- There have been iconic gunners that have carried offenses over the last two decades
- Taking a ton of shots is the norm for many of the game’s best scorers
- Many players with high shot attempts rarely shoot high percentages from the field
Over the last 20 years, we have seen a plethora of stars rise to prominence, dazzling fans with their scoring prowess by taking a ton of shot attempts. In this article, we delve into the archives and unveil the 20 NBA players who have taken the most shot attempts from the turn of the century until now.
- 20. Pau Gasol – 13,549 Field Goals
- 19. Tony Parker – 14,148 Field Goals
- 18. Damian Lillard – 14,299 Field Goals
- 17. Rudy Gay – 14,771 Field Goals
- 16. Zach Randolph – 15,152 Field Goals
- 15. Vince Carter – 15,154 Field Goals
- 14. Jamal Crawford – 15,168 Field Goals
- 13. Stephen Curry – 15,653 Field Goals
- 12. Chris Paul – 16,302 Field Goals
- 11. Joe Johnson – 16,340 Field Goals
- 10. James Harden – 16,493 Field Goals
- 9. DeMar DeRozan – 16,652 Field Goals
- 8. LaMarcus Aldridge – 16,872 Field Goals
- 7. Dwyane Wade – 17,617 Field Goals
- 6. Kobe Bryant – 17,872 Field Goals
- 5. Dirk Nowitzki – 18,286 Field Goals
- 4. Kevin Durant – 18,439 Field Goals
- 3. Russell Westbrook – 19,996 Field Goals
- 2. Carmelo Anthony – 22,643 Field Goals
- 1. LeBron James – 28,044 Field Goals
From iconic legends to contemporary superstars, this list showcases the individuals who have left an indelible mark on the league’s scoring history. Join us as we celebrate their remarkable contributions and explore the numbers that define their shooting legacies in the modern era of professional basketball.
We have already seen the players with the most free-throw attempts over the last 20 years, but now, let’s focus on purely shot attempts. There might be some surprises among the top-20 list but there is one player who stands out due to his incredible longevity.
20. Pau Gasol – 13,549 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 6,860 – 13,549 (50.6%)
Pau Gasol, a versatile and skilled big man, ranks 20th on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts over the last 20 years, with a total of 13,549 field goal attempts. What sets Gasol apart is not just the quantity of his shots, but also the efficiency with which he executed them.
His field-goal percentage of 50.6% is an impressive testament to his scoring ability, especially considering that many of his attempts came from mid-range and inside the paint. Gasol’s scoring versatility allowed him to contribute both in the low post and from mid-range, making him a valuable asset on various teams during his illustrious career.
He was known for his deft touch around the basket, proficiency in scoring off pick-and-rolls, and his ability to knock down mid-range jumpers. This well-rounded offensive game made him a reliable scoring option for several playoff-contending teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, during their championship runs in the late 2000s.
19. Tony Parker – 14,148 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,025 – 14,148 (49.7%)
Tony Parker, the former San Antonio Spurs point guard, and a four-time NBA champion ranks 19th on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts in the last 20 years, totaling 14,148 field goal attempts. Parker’s field-goal percentage (49.7%) is a testament to his exceptional ability to score efficiently as a guard.
Known for his incredible speed, ball-handling skills, and crafty finishing around the rim, Parker consistently made high-percentage shots throughout his career. He often utilized his quickness to drive to the basket and finish in traffic, demonstrating an uncanny ability to convert difficult layups and floaters. Additionally, Parker’s scoring proficiency was vital to the Spurs’ sustained success during his tenure with the team.
18. Damian Lillard – 14,299 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 6,281 – 14,299 (43.9%)
Damian Lillard is renowned for his incredible long-range shooting ability and his penchant for hitting clutch shots. His willingness to take deep three-pointers, often from well beyond the arc, contributes to his lower field-goal percentage. However, it’s worth noting that he has consistently made a significant number of these challenging shots, which has earned him the nickname “Logo Lillard.”
Despite the lower field-goal percentage, Lillard’s scoring prowess is undeniable. He has the capability to single-handedly take over games with his scoring, especially during crucial moments. His ability to create his own shot, drive to the basket, and excel in isolation situations makes him a go-to scorer for the Portland Trail Blazers.
17. Rudy Gay – 14,771 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 6,670 – 14,771 (45.2%)
Rudy Gay’s ability to score from various spots on the court, whether it be mid-range jumpers, drives to the basket, or three-pointers, has made him a valuable offensive asset for the teams he’s played for. His size and athleticism allowed him to create his own shot, which made him a go-to option in clutch situations and isolation plays.
While his field-goal percentage may not be as high as some other players on this list, it’s important to consider that Gay often had to shoulder a significant scoring burden for his teams, which could lead to a higher volume of contested shots earlier on in his career with the Memphis Grizzlies. Additionally, he was frequently tasked with scoring in late-game situations, which can impact shooting percentages.
16. Zach Randolph – 15,152 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,124 – 15,152 (47.0%)
Zach Randolph’s combination of strength, footwork, and a soft shooting touch around the basket allowed him to excel in one-on-one post-up situations, often bullying his way to high-percentage scoring opportunities. Furthermore, Randolph’s effectiveness on the boards, particularly on the offensive glass, provided his teams with valuable second-chance opportunities, further contributing to his scoring numbers.
His willingness to do the dirty work in the paint, including putbacks and close-range scoring, made him a reliable source of points. While Randolph’s style of play may be considered somewhat old-school in today’s NBA, his ability to consistently convert a high percentage of his field goal attempts showcases his efficiency as a scorer.
15. Vince Carter – 15,154 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 6,484 – 15,154 (42.8%)
Vince Carter, one of the most electrifying players in NBA history, ranks 15th on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts in the last 20 years, totaling an impressive 15,154 field goal attempts. Carter’s legacy goes far beyond just his shooting efficiency. He was known for his breathtaking athleticism, highlight-reel dunks, and ability to captivate audiences with his acrobatic plays.
His willingness to take and make difficult shots, including contested jumpers and dunks over defenders, made him an iconic figure in the NBA. Carter’s scoring versatility allowed him to excel in various aspects of the game, from three-point shooting to mid-range jumpers, and, of course, his powerful finishes at the rim. He had the capability to score from almost anywhere on the court, often providing his teams with the offensive spark they needed.
14. Jamal Crawford – 15,168 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 6,222 – 15,168 (41.0%)
Jamal Crawford, one of the most prolific scorers and exciting players off the bench in NBA history, ranks 14th on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts. His field-goal percentage of 41.0% is relatively lower compared to many others on this list, but it doesn’t diminish his impact or his reputation as one of the league’s premier scorers.
Crawford’s style of play was characterized by his incredible ball-handling skills, scoring creativity, and a knack for hitting tough, contested shots. He was known for his signature crossover dribble, which often left defenders bewildered, and his ability to create his own shot, even in tight defensive situations. Crawford’s scoring prowess made him a valuable asset for various teams throughout his career, providing an instant offensive spark off the bench which is why he won three Sixth Man of the Year awards.
13. Stephen Curry – 15,653 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,434 – 15,653 (47.5%)
There is no doubt that Stephen Curry is the greatest sharpshooter ever. What sets Curry apart is not only his prolific scoring but also his exceptional field-goal percentage of 47.5%, a testament to his incredible shooting efficiency.
Curry’s impact on the game of basketball transcends his three-point shooting prowess, although it is his long-range shooting that has revolutionized the sport. His ability to knock down deep threes with remarkable accuracy has stretched defenses and changed the way the game is played. Despite being the primary focus of opposing defenses, Curry has consistently maintained a high field-goal percentage due to his proficiency in taking high-percentage shots within the flow of the game.
Curry’s impact on the Golden State Warriors and the league as a whole cannot be overstated. He has led his team to multiple championships, earning back-to-back MVP honors along the way. His combination of scoring efficiency, leadership, and entertainment value has made him a global basketball icon.
12. Chris Paul – 16,302 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,692 – 16,302 (47.2%)
Despite Chris Paul’s reputation as a pass-first point guard, his ability to pick his spots and take high-percentage shots is evident in his field-goal percentage. Moreover, the point guard can navigate through defenses, finish around the rim, and hit mid-range jumpers with consistency has made him a highly reliable scorer throughout his career.
The future Hall of Famer possesses an uncanny ability to control the tempo of the game and make the right decision, whether it’s setting up teammates or scoring himself. Paul’s efficiency as a scorer has been a critical component of his teams’ success, as he has consistently led his squads deep into the playoffs and has been a perennial All-Star. His ability to make clutch shots and orchestrate offenses has solidified his status as one of the premier point guards of his generation.
11. Joe Johnson – 16,340 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,256 – 16,340 (44.4%)
True NBA fans know all about “Iso Joe”, a player with a knack for making big shots in crucial moments which made him a primary option for teams in late-game situations. Johnson’s scoring versatility was one of his defining traits. He was capable of scoring in a multitude of ways, from his smooth mid-range jumpers to his ability to finish at the rim.
His size and skill set allowed him to post up smaller defenders and take advantage of mismatches, making him a valuable offensive weapon for the teams he played for throughout his career.
While his field-goal percentage may not be as high as some others on this list, it’s important to consider that Johnson often took on a significant scoring load and was often the go-to option on his teams. His willingness to take difficult shots and his ability to generate offense in isolation situations made him a respected scorer in the league.
10. James Harden – 16,493 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,291 – 16,493 (44.2%)
James Harden, one of the most prolific scorers of his era, ranks 10th on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts in the last 20 years, amassing an impressive 16,493 field goal attempts. His field-goal percentage of 44.2% showcases his ability to maintain scoring efficiency while shouldering a massive offensive workload.
Harden’s scoring repertoire is among the most diverse in the NBA. He’s known for his exceptional ball-handling, footwork, and ability to create scoring opportunities both for himself and his teammates. His signature step-back three-pointer is virtually unguardable, and his crafty drives to the basket draw fouls and lead to numerous free-throw attempts.
The shooting guard’s inclusion on this list reflects his willingness to take and make a high volume of shots, but it’s important to note that his style of play often involves creating shots in isolation situations and drawing fouls to get to the free-throw line, which contributes to his scoring efficiency when he isn’t on the books with field-goal attempts.
9. DeMar DeRozan – 16,652 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,790 – 16,652 (46.8%)
DeMar DeRozan’s scoring prowess is built on his mid-range game, slashing ability, and crafty footwork. He excels at getting to his spots on the floor and using his size and athleticism to finish around the rim or pull up for mid-range jumpers. His proficiency in the mid-range area, often considered a lost art in today’s NBA, makes him a unique and valuable offensive weapon.
DeRozan’s inclusion on this list highlights his consistency as a scorer, his ability to adapt his game to different teams, and his willingness to take on the responsibility of being a primary scoring option. His scoring efficiency, combined with his contributions as a playmaker and defender, has made him a well-rounded and impactful player in the league.
8. LaMarcus Aldridge – 16,872 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 8,311 – 16,872 (49.3%)
LaMarcus Aldridge, a skilled and versatile power forward/center, ranks 8th on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts in the last 20 years. Aldridge’s scoring prowess is built on his polished offensive game. He possesses a wide array of post moves, a soft mid-range jump shot, and the ability to finish around the rim with finesse.
His height, length, and basketball IQ allow him to consistently take high-percentage shots, making him a reliable scoring option for his teams throughout his career. Furthermore, Aldridge’s willingness to operate in the mid-range area is a notable aspect of his scoring. Looking at an era now where many players focus on three-pointers and shots at the rim, Aldridge’s skill to score efficiently from mid-range is a valuable asset that added diversity to his team’s offensive strategy.
7. Dwyane Wade – 17,617 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 8,454 – 17,617 (48.0%)
One of the greatest shooting guards ever, Dwyane Wade’s scoring repertoire was a blend of athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ. He was known for his explosive drives to the basket, acrobatic finishes, and ability to draw fouls, leading to numerous trips to the free-throw line. His mid-range jump shot and post-up game added layers to his scoring ability, making him a versatile scoring guard.
Furthermore, Wade’s clutch performances in key moments of games and in the playoffs solidified his status as one of the greatest shooting guards of all time. His ability to rise to the occasion and make big shots in crucial situations is a hallmark of his career. Wade’s inclusion on this list highlights not just his scoring volume but also his efficiency as a scorer because he shot an impressive 48.0%.
6. Kobe Bryant – 17,872 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 7,918 – 17,872 (44.3%)
Kobe Bryant, one of the most iconic and celebrated players in NBA history, ranks 6th on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts in the last 20 years, accumulating an impressive 17,872 field goal attempts which clearly indicates how much he loved shooting the ball anytime he could.
Kobe’s scoring prowess was unmatched. He possessed an incredible combination of skills, including a deadly mid-range game, a knack for hitting contested jumpers, and the ability to finish at the rim with finesse and power. His footwork and basketball IQ allowed him to navigate through defenses and create scoring opportunities even in the most challenging situations.
While many might expect Bryant to be higher on the list, he did retire in the 2016 season which meant he missed out on a handful of seasons over the past decade. Still appearing in the top six is an incredible testament to the legend’s willingness to chuck up shots.
5. Dirk Nowitzki – 18,286 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 8,637 – 18,286 (47.2%)
Dirk Nowitzki, the legendary power forward known for revolutionizing the game with his shooting and scoring versatility, ranks 5th on the list. The German’s impact on the game is defined by his unique skill set. Standing at 7 feet tall, he possessed an incredible shooting touch, a deadly one-legged fadeaway jumper, and the ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. His ability to score from the perimeter and in the post made him an almost unguardable offensive force.
Nowitzki’s inclusion on this list highlights his longevity, scoring consistency, and willingness to adapt his game over the years. He was not only a prolific scorer but also a clutch performer, known for making critical shots in crucial moments. Averaging 47.2% from the field and 38.2% from three over the past two decades, Nowitzki is one of the game’s greatest and most efficient scorers.
4. Kevin Durant – 18,439 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 9,199 – 18,439 (49.9%)
As a four-time scoring champion, Kevin Durant’s scoring repertoire is virtually unmatched. He possesses a lethal combination of size, athleticism, and skill. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, whether it be mid-range jumpers, three-pointers, or drives to the rim, makes him one of the most versatile scorers the game has ever seen. His height and wingspan allow him to shoot over defenders with ease.
Durant’s inclusion on this list not only highlights his scoring volume but also his remarkable efficiency as a scorer. He has consistently maintained a high field-goal percentage, even while taking on the role of a primary scorer for his teams. Nailing 49.9% from the field, 38.5% from three, and 88.6% from the free-throw line proves that the superstar forward is a one-of-a-kind talent.
3. Russell Westbrook – 19,996 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 8,754 – 19,996 (43.8%)
Russell Westbrook, known for his explosive athleticism and ability to fill up the stat sheet, ranks 3rd on the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts in the last 20 years, even if he is a point guard who is supposed to be a playmaker. Westbrook was truly one of the game-changers in terms of being a score-first point guard and amazingly, his impact on the game extends beyond just scoring.
He’s known for his relentless energy, tenacity on the boards for a guard, and his ability to drive to the basket with force. His slashing style allows him to finish at the rim and draw fouls, resulting in numerous free-throw attempts. The point guard’s inclusion on this list highlights his aggressive and high-tempo style of play which also sometimes led to bad shot attempts, hence his lower field-goal percentage.
2. Carmelo Anthony – 22,643 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 10,119 – 22,643 (44.7%)
Carmelo Anthony’s scoring ability is legendary. He’s known for his versatile offensive game, with a repertoire that includes post-up moves, mid-range jumpers, and three-point shooting. His size and skill allowed him to score from various spots on the court, making him a matchup nightmare for defenders.
Furthermore, Anthony’s knack for delivering in clutch moments has defined his career. He has a reputation for hitting game-winning shots and making big plays when his team needed it most. His scoring in pivotal playoff games and international competitions, including Olympic gold medals, showcases his ability to perform under pressure.
1. LeBron James – 28,044 Field Goals
Field-Goal Stats: 14,152 – 28,044 (50.5%)
LeBron James, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in NBA history, tops the list of NBA players with the most shot attempts in the last 20 years, which is a testament to his incredible longevity at the highest level. What distinguishes LeBron is not only his scoring volume but also his remarkable field-goal percentage of 50.5%, which is a testament to his scoring efficiency and versatility.
LeBron’s impact on the game transcends traditional positions. He’s known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and skill to score in various ways. Whether it’s driving to the basket, hitting mid-range jumpers, or knocking down three-pointers, he has consistently found ways to put points on the board.
LeBron’s inclusion on this list highlights his ability to maintain scoring efficiency despite taking a high volume of shots. He has been a dominant force in the league for over a decade and has led his teams to multiple NBA championships and numerous playoff appearances.
The King’s presence on this list solidifies his legacy as one of the most dominant and efficient scorers in NBA history. His remarkable field goal percentage, combined with his scoring versatility, playmaking ability, and leadership, cements his status as an all-time great in the world of basketball.
