When we talk about all-around players in the NBA, the conversation invariably shifts towards individuals who not only rack up points but also excel in assists, rebounds, steals, and even leadership qualities. Take LeBron James, for instance. At 38 years old, he consistently amazes with his endurance and versatility. He's averaged over 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists per game throughout his career, a benchmark of consistency hardly anyone matches in the league. His impact isn’t just in numbers but in how he influences game outcomes with his basketball IQ and adaptability.
Take a look at Giannis Antetokounmpo, another quintessential example of an all-around player. Standing at 6'11" with a wingspan of 7'3", his physical attributes alone give him an edge. But it's his agility and speed at such a size that truly sets him apart. Over the last couple of seasons, he’s averaged around 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. These stats paint a vivid picture of a player who dominates both ends of the court. His incredible efficiency rating (PER) of 31.9 in the 2019-2020 NBA season speaks volumes about his all-around capabilities.
Luka Dončić also falls into this elite category. At only 24 years old, his young career already boasts impressive stats that would be noteworthy for even a seasoned veteran. Averaging 28 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds per game, he has shown the ability to take over games single-handedly. The 2021-2022 season saw him record multiple triple-doubles, making him one of the few players to achieve this feat so regularly in NBA history.
Let's not forget about Kevin Durant. With his scoring prowess and defensive capabilities, KD is another name that pops up when discussing the best all-around players. Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, Durant still holds a career average of 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. His versatility allows him to play both forward and guard positions, making him a matchup nightmare for most teams.
Draymond Green, although not as prolific a scorer, contributes significantly in other ways. Known as the heart and soul of the Golden State Warriors, he averages only about 9 points per game but excels in other metrics. He fetches around 7 rebounds, 7 assists, and more than a steal and a block per game. His defensive Player Efficiency Rating (PER) and defensive win shares are among the best in the league, highlighting his impact.
Take for example the 2022 NBA playoffs, where Green demonstrated his ability to anchor the defense while directing offensive plays. His ability to read the game and make crucial plays under pressure often frees up his teammates, enabling them to execute better and score efficiently.
Jokic, the reigning MVP, epitomizes the modern center with his wide-ranging skill set. Averaging 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists in the 2021-2022 season, he redefined the role of a big man. His passing vision rivals that of elite guards, and his scoring efficiency is off the charts, with a true shooting percentage (TS%) of 66%. In a game against the Utah Jazz, he recorded 35 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists, a testament to his all-around prowess.
Kawhi Leonard is another great example, earning the nickname "The Klaw" for his extraordinary defensive skills. He still manages to contribute substantially on the offensive end, averaging around 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. His hands are so large that he can palm the ball easily, aiding in his disruptive defense and making him one of the most intimidating defenders in the league today.
If you're looking for players who also serve as emotional and tactical leaders, Chris Paul is your guy. Though he's in his late 30s, he still averages 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 10 assists per game. His basketball IQ and ability to control the tempo of the game are unparalleled. Paul's influence on young players is immense; take Deandre Ayton for example, who has flourished under his mentorship at the Phoenix Suns.
With a combination of stats, versatility, and impact, these players exemplify what it means to be the best all-around players in the NBA. They dominate not just in scoring but by contributing in multifaceted ways, making their teams collectively better. If you want to catch all the action by these extraordinary athletes, check out arena plus for the latest updates and insights. You won't regret following these versatile maestros of the game.
