Making shots on an NBA basketball court is always harder than it looks. And while the pros are the best in the world at making these shots, even they have certain spots that work better for them than others.
Whether it’s the corner or the wing or even right underneath the rim, players are at their best when they know their strengths. In an ESPN video, Kirk Goldsberry explains which NBA players were the most and least efficient from each zone on the court — and it’s fantastic content.
Between the three-line and half0court, it’s Damian Lillard who thrives. He hits 42% from the three-point line — the highest in the NBA.
Under the rim, while Giannis leads the league in points scored in that area, it’s Mitchell Robinson who shoots the highest percentage (74.1%). Devonte Graham is the least efficient, making just 40.9% of his shots in this zone.
LaMarcus Aldridge leads the NBA in two-point baseline jumpers with 53 makes this season. He is also the most efficient scorer in this area. The worst? LeBron James, who shoots an ice-cold 30.5% on that side of the baseline.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9pwh2t_dCY
When it comes to the left elbow, Russell Westbrook has made the most shots in this area while Chris Paul is the most efficient, shooting 56.4% in this area. Ricky Rubio is the league’s worst as he makes just 31.6% of his shots.
Dennis Schroder makes the most shots at the key and Kawhi is the most efficient (56.4%). Surprisingly, Joel Embiid is the worst. He shoots 30.4% in this area.
Going to the right side, CP3 once again shows his dominance. He leads the NBA in makes from this zone at 54. But it’s CJ McCollum who is most efficient here, shooting an NBA-best 56.6%. Sadly, Carmelo is the worst — he makes just 29% of his shots here.
Khris Middleton leads the league in efficiency at the two-point right baseline, with a percentage of 58.2%. Devin Booker is the worst at 37%.
Moving beyond the arc, James Harden, PJ Tucker (corners), Doug McDermott (wing), Danilo Gallinari (key), and Isaiah Thomas (wing) dominate while Taurean Prince (corner), Russell Westbrook (wing), Julius Randle (key), Lauri Markkanen (wing), and Jae Crowder struggle.
This is essentially a road-map on which players are the best and worst in these different zones. It’s interesting to see not only who makes the most in these areas, and who are the most efficient, but also how it will change over time. As the league continues to evolve, players will continue t change and adapt their game to get the better of their opponents.
