When we talk about the top all-around scorers in the NBA, several names come to mind. These players excel not just in one area but across the board in scoring, showcasing versatility unmatched by their peers. Take Kevin Durant, for instance. He’s not just a shooter but a prolific scorer who can drop 30 points per game with ease. His field goal percentage consistently hovers around the 50% mark, making him one of the most efficient scorers in the league. His ability to post up, shoot from the mid-range, and attack the rim makes him a nightmare for defenders.
Another player worth mentioning is LeBron James. With nearly 38,000 career points and counting, LeBron has a unique ability to score in virtually every conceivable way. His versatility extends to passing, as he often leads his team in assists, but his scoring prowess is what makes him stand out. During the 2012-2013 season, he managed to shoot an impressive 56.5% from the field. This kind of efficiency, combined with his high scoring average, places him in the conversation for the best all-around scorers.
You can’t ignore Steph Curry when talking about scoring. He has redefined the concept of three-point shooting, making an unprecedented 402 threes in a single season. His deep-range shooting forces defenders to guard him far from the basket, opening lanes for his teammates. It’s not just the volume but the accuracy; his career three-point shooting percentage stands at around 43%, which is phenomenal given the difficulty of his shots.
James Harden is another player who comes to mind. Known for his step-back three-pointer, he led the league in scoring for three consecutive seasons, averaging over 30 points per game each season. Harden’s ability to draw fouls and convert free throws—he often leads the league in free throw attempts—further enhances his scoring ability. His performance during the 2018-2019 season, where he scored 36.1 points per game, is a testament to his dominance.
Kawhi Leonard might not be as flashy, but his scoring efficiency is off the charts. Known for his mid-range game and clutch performances, Kawhi has a knack for delivering in crucial moments. He showcased this during the 2019 NBA Finals, where he averaged 28.5 points per game, leading the Toronto Raptors to their first championship. His shooting splits of 54.9% from the field in those playoffs highlight his scoring efficiency.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Greek Freak, deserves a mention too. His combination of size, speed, and skill makes him hard to stop. Standing at 6 foot 11 inches with a wingspan of over 7 feet, Giannis uses his physical tools to dominate in the paint. During his MVP season in 2019, he averaged 27.7 points per game while shooting 57.8% from the field. His ability to handle the ball and drive to the basket gives him an edge over many other forwards and centers.
Luka Doncic, despite being younger and relatively new, is already making waves as a versatile scorer. His ability to score in numerous ways—three-pointers, mid-range shots, layups, and free throws—makes him a future candidate for best all-around scorer. In just his second season, Luka averaged 28.8 points per game while also contributing significantly in assists and rebounds, showcasing his well-rounded game.
Let’s also remember Damian Lillard, whose long-range shooting and clutch performances have made him one of the most feared scorers. His ability to pull up from 30 feet and convert consistently has earned him the nickname Logo Lillard. During the 2019-2020 season, he averaged 30 points per game, proving his scoring ability is not just about volume but also efficiency. His 40% shooting from beyond the arc is a testament to his long-range prowess.
One can’t talk about versatile scorers without mentioning Anthony Davis. His ability to score inside and out, combined with his defensive skills, makes him a complete player. During the 2019-2020 season, Davis averaged 26.1 points per game while maintaining an effective field goal percentage of 53.4%. His performance in the 2020 playoffs was instrumental in securing the Lakers’ championship, reaffirming his position as one of the best all-around scorers.
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Looking at the landscape of today’s NBA, it’s hard to choose just one best all-around scorer. The league is blessed with a plethora of talents who can score in myriad ways. From three-point shooting to inside dominance to mid-range proficiency, these players have reshaped how we think about scoring in basketball. Each brings something unique to the table, making the game more exciting for fans and more challenging for defenders.