The point guard position in the NBA has long been revered as the engine that drives a team’s offense. Known for their exceptional court vision, playmaking abilities, and leadership, point guards play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of games and even entire seasons. Since the year 2000, the league has witnessed an array of extraordinary floor generals who have left an imprint on the game.
It is time to go through the past two decades to examine the best NBA point guards year by year since 2000. From the early dominance of Allen Iverson and Jason Kidd to the era-defining brilliance of Steve Nash, the rise of Chris Paul, and the emergence of Stephen Curry and beyond, we delve into the individual seasons that showcased the pinnacle of playmaking prowess.
Each season brought forth a unique blend of talent, skill, and leadership, with these exceptional point guards etching their names in NBA history. Their ability to orchestrate offenses, create scoring opportunities for teammates, and deliver clutch performances in critical moments has set the standard for future generations of point guards to aspire to.
By analyzing statistical achievements, team success, individual accolades, and the intangible qualities that made these players stand out among their peers, the best point guards per season can be confidently named. It will also be incredible to see the change from traditional pass-first point guards to the emergence of the “scoring point guard” and the revolutionary impact of long-range shooting.
We have already seen the dominance of big men since the year 2000 onwards, but now it is time to analyze the greatest point guard per season until the year 2023.
2000: Gary Payton
Career Stats: 16.3 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1995-96 Defensive Player of the Year, 1995-96 Steals Champion, 1990-91 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
In 2000, Gary Payton showcased his exceptional skills and defensive prowess, solidifying his status as the best point guard in the NBA. Known as “The Glove,” Payton was a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court. Defensively, he was unmatched, earning him the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award for the 1995-96 season. In 2000, Payton continued to dominate defensively, using his quickness, strength, and instincts to hound opposing guards.
His ability to disrupt passing lanes and lock down his opponents made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Offensively, Payton was a well-rounded player, combining scoring, playmaking, and leadership. He averaged 24.2 PPG and 8.9 APG in the 1999-00 season, showcasing his ability to both create for himself and set up his teammates. Payton’s versatility and basketball IQ were evident as he controlled the game and made clutch plays when it mattered most. Additionally, his leadership skills were invaluable as he guided the Seattle SuperSonics to the playoffs. With his exceptional defensive skills, offensive versatility, and leadership qualities, Gary Payton rightfully earned the title of the best point guard in the NBA in 2000.
2001-2004: Jason Kidd
Career Stats: 12.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 10x All-Star, 6x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 1994-95 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
Jason Kidd was undeniably the best point guard in the NBA between 2001 and 2004, as he showcased his unparalleled court vision, playmaking abilities, and leadership qualities. During these two seasons, Kidd was the maestro of the New Jersey Nets’ offense, guiding them to back-to-back NBA Finals appearances. His ability to orchestrate the game and make his teammates better was evident through his exceptional passing skills. Kidd averaged 9.8 APG in 2001 and 9.9 APG in 2002, leading the league in assists the prior year. The point guard also led the NBA in APG in 2003 and 2004, posting 8.9 APG and 9.2 APG, respectively.
Furthermore, Kidd was a tenacious defender, using his quick hands and exceptional anticipation to disrupt opposing offenses. He averaged 2.2 SPG in 2001 and 2.1 steals per game in 2002, earning All-Defensive Team honors in both seasons. Kidd then posted 2.2 SPG and 1.8 SPG in 2003 and 2004, respectively. His defensive prowess, combined with his playmaking skills, made him a complete package at the point guard position. Lastly, Kidd’s leadership on and off the court was instrumental in the success of the Nets, as he guided the team to their best regular-season records in franchise history during those years.
2005-2007: Steve Nash
Career Stats: 14.3 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 8.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 2x MVP, 8x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, Hall of Fame
From 2005 to 2007, Steve Nash was unequivocally the best point guard in the NBA. Nash’s ability to orchestrate an offense and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was unmatched. He led the league in APG during all three of these seasons, averaging 11.5 APG in 2005, 10.5 APG in 2006, and 11.6 APG in 2007. His precise and creative passing, combined with his exceptional court vision, allowed the Phoenix Suns’ offense to operate at an unparalleled level. Additionally, Nash’s shooting prowess set him apart from other point guards. He consistently showcased his efficiency from the field, shooting over 50% from the floor and over 40% from beyond the arc during these seasons.
Nash’s ability to stretch the defense with his outside shooting opened up driving lanes and created spacing for his teammates. Furthermore, Nash’s leadership was invaluable to the Suns’ success. He commanded the team with poise, directing the fast-paced offense while also being a vocal presence on and off the court. With his exceptional playmaking, shooting efficiency, and leadership, Steve Nash unquestionably earned the title of the best point guard in the NBA from 2005 to 2007, with two MVP awards to show for it.
2008-2009: Chris Paul
Career Stats: 17.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 6x Steals Champion, 2005-06 Rookie of the Year
From 2008 to 2009, Chris Paul firmly established himself as the best point guard in the NBA, showcasing his exceptional playmaking, leadership, and impact on the game. During this period, Paul led the league in APG, averaging 11.6 assists in 2008 and 11.0 assists in 2009. His ability to distribute the ball with precision and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was unparalleled. Paul’s court vision and passing instincts were extraordinary, as he consistently made highlight-reel plays and set up his teammates for easy baskets. Moreover, Paul’s impact extended beyond his playmaking abilities.
He was an exceptional scorer, averaging 21.1 PPG in 2008 and 22.8 PPG in 2009, showcasing his ability to take over games when needed. Defensively, Paul was tenacious, using his quick hands and exceptional anticipation to generate steals and disrupt opposing offenses. His leadership qualities were evident as well, as he guided the New Orleans Hornets to the playoffs in both seasons. With his exceptional playmaking, scoring ability, defensive prowess, and leadership, Chris Paul was undoubtedly the best point guard in the NBA from 2008 to 2009, solidifying his status as one of the game’s premier floor generals.
2011: Derrick Rose
Career Stats: 17.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 5.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 2010-11 MVP, 3x All-Star, 2010-11 All-NBA Team Selection, 2008-09 Rookie of the Year
In 2011, Derrick Rose electrified the NBA and earned the title of the best point guard in the league. Rose’s explosive athleticism, scoring ability, and impact on the game set him apart from his peers. He led the Chicago Bulls to the best record in the Eastern Conference while capturing the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Rose’s dynamic scoring was unmatched, averaging 25.0 PPG and displaying an array of acrobatic finishes at the rim. His speed, agility, and leaping ability allowed him to attack the basket with ferocity, often finishing through contact. Rose’s ability to create his own shot and hit clutch baskets made him a dominant offensive force.
Additionally, Rose demonstrated improved playmaking skills, averaging 7.7 APG, effectively setting up his teammates for scoring opportunities. Defensively, Rose’s quickness and agility enabled him to stay in front of his opponents and generate steals, contributing to the Bulls’ overall defensive prowess. His leadership on and off the court was remarkable, as he guided the Bulls to the top seed in the East and their first deep playoff run in years. With his exceptional scoring, playmaking, defensive skills, and leadership qualities, Derrick Rose was undoubtedly the best point guard in the NBA in 2011, leaving an indelible mark on the league and solidifying his place among the elite.
2012-2013: Chris Paul
Career Stats: 17.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 6x Steals Champion, 2005-06 Rookie of the Year
In the 2012 and 2013 NBA seasons, Chris Paul undeniably established himself as the best point guard in the league. Paul led the league in APG in both seasons, averaging 9.1 APG in 2012 and 9.7 APG in 2013. His ability to make pinpoint passes and create open looks for his teammates elevated the entire offensive performance of the teams he played for.
Additionally, Paul’s scoring ability was a key factor in his dominance. He averaged 19.8 PPG in 2012 and 16.9 PPG in 2013, showcasing his versatility as a scoring threat. Paul could penetrate the defense and finish at the rim, knock down mid-range jumpers, and even stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. His offensive repertoire made him a constant scoring threat and a difficult player to defend.
Defensively, Paul was a standout performer. He had quick hands, exceptional anticipation, and a relentless work ethic on the defensive end. Paul led the league in steals per game in both seasons, averaging 2.5 SPG in 2012 and 2.4 SPG in 2013. His ability to disrupt passing lanes, apply pressure on ball handlers, and create turnovers significantly impacted the game’s outcome.
Furthermore, Paul’s leadership qualities were evident in his ability to guide his teams to success. He was a vocal leader on the court, directing his teammates and holding them accountable. His poise, decision-making, and ability to excel in clutch situations set him apart as a true leader and allowed his teams to perform at a high level.
2014-2016: Stephen Curry
Career Stats: 24.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 4x NBA Champion, 2021-22 Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 2015-16 Steals Champion
Stephen Curry emerged as the best point guard in the NBA between 2014 and 2016, captivating fans and redefining the game with his unparalleled shooting ability, offensive brilliance, and impact on the court. During this period, Curry revolutionized the game with his extraordinary long-range shooting, leading the league in three-pointers made and setting multiple records. His combination of deep range, quick release, and accuracy from beyond the arc made him a constant threat, stretching defenses to their limits.
Curry’s scoring prowess was exceptional, averaging 24.0 PPG in 2014, 23.8 PPG in 2015, and a league-leading 30.1 PPG in 2016. He showcased remarkable ball-handling skills, using crossovers and behind-the-back moves to create space and leave defenders in his wake. Moreover, Curry’s impact extended beyond his scoring ability. He displayed exceptional playmaking skills, averaging 8.5 APG in 2014, 7.7 APG in 2015, and 6.7 APG in 2016, effectively setting up his teammates for open shots.
His leadership qualities were evident as well, guiding the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 2015 and a record-setting 73-win regular season in 2016. With his exceptional shooting, offensive brilliance, defensive impact, and leadership qualities, Stephen Curry rightfully earned the title of the best point guard in the NBA between 2014 and 2016, leaving an indelible mark on the game and forever changing the perception of what a point guard can achieve.
2017: Russell Westbrook
Career Stats: 22.4 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 2016-17 MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 3x Assist Champion
Westbrook’s most remarkable accomplishment in 2017 was his historic triple-double average for the entire season. He became the first player since Oscar Robertson in 1962 to average a triple-double, finishing the season with averages of 31.6 PPG, 10.7 RPG, and 10.4 APG. Westbrook’s ability to contribute in all major statistical categories on a nightly basis showcased his versatility and unmatched productivity.
Furthermore, Westbrook’s explosive athleticism and relentless playing style made him a force to be reckoned with on the court. He attacked the rim fearlessly, finishing with thunderous dunks and acrobatic layups, often drawing fouls in the process. His ability to drive to the basket and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates was a significant factor in his success.
Perhaps most importantly, he led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a playoff berth in a highly competitive Western Conference, often carrying the team on his back with his scoring and playmaking ability. His ability to take over games and make crucial plays in clutch moments demonstrated his leadership and determination to win during that season.
2018-2019: Stephen Curry
Career Stats: 24.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 4x NBA Champion, 2021-22 Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 2015-16 Steals Champion
Curry’s shooting prowess was unmatched and revolutionized the game of basketball. His deep range, quick release, and deadly accuracy from beyond the arc made him an offensive force to be reckoned with. Curry’s ability to stretch the defense and consistently knock down long-range shots not only provided a significant scoring threat but also opened up the floor for his teammates, creating driving lanes and scoring opportunities. He led the league in three-pointers made in both 2018 and 2019, showcasing his dominance as a long-range shooter.
Moreover, Curry’s offensive impact extended beyond his shooting. His exceptional ball-handling skills, court vision, and playmaking ability allowed him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. He consistently made precise passes, finding open teammates and setting them up for high-percentage shots. His ability to manipulate defenses and make smart decisions with the ball made him a true orchestrator of the Golden State Warriors’ offensive system.
2020: Luka Doncic
Career Stats: 27.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 4x All-Star, 4x All-NBA Team Selection, 2018-19 Rookie of the Year
In 2020, Luka Doncic emerged as the best point guard in the NBA, showcasing his exceptional skill set, basketball IQ, and impact on the game. Despite being in just his second season in the league, Doncic displayed a level of maturity and playmaking ability that belied his age. Nobody expected the Slovenian to be this good this fast and it was shocking to see him in 2020.
Offensively, Doncic’s versatility and scoring prowess were on full display. He possessed a complete offensive package, capable of scoring from all areas of the court. His ability to create his shot, whether it be through his crafty ball-handling or step-back three-pointers, made him a nightmare for defenders. Doncic averaged 28.8 PPG in the 2020 season, solidifying himself as a prolific scorer. What set Doncic apart was his exceptional playmaking ability (8.8 APG). His court vision and passing skills were remarkable, and he often made pinpoint passes to set up his teammates for easy baskets.
2021: Chris Paul
Career Stats: 17.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 6x Steals Champion, 2005-06 Rookie of the Year
In 2021, Chris Paul proved once again that he is one of the most exceptional point guards in the NBA. His leadership, playmaking ability, and impact on both ends of the court solidified his status as the best point guard in the league during that year. Paul’s leadership qualities were evident throughout the season, particularly with the Phoenix Suns that made it to the NBA Finals in the point guard’s first season with the team.
He brought a veteran presence and a high basketball IQ to the team, guiding them to an impressive record and deep playoff run. Paul’s ability to control the tempo of the game, make crucial decisions, and lead by example was instrumental in the Suns’ success. Playmaking has always been one of Paul’s greatest strengths, and in 2021, he showcased his extraordinary ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. He averaged 8.9 APG, displaying his exceptional court vision and passing skills. Paul consistently found open teammates with pinpoint passes, setting them up for high-percentage shots and making the offense flow seamlessly.
2022: Stephen Curry
Career Stats: 24.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 4x NBA Champion, 2021-22 Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 2015-16 Steals Champion
In 2022, Stephen Curry continued to establish himself as the best point guard in the NBA as the player returned with a vengeance. His exceptional shooting ability, offensive brilliance, leadership, and impact on the game set him apart from his peers and solidified his status as the premier floor general during that year.
Curry led the league in scoring, averaging 30.7 PPG in the 2022 season. His deep range, quick release, and unmatched accuracy from beyond the arc made him an offensive force to be reckoned with. Furthermore, Curry’s offensive impact extended beyond his scoring ability. His ball-handling skills, court vision, and playmaking ability allowed him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
With Curry in charge, the Golden State Warriors made it to the NBA Finals and took care of business against the young Boston Celtics team led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Steph was the leader of the team, and by averaging 31.2 PPG, 6.0 RPG, and 5.0 APG, he won his first Finals MVP.
2023: Luka Doncic
Career Stats: 27.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Career Honors And Awards: 4x All-Star, 4x All-NBA Team Selection, 2018-19 Rookie of the Year
Luka Doncic was the primary point guard for the Dallas Mavericks this year and was no doubt the best one all year. He averaged 32.4 PPG, 8.6 RPG, and 8.0 APG despite the fact he had to share the second half of the season with ball-dominant Kyrie Irving. The Slovenian was a walking triple-double threat and was dominant in terms of size and skill. At 23 years old, the player was also ahead of his age as defenses had no answer for him.
Even if the Mavericks did not make the playoffs, Doncic was exceptional enough to make a massive difference for the franchise. He scored, rebounded, and passed at a superstar level all year long, which is why he surpassed Stephen Curry this season as the NBA’s best point guard. Hopefully, there is more to come from the former No. 3 overall pick because we haven’t seen a foreign player of his capabilities be this good this fast.
