When talking about the best point guards in NBA history, one name that always comes up is Magic Johnson. For someone who amassed 10,141 assists in his career, Johnson redefined the point guard position with his 6’9” frame, incredible court vision, and uncanny ability to make his teammates better. He led the Lakers to five NBA Championships in the 1980s and earned three MVP awards during that decade. Magic changed what people thought a point guard could be, and his highlight reels are still a joy to watch, even decades later.
Another legendary point guard has to be Oscar Robertson. The “Big O” made history as the first player to average a triple-double for a season with 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game during the 1961-62 season. Robertson ended his career with averages of 25.7 points, 9.5 assists, and 7.5 rebounds, proving his all-around impact on the game. His influence on today’s versatile guards who contribute across the stat sheet remains evident even now.
No discussion about elite point guards can be complete without mentioning Stephen Curry. Known for his remarkable three-point shooting, Curry revolutionized the game of basketball. He currently ranks as the all-time leader in three-pointers made with over 3,000 successful long-range shots. Curry’s ability to shoot from deep has forced defenses to adapt in ways never seen before, opening the floor for his teammates like no other guard has. His impact goes beyond numbers—the very structure and strategy of NBA games have evolved because of him.
John Stockton is another point guard whose game was all about efficiency and consistency. Over 19 seasons with the Utah Jazz, Stockton never missed the playoffs and retired as the all-time leader in both assists (15,806) and steals (3,265). Players and analysts often praise Stockton for his basketball IQ, his impeccable timing in delivering passes, and his role in running the Jazz’s pick-and-roll offense, which was among the best in the league. His partnership with Karl Malone remains one of the most productive duos in the sport’s history.
Chris Paul, often called “CP3,” is another name that belongs in any serious conversation about top point guards. Up to now, Paul has accumulated over 10,000 assists and 2,300 steals in his career, showcasing his prowess on both ends of the floor. Known for his tenacity and leadership, Paul has consistently elevated every team he’s been a part of, whether it’s the New Orleans Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, or Phoenix Suns. His recent run with the Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals at the age of 36 demonstrates his enduring excellence and competitive spirit.
Isiah Thomas, often overshadowed by the larger-than-life personalities of his era, was nonetheless a standout performer. He led the Detroit Pistons’ “Bad Boys” to back-to-back NBA Championships in 1989 and 1990 and earned the Finals MVP in 1990. Standing at just 6’1″, Thomas played with a toughness and fearlessness that belied his size. His 9,061 assists rank him among the top in NBA history, and his ability to take over games, especially in clutch moments, is the stuff of legend.
Steve Nash deserves his place on this list due to his unique combination of skill, flair, and efficiency. With two MVP awards earned in 2005 and 2006, Nash was the engine behind the Phoenix Suns’ high-octane offense, known as “Seven Seconds or Less.” Over his 18-year career, Nash racked up 10,335 assists and shot nearly 43% from three-point range. His precision passing and ability to control the game’s tempo made him a joy to watch and a nightmare for opponents to guard.
Gary Payton, also known as “The Glove” for his defensive prowess, is one more point guard who made a significant mark. With nine All-Defensive First Team selections and a Defensive Player of the Year award in 1996, Payton proved that point guards could be lockdown defenders. His ability to disrupt opponents while still contributing offensively with over 21,000 career points and 8,966 assists makes him one of the most complete guards in NBA history.
For those looking to understand the evolution and brilliance of NBA point guards, these players offer a masterclass in excellence. Each brought unique talents and characteristics to their position, setting benchmarks that today’s players still strive to meet. Their legacies continue to influence how the game is played, proving the lasting impact of their incredible careers. If you want to read more about the greatest players in NBA history, you can check out more details at arena plus.