Former NBA star Kevin Johnson offered a clear and experience-driven take when asked to name his top five greatest point guards of all time. Speaking on Byron Scott’s Fast Break, Johnson leaned on players he either watched closely or competed against, building a list rooted in impact, skill, and longevity.
“Magic Johnson, Isiah Thomas, Stephen Curry, John Stockton. I didn’t see Bob Cousy and some of the old Gs, so unfortunately my list is not going to include them just because I don’t know.I’mma give my last one. I love Gary Payton. I love Tim Hardaway.”
“I’mma give my last one to Nate Archibald. Let’s go with Tiny Nate Archibald. That’s my sleeper.”
At the top sits Magic Johnson, widely regarded as the gold standard for point guards. Johnson’s size, vision, and ability to control tempo made him a five-time champion and three-time MVP. For many players of Kevin Johnson’s era, Magic defined what a point guard could be.
Next came Isiah Thomas, the engine behind the Detroit Pistons’ championship runs. Thomas combined scoring, leadership, and toughness in a way few guards ever have. His playoff performances, especially in the late 1980s, left a lasting impression on peers like Johnson.
Johnson also included Stephen Curry, the only modern player on his list. Curry’s influence on the game is undeniable. His shooting range and off-ball movement have reshaped offensive systems across the league. Even players from older eras recognize how unique his impact has been.
The fourth spot went to John Stockton, the all-time leader in assists and steals. Stockton’s consistency stands out. He ran the Utah Jazz offense with precision for nearly two decades, rarely missing games and always producing at a high level.
For his final pick, Johnson went slightly off the typical list. He chose Nate Archibald, calling him a ‘sleeper.’ Archibald remains one of the most unique guards in league history. In the 1972-73 season, he led the NBA in both scoring and assists, a feat no one else has matched.
Johnson also gave love to players like Gary Payton and Tim Hardaway, showing how deep the point guard position runs across eras.
His list reflects perspective. Johnson admitted he did not include earlier legends like Bob Cousy and Jerry West because he did not see them play. That honesty gives context to his choices. This is a player speaking from lived experience, not just historical reputation.
Johnson’s own career adds weight to his opinion. Drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1987, he quickly found his footing after being traded to the Phoenix Suns. That is where he built his legacy.
Across 12 NBA seasons, Johnson averaged 17.9 points, 9.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game. He shot over 49.3% from the field, an elite mark for a guard, especially in his era. His best season came in 1988-89, when he averaged 20.4 points and 12.2 assists, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier floor generals.
Johnson earned three All-Star selections and five All-NBA nods. He played a key role in leading Phoenix to the 1993 NBA Finals alongside Charles Barkley, pushing Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls in a competitive series.
His game was built on speed, control, and efficiency. He attacked the rim, created for others, and rarely wasted possessions. Injuries limited his longevity, but at his peak, he stood among the best point guards in the league.
That background explains his list. Johnson values players who control games, elevate teammates, and deliver in big moments. His top five reflects exactly that.
