Talking about NBA players with the highest points per game over their careers invites some true legends into the conversation. I have to start with Michael Jordan, the epitome of scoring consistency. Over 15 seasons, Jordan maintained an impeccable career average of 30.1 points per game. Think about it—keeping that level of performance up, game after game, season after season, it's mind-blowing. Back in 1986-87, Jordan even hit an average of 37.1 points per game. That's the kind of statistical brilliance that sets him apart.
Wilt Chamberlain, another giant in the game, showcased his dominance in a whole different era. Chamberlain scored 31,419 points in his career and holds an NBA record with a 50.4 points per game average in the 1961-62 season. Over his 14-year span, his career average rested at 30.1 points per game, just like Jordan. However, Chamberlain's peak seasons were marked by multiple games where he scored over 60 points, a feat that remains awe-inspiring.
Then there's Elgin Baylor, a player whose scoring proficiency often flies under the radar. Baylor averaged 27.4 points per game over his 14-year NBA career. His best scoring season was the 1961-62 campaign, where he averaged 38.3 points per game, showcasing an almost unparalleled level of offensive firepower. Despite not winning an NBA championship, Baylor's consistent scoring made him a legend for the Los Angeles Lakers, an organization that values exceptional talent.
Kevin Durant, still active in the NBA, has continually proven his scoring prowess since entering the league in 2007. Over his career, he has averaged around 27 points per game. With his unique blend of size, agility, and shooting touch, Durant has been a scoring machine in multiple contexts—Oklahoma City, Golden State, and now Brooklyn. Who could forget his spectacular performance in the 2013-14 season when he averaged 32 points per game and took home the scoring title?
Another current player making waves is LeBron James, the 'King' himself. Despite being a versatile player who contributes across all facets of the game, his scoring ability is undeniable. Over his career, James has averaged around 27 points per game. In the 2007-08 season, he peaked with an average of 30 points per game. Considering his long career and all-around skill set, maintaining such a scoring average is nothing short of remarkable.
James Harden also deserves a mention when discussing scoring leaders. Harden's isolation game and step-back three-pointer have been nearly unstoppable, propelling him to a career average of about 25 points per game. Harden’s 2018-19 season was particularly notable, where he averaged an astonishing 36.1 points per game. His offensive toolkit allows him to score in a myriad of ways, making him one of the most prolific scorers in modern NBA history.
Allen Iverson, known for his incredible handles and quickness, averaged 26.7 points per game over his 14-year NBA career. His peak came during the 2000-01 season when he averaged 31.1 points per game and led the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals. Iverson's impact went beyond just points; he was an icon who changed the way the game was played and viewed.
Kobe Bryant, the Black Mamba, has a legacy built on clutch performances and relentless scoring. Over his 20-season career, Kobe averaged 25 points per game. During the 2005-06 season, he reached his zenith by averaging 35.4 points per game, which included his unforgettable 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors. Kobe’s scoring prowess was a blend of skill, mentality, and an unmatched work ethic, making him one of the greatest scorers in NBA history.
Karl Malone, another often overlooked scoring virtuoso, accumulated 36,928 points over 19 seasons, holding a career average of 25 points per game. Known as the "Mailman," Malone was a consistent scoring threat. His highest scoring season was in 1989-90 when he averaged 31 points per game. For a power forward, this is a remarkable achievement, showcasing his versatility and endurance.
Lastly, Stephen Curry, the sharpshooter from the Golden State Warriors, has revolutionized the game with his three-point shooting. He averages around 24 points per game over his career. In the 2015-16 season, Curry set the NBA on fire, scoring 30.1 points per game and leading the Warriors to an NBA-record 73 wins. His ability to stretch the floor and hit shots from virtually anywhere changes the dynamics of any game he's in, making him an MVP in the truest sense.
When you look at these names and their scoring averages, it's clear that the ability to consistently put up points over multiple seasons is rarefied air. If you want to delve deeper into the numbers and rankings, checking out the arena plus leaderboard is a good start. These players not only led the scoreboard but also defined eras and shaped the way the game is played today.