When talking about the greatest perimeter scorers to ever play in the NBA, one cannot overlook Michael Jordan's incredible ability to score from almost anywhere on the court. Jordan, who played the majority of his career with the Chicago Bulls, held an average of 30.1 points per game throughout his career. This includes an extraordinary 1986-1987 season where he averaged 37.1 points per game. His combination of speed, agility, and scoring efficiency epitomizes what a perimeter scorer should be.
But let's dive into another name equally worthy of the spotlight—Kobe Bryant. Known for his work ethic and the ultimate confidence in his jump shot, Kobe's offensive arsenal made him virtually unguardable. Over his 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe amassed a total of 33,643 points, putting him in the top ranks of all-time NBA scorers. A memorable moment that highlights his perimeter scoring prowess would be his 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006, a feat only surpassed by Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game in NBA history.
Moving on to modern times, Kevin Durant has established himself as one of NBA's most reliable perimeter scorers. His career field goal percentage of 49.6% is a testament to his efficient scoring ability. Durant, often referred to by his nickname "KD," excels due to his 6'10" frame and a wingspan of 7'5", allowing him to shoot over virtually any defender. From his rookie season with the Seattle SuperSonics to his current tenure with the Brooklyn Nets, KD's scoring average remains high at 27.2 points per game. His performance in the 2017 and 2018 NBA Finals earned him back-to-back NBA Finals MVPs, solidifying his status among the greats.
arena plus fans might also recall the name LeBron James as a pivotal perimeter scorer. Now, while LeBron is often celebrated for his incredible all-around game, his scoring ability is indisputable. A career average of 27.0 points per game and a record of 38,387 points (and counting) places him as the NBA's all-time leading scorer. Despite his size, LeBron often takes long jump shots and three-pointers with confidence, demonstrating that even power forwards can master perimeter scoring.
Let's not forget Stephen Curry, perhaps the most transformative perimeter scorer in NBA history. Known for his spectacular three-point shooting, Curry has shattered numerous records, including the most three-pointers made in a single season with 402 in the 2015-2016 season. His career three-point shooting percentage stands at 42.8%, making him a constant threat from beyond the arc. Curry’s unique ability to shoot from deep range and his quick release have changed how the game is played today, influencing the increase in three-point attempts across the league.
Another remarkable perimeter scorer worth mentioning is Larry Bird. Bird, who played his entire career with the Boston Celtics, averaged 24.3 points per game over a 13-year span. He was known for his deadly accuracy, as evidenced by his 49.6% field goal percentage and 37.6% three-point percentage. Bird's intelligence on the court and his clutch performance in crucial moments earned him the distinction of being a three-time NBA MVP and a two-time NBA Finals MVP.
James Harden’s name always comes up in discussions about elite perimeter scorers. Known for his signature step-back three-pointer, Harden has been in the top tier of scoring since his trade to the Houston Rockets. During the 2018-2019 season, Harden averaged a staggering 36.1 points per game. His ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line contributes significantly to his scoring totals. Notably, Harden's unique playing style has forced NBA defenses to adapt, showcasing his impact on the game.
Ray Allen’s consistency and longevity deserve recognition. Allen retired as the all-time leader in three-pointers made, a record he held until recently. Shooting 40% from three-point range over an 18-year career, Allen was a master of the catch-and-shoot three-pointer. His game-winning three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals is often highlighted as one of the most clutch shots in NBA history.
While these names are some of the most prominent, the landscape of NBA’s perimeter scoring has been graced by numerous other legends. Each brought their unique style, whether it was the smooth scoring of George Gervin or the sheer shooting ability of Reggie Miller. The enduring legacy of these players not only lies in the points they scored but also in how they transformed the game of basketball.
