The 2020s have ushered in a new era of NBA shot creators, players who can generate their own offense at will. During this time, a few names have consistently stood out due to their outstanding performances and stats. One such player is Luka Dončić, only 24 years old, yet already a three-time NBA All-Star by 2023. Luka's ability to contribute across the board is evident in his averages of 27.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. His knack for orchestrating plays is reminiscent of legendary players and is often compared to LeBron James during his Cleveland days. When discussing shot creation, his step-back three has become iconic, drawing replays and the admiration of fans and analysts alike.
Considering advanced metrics, James Harden shines as an elite shot creator. By the 2020s, his usage rate had consistently been above 30%, which indicates the degree to which his teams rely on him to create shots. Harden’s isolations per game lead the league, emphasizing his unique style of play. Notably, in the 2021-2022 season, Harden averaged 22 points per game despite sharing the court with other high-caliber players like Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. This stat highlights Harden's efficiency and ability to adapt his game to his team's needs.
Looking at another young prodigy, Trae Young cannot be missed. At 6 feet 1 inch, Young's smaller stature belies his significant impact on the court. He has consistently been among the top scorers and assist leaders since he entered the league. In fact, during the 2020-2021 season, he averaged 25 points and 9.4 assists per game. Fans will recall his memorable playoff run where he led the Atlanta Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Historically, Devin Booker’s progress as a shot creator has been impressive. In the 2021-2022 NBA season, he surpassed the 26 points per game mark while leading the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals. His ability to create shots from all three levels - at the rim, mid-range, and beyond the arc - makes him a nightmare for defenders. Booker's devastating efficiency and knack for scoring in clutch moments put him in elite company. Analysts would often draw parallels between him and past greats like Kobe Bryant, which speaks volumes about his talent and potential. Check out more about these players on arena plus.
One cannot leave out Jayson Tatum who, at just 25 years old, has already established himself as one of the premier shot creators. His adeptness at scoring is demonstrated by his career-high 60-point game against the San Antonio Spurs in 2021. In the 2022-2023 season, Tatum averaged 30.1 points, which ranked among the league’s leaders. His versatile scoring ability, whether through post moves, off-the-dribble shots, or catch-and-shoot opportunities, makes him a constant threat on the offensive end.
Statistics from Damian Lillard further highlight his efficacy as a shot creator. Lillard consistently maintains an average above 25 points per game while being the primary offensive weapon for the Portland Trail Blazers. During the 2020-2021 season, he averaged 28.8 points per game and an impressive 7.5 assists. His range extends well beyond the three-point line, making shots that often seem impossible. "Dame Time," as the fourth quarter is often referred to when he’s on the court, showcases his unparalleled ability to hit clutch shots.
An often overlooked but equally vital player is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Shai evolved into a primary offensive option, especially highlighted during the 2020-2021 season where he averaged 23.7 points and 5.9 assists per game. His herky-jerky movement and old-school, mid-range game stand out in an era dominated by three-point shooting. Gilgeous-Alexander’s progression shows that there’s still room for diverse styles in shot creation in the modern NBA.
Of course, we must discuss Giannis Antetokounmpo. Known more for his defensive prowess and dominant inside game, Giannis has developed his shot-creating abilities. In the 2020-2021 season, he averaged a career-high 28.1 points per game, complemented by 11 rebounds and 5.9 assists. His combination of size, speed, and skill makes his drives to the basket nearly unstoppable. Observers often compare his dominance to that of Shaquille O'Neal in his prime, with added versatility given Giannis’ ability to handle the ball and facilitate plays.
Finally, the 2020s also saw the rise of Ja Morant, a player whose explosiveness and fearlessness have quickly made him a fan favorite. In the 2021-2022 season, he averaged 27.4 points per game, a significant leap from his rookie season. His ability to cut through defenses and finish at the rim, often in spectacular fashion, makes him one of the most exciting shot creators to watch. Comparisons to players like Allen Iverson illustrate Morant’s ability to carve out a unique space for himself in the NBA landscape.
Evaluating these players, one realizes that the art of shot creation in the NBA involves a blend of natural talent, intense training, and the ability to perform under immense pressure. Each player brings something unique to the table, and it will be exciting to watch how they continue to evolve and influence the game in the coming years.