Alright, let's be real about who dominates the hardwood when it comes to point guards in the NBA. First off, one can't ignore Stephen Curry. This guy's three-point prowess redefined the game, making 43% of his shots from beyond the arc last season alone. I mean, he doesn't just shoot threes; he bullies defenders with handles and incredible court vision. No wonder the Warriors often dominate the league standings.
Then there's Luka Doncic. This kid is only 24 but plays with the savvy of a seasoned veteran. He's averaging nearly 30 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. His step-back threes and eye-of-the-needle passes have become his signature moves. It's hard to think of the Mavericks without thinking of Luka leading the way.
Another standout is Chris Paul, the "Point God." At 38 years old, he's not just hanging on—he's orchestrating one of the most efficient offenses in the league. CP3’s assist-to-turnover ratio is just ridiculous, sitting around 4-to-1. The Suns’ rise in recent seasons entirely coincides with Paul's arrival in Phoenix. No surprise there.
And let’s not forget Damian Lillard. Talk about clutch! Dame is constantly dropping 50-point games like it's nothing—just ask the Blazers' countless opponents who've seen him hit those buzzer-beaters that end all their hopes and dreams. His range challenges even Curry's, stretching defenses to the breaking point.
Of course, you can't leave out Ja Morant if we're talking about explosive point guards. He's only been in the league for a few years, but his high-flying dunks and quick drives to the basket have been nothing short of sensational. The Grizzlies have a young star in Morant, and they know it, with his jersey sales soaring up by nearly 40% in the last year alone.
Kyrie Irving deserves his slot on this list. Controversies aside, when you talk about handles, killer crossovers, and clutch shooting, Kyrie is your guy. His one-on-one offensive game is near perfection, helping the Cavaliers win their 2016 championship and proving he can perform on the biggest stage.
There’s Trae Young, too, representing the Atlanta Hawks. His shooting percentage from downtown might not be as high as Curry's, but Trae's floaters and pick-and-roll play are superb. And let's give credit where it's due: he led the Hawks to an unexpected Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 2021.
Even if some fans lean towards more traditional point guards, the modern game values all-around versatility and scoring ability. Russell Westbrook might not average a triple-double anymore, but his historical feat of doing so for three seasons straight, ending in 2018, puts him in elite company. Westbrook's ability to stuff the stat sheet makes him a player teams can't easily overlook.
For those who trust the advanced metrics, Ben Simmons when healthy has his unique skill set. Standing at 6'10", he defies the traditional definition of a point guard. His defense metrics are excellent, frequently guarding multiple positions, averaging around 1.7 steals per game during the 2020-21 season. But, of course, those shooting issues are hard to ignore.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is another name climbing the ranks fast. His rise in Oklahoma City paints a promising future. Averaging nearly 25 points per game last season with a 51% field goal percentage showcases his efficiency and scoring touch. Plus, his versatility at playing both guard positions adds extra value.
So, who rules the roost among point guards? It depends on what metrics you favor: shooting accuracy, complete stat lines, or just pure entertainment value. But if you’re looking at it holistically, the league has never been more stacked with point guard talent. For anyone who wants to dig deeper into these rankings or place a bet, check out the full list at arena plus.