Basketball fans, let's dive straight into it. When talking about the best NBA guards, players like Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, and Luka Dončić often come to mind. Curry, for instance, has revolutionized the game with his incredible three-point shooting. With an average of 4.8 three-pointers made per game last season, he holds the record for the most three-pointers in NBA history, clocking in at 3,117 as of March 2022. He's not just about numbers, though; his performance impacts team dynamics significantly.
Think about a high-pressure game. Who do you want to have the ball? Curry is often that go-to guy. His effective field goal percentage (eFG%) of 61.2% in the 2020-2021 season highlights his shooting efficiency. To put it into perspective, any player with an eFG% over 55% is considered excellent.
But Curry is not alone in this conversation. Luka Dončić, with his versatile gameplay and knack for clutch performances, also stands tall among the elite guards. At just 24 years old, Luka already has numerous accolades, including being named to the All-NBA First Team multiple times. His ability to read defenses and make plays is nothing short of remarkable. He averaged 27.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game in the 2020-2021 season, showcasing his all-around capabilities.
Another name that can't be ignored is Damian Lillard. Known for his deep three-pointers and clutch performances, Lillard has become synonymous with "Dame Time." Over the last couple of seasons, he has maintained an average of over 25 points per game and has several game-winning shots to his name. His career-high 61-point game against the Golden State Warriors is a testament to his scoring prowess.
If you're a basketball aficionado, you'd know that defense also plays a critical role. Here, guards like Jrue Holiday and Marcus Smart show their value. Holiday's defensive metrics are impressive, with a Defensive Box Plus/Minus (DBPM) of 1.8 during the 2020-2021 season. This statistic measures a player's defensive impact on a per-100-possession basis, where a positive number indicates above-average performance. When you pair stats like these with his offensive capabilities, such as averaging 17.7 points and 6.1 assists per game in the same season, it's clear why he's highly regarded.
Marcus Smart, on the other hand, has been one of the grittiest defenders in the league. His Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022 speaks volumes. Smart's ability to guard multiple positions while orchestrating the offense makes him invaluable. In fact, his defensive box plus-minus (DBPM) consistently ranks among the best for guards, emphasizing his defensive prowess.
Not to forget, younger talents like Trae Young and Ja Morant also deserve mention. Trae, with his flashy handles and deep shooting, averaged 28.4 points and 9.7 assists per game last season. At just 24, he's already become the face of the Atlanta Hawks. Similarly, Ja Morant, the 2020 NBA Rookie of the Year, has caught many eyes with his explosive athleticism and court vision. His average of 19.1 points and 7.4 assists per game in his rookie season set the tone for a promising career.
Now, let's not miss out on the Canadian sensation, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His performance with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021-2022 season saw him averaging 24.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. With numbers like these, he’s quickly becoming one of the league's most promising young guards. What sets him apart is his efficiency, boasting a true shooting percentage (TS%) of 57.3%.
When discussing achievements, one can't overlook James Harden. With a 2018 MVP award and multiple scoring titles to his name, Harden has cemented his place among the greats. Despite criticisms about his style, averaging a league-high 36.1 points per game in the 2018-2019 season is undeniably impressive. Harden’s ability to draw fouls and convert free throws is a skill set in itself, making him a nightmare for defenders.
Defensive contributions aside, let's talk about guards who excel in facilitating the game. Chris Paul, often referred to as "The Point God," has been a master of this craft. At 38, Paul averaged 10.8 assists per game during the 2020-2021 season, proving that age is just a number when it comes to his playmaking abilities. His leadership on and off the court has been instrumental in elevating the teams he’s played for.
For those who love the history of the game, names like Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Allen Iverson might resonate more. Magic, with his 6'9" frame, defied traditional guard roles and revolutionized the position. His career averages of 19.5 points, 11.2 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game underscore his versatility. Few can forget Jordan’s sheer dominance, especially considering his six NBA championships and five MVP awards. Iverson brought a different flair, known for his quick crossovers and scoring ability, averaging 26.7 points per game over his career.
So, whether you're into current stars or historical legends, the guard position offers a rich tapestry of talent. The energy they bring, the skills they showcase, and their ability to change the game's outcome makes following them a thrilling experience for any fan. For more insights, check out arena plus and keep your basketball passion fueled.