Highest Assists Per Game Leaders For Each NBA Franchise In The 21st Century

Assists are the lifeblood of any successful basketball team, serving as the glue that holds offensive schemes together and creates the opportunities that lead to big plays. In the 21st century, we’ve seen some incredible playmakers who not only rack up assists but also elevate the play of everyone around them. These players have become the engines that drive their teams, showcasing vision, timing, and unselfishness on a nightly basis. Whether it’s a no-look pass that threads the needle or a simple dish that sets up an open jumper, the ability to consistently generate assists is what separates good players from great ones. In this article, we’ll dive into the players who have led each NBA franchise in assists per game since the year 2000.

Minimum requirements: 100 games played

Atlanta Hawks – Trae Young (9.5 APG)

Trae Young has been the driving force behind the Hawks’ offense since his arrival in 2018. Known for his incredible court vision and passing ability, Young has consistently been among the league’s top playmakers. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 9.7 assists per game, solidifying his reputation as one of the NBA’s premier passers. His dynamic playmaking has not only made him indispensable to the Hawks but has also earned him three All-Star appearances and an All-NBA Third Team selection in 2022.

Young’s breakout as a top-tier passer was evident early in his career, and his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates has been a key factor in Atlanta’s successes, including their deep playoff run in 2021. With an average of 9.5 assists per game in his career, Trae Young stands out as the highest assist-per-game leader for the Hawks in the 21st century.

Hawks Current Leaders: Trae Young (9.5 APG), Dejounte Murray (6.3), Jason Terry (5.5)

Boston Celtics – Rajon Rondo (8.5 APG)

Rajon Rondo was the heartbeat of the Celtics’ offense during his time in Boston, particularly in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Known for his exceptional basketball IQ and elite passing skills, Rondo was the floor general who orchestrated the team’s plays with precision. During his peak seasons, Rondo consistently averaged over 10 assists per game, and he led the NBA in assists for three consecutive seasons from 2011 to 2013. His ability to find the open man and create scoring opportunities was a key factor in the Celtics’ success, including their 2008 NBA Championship run.

Rondo’s standout passing ability made him one of the most reliable playmakers in the league, earning him four All-Star appearances and several All-Defensive Team selections. With an average of 8.5 assists per game during his time in Boston, Rondo remains the Celtics’ all-time leader in assists per game in the 21st century.

Celtics Current Leaders: Rajon Rondo (8.5 APG), Kyrie Irving (6.1), Isaiah Thomas (6.0)

Brooklyn Nets – Jason Kidd (9.1 APG)

Jason Kidd is widely regarded as one of the best point guards in NBA history, and his time with the Nets solidified his legacy as an elite playmaker. From 2001 to 2008, Kidd was the engine that powered the Nets’ offense, leading them to two NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003. Known for his exceptional court vision, Kidd averaged 9.1 assists per game during his tenure with the Nets, making him the franchise’s all-time leader in assists per game in the 21st century.

Kidd’s ability to orchestrate the offense and make everyone around him better was a hallmark of his game. His leadership on the court was instrumental in transforming the Nets into a championship contender during the early 2000s. With his knack for racking up assists and triple-doubles, Kidd earned multiple All-Star selections and an All-NBA First Team spot in 2002. His contributions to the Nets have left an enduring legacy that still resonates with the franchise today.

Nets Current Leaders: Jason Kidd (9.1 APG), Deron Williams (7.5), Devin Harris (6.9)

Charlotte Hornets – Brevin Knight (8.3 APG)

Brevin Knight may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking about elite passers, but during his time with the Charlotte Hornets, he quietly established himself as a top-tier playmaker. Knight led the team with 8.3 assists per game, making him the franchise’s all-time leader in assists per game in the 21st century. Known for his quickness and ability to read the defense, Knight excelled at setting up his teammates and controlling the tempo of the game.

Despite not having the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, Knight’s contribution to the Hornets during his tenure from 2005 to 2007 was significant. His ability to consistently generate assists and keep the offense flowing made him an invaluable asset to the team. His 8.3 assists per game remain a high mark in the franchise’s history, showcasing his impact as a playmaker.

Hornets Current Leaders: Brevin Knight (8.3 APG), Baron Davis (7.9), LaMelo Ball (7.4)

Chicago Bulls – Derrick Rose (6.2 APG)

Derrick Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, was the driving force behind the Chicago Bulls during the late 2000s and early 2010s. Known for his explosive athleticism and ability to break down defenses, Rose also possessed an exceptional ability to set up his teammates. Averaging 6.2 assists per game during his time with the Bulls, Rose led the team in assists and was a key factor in their success, particularly during their deep playoff runs in 2011 and 2012.

Rose’s playmaking ability was often overshadowed by his scoring prowess, but his vision and passing were crucial to the Bulls’ offense. His ability to draw defenders and create opportunities for others made him an indispensable part of the team. Even after his MVP season, Rose continued to be a reliable playmaker for the Bulls, making him the franchise’s top assist-per-game leader in the 21st century.

Bulls Current Leaders: Derrick Rose (6.2 APG), DeMar DeRozan (5.1), Kris Dunn (5.1)

Cleveland Cavaliers – Andre Miller (9.4 APG)

Andre Miller might not have the same star power as some of the other names on this list, but during his brief time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he was an absolute assist machine. Miller led the NBA in assists during the 2001-02 season with 10.9 per game and finished his tenure with the Cavs averaging 9.4 assists per game. His ability to control the pace of the game and deliver pinpoint passes made him the top assist leader for the Cavaliers in the 21st century.

While Miller’s time in Cleveland was relatively short, his impact was undeniable. His playmaking skills were a bright spot for the Cavaliers during the early 2000s, and his ability to find open teammates was second to none. Miller’s 8.2 assists per game remain the highest in franchise history since 2000, solidifying his place in Cavaliers lore.

Cavaliers Current Leaders: Andre Miller (9.4 APG), LeBron James (7.3), Darius Garland (6.7)

Dallas Mavericks – Luka Doncic (8.3 APG)

Luka Doncic has quickly become one of the most dynamic playmakers in the NBA since joining the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. Known for his exceptional vision and ability to make plays under pressure, Doncic has averaged 8.3 assists per game, making him the Mavericks’ all-time leader in assists per game in the 21st century. Whether it’s a no-look pass or a perfectly timed lob, Luka’s ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates is a key component of his game.

Doncic’s impact on the Mavericks is undeniable, with his playmaking skills helping to elevate the team to new heights, including multiple playoff appearances and the latest trip to the NBA Finals. His ability to read defenses and make the right play, even in the toughest situations, has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest passers in NBA history. As he continues to develop, Luka’s assist numbers are likely to remain among the best in the league, cementing his legacy as one of the Mavericks’ all-time greats.

Mavericks Current Leaders: Luka Doncic (8.3 APG), Jason Kidd (8.2), Steve Nash (7.8)

Denver Nuggets – Nick Van Exel (8.3 APG)

Nick Van Exel was a key playmaker for the Denver Nuggets in the early 2000s, and his ability to dish out assists made him a standout on the team. Averaging 8.3 assists per game during his time in Denver, Van Exel holds the title as the Nuggets’ all-time leader in assists per game in the 21st century. Known for his flashy passing and clutch performances, Van Exel brought a spark to the Nuggets’ offense, consistently setting up his teammates with quality scoring opportunities.

While Van Exel’s time with the Nuggets was relatively brief, his impact as a playmaker was significant. His leadership on the court and ability to control the tempo of the game made him an essential part of the Nuggets’ attack. Even as the years have passed, his assist numbers remain the highest in the franchise’s history for this century.

Nuggets Current Leaders: Nick Van Exel (8.3 APG), Allen Iverson (7.1), Nikola Jokic (6.9)

Detroit Pistons – Brandon Jennings (6.6 APG)

Brandon Jennings might not have spent a long time with the Detroit Pistons, but during his tenure, he led the team in assists, averaging 6.6 per game. Known for his quickness and scoring ability, Jennings also demonstrated a strong playmaking skill set, setting up his teammates and keeping the Pistons’ offense moving. His time in Detroit was highlighted by his ability to create plays both in transition and in half-court sets, making him the Pistons’ top assist leader in the 21st century.

Jennings’ tenure with the Pistons was marked by his dynamic performances, where he often served as the catalyst for the team’s offense. Although his time in Detroit was relatively short, his impact as a passer has stood the test of time, outpacing other notable playmakers in the franchise’s recent history.

Pistons Current Leaders: Brandon Jennings (6.6 APG), Cade Cunningham (6.5), Chauncey Billups (6.2)

Golden State Warriors – Baron Davis (8.1 APG)

Baron Davis was a game-changer for the Golden State Warriors during his time with the team, particularly known for his incredible playmaking ability. Averaging 8.1 assists per game, Davis leads the Warriors in assists per game for the 21st century. His ability to drive the offense, combined with his knack for delivering timely and accurate passes, made him a crucial part of the Warriors’ success, especially during their unforgettable 2007 playoff run, where they famously upset the top-seeded Dallas Mavericks.

Davis was not only a leader in assists but also a dynamic scorer and defender, making him one of the most versatile players of his era. His time in Golden State is remembered fondly by fans, particularly for his role in one of the biggest playoff upsets in NBA history. His playmaking skills continue to stand out as the best the Warriors have seen this century.

Warriors Current Leaders: Baron Davis (8.1 APG), Stephen Curry (6.4), Draymond Green (5.6)

Houston Rockets – Chris Paul (8.0 APG)

Chris Paul, one of the best point guards in NBA history, brought his elite playmaking skills to the Houston Rockets, where he averaged 8.0 assists per game. Paul’s ability to control the game, make smart decisions, and deliver precise passes made him the Rockets’ top assist leader in the 21st century. During his time in Houston, Paul was instrumental in leading the team to deep playoff runs, including the 2018 Western Conference Finals, where the Rockets came within one game of reaching the NBA Finals.

Paul’s partnership with James Harden formed one of the most formidable backcourts in the league, with Paul’s playmaking perfectly complementing Harden’s scoring prowess. Though his stint with the Rockets was relatively short, Paul’s impact was significant, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the best facilitators the franchise has ever seen.

Rockets Current Leaders: Chris Paul (8.0 APG), James Harden (7.7), Steve Francis (6.2)

Indiana Pacers – Tyrese Haliburton (10.5 APG)

Tyrese Haliburton has quickly emerged as one of the NBA’s top young point guards, and his impact on the Indiana Pacers has been nothing short of transformative. Since joining the team, Haliburton has averaged an impressive 10.5 assists per game, making him the franchise’s all-time leader in assists per game in the 21st century. His exceptional vision, combined with his ability to make plays in transition and the half-court, has turned him into the Pacers’ primary playmaker and a cornerstone for the team’s future.

Haliburton’s ability to elevate the play of his teammates and his knack for finding the open man has brought a new dynamic to the Pacers’ offense. His high assist numbers are a testament to his basketball IQ and unselfishness on the court, qualities that have quickly endeared him to Indiana fans. As he continues to develop, Haliburton’s playmaking will be central to the Pacers’ success in the years to come.

Pacers Current Leaders: Tyrese Haliburton (10.5 APG), Jamaal Tinsley (7.0), Malcolm Brogdon (6.3)

Los Angeles Clippers – Chris Paul (9.8 APG)

Chris Paul, often referred to as “The Point God,” was the driving force behind the Los Angeles Clippers during the “Lob City” era. Averaging 9.8 assists per game, Paul transformed the Clippers into a perennial playoff contender and helped redefine the team’s identity. His elite court vision, decision-making, and leadership on the floor made him the highest assist-per-game leader in Clippers’ history for the 21st century.

During his time with the Clippers, Paul consistently ranked among the league’s top assist leaders, making him indispensable to the team’s offensive success. His ability to create easy scoring opportunities for teammates like Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan was a key factor in the Clippers’ rise to prominence in the Western Conference. Even after his departure, Paul’s legacy as the premier playmaker in Clippers history remains firmly intact.

Clippers Current Leaders: Chris Paul (9.8 APG), James Harden (8.5), Baron Davis (7.6)

Los Angeles Lakers – LeBron James (8.0 APG)

LeBron James, one of the greatest players in NBA history, has continued to showcase his elite playmaking abilities since joining the Los Angeles Lakers. Averaging 8.0 assists per game during his time in LA, LeBron has been the driving force behind the Lakers’ offense, consistently setting up his teammates and making everyone around him better. His ability to read defenses and deliver pinpoint passes has solidified his status as the Lakers’ top assist leader in the 21st century.

LeBron’s playmaking was a key factor in the Lakers’ 2020 NBA Championship run, where he not only led the team in assists but also orchestrated the offense with precision. His versatility and basketball IQ have allowed him to excel as both a scorer and a facilitator, making him one of the most complete players the game has ever seen. With multiple All-Star selections and an NBA Finals MVP in a Lakers uniform, LeBron’s impact on the franchise is undeniable.

Lakers Current Leaders: LeBron James (8.0 APG), Russell Westbrook (7.2), Rajon Rondo (6.0)

Memphis Grizzlies – Ja Morant (7.4 APG)

Ja Morant has quickly become the face of the Memphis Grizzlies, leading the team with 7.4 assists per game and solidifying his status as the franchise’s top playmaker in the 21st century. Known for his explosive athleticism and exceptional court vision, Morant’s ability to create opportunities for his teammates has been a key factor in the Grizzlies’ recent success. However, the 2023-24 season has been a challenging one for Morant. After serving a suspension at the start of the season due to off-court issues, Morant returned to action but was soon sidelined again after suffering an injury just a few games into his comeback.

Despite these setbacks, Morant’s impact on the court when healthy is undeniable. His leadership and dynamic play have been instrumental in transforming the Grizzlies into a playoff contender. As he works to overcome these challenges, Morant remains a central figure in Memphis’ future.

Grizzlies Current Leaders: Ja Morant (7.4 APG), Jason Williams (7.0), Mike Conley (5.7)

Miami Heat – LeBron James (6.7 APG)

LeBron James gets the top spot as the Miami Heat’s assist leader in the 21st century, averaging 6.7 assists per game during his tenure with the team. LeBron, during his time in Miami from 2010 to 2014, was not only the team’s leading scorer but also its primary playmaker, helping guide the Heat to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances and two championships. His ability to orchestrate the offense, often functioning as a point forward, made him indispensable to the Heat’s success.

In his short stint in Miami, LeBron left an indelible mark on the franchise, with his playmaking abilities earning him a spot as the Heat’s top assist-per-game leader in the century.

Heat Current Leaders: LeBron James (6.7 APG), Tim Hardaway (6.3), Kyle Lowry (5.8)

Milwaukee Bucks – Jrue Holiday (6.8 APG)

Jrue Holiday was a key figure for the Milwaukee Bucks, bringing his veteran leadership and exceptional playmaking abilities to the team. Averaging 6.8 assists per game during his time with the Bucks, Holiday became the franchise’s top assist leader in the 21st century. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to make smart decisions on the court, Holiday played a crucial role in the Bucks’ success, including their 2021 NBA Championship. 

Holiday’s ability to distribute the ball effectively, while also contributing significantly on the defensive end, made him one of the most well-rounded players in the league. His assist numbers reflect his importance to the Bucks’ offense and his impact on the team’s overall performance during his time in Milwaukee.

Bucks Current Leaders: Jrue Holiday (6.8 APG), Sam Cassell (6.7), T.J. Ford (6.5)

Minnesota Timberwolves – Ricky Rubio (8.1 APG)

Ricky Rubio has been the quintessential playmaker for the Minnesota Timberwolves, leading the franchise with 8.1 assists per game in the 21st century. Known for his exceptional court vision and flair for passing, Rubio brought a new dynamic to the Timberwolves’ offense when he joined the team. His ability to find open teammates and create scoring opportunities has made him a fan favorite and a vital part of the team’s identity during his tenure.

Rubio’s playmaking skills helped elevate the Timberwolves’ offense, especially during his early years with the team. His unselfish play and ability to control the tempo have been instrumental in the development of the team’s younger players, making him an invaluable asset. Even after stints with other teams, Rubio’s legacy as the Timberwolves’ top assist leader remains strong.

Timberwolves Current Leaders: Ricky Rubio (8.1 APG), Terrell Brandon (7.7), Jeff Teague (7.1)

New Orleans Pelicans – Chris Paul (9.9 APG)

Chris Paul, widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, made his mark with the New Orleans Pelicans (then Hornets) as the franchise’s premier playmaker. Averaging an astounding 9.9 assists per game during his time in New Orleans, Paul was the heartbeat of the team’s offense. His exceptional court vision, leadership, and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates made him the undisputed assist leader for the Pelicans in the 21st century.

Paul’s tenure with the Pelicans was highlighted by multiple All-Star selections and deep playoff runs, where his ability to control the game and make clutch plays stood out. His influence extended beyond just passing, as he also played a significant role in the development of his teammates, elevating the team to new heights. Even years after his departure, Paul’s assist record remains unmatched in New Orleans history.

Pelicans Current Leaders: Chris Paul (9.9 APG), Greivis Vasquez (7.4), Baron Davis (7.0)

New York Knicks – Stephon Marbury (7.0 APG)

Stephon Marbury was a dynamic point guard for the New York Knicks in the mid-2000s, and his playmaking abilities were a bright spot during a challenging era for the franchise. Averaging 7.0 assists per game, Marbury leads the Knicks in assists per game in the 21st century. Known for his scoring ability and court vision, Marbury was often the primary facilitator for the Knicks’ offense, creating opportunities for his teammates while also shouldering a significant scoring load.

Marbury’s time with the Knicks was marked by his ability to control the pace of the game and deliver timely passes, making him one of the most reliable playmakers the team has seen in recent decades. Despite the ups and downs of the team during his tenure, Marbury’s assist numbers stand out as a testament to his skills as a floor general.

Knicks Current Leaders: Stephon Marbury (7.0 APG), Mark Jackson (6.9), Raymond Felton (6.6)

Oklahoma City Thunder – Gary Payton (8.6 APG)

Gary Payton, known as “The Glove,” is one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, and during his time with the Seattle SuperSonics (the franchise that would become the Oklahoma City Thunder), he was the ultimate floor general. Averaging 8.6 assists per game, Payton remains the all-time leader in assists per game for the Thunder/SuperSonics franchise in the 21st century. His ability to distribute the ball, combined with his tenacious defense, made him one of the most complete players of his era.

Payton’s leadership and playmaking were instrumental in guiding the SuperSonics to multiple playoff appearances. His court vision and ability to involve his teammates in the offense were key components of his game, helping to elevate the play of those around him. Even as the franchise has transitioned to Oklahoma City and new stars have emerged since, Payton’s assist numbers still stand as the highest in franchise history for this century.

Thunder Current Leaders: Gary Payton (8.6 APG), Russell Westbrook (8.4), Josh Giddey (5.7)

Orlando Magic – Steve Francis (6.5 APG)

Steve Francis brought his dynamic playmaking ability to the Orlando Magic in the mid-2000s, where he quickly became the team’s primary facilitator. Averaging 6.5 assists per game during his time with the Magic, Francis leads the franchise in assists per game for the 21st century. Known for his explosiveness and ability to create plays off the dribble, Francis was a key part of the Magic’s offense, consistently setting up his teammates and driving the tempo of the game.

Francis’ time in Orlando, though brief, was marked by his ability to both score and distribute the ball effectively, making him a dual threat on the court. His leadership and playmaking skills helped the Magic remain competitive during his tenure, and his assist numbers remain the highest for the franchise in the 21st century.

Magic Current Leaders: Steve Francis (6.5 APG), Elfrid Payton (6.4), Darrell Armstrong (5.4)

Philadelphia 76ers – Ben Simmons (7.7 APG)

Ben Simmons, with his unique blend of size, athleticism, and court vision, quickly became one of the most versatile playmakers in the NBA during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers. Averaging 7.7 assists per game, Simmons leads the 76ers in assists per game for the 21st century. His ability to see the floor and create opportunities for his teammates made him a central figure in the Sixers’ offense, particularly during their playoff runs in the late 2010s.

Simmons’ playmaking ability, combined with his defensive prowess, made him one of the most impactful players in Philadelphia during his tenure. Despite his limitations as a shooter, Simmons’ ability to facilitate the offense and distribute the ball effectively kept the 76ers competitive in the Eastern Conference. His assist numbers remain the highest in franchise history for the 21st century.

76ers Current Leaders: Ben Simmons (7.7 APG), Andre Miller (6.9), Eric Snow (6.8)

Phoenix Suns – Steve Nash (10.9 APG)

Steve Nash, one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, defined an era for the Phoenix Suns with his extraordinary playmaking abilities. Averaging an astounding 10.9 assists per game during his time with the Suns, Nash not only leads the franchise but also ranks among the all-time assist leaders in NBA history. His tenure in Phoenix was marked by back-to-back MVP awards and multiple deep playoff runs, with Nash orchestrating one of the most potent offenses the league has ever seen.

Nash’s ability to push the tempo, deliver pinpoint passes, and make his teammates better helped revolutionize the game during the “Seven Seconds or Less” era. His court vision and basketball IQ were unparalleled, making him the engine behind the Suns’ high-powered offense. Nash’s assist numbers remain unmatched in the 21st century, not just for the Suns but across the NBA.

Suns Current Leaders: Steve Nash (10.9 APG), Jason Kidd (9.9), Chris Paul (9.5)

Portland Trail Blazers – Damian Lillard (6.7 APG)

Before his recent departure, Damian Lillard was the heart and soul of the Portland Trail Blazers, serving as both their leading scorer and primary playmaker for over a decade. Averaging 6.7 assists per game during his time in Portland, Lillard was the top assist leader for the Trail Blazers in the 21st century. His ability to facilitate the offense, combined with his legendary clutch performances, made him indispensable to the Blazers’ success, including their deep playoff run to the Western Conference Finals in 2019.

Lillard’s playmaking was a perfect complement to his scoring prowess, making him one of the most feared guards in the league. His leadership on and off the court left an indelible mark on the franchise, and even after his departure, his assist numbers stand as the highest in Portland’s history for the current century.

Trail Blazers Current Leaders: Damian Lillard (6.7 APG), Andre Miller (6.2), Damon Stoudamire (5.6)

Sacramento Kings – Domantas Sabonis (7.6 APG)

Domantas Sabonis has quickly established himself as the Sacramento Kings’ primary playmaker since joining the team. Averaging 7.6 assists per game, Sabonis leads the franchise in assists per game in the 21st century, a remarkable feat for a player primarily known for his scoring and rebounding. His ability to facilitate the offense from the post and make plays for his teammates has been a key factor in the Kings’ resurgence in recent seasons.

Sabonis’s versatility as a big man who can pass like a guard has added a new dimension to the Kings’ offense, making him an invaluable asset to the team. His court vision and basketball IQ have allowed him to create opportunities for others, helping elevate Sacramento’s play. Sabonis’s assist numbers are a testament to his unique skill set and his importance to the Kings’ success.

Kings Current Leaders: Domantas Sabonis (7.6 APG), Tyrese Haliburton (6.3), De’Aaron Fox (6.3)

San Antonio Spurs – DeMar DeRozan (6.2 APG)

During his time with the San Antonio Spurs, DeMar DeRozan took on a larger playmaking role than he had in previous seasons, leading the team with 6.2 assists per game. DeRozan’s ability to facilitate the offense and create scoring opportunities for his teammates made him the top assist leader for the Spurs in the 21st century. Known primarily as a scorer, DeRozan expanded his game in San Antonio, showcasing his vision and unselfishness on the court.

DeRozan’s playmaking complemented his scoring, allowing the Spurs to remain competitive even as the team transitioned from the Tim Duncan and Tony Parker era. His ability to read defenses and make the right pass at the right time was crucial to the Spurs’ offensive strategy during his tenure. DeRozan’s assist numbers reflect his evolution as a player and his impact on the Spurs’ offense.

Spurs Current Leaders: DeMar DeRozan (6.2 APG), Tony Parker (5.7), Dejounte Murray (4.7)

Toronto Raptors – T.J. Ford (7.2 APG)

T.J. Ford holds the title as the Toronto Raptors’ top assist leader in the 21st century, averaging 7.2 assists per game during his time with the team. Known for his speed and ability to break down defenses, Ford was a key playmaker for the Raptors in the mid-2000s. His quickness and court vision allowed him to set up his teammates effectively, making him an integral part of the Raptors’ offense during his tenure.

Ford’s leadership on the court and his ability to consistently generate assists made him one of the most reliable point guards in the league during his time in Toronto. His assist numbers, though closely followed by others, remain the highest in Raptors history for the current century.

Raptors Current Leaders: T.J. Ford (7.2 APG), Jose Calderon (7.2), Kyle Lowry (7.1)

Utah Jazz – Deron Williams (9.1 APG)

Deron Williams was the Utah Jazz’s floor general during the late 2000s, leading the team with an impressive 9.1 assists per game, the highest in the franchise for the 21st century. Williams’ ability to control the tempo of the game and deliver precise passes made him one of the premier point guards of his era. His playmaking was a key factor in the Jazz’s success, including multiple deep playoff runs, and he often drew comparisons to the legendary John Stockton.

Speaking of Stockton, he remains a close second with 8.3 assists per game during the early part of the 21st century. Stockton, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards of all time, continued his elite playmaking into the 2000s, further cementing his legacy with the Jazz.

Deron Williams’ time with the Jazz is remembered for his ability to elevate the play of those around him, and his assist numbers reflect his impact as one of the best playmakers in the team’s history.

Jazz Current Leaders: Deron Williams (9.1 APG), John Stockton (8.2), Mike Conley (5.8)

Washington Wizards – John Wall (9.2 APG)

John Wall was the face of the Washington Wizards for nearly a decade, and his playmaking abilities made him the franchise’s all-time leader in assists per game for the 21st century, averaging an impressive 9.2 assists per game. Known for his blazing speed and elite court vision, Wall was a dynamic floor general who consistently set up his teammates while also being a scoring threat himself. His ability to drive the offense was pivotal in leading the Wizards to multiple playoff appearances, and he was often among the league leaders in assists during his prime.

Rod Strickland, another exceptional playmaker, ranks second with 7.4 assists per game during his time with the Wizards in the early 2000s. Strickland’s ability to navigate defenses and deliver precise passes made him a key contributor during his tenure.

John Wall’s time in Washington is marked by his leadership on the court and his impact as one of the best point guards in the league. His assist numbers continue to stand as a testament to his significant role in the franchise’s history.

Wizards Current Leaders: John Wall (9.2 APG), Gilbert Arenas (5.7), Ish Smith (4.7)