Envisioning Batman, Superman, and Robin for each NBA team offers a playful yet intriguing exploration of how iconic comic book characters might fare in the world of professional basketball. From the leadership of Batman to the unmatched talent of Superman and the third-wheel of Robin, this hypothetical lineup gives each team their own Big Three, starting with the Atlanta Hawks and ending with the Washington Wizards.
Batman: Trae Young
Superman: Dejounte Murray
Robin: Bogdan Bogdanovic
In the Atlanta Hawks' lineup, Trae Young shines as the primary playmaker and offensive Batman (26.4 PPG, 10.8 APG), driving the team's success with his scoring and playmaking abilities. Dejounte Murray emerges as a defensive stalwart, anchoring the Hawks' backcourt with his versatility and tenacity on defense. Meanwhile, Bogdan Bogdanovic provides valuable scoring off the bench, adding depth and firepower to the team's offensive arsenal. With Trae Young embracing his role as the best player on the side, the Hawks are primed to make waves and challenge the league's elite as long as more star power can be added to the roster.
Batman: Jayson Tatum
Superman: Jaylen Brown
Robin: Kristaps Porzingis
Jayson Tatum emerges as the primary offensive weapon, showcasing his scoring prowess and versatility on the court. He is without a doubt the Batman of the team because he is an MVP candidate and the driving force of the team as he averages 26.9 points per game on 47.5% from the field. Jaylen Brown assumes the role of Superman, providing a strong defensive presence and contributing consistently on both ends of the floor. Meanwhile, Kristaps Porzingis fills the role of Robin, offering valuable scoring and rim protection off the bench. Together, this trio represents the Celtics' core strengths, blending offensive firepower, defensive tenacity, and depth to compete at the highest level in the NBA.
Batman: Mikal Bridges
Superman: Cam Thomas
Robin: Cam Johnson
The Brooklyn Nets are not a great team this season but Mikal Bridges assumes the role of Batman, anchoring the team's defense with his versatility and lockdown abilities. Cam Thomas emerges as Superman, providing a scoring spark and showcasing his offensive prowess. Even if he is younger and is having a breakout campaign (21.0 PPG), he is the second-best player on the team and is above a Robin level. That means Cam Johnson fills the role of Robin, contributing valuable shooting and energy to the team's rotation. Time will tell if this core can be good enough to form a long-term core that makes the Nets competitive.
Batman: LaMelo Ball
Superman: Miles Bridges
Robin: Brandon Miller
In the Charlotte Hornets' lineup, LaMelo Ball takes on the role of Batman, orchestrating the team's offense with his creativity and playmaking skills. Even if he has yet to have playoff success with the team, he has an All-Star appearance on his resume. Miles Bridges emerges as Superman, providing high-flying dunks and highlight-reel plays while also making an impact on defense although he might not be on the team for long. Meanwhile, Brandon Miller fills the role of Robin, offering steady contributions as a rookie and providing scoring and energy when called upon. No doubt, Miller has the best chance to become Superman in due time because he is posting 16.5 points per game this season.
Batman: DeMar DeRozan
Superman: Zach LaVine
Robin: Nikola Vucevic
On a team with some big names, DeMar DeRozan shines as Batman, leading the team with his scoring prowess and clutch performances. Zach LaVine emerges as Superman, bringing athleticism and scoring ability to the forefront despite being shut out for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, Nikola Vucevic fills the role of Robin, providing interior scoring and rebounding alongside his defensive presence. This trio should have done better together, but have not gotten past the first round of the playoffs which could mean a break-up could be happening.
Batman: Donovan Mitchell
Superman: Darius Garland
Robin: Jarrett Allen
Without question, Donovan Mitchell steps into the role of Batman, leading the team with his scoring ability and playmaking skills. Darius Garland emerges as Superman, showcasing his dynamic offensive game and ability to control the pace of play. Meanwhile, Jarrett Allen fills the role of Robin, providing rim protection and rebounding prowess while anchoring the team's defense. Together, this trio forms a formidable core for the Cavaliers, blending scoring, playmaking, and defense although Mitchell could be the one piece that won’t be on the team going forward.
Batman: Luka Doncic
Superman: Kyrie Irving
Robin: Tim Hardaway Jr.
The Mavericks want to make major waves in the Western Conference this season and going forward, mainly due to Luka Doncic’s elite play (34.3 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 9.6 APG). As the undisputed Batman, Doncic leads the way with his all-around dominance and scoring ability. Kyrie Irving has stepped into the role of Superman, a player who has an All-Star impact but is not quite the leader of the team. Rather surprisingly, Tim Hardaway Jr. is a contender for Sixth Man of the Year and has stepped into a Robin role.
Batman: Nikola Jokic
Superman: Jamal Murray
Robin: Michael Porter Jr.
Reigning NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic assumes the role of Batman, leading the team with his unparalleled playmaking and versatile skill set as a center. There is no question he is the best player in the world right now and the leading candidate for the MVP trophy as he posts 26.0 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game. Right behind him is Jamal Murray, the Superman, providing explosive scoring and clutch performances, particularly in high-pressure situations. Meanwhile, Michael Porter Jr. fills the role of Robin, offering scoring and rebounding prowess while providing additional offensive firepower although he can be streaky.
Batman: Cade Cunningham
Superman: Bojan Bogdanovic
Robin: Jalen Duren
The Detroit Pistons have been somewhat of an embarrassment, holding a poor 8-48 record, and only Cade Cunningham can feel good about his play. He is averaging 22.2 points and 7.4 assists per game, but he has not had much help otherwise. Bojan Bogdanovic surprisingly emerges as Superman, providing scoring prowess and offensive firepower to bolster the team's offense although his impact has not been there for a rebuilding team. Meanwhile, Jalen Duren fills the role of Robin, offering rim protection and rebounding presence in the frontcourt and he has a ton of untapped potential which is at least a bright spot for the franchise.
Batman: Stephen Curry
Superman: Klay Thompson
Robin: Draymond Green
In the Golden State Warriors lineup, Stephen Curry assumes the role of Batman, leading the team with his unmatched shooting prowess and offensive wizardry. Curry is still the driving force of the Warriors and the only player performing up to par, averaging 27.8 points per gamer. Klay Thompson emerges as Superman, providing elite perimeter shooting and defensive tenacity to bolster the team's backcourt despite his inconsistencies this season. Mainly due to his leadership and credit in the bank, Klay still has a powerful voice on the team. Lastly, Draymond Green fills the role of Robin, doing the little things that go unnoticed and being the enforcer of the team without receiving much of the credit.
Batman: Alperen Sengun
Superman: Fred VanVleet
Robin: Jalen Green
In the Houston Rockets' lineup, Alperen Sengun takes on the role of the best player on the team and a contender for Most Improved Player. Often the go-to offensive option, Sengun has helped change the direction of the Rockets. Fred VanVleet emerges as Superman, providing steady leadership, playmaking, and scoring ability to energize the team's backcourt. As the most experienced member of the team, VanVleet’s presence is certainly Superman-like. Meanwhile, Jalen Green fills the role of Robin, offering explosive scoring and athleticism as a dynamic young guard with room to improve.
Batman: Tyrese Haliburton
Superman: Pascal Siakam
Robin: Myles Turner
Budding MVP candidate Tyrese Haliburton assumes the role of Batman, showcasing his playmaking ability and basketball IQ as a rising star in the backcourt. The best pure playmaker we might have seen since Steve Nash and a prime Chris Paul, Tyrese Haliburton has been on a tea this season by posting 21.9 points and 11.7 assists per game. Recently acquired Pascal Siakam emerges as Superman, providing versatility, scoring, and defensive prowess to anchor the team's frontcourt as he forms a dominant duo with Haliburton. Meanwhile, Myles Turner fills the role of Robin, offering rim protection and rebounding while also contributing on the offensive end despite being overlooked.
Batman: Kawhi Leonard
Superman: Paul George
Robin: James Harden
In the Los Angeles Clippers lineup, Kawhi Leonard assumes the role of Batman, showcasing his elite scoring and defensive prowess as one of the premier two-way players in the league. It is great to see Leonard back to his best because he is the single most powerful driving force of the Clippers organization. Behind him is Paul George, providing scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility to lead the team's perimeter attack as a Superman. Newcomer James Harden fills the role of Robin, offering scoring and playmaking off the bench to complement the team's stars. Harden has become the team’s full-time playmaker and is operating very well in his Robin role this season, posting 8.3 assists per game.
Batman: LeBron James
Superman: Anthony Davis
Robin: D’Angelo Russell
To nobody’s surprise, LeBron James takes on the role of Batman, leading the team with his unmatched versatility, leadership, and playmaking on both ends of the court. Even at 39 years old, The King will make or break the Lakers season although he needs help from his Superman. Anthony Davis has been providing dominant scoring, rim protection, and rebounding to anchor the team's frontcourt this season, posting 25.0 points and 12.2 rebounds per game while making his 9th All-Star Team. Meanwhile, D'Angelo Russell fills the role of Robin, offering scoring and playmaking as a dynamic guard in the backcourt as he deals with trade rumors and criticism whether it is fair or not.
Batman: Ja Morant
Superman: Desmond Bane
Robin: Jaren Jackson Jr.
Even if he missed 25 games to start the season with suspension and is out for the season with an injury, Ja Morant takes on the role of Batman, leading the team with his electrifying athleticism, playmaking, and scoring ability as the dynamic point guard. Desmond Bane emerges as Superman, providing sharpshooting, scoring, and defensive intensity to bolster the team's perimeter attack. Meanwhile, Jaren Jackson Jr. fills the role of Robin, offering rim protection, rebounding, and versatility on both ends of the floor in the frontcourt. This exciting core could one day lead the Grizzlies to a championship, but maturity is the key for all of them.
Batman: Jimmy Butler
Superman: Bam Adebayo
Robin: Tyler Herro
Jimmy Butler assumes the role of Batman, leading the team with his tenacity, leadership, and clutch performances on both ends of the court as he gears up for another playoff run. Bam Adebayo emerges as Superman, providing defensive prowess, versatility, and energy in the frontcourt to anchor the team's defense. Adebayo is right behind Butler in the leadership role and is arguably just as important to the Heat organization. Meanwhile, Tyler Herro fills the role of Robin, offering scoring, playmaking, and shooting off the bench to provide a spark for the team's offense. Robin often goes unnoticed, and Herro’s offense (career 18.1 PPG) has been critical to Miami’s rise in the East over the last few seasons.
Batman: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Superman: Damian Lillard
Robin: Khris Middleton
Despite the addition of superstar Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo takes on the role of Batman, leading the team with his dominant scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence as a two-time MVP and former Finals MVP. Recently acquired Damian Lillard emerges as Superman, providing elite scoring, playmaking, and clutch performances to bolster the team's perimeter attack. Together, Giannis and Dame have a chance to win a title together, as long as Khris Middleton can be effective in his Robin role.
Batman: Anthony Edwards
Superman: Karl-Anthony Towns
Robin: Rudy Gobert
The budding star in the Western Conference, Anthony Edwards assumes the role of Batman, showcasing his explosive scoring ability, athleticism, and potential as a rising star in the league. It won’t be long before Edwards becomes an MVP candidate because he has the skills and mentality to be a dominant force in the league. No longer the Batman of the Timberwolves, Karl-Anthony Towns emerges as Superman, providing dominant scoring, rebounding, and interior presence as one of the top big men in the NBA. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert fills the role of Robin, offering elite rim protection, rebounding, and defensive prowess to anchor the team's defense as a candidate for Defensive Player of the Year.
Batman: Zion Williamson
Superman: Brandon Ingram
Robin: C.J. McCollum
In the New Orleans Pelicans' lineup, Zion Williamson assumes the role of Batman (for now), showcasing his unparalleled athleticism, scoring ability, and physical dominance in the paint as the team's centerpiece. If Zion continues to deal with injuries and even stays out of shape, he could be relegated to a lesser role or traded. Brandon Ingram emerges as Superman, providing versatile scoring, playmaking, and perimeter shooting to complement Williamson's inside presence. Meanwhile, C.J. McCollum fills the role of Robin, offering scoring, shooting, and secondary playmaking as a dynamic guard in the backcourt. Despite being the most experienced member of the team, McCollum has become the Robin.
Batman: Jalen Brunson
Superman: Julius Randle
Robin: OG Anunoby
It is time to be said that Jalen Brunson assumes the role of Batman, showcasing his playmaking ability, scoring prowess, and leadership as the team's floor general. A first-time All-Star, Brunson is averaging 27.6 points and 6.6 assists per game this season as the best player for the Knicks. Julius Randle is the Superman, providing dominant scoring, rebounding, and playmaking as the focal point of the team's offense at times and the best big man on the roster. Meanwhile, recently-acquired OG Anunoby fills the role of Robin, offering defensive versatility, perimeter shooting, and athleticism to complement the team's stars. Together, this trio forms a well-rounded core for the Knicks and there is expectation for them to make the Eastern Conference Finals.
Batman: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Superman: Chet Holmgren
Robin: Josh Giddey
The Oklahoma City Thunder are coming for the NBA title very soon and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander assumes the role of Batman, leading the team with his scoring ability, playmaking, and versatility as the primary ball-handler (31.1 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 6.6 APG). Rookie Chet Holmgren is the Superman, providing shot-blocking, rim protection, and versatility on both ends of the floor as an elite prospect. Meanwhile, Josh Giddey fills the role of Robin, offering playmaking, rebounding, and basketball IQ as a promising rookie guard. With so much talent, this Thunder core will likely be NBA champions one day.
Batman: Paolo Banchero
Superman: Franz Wagner
Robin: Jalen Suggs
Nobody expected the Orlando Magic to be a contender to make the playoffs this season but Paolo Banchero’s performances have been Batman-like. He is averaging 22.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, making his first All-Star appearance while Franz Wagner puts on his Superman cape while posting 20.8 points per game. Jalen Suggs is developing nicely as Orlando’s Robin and is proving why he was a former No. 5 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.
Batman: Joel Embiid
Superman: Tyrese Maxey
Robin: Tobias Harris
The reigning MVP and two-time scoring champion, Joel Embiid assumes the role of Batman, leading the team with his dominant scoring, rebounding, and rim protection as one of the premier centers in the NBA. Before his injury this season, the superstar center was the favorite for his second-straight MVP trophy. Another budding star and first-time All-Star this season, Tyrese Maxey emerges as Superman, providing energy, scoring, and playmaking as a dynamic young guard. Meanwhile, Tobias Harris fills the role of Robin, offering scoring, versatility, and leadership as a veteran forward. Hopefully, this core can achieve success in the Eastern Conference one day.
Batman: Kevin Durant
Superman: Devin Booker
Robin: Bradley Beal
The Suns have three players who were all Batmen at one point in their careers, but Kevin Durant is the star of the show right now. As one of the most talented forwards in NBA history, Durant is having an exceptional season by averaging 28.1 points per game on 42.9% from three. Devin Booker is the Superman, showcasing his scoring prowess, leadership, and clutch performances as the team's secondary offensive weapon behind Durant. Meanwhile, Bradley Beal fills the role of Robin, offering additional scoring, perimeter shooting, and offensive firepower to complement the team's stars. Beal has only played 30 games this season and is posting 18.2 points per game so he needs to step up before the playoffs arrive.
Batman: Anfernee Simons
Superman: Jerami Grant
Robin: Deandre Ayton
For the rebuilding 15-41 Portland Trail Blazers, Anfernee Simons has started to assume the role of Batman, showcasing his scoring ability, playmaking, and potential as a dynamic young guard. The veteran of the team, Jerami Grant emerges as Superman, providing versatility, scoring, and defensive prowess as a forward who can impact the game on both ends of the floor but he isn’t quite their best player in terms of potential. Meanwhile, Deandre Ayton fills the role of Robin, offering rim protection, rebounding, and scoring in the paint as a talented young center.
Batman: De'Aaron Fox
Superman: Domantas Sabonis
Robin: Keegan Murray
In a team headlined by two stars, De'Aaron Fox assumes the role of Batman, leading the team with his averages of 26.8 points and 5.6 assists per game. Domantas Sabonis could be Batman in some instances but appears as Superman, providing dominant rebounding, scoring in the paint, and playmaking from the frontcourt (20.2 PPG, 13.2 RPG, 8.4 APG). Meanwhile, Keegan Murray fills the role of Robin, offering versatility, scoring, and energy as a promising young forward with the potential to be an All-Star one day if he improves.
Batman: Victor Wembanyama
Superman: Devin Vassell
Robin: Keldon Johnson
The San Antonio Spurs have not had a great campaign this year, holding a poor 11-47 record which is the worst in the Western Conference. Victor Wembanyama is the undisputed star of the show, posting 20.6 points, 10.1 rebounds, and a league-high 3.3 blocks per game. The Frenchman could be the best player in the world someday, and he is bolstered by Superman Devin Vassell and Robin Keldon Johnson who both need to take their games to another level shortly.
Batman: Scottie Barnes
Superman: RJ Barrett
Robin: Immanuel Quickley
With Pascal Siakam gone, Scottie Barnes assumes the role of Batman, showcasing his versatility, defensive prowess, and playmaking ability as a rookie forward with immense potential. RJ Barrett emerges as Superman, providing scoring, rebounding, and leadership as a dynamic young wing player. Meanwhile, Immanuel Quickley fills the role of Robin, offering scoring, perimeter shooting, and energy as a promising young guard. Time will tell if this core will be the long-term solution for the Raptors in the future.
Batman: Lauri Markkanen
Superman: Collin Sexton
Robin: Jordan Clarkson
In the Utah Jazz lineup, Lauri Markkanen assumes the role of Batman, showcasing his scoring ability, perimeter shooting, and floor-spacing as a stretch forward. Collin Sexton emerges as Superman, providing dynamic scoring, playmaking, and athleticism as a talented young guard. Meanwhile, Jordan Clarkson fills the role of Robin, offering scoring punch, energy, and instant offense off the bench as a sixth man. Unfortunately, this core likely won’t be together for long because a blow-up could be coming soon.
Batman: Kyle Kuzma
Superman: Jordan Poole
Robin: Deni Avdija
The Washington Wizards have been a major disappointment since they traded their Batman, Bradley Beal. Kyle Kuzma has stepped into that role, and while his numbers are solid, he isn’t exactly leadership material and their 9-48 record proves that. Jordan Poole is one of the most criticized players in the league right now, but he is still the Superman of the team despite his poor shooting percentages (39.6% FG, 30.3% 3-PT FG). Deni Avdija has improved his game, posting 13.6 points per game as the Robin of the Wizards.
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