The Greatest Point Guards of all time

The point guard (PG), often called as the ‘floor general’ for a team, is arguably the most important position for a team on the offensive end. They organize the team’s offense and help everyone get high quality shots. However they aren’t just expected to play on one end of the floor. In the modern NBA where most PGs are elite scorers as well, you need your point guard to be able to defend their matchup as well. So without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the greatest PGs of all time.

Career

Magic Johnson, a basketball icon, made a lasting impact on the NBA in the 1980s. Born Earvin Johnson Jr. in 1959, he earned the nickname “Magic” for his extraordinary skills on the court. Johnson played his entire career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he became a key figure in the “Showtime” era.

Standing 6 feet 9 inches tall, Magic Johnson was a 12-time all-star and revolutionized the point guard position with his unique combination of size, skill, and charisma. His flashy style of play, highlighted by no-look passes and fast breaks, captivated fans worldwide. Magic led the Lakers to five NBA championships and was a three-time NBA Finals MVP.

Off the court, Johnson’s magnetic personality and business acumen made him a successful entrepreneur. In 1991, he shocked the sports world by announcing his retirement after contracting HIV. Despite his health challenges, Magic has been an advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and has continued to thrive as a businessman.

2023-24

Career

29.2

24.7

5.0

4.7

4.5

6.5

47.5

47.5

42.9

42.8

93.0

90.9

61.0

58.4

23.0

23.8

2.4

130.4

Stephen Curry, a revolutionary force in the National Basketball Association (NBA), has redefined the game with his unparalleled shooting prowess and dynamic style of play. Rising to prominence with the Golden State Warriors, Curry is a 9x all star and the only unanimous MVP in NBA history.

His ability to effortlessly sink long-range shots has not only shattered records but also transformed the way basketball is played. The term “Curry Range” has become synonymous with shooting from seemingly impossible distances.

Beyond his scoring ability, Curry’s ball-handling skills and court vision set him apart. His electrifying style of play has made him a fan favorite, drawing admirers from all corners of the globe.

Career

Isiah Thomas, a legendary figure in the NBA, left an indelible mark on the league during his illustrious career. Born on April 30, 1961, Thomas rose to prominence as the point guard for the Detroit Pistons in the 1980s. A 12-time NBA All-Star, he played a pivotal role in leading the Pistons to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990.

Thomas was known for his exceptional ball-handling skills, court vision, and clutch performances in crucial moments. Off the court, he became a successful executive, serving as the President of Basketball Operations for the New York Knicks. Despite controversies and intense on-court rivalries with the Chicago Bulls, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics, Isiah Thomas remains a basketball icon, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

Jerry West

Career

Jerry West is a basketball icon. As a player, coach and executive, Jerry showcased his brilliant basketball mind at all levels. Known as “The Logo” for being the silhouette in the NBA’s official emblem, West played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1960 to 1974, earning 14 All-Star selections. His scoring prowess and tenacity led the Lakers to the NBA Finals nine times, though he faced challenges against dominant Celtics teams. West’s career averages of 27 points per game showcase his offensive brilliance.

Transitioning to the front office, West continued his success, orchestrating significant moves as an executive. His leadership with the Lakers and later with the Golden State Warriors contributed to multiple championships. West’s impact on the game extends beyond statistics; his legacy as a player and architect of successful teams cements his status as a basketball legend.

Oscar Robertson

Career

Oscar Robertson, a basketball icon and Hall of Famer, left an indelible mark on the NBA with his exceptional skills and all-around brilliance. Born in 1938, Robertson played the majority of his career with the Cincinnati Royals and later the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1960s and 1970s. Renowned for his versatility, the 6’5″ guard was the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season in 1961-62, a feat that remained unmatched for decades.

Nicknamed “The Big O,” Robertson was a 12-time NBA All-Star and won an NBA championship with the Bucks in 1971. His impact extended beyond the court as he played a pivotal role in the formation of the players’ union. Robertson’s legacy endures as one of the greatest players in basketball history, celebrated not only for his statistical achievements but also for his contributions to the game’s evolution.

John Stockton

Career

John Stockton, a legendary figure in the NBA, etched his name in basketball history through unparalleled skill and tenacity. Born on March 26, 1962, in Spokane, Washington, Stockton spent his entire illustrious 19-season career with the Utah Jazz. Renowned for his exceptional passing ability, Stockton holds the NBA records for career assists (15,806) and steals (3,265). Teaming up with Karl Malone, Stockton formed one of the most formidable duos in NBA history, leading the Jazz to consecutive NBA Finals appearances in 1997 and 1998.

The 10-time All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009. Stockton’s impact extends beyond records; his dedication, leadership, and basketball IQ continue to inspire aspiring players and solidify his legacy as one of the greatest point guards to grace the hardwood.

Jason Kidd

Career

Born on March 23, 1973, Kidd entered the league in 1994 as a first-round pick for the Dallas Mavericks. Over a illustrious 19-year career, he played for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns and New Jersey Nets, and won an NBA championship with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011.

A ten-time NBA All-Star, Kidd’s mastery of the game was most evident in his extraordinary passing ability, ranking second in career assists. His defensive prowess was equally impressive, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Team multiple times. After retiring as a player, Kidd transitioned to coaching, becoming the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks and later the Dallas Mavericks. His impact on the game, both as a player and a coach, cements Jason Kidd’s legacy as one of the NBA’s all-time greats.

Chris Paul

2023-24

Career

8.6

17.8

3.6

4.5

7.2

9.4

39.5

47.1

31.8

36.8

92.9

87.0

46.6

52.2

15.0

24.2

1.5

206.5

Chris Paul is often referred to as the ‘point god’ because of his exceptional scoring and playmaking abilities. Born on May 6, 1985, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Paul is renowned for his court vision, precise passing, and defensive prowess. Throughout his illustrious career, he has earned numerous All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors.

Paul’s journey in the NBA includes stints with the New Orleans Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors. His impact on and off the court extends beyond statistics; he’s revered for mentoring young players and advocating for social justice initiatives. In 2021, Paul led the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals, showcasing his enduring competitiveness.

Russell Westbrook

2023-24

Career

11.9

22.2

6.7

7.3

5.1

8.3

43.7

43.8

26.4

30.5

62.5

77.7

47.0

46.9

15.6

22.1

0.9

109.3

Russell Westbrook, a dynamic point guard, is renowned for his explosive athleticism, relentless energy, and triple-double prowess. The 9-time NBA All-Star has left an indelible mark on the league with his fearless playing style and tenacity. Westbrook, often referred to as “The Brodie,” has achieved the rare feat of averaging a triple-double for multiple seasons, showcasing his unparalleled ability to impact every facet of the game.

His aggressive drives to the basket and tenacious defense make him a constant threat on the court. Notably, he spent the majority of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder before joining the Houston Rockets and later the Washington Wizards. Westbrook’s electrifying presence and competitive spirit continue to captivate basketball enthusiasts, solidifying his status as one of the NBA’s most iconic players.

Steve Nash

Career

Steve Nash, a Canadian basketball legend, left an indelible mark on the NBA with his exceptional shooting and playmaking skills. Born on February 7, 1974, Nash enjoyed a illustrious 18-season career in the league. A two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), Nash was renowned for his dazzling playmaking and sharpshooting. The point guard’s vision and passing ability made him one of the greatest facilitators in NBA history.

Nash played a significant role in revolutionizing the game with his up-tempo style, influencing a generation of point guards. His tenure with the Phoenix Suns, where he earned his MVP honors, showcased his ability to elevate a team’s performance. In addition to his on-court prowess, Nash transitioned to coaching and became the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, further contributing to the sport’s evolution.

While Magic Johnson is widely considered as the greatest PG of all time, there is a new generation of fans who give that title to Stephen Curry. While a highly controversial debate, we don’t believe there is a wrong answer here.

There is no one answer to this question. The league has witnessed some exceptional talent across its decades of existence. Names like Kevin Johnson, Rod Strickland, Jrue Holiday, Mike Conley, Tim Hardaway and Penny Hardaway are often talked about as some of the most underrated PGs of all time.

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This entry was posted on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at 6:34 amand is filed under Top 10 Lists.You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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