members argue that his game hasn't evolved significantly, branding him as overrated.

The narrative took an additional twist with the arrival of Scottie Barnes, diminishing Siakam's prominence in Toronto. This shift has intensified the scrutiny and, at times, the negativity directed towards him. Siakam is an All-Star regardless and one of the best players at his position, so he probably won’t care much about the hate.

Utah Jazz - Kelly Olynyk

Without a doubt, Kelly Olynyk is the most hated player in the Utah Jazz fanbase. There are a host of reasons why the aggressive big man is disliked. Remember, Kelly Olynyk tried to break Kevin Love's arm in a series in the NBA playoffs, in one of the most bizarrely dirty plays we have seen in a very long time.

Love was thankfully okay, but Cavaliers fans will never forget that moment. Olynyk also has transgressions against a host of other players including Pascal Siakam and Brook Lopez so players should be wary because Kelly will be over-aggressive at some point during the game.

Washington Wizards - Jordan Poole

Jordan Poole's early stint with the Washington Wizards is marked by a blend of frustrating on-court performances and an assertive off-court demeanor. Despite talking a big game, Poole's shooting percentage from beyond the arc, averaging under 34% in the past two seasons, has raised eyebrows. His notorious altercation with Draymond Green and lackluster playoff showing last season, averaging just 10.3 points per game, have further fueled skepticism about his overall impact.

Compounding matters, Poole's departure from the Golden State Warriors via trade adds an extra layer to the narrative surrounding the guard. As he navigates a new chapter with the Wizards, the challenge for Poole lies in reconciling his outspoken demeanor with on-court productivity to win over fans and establish his place in the Washington roster.

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