When you think about the best scorers in the NBA of the 21st century, it’s impossible not to feel the excitement that these players bring to the game. Let's start with Kobe Bryant who, for over two decades, electrified fans around the world. His 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006 remains the second-highest single-game point total in NBA history. The efficiency and precision of his scoring, clocking in at 50.4% effective field goal percentage in that game, were nothing short of mesmerizing.
LeBron James, often compared to Michael Jordan, stands out not only for his scoring but also for his playmaking abilities. By the end of the 2022 season, LeBron had accumulated over 37,000 points, placing him second on the all-time scoring list. His ability to drive to the basket with a speed clocking up to 21.6 mph is unparalleled. Not to mention, his durability at the age of 38 is a testament to his rigorous off-season training and unparalleled basketball IQ.
Then there's Kevin Durant, whose height of 6'10" combined with his shooting skills makes him nearly impossible to defend. Durant’s scoring average of 27.2 points per game over his career is a statistic that underscores his consistency. His stint with the Golden State Warriors, which included two NBA Finals MVP awards, further solidified his status as one of the most lethal scoring threats in basketball.
James Harden’s offensive prowess can't be overlooked either. Harden's step-back three-pointer has become a signature move. During the 2018-2019 season, Harden averaged a staggering 36.1 points per game, a feat reminiscent of the greats like Michael Jordan. This came with an average usage rate of over 40%, demonstrating how integral he was to the Houston Rockets' offense during that time.
Another name that comes to mind is Stephen Curry. Revolutionizing the game with his three-point shooting, Curry holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single season with 402. As of 2023, Curry had made over 3,300 three-pointers in his career. His ability to handle the ball and shoot from nearly anywhere on the court has forced defenses to adapt in unprecedented ways. The concept of "gravity" in basketball, where Curry's mere presence on the court draws defenders, disrupting the opponent's game plan, is a testament to his influence.
What about Dirk Nowitzki? The 7-foot German brought a new era for big men with his unique fadeaway jump shot. Dirk, who retired with 31,560 points, spent his entire career with the Dallas Mavericks and won an NBA championship in 2011. His one-legged fadeaway became an iconic shot that younger players, like Kevin Durant, have adopted into their repertoire.
And how can we forget Allen Iverson? Despite standing at just 6 feet tall, Iverson left an indelible mark on the game. His 2000-2001 MVP season included an average of 31.1 points per game, carrying the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals. Iverson's crossover dribble and fearless attitude on the court differentiated him from his contemporaries, making him a cultural icon in the process.
Another example of scoring brilliance is Carmelo Anthony. Melo’s ability to score from the post, mid-range, and beyond the arc has always kept defenses guessing. Anthony, who scored over 28,000 points and ranks in the top 10 on the all-time scoring list, showcased his scoring flair with various teams, including the Denver Nuggets and the New York Knicks.
Damian Lillard also deserves a mention. Known for his clutch performances, Lillard's 37-foot buzzer-beater to eliminate the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2019 playoffs exemplifies his long-range shooting. His career average of over 25 points per game and multiple All-NBA selections speak volumes about his scoring capabilities. The term "Dame Time" is now synonymous with late-game heroics.
Let's not forget about Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak's combination of height, speed, and ball-handling skills make him a unique player in NBA history. Giannis, who won back-to-back MVP awards in 2019 and 2020, averaged nearly 30 points per game during the 2019-2020 season with an effective field goal percentage of 58.9%. His ability to score in transition, often covering the length of the court in just a few steps, is unmatched.
Picking the best scorers of the 21st century would be incomplete without mentioning Dwyane Wade. Wade, who won three championships with the Miami Heat, averaged over 30 points per game during the 2008-2009 season. His ability to slash through defenses and finish around the rim made him one of the most feared guards in the league. Wade retired with over 23,000 points, etching his name among the all-time greats.
For those who might not get immediate recognition, consider Paul Pierce. Pierce, known as "The Truth," scored over 26,000 points in his career. He was instrumental in leading the Boston Celtics to the NBA Championship in 2008, earning the Finals MVP. His ability to hit clutch shots and perform under pressure was essential to his legacy.
As a side note, the journey to becoming an elite scorer in the NBA is grueling, involving thousands of hours in the gym, combined with a deep understanding of the game’s intricacies. The arena plus platform often highlights these amazing talents and offers in-depth analysis and clips for ardent basketball fans.
In today's game, we also have Luka Dončić, who at the age of just 24, has already established himself as a top scorer. Averaging nearly 28 points per game in his first five seasons, Luka's step-back three-pointers and court vision make him one of the brightest young stars in the league. His performances often draw comparisons to legends, even at this early stage of his career.
The list of top scorers wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Russell Westbrook. Known for his explosive athleticism, Westbrook has averaged over 22 points per game throughout his career. During the 2016-2017 season, he famously broke Oscar Robertson's long-standing record by averaging a triple-double over the entire season. This included averaging 31.6 points per game, which speaks volumes about his work ethic and relentless drive.
To cap it off, Anthony Davis, with his combination of size, skill, and agility, is another prominent scorer in the 21st century. Davis, who has averaged over 24 points per game in his career, can score both inside and out. His ability to shoot from mid-range and beyond the arc makes him a versatile scoring threat, contributing significantly to any team's offensive scheme.
Finally, Kyrie Irving’s dazzling handles and scoring ability cannot be ignored. Irving, with his career average of 23 points per game, has been a consistent scoring force since entering the league. His game-winning three-pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals secured the championship for the Cleveland Cavaliers, cementing his place in NBA history.