By: Ro’Mel Bryant-Oliveraz
Being the best scorer in NBA history isn’t just about total points or averages. It’s also about who is the biggest threat every time they touch the ball and can score in the most ways. NBA legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and even modern players like Luka Doncic all redefined scoring through skill, technique, and IQ.
Michael Jordan is always seen as the gold standard for many. As a pure scorer, he combined unmatched athleticism, an almost undefendable drive, and one of the best mid range shots. Opponents had to guard every part of the floor because Jordan could jump above defenders or fade away under pressure. He has the record of 10 scoring titles, heavily adding to his scoring reputation.
Kobe Bryant is also one of the best behind MJ, taking Jordan’s blueprint and adding his own pre planned footwork and bag of fakes. With a very fast release and the ability to spin into layups or pull-up jumpers, and ability to fake them, Kobe made every possession a calculated threat of scoring. He has the record of third most points scored in a game at 81 points.
LeBron James brings unmatched physical dominance and longevity. The all-time leading scorer has averaged around 25+ points for over 20 years. His size, speed, strength, and evolving shooting make him almost unstoppable in transition and the half court.
Kevin Durant is the ultimate scoring machine. At 7 feet with movement and handles like a small guard, and a pure shooting stroke, KD can score from anywhere at all; pull up threes, mid range, or over smaller defenders at the rim. His length makes his shot almost unblockable, while also refining his shooting to be one of the most pure, effortless, and automatic. He is a 4-time NBA scoring Champion, and a prominent member of the 50-40-90 club, meaning at least 50% from field, 40% from three, and 90% from the line.
Steph Curry changed the game with his unlimited shooting range and off ball movement. He forces defenses to guard 30 feet or more from the basket, creating space for himself and teammates, and being able to shoot impossible shots from impossible distances. He also has one of the best handles and body manipulation for a small guard. He holds the record of career made 3 pointers, and is the only player to record a 50-40-90 season while leading the league in scoring. He also has a 42.3% shooting from deep, which is unheard of, and more importantly the only player to have a Unanimous MVP.
Today, Luka Doncic uses top tier rhythm manipulation to make his movement slow yet unpredictable. Also being able to score from anywhere on the court from deep threes, mid range fade aways, or tough layups. Combine that with elite playmaking and willingness to take tough shots, makes him one of the most offensively best players. He has the highest scoring averages in NBA history, and second highest career playoff PPG behind Jordan.
Overall, the greatest scorers are those who force defenses to change strategy. Jordan, Kobe, LeBron, KD, Curry, and Luka, each proved scoring is about skill, versatility, achievements and mentality; not just points.
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