10 Current NBA Stars With The Lowest Career Win Percentage

Winning in the NBA is a team effort, but sometimes even the most skilled players find themselves on the losing end more often than they'd like. Whether due to bad luck, playing for struggling franchises, or simply not having the right supporting cast, several current NBA stars have surprisingly low career win percentages.

In this article, we'll take a look at NBA All-Stars in recent seasons who, despite their individual brilliance, haven't seen the kind of team success their talent might suggest. From young stars still finding their footing to veterans who've endured rough patches, these are the NBA's current stars with the lowest career win percentages.

1. Zach LaVine - 37.2% (216-364)

Zach LaVine's 2023-24 season with the Chicago Bulls was far from what he or the team had hoped for. The Bulls finished with a disappointing record of 39-43, missing out on the playoffs once again. LaVine struggled to maintain his previous scoring efficiency, averaging 19.5 points per game, which marked a decline for a player considered to be in his prime. Additionally, he contributed 3.9 assists and 5.2 rebounds per game, shooting 45.2% from the field and 34.9% from beyond the arc, with an 85.4% free-throw percentage.

Despite his natural scoring talent, LaVine's career win percentage is a reflection of the overall struggles his teams have faced. Drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014, he showed promise early on but truly developed into a star after being traded to Chicago. However, the Bulls have not been able to build a consistently competitive team around him, contributing to his career win percentage of 37.2%.

Injuries also plagued LaVine's season. He missed a significant portion of the year due to a right foot injury, which required surgery in February 2024 and ended his season prematurely. This injury not only hampered his performance but also diminished the Bulls' chances of making a playoff push.

The offseason has been rife with trade rumors involving LaVine. The Bulls are reportedly exploring a rebuild, and LaVine's hefty contract combined with his dip in production has made finding a trade partner challenging. Teams like the Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks have shown interest, but the financial logistics and LaVine's recent injury history complicate potential deals.

As LaVine works on his recovery and looks to improve his all-around game, he remains a central figure in Chicago's plans. However, the uncertainty surrounding his future with the Bulls is a significant storyline to watch as the offseason progresses.

2. Lauri Markkanen - 40.4% (163-240)

Lauri Markkanen had an eventful 2023-24 season with the Utah Jazz , showcasing his scoring ability and solidifying his status as a key player for the team. Despite his efforts, the Jazz struggled overall, finishing with a disappointing record of 31-51, which kept them out of playoff contention. Markkanen, however, was a bright spot, averaging 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game over 55 games, shooting 48.0% from the field, 39.9% from three-point range, and 89.9% from the free-throw line.

Markkanen's journey in the NBA began when he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 2017. He showed promise early on but struggled with consistency and injuries. In 2021, he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he continued to develop but again faced challenges with team success. His move to the Utah Jazz in 2022 marked a turning point in his career. In his first season with the Jazz, he earned his first All-Star selection in 2023, highlighting his growth and impact as a player.

Despite his individual achievements, Markkanen's teams have historically struggled, contributing to his career win percentage of 40.4%. Injuries have also been a recurring issue for him. During the 2023-24 season, he missed a significant number of games due to various ailments, which affected both his performance and the team's overall results.

There have been trade rumors involving Markkanen, as the Jazz consider their rebuilding options. While he remains a valuable asset due to his scoring ability and versatility, his injury history and the team's performance have complicated potential trade scenarios.

Markkanen's focus remains on contributing to the Jazz and building on his All-Star success. His presence on the team is vital, and his performance will be crucial in any future success the Jazz hope to achieve.

3. Nikola Vucevic - 41.0% (369-530)

Nikola Vucevic had a solid 2023-24 season with the Chicago Bulls, demonstrating his consistent performance as a reliable center. The Bulls finished with a record of 39-43, narrowly missing the playoffs. Vucevic played 76 games, averaging 18.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. He shot 48.4% from the field, though his three-point shooting dropped to 29.4% on 4.1 attempts per game.

Vucevic's career began with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2011 before he was traded to the Orlando Magic, where he became a two-time All-Star. In March 2021, he was traded to the Bulls as part of their push to build a competitive roster around Zach LaVine. Despite his individual success, team performance has been inconsistent, contributing to his career win percentage of 41.0%.

Injuries have been less of an issue for Vucevic compared to some of his peers, but the Bulls struggled with overall team health and chemistry. Vucevic's solid presence in the paint and his ability to stretch the floor make him a valuable asset, but the team has not been able to capitalize fully on his skills.

There have been ongoing discussions about potential trades involving Vucevic as the Bulls look to retool their roster. However, his substantial contract and the need for a matching value in return have made such moves complicated.

Vucevic remains a key player for the Bulls, and his performance will be crucial if the team hopes to return to playoff contention in the coming seasons. His experience and skill set are vital, especially as the team navigates through potential changes and adjustments.

4. Julius Randle - 42.6% (273-368)

Julius Randle had an impressive yet challenging 2023-24 season with the New York Knicks. He averaged 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game over 46 games, shooting 47.2% from the field and 31.1% from three-point range, with a free-throw percentage of 78.1%. Despite his individual success and being selected for his third All-Star game, the Knicks finished the regular season with a 50-32 record.

Randle's season was significantly impacted by a shoulder injury, which caused him to miss the latter part of the season and all of the playoffs. This injury not only affected his performance but also the Knicks' chances during the crucial stretch of the season.

Randle began his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, who were in a rebuilding phase during his tenure. After four seasons, he joined the New Orleans Pelicans in 2018, another team focused on rebuilding. These stints provided Randle with limited playoff experience and team success, contributing to his 42.6% career wins.

In 2019, Randle signed with the New York Knicks, where he has become a central figure in their offense. However, the emergence of Jalen Brunson as a significant figure for the Knicks has slightly shifted the dynamic. Brunson’s leadership and playmaking have become pivotal for the team, complementing Randle’s scoring ability.

Despite his strong performance and leadership, consistent team success has been elusive. The Knicks' roster inconsistencies and Randle's injury woes have played a role in their fluctuating performance.

Trade rumors have surrounded Randle, as the Knicks consider maximizing his value to address team needs. His substantial contract and high usage rate make potential trades complex. However, his scoring and playmaking abilities make him a valuable asset for any team.

5. D'Angelo Russell - 43.3% (247-324)

D'Angelo Russell had a solid 2023-24 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he showcased his playmaking and scoring abilities. Russell played in 76 games, averaging 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game. He shot 45.6% from the field and 41.5% from three-point range, with a free-throw percentage of 82.8%.

Russell's NBA journey began when he was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers as the second overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. After two seasons, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, where he earned his first All-Star selection in 2019. Subsequent stints with the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves allowed him to develop further as a versatile guard. However, these teams were often in rebuilding phases, contributing to his career win percentage of 43.3%.

In February 2023, Russell was traded back to the Lakers, a move aimed at boosting the team's playoff chances. Despite his consistent performance, the Lakers faced challenges in maintaining stability and achieving significant success. The 2023-24 season was no exception, as the team struggled with injuries and roster changes, impacting their overall performance.

Russell has been part of numerous trade rumors, given his high salary and fluctuating production. The Lakers are considering various options to improve their roster, and Russell’s future with the team remains uncertain as he’s accepted the Player Option on his contract and may leave the team after the season. His playmaking and scoring abilities, however, make him a valuable asset for any team looking for a dynamic guard.

Related: 5 NBA Stars Who May Not Get Traded After All In The 2024 Offseason

6. Andrew Wiggins - 44.1% (311-395)

Andrew Wiggins had a challenging 2023-24 season with the Golden State Warriors. He played in 71 games, averaging 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. He shot 45.3% from the field and 35.8% from three-point range, with a free-throw percentage of 75.1%. Despite his consistent contributions, the Warriors struggled with consistency and ended the season with a subpar record.

Wiggins began his NBA career when he was drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014, but he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves shortly thereafter. During his time with the Timberwolves, the team was often in a rebuilding phase, which limited Wiggins' exposure to winning environments and contributed to his lower career win percentage. In 2020, he was traded to the Warriors, where he found a more competitive and stable setting.

Injuries have been a recurring issue for Wiggins, and the 2023-24 season was no exception. Various ailments caused him to miss several games, impacting his rhythm and the team's overall performance. Despite this, he remained a vital part of the Warriors' lineup, providing scoring and defensive support.

Wiggins' tenure with the Warriors has seen him play a key role, especially in their championship run in 2022. However, his career win percentage remains low due to the early years spent with rebuilding teams. As the Warriors look to regroup and aim for future success, Wiggins' experience and skill set will be crucial.

7. LaMelo Ball - 44.6% (82-102)

LaMelo Ball had a promising yet injury-riddled 2023-24 season with the Charlotte Hornets . He played in only 22 games, averaging 23.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game. Ball shot 43.3% from the field and 35.5% from beyond the arc, with an impressive free-throw percentage of 86.5%.

Ball's career began when he was drafted third overall by the Hornets in 2020. He quickly established himself as one of the league's most exciting young talents, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2021 and an All-Star selection in 2022. However, team success has been limited, contributing to his career win percentage of 44.6%. The Hornets have struggled to build a consistently competitive roster around him, impacting their overall performance.

During the 2023-24 season, Ball suffered a severe ankle injury in January, which sidelined him for the rest of the season and hindered the Hornets' push for a better record. Despite his injuries, Ball remains a key player for the Hornets, and his development will be crucial for the team's future success.

Trade rumors have not surrounded Ball as heavily as some other stars, largely due to his central role in the Hornets' long-term plans. The team is focused on building around him and other young talents to create a more competitive squad. As Ball continues his recovery and looks forward to the next season, his performance and health will be critical factors in determining the Hornets' trajectory.

8. Trae Young - 45.0% (183-224)

Trae Young had an impactful 2023-24 season with the Atlanta Hawks, demonstrating his offensive prowess and playmaking skills. He played in 54 games, averaging 25.7 points, 10.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game. Young shot 43.0% from the field, 37.2% from three-point range, and 85.5% from the free-throw line. His performance earned him a selection to his third All-Star game.

Despite his impressive individual stats, the Hawks missed the playoffs, finishing the season without making a significant push. This year was a stark contrast to Young's most successful season in 2021 when he led the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals. That remarkable playoff run highlighted his potential to elevate his team's performance when it matters most.

Looking ahead to the 2024-25 season, the Hawks are expected to face more challenges. Dejounte Murray was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans , and the team acquired French prospect Zaccharie Risacher with the first overall pick. This indicates a potential focus on rebuilding rather than immediate competitiveness.

If the Hawks continue to struggle, it could lead to increased speculation about Young's future with the franchise. His substantial contract and high usage rate have made trade discussions complex, but his ability to score and facilitate makes him an attractive asset for any team.

Young's leadership and performance will be crucial for the Hawks as they aim to return to playoff contention and build a more consistent winning culture. However, if the team remains uncompetitive, Young's desire for a championship could drive him to seek opportunities elsewhere.

9. De'Aaron Fox - 45.8% (215-254)

De'Aaron Fox had an exceptional 2023-24 season with the Sacramento Kings, solidifying his role as one of the premier guards in the league. Fox played in 74 games, averaging 26.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. He shot 46.5% from the field, 36.9% from three-point range, and 73.8% from the free-throw line. His outstanding performance on both ends of the court was a bright spot for the Kings.

Fox's career began when he was drafted fifth overall by the Kings in 2017. Over the years, he has developed into an elite guard, known for his speed, scoring ability, and playmaking. In the 2022-23 season, Fox led the Kings to the playoffs for the first time since 2006, though they lost in the first round to the Golden State Warriors. This playoff run was a significant achievement and showed the potential of the Kings with Fox at the helm.

For the 2024-25 season, the Kings made significant roster changes, including acquiring DeMar DeRozan in a three-team trade involving the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs. This deal aimed to bolster their roster and create a more competitive team after the Kings finished the 2023-24 season with a record of 46-36 and missed the playoffs after losing in the play-in tournament against the New Orleans Pelicans.

As the Kings navigate their rebuilding phase, Fox's role as a leader will be crucial. His performance and ability to guide younger players will be essential for the team's development. However, if the team continues to struggle, there may be increased speculation about potential trade scenarios involving Fox as he seeks a more competitive environment.

10. Brandon Ingram - 46.5% (222-255)

Brandon Ingram had a solid 2023-24 season with the New Orleans Pelicans, demonstrating his scoring ability and playmaking skills. Ingram played in 64 games, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. He shot 49.2% from the field, 35.5% from three-point range, and 80.1% from the free-throw line.

Ingram's career began when he was drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2016. After three seasons with the Lakers, he was traded to the Pelicans as part of the blockbuster deal for Anthony Davis. Ingram has since developed into a versatile forward, earning an All-Star selection in 2020 and winning the NBA's Most Improved Player award that same year.

Despite his individual success, Ingram's teams have struggled to achieve consistent success. The 2023-24 season was no different, as the Pelicans finished with a 49-33 record and were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. This continued lack of team success contributes to Ingram's career win percentage of 46.5%.

The Pelicans have had seasons filled with potential, boasting talents like Zion Williamson alongside Ingram. However, they have struggled to convert this potential into consistent winning seasons and deep playoff runs. This pattern of underachievement has affected Ingram's win percentage significantly.

Related: New Orleans Pelicans Current Roster Looks Strong And Ready For A Deep Run