Ranking the 17 Best Point Guards in NBA History
Point guards are the leaders on the court, setting up plays and making crucial decisions to control the game’s flow. Over the years, the NBA has seen some truly legendary players at this position whose skills and vision shaped basketball history. Here’s a ranking of the 17 greatest point guards of all time.
Magic Johnson
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Magic Johnson’s 6’9″ frame, exceptional vision, and five NBA championships redefined the point guard position. A three-time MVP, Magic’s ability to lead the Lakers’ “Showtime” offense and dominate in high-pressure moments makes him the gold standard for point guards. His charisma and versatility left an unmatched legacy in basketball history.
Stephen Curry
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Stephen Curry revolutionized basketball with his unparalleled shooting and quick release. A four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP, Curry holds the all-time record for three-pointers made. His ability to thrive both on and off the ball has transformed the Warriors into a dynasty while reshaping how modern basketball is played.
Oscar Robertson
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Oscar Robertson was the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season, setting a standard for all-around excellence. Known as “The Big O,” Robertson’s scoring, rebounding, and playmaking earned him an MVP and an NBA championship. His dominance paved the way for the multi-skilled point guards we see today.
Isiah Thomas
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Isiah Thomas led the Detroit Pistons’ “Bad Boys” to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990. Despite being undersized, he excelled in scoring, playmaking, and leadership. Known for his toughness and clutch performances, Thomas was at his best in high-stakes games, cementing his status as one of the greatest competitors in NBA history.
John Stockton
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John Stockton owns NBA records for career assists (15,806) and steals (3,265), numbers that may never be surpassed. His partnership with Karl Malone defined the Utah Jazz’s success for nearly two decades. A master of the pick-and-roll, Stockton’s consistency, durability, and unselfish play make him a true point guard legend.
Chris Paul
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Chris Paul, often nicknamed “The Point God,” is one of the smartest players in NBA history. His court vision, leadership, and defensive skills have led him to rank third in all-time assists. While he hasn’t won a championship, his ability to elevate every team he’s joined secures his legacy as an all-time great.
Jason Kidd
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Jason Kidd excelled as a playmaker and defender, ranking second all-time in assists and steals. A triple-double machine, Kidd was instrumental in the Dallas Mavericks’ 2011 championship. Known for his court vision and basketball IQ, Kidd’s ability to lead offenses and disrupt opponents makes him one of the most complete point guards ever.
Steve Nash
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Steve Nash’s two MVP awards in 2005 and 2006 highlight his exceptional passing and shooting abilities. As the leader of the Phoenix Suns’ fast-paced offense, Nash revolutionized modern basketball with his efficiency and creativity. His career 90.4% free-throw percentage underscores his remarkable shooting consistency, making him a true offensive maestro.
Walt Frazier
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Walt “Clyde” Frazier was a two-time NBA champion and the defensive cornerstone of the New York Knicks. Known for his flashy style on and off the court, Frazier delivered clutch performances in critical games. His elite defense, smooth scoring, and leadership helped make the Knicks a powerhouse in the 1970s.
Bob Cousy
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Bob Cousy, the “Houdini of the Hardwood,” was a pioneer of the point guard position. His flashy passing and leadership helped the Boston Celtics win six championships. Cousy’s creativity and playmaking revolutionized basketball during his era, earning him an MVP award and a place as one of the NBA’s early superstars.
Allen Iverson
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Allen Iverson was a scoring machine and cultural icon. Although undersized for a guard, his fearless drives to the basket and creative ball-handling left defenders helpless. The 2001 MVP carried the 76ers to the NBA Finals and inspired a generation of players with his toughness, charisma, and dynamic style of play.
Gary Payton
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Gary “The Glove” Payton was a tenacious defender and the only point guard to win Defensive Player of the Year (1996). Known for his trash talk and two-way excellence, Payton was a key contributor to the Miami Heat’s 2006 championship. His combination of scoring, passing, and lockdown defense makes him a legend.
Russell Westbrook
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Russell Westbrook’s athleticism and intensity redefined the point guard position. The all-time leader in triple-doubles, Westbrook won the 2017 MVP by averaging a triple-double for an entire season. His relentless energy and ability to dominate every facet of the game make him one of the most electrifying players in NBA history.
Tony Parker
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Tony Parker’s quickness, mid-range game, and poise under pressure made him the engine of the San Antonio Spurs’ dynasty. A four-time champion and 2007 Finals MVP, Parker consistently delivered in the playoffs. His leadership and ability to excel in high-pressure moments secure his place among the all-time greats.
Damian Lillard
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Damian Lillard is renowned for his deep shooting range and clutch performances, earning him the nickname “Dame Time.” A six-time All-Star, Lillard has delivered iconic playoff moments, including buzzer-beating series winners. His loyalty to the Portland Trail Blazers and ability to perform in pressure-packed situations make him a modern-day legend.
Nate Archibald
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“Nate Tiny Archibald” made history by leading the league in scoring and assists in the same season (1972–73). His speed, creativity, and ability to carry teams offensively set him apart during his era. Archibald’s unique skill set and Hall of Fame career earned him a lasting place among the NBA’s elite.
Kyrie Irving
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Kyrie Irving’s dazzling ball-handling, shooting touch, and clutch play earned him a spot among the greats. His iconic three-pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals helped the Cleveland Cavaliers secure their first championship. Irving’s offensive skill set is one of the most complete in NBA history.