NBA’s Greatest Scorers

Each Player Has Averaged At Least 20 PPG over their Career.

Just Remember – Our Regular Season Data goes as far back as the 1999-2000 NBA Season.
The NBA player may have begun their career before then.

The NBA is home to some of the most skilled athletes in the world, and scoring in the league is an art form that comes in various styles. Each player’s unique approach to putting points on the board not only showcases their individual talent but also reflects the evolution of the game. Here’s a look at some of the predominant scoring styles in the NBA.

The Sharpshooter

Sharpshooters are the dead-eye marksmen of the NBA. They excel at shooting from long range, often making their living beyond the three-point line. Players like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson have revolutionized the game with their ability to hit threes with astonishing accuracy and from well beyond the arc. Their quick release, exceptional hand-eye coordination, and ability to shoot off the dribble or catch-and-shoot make them a constant threat from downtown.

The Slasher

Slashers are dynamic players known for their ability to drive to the basket and finish at the rim. They possess explosive athleticism, agility, and body control, allowing them to navigate through defenses with ease. Players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Russell Westbrook exemplify this style. They use their speed and strength to blow by defenders and their acrobatic skills to finish with dunks, layups, and floaters, often drawing fouls in the process.

The Mid-Range Maestro

While the NBA has increasingly leaned towards three-pointers and dunks, the mid-range game remains a valuable weapon for some. Mid-range maestros are experts at pulling up for jump shots from within the arc. Players like DeMar DeRozan and Kevin Durant have mastered this area of the floor. They use footwork, ball-handling, and a keen sense of spacing to create open shots from 10 to 20 feet, often using screens or isolations to get their preferred looks.

The Post-Up Specialist

Post-up specialists operate primarily on the low block, using their size, strength, and footwork to score in the paint. This traditional style involves backing down defenders and utilizing a variety of moves such as hook shots, fadeaways, and up-and-under maneuvers. Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic are modern examples of big men who can dominate in the post, combining power and finesse to outmaneuver their opponents.

The All-Around Scorer

All-around scorers are the Swiss Army knives of NBA offenses. They can score from anywhere on the court and in a variety of ways. LeBron James and Kevin Durant are quintessential all-around scorers, capable of hitting threes, pulling up from mid-range, attacking the rim, and posting up. Their versatility makes them incredibly difficult to defend, as they can adapt their scoring to exploit any defensive weakness.

The Free Throw Aficionado

While not the flashiest scoring style, the ability to draw fouls and convert free throws is an essential skill. Players like James Harden and Trae Young have mastered the art of getting to the line. They use their craftiness, ball-handling, and understanding of defensive tendencies to draw contact and earn free points. Consistent free throw shooting can be a reliable scoring source, especially in close games.

The Transition Scorer

Transition scorers thrive in the fast break, using their speed and anticipation to capitalize on defensive lapses. Players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Zion Williamson excel in transition, where their athleticism and finishing ability shine. Whether it’s off a steal, a rebound, or a quick outlet pass, these players can turn defense into offense in the blink of an eye, often finishing with highlight-reel dunks.

The Pick-and-Roll Savant

The pick-and-roll is a staple of modern NBA offenses, and players who excel in this set can be highly effective scorers. Guards like Damian Lillard and Luka Dončić use screens to create mismatches and find scoring opportunities. They can pull up for a three, drive to the basket, or find the roll man for an easy finish. Mastery of the pick-and-roll requires excellent decision-making, ball-handling, and shooting ability.

In conclusion, the NBA’s scoring landscape is rich with diversity, reflecting the myriad ways players can dominate offensively. From sharpshooters to post-up specialists, each style brings something unique to the game, making basketball a constantly evolving and exciting sport to watch. Whether it’s through brute force, finesse, or pure shooting skill, NBA players continue to push the boundaries of scoring, thrilling fans with their remarkable abilities.