NBA Players Who Would’ve Won Clutch Player Of The Year If It Existed Over The Last 20 Seasons

The NBA introduced the Clutch Player of the Year Award in the 2022-23 season as the ‘Jerry West Trophy’ to recognize the player who excels under pressure during key moments of regular season games. The inaugural award went to De’Aaron Fox of the Sacramento Kings, followed by Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors in the 2023-24 season. 

This article will explore hypothetical scenarios of past NBA seasons, examining who might have won the Clutch Player of the Year Award if it had been established 20 years earlier, analyzing their performances, and defining clutch moments. 

Requirements: Most Clutch PPG per season.

2002-03 NBA Season – Chauncey Billups

Leaders in Clutch PPG

1. Chauncey Billups – 3.8 PPG

2. Paul Pierce – 3.3 PPG

3. Kobe Bryant – 3.2 PPG

During the 2002-03 NBA season, Chauncey Billups emerged as the leader in clutch points per game with an impressive average of 3.8. Billups’ ability to come through in crucial moments was instrumental in the success of the Detroit Pistons. His knack for hitting big shots and making the right plays when it mattered most earned him recognition as one of the league’s premier clutch performers.

Paul Pierce of the Boston Celtics and Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers also showcased their clutch abilities, averaging 3.3 and 3.2 clutch points per game, respectively. However, it was Billups’ consistent contributions in clutch situations that set him apart during the 2002-03 season.

2003-04 NBA Season – Kobe Bryant

Leaders in Clutch PPG

1. Kobe Bryant – 4.6 PPG

2. Allan Houston – 3.7 PPG

3. Vince Carter – 3.6 PPG

In the 2003-04 NBA season, Kobe Bryant stood out as the leader in clutch points per game with an impressive average of 4.6. This season showcased Bryant’s ability to take over the game in crucial moments and lead his team, the Los Angeles Lakers, to victory. His knack for scoring in high-pressure situations established him as one of the most reliable players in the league when the game was on the line.

The Los Angeles Lakers finished the 2003-04 season with a record of 56 wins and 26 losses, securing the second seed in the Western Conference, and despite the challenges faced as they lost in the Finals, Bryant maintained his level of excellence, demonstrating his worth as one of the clutchest players in basketball history. Allan Houston of the New York Knicks and Vince Carter of the Toronto Raptors also had solid performances in key moments, but it was Bryant’s dominance in clutch situations that propelled him to recognition as the top clutch player of the season.

2004-05 NBA Season – Dwyane Wade

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Dwyane Wade – 3.8 PPG

T2. Kobe Bryant – 3.5 PPG

T2. Manu Ginobili – 3.5 PPG

If the Clutch Player of the Year Award had existed during the 2004-05 NBA season, Dwyane Wade would have been a prime candidate, leading the league with an outstanding 3.8 clutch points per game. This season marked Wade’s emergence as a superstar capable of dominating the game’s critical moments. His performance was a significant factor in the Miami Heat’s impressive season, where they finished with a 59-23 record, topping the Eastern Conference.

Kobe Bryant and Manu Ginobili also shined in clutch moments, each averaging 3.5 clutch points per game, but Wade’s contributions were pivotal in tighter games. Beyond his scoring, Wade’s ability to draw defenses and create opportunities for his teammates underscored his value in clutch situations. He tallied averages of 24.1 points, 6.8 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game across the season, showcasing his all-around game. In pivotal moments, Wade’s tendency to elevate his performance not only thrilled fans but also delivered wins, positioning the Heat as serious contenders.

2005-06 NBA Season – Kobe Bryant

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syaXep_G9Ig

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Kobe Bryant – 4.5 PPG

2. Paul Pierce – 4.0 PPG

3. Carmelo Anthony – 3.7 PPG

In the hypothetical scenario where the Clutch Player of the Year Award existed in the 2005-06 NBA season, Kobe Bryant would have been the unequivocal winner, leading all players with a remarkable 4.5 clutch points per game. This season is famously remembered for Kobe’s explosive scoring ability, including his legendary 81-point game, but his clutch performances were equally spectacular. Kobe’s knack for hitting game-winning shots and carrying the Lakers during crunch time was unmatched, distinguishing him from his peers.

The Los Angeles Lakers ended the season with a 45-37 record, securing a playoff berth largely due to Kobe’s heroics in close games. His overall season averages were equally impressive, with 35.4 points per game. While Paul Pierce and Carmelo Anthony also had strong clutch performances, Kobe’s consistent ability to elevate his game when it mattered most set a standard for what it means to be a clutch performer. His performances in the 2005-06 season would have not only earned him the Clutch Player of the Year Award but also solidified his legacy as one of the game’s greatest closers.

2006-07 NBA Season – Dwyane Wade

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEofqeL1nIU

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Dwyane Wade – 6.0 PPG

2. Kobe Bryant – 4.7 PPG

3. Vince Carter – 4.5 PPG

Dwyane Wade, once again, led the league in clutch points per game with an impressive 6.0 during the 2006-07 NBA season. Wade’s performance in critical moments was a defining feature of the Miami Heat’s gameplay, as he consistently delivered when the stakes were highest. His ability to maneuver through defenses and make crucial baskets in the dying moments of games was unparalleled.

Throughout the season, Wade averaged 27.4 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game, showcasing his all-around skills and importance to his team. The Miami Heat finished with a record of 44-38, largely due to Wade’s heroics in close encounters. Kobe Bryant and Vince Carter also made significant contributions to their teams in clutch situations, with Bryant averaging 4.7 and Carter 4.5 clutch points per game, but it was Wade’s exceptional performances that highlighted his clutch prowess.

Wade’s blend of scoring, playmaking, and leadership under pressure would have made him the standout choice for the Clutch Player of the Year, demonstrating his crucial role in the Heat’s successes during tight games.

2007-08 NBA Season – LeBron James

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoEUd3YfnWc

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. LeBron James – 4.9 PPG

T2. Kobe Bryant – 3.8 PPG

T2. Carmelo Anthony – 3.8 PPG

LeBron James dominated the clutch moments during the 2007-08 NBA season, leading the league with an impressive 4.9 clutch points per game. Throughout 51 clutch games, LeBron secured 35 wins for the Cleveland Cavaliers, showcasing his ability to influence the outcome significantly when the game was on the line. His performances were not only about scoring; they also involved making crucial plays that either led to his own scoring or set up teammates for critical baskets.

Kobe Bryant and Carmelo Anthony also had notable performances in clutch scenarios, each averaging 3.8 points in clutch situations. However, LeBron’s ability to maintain a higher scoring average across more games (51 GP) and secure a positive win-loss record (35-16) highlighted his standout role in close games. LeBron’s prowess in clutch moments was a key factor in many of the Cavaliers’ victories, underlining his status as one of the league’s most impactful players in high-pressure situations.

2008-09 NBA Season – Dwyane Wade

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Dwyane Wade – 4.4 PPG

2. LeBron James – 4.2 PPG

3. Kobe Bryant – 4.1 PPG

In the 2008-09 NBA season, Dwyane Wade led the pack in clutch performances, averaging a league-high 4.4 points in clutch situations. Throughout the season, he appeared in 45 clutch games, securing 25 victories for the Miami Heat. His incredible skill set was on full display, especially in moments that demanded decisive action, whether scoring or creating opportunities under pressure.

The Miami Heat ended the season with a respectable 43-39 record, significantly bolstered by Wade’s performances in tight games. His overall season statistics were also impressive, averaging 30.2 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game, further highlighting his crucial role on the team.

LeBron James and Kobe Bryant also excelled in clutch scenarios. LeBron, playing in 31 clutch games, had a remarkable 23-8 record in those situations and contributed greatly to the Cleveland Cavaliers finishing the regular season with a league-best 66-16 record. He averaged 28.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game. On the other hand, Kobe Bryant participated in 41 clutch games, helping the Los Angeles Lakers achieve a 30-11 record in those matches. The Lakers finished with an excellent 65-17 record, and Kobe’s season averages were 26.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game.

2009-10 NBA Season – Kobe Bryant

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Kobe Bryant – 5.0 PPG

2. LeBron James – 4.6 PPG

3. Carmelo Anthony – 4.0 PPG

Kobe Bryant was the epitome of a clutch performer in the 2009-10 NBA season, leading all players with a remarkable 5.0 clutch points per game. Throughout the season, he appeared in 31 clutch games, securing 19 wins for the Los Angeles Lakers. His performance in clutch moments was crucial, often tipping the balance in tightly contested matches.

The Lakers finished the regular season with an impressive 57-25 record, thanks in large part to Kobe’s late-game heroics. He averaged 27.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game over the season, underscoring his pivotal role in both the clutch and throughout games.

LeBron James also delivered significant clutch performances, averaging 4.6 clutch points per game in 25 clutch games, with a strong record of 33 wins and 12 losses. LeBron’s overall season performance was outstanding, averaging 29.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a top record in the Eastern Conference at 61-21.

Carmelo Anthony was not far behind, contributing 4.0 clutch points per game in 30 clutch games. His ability to perform under pressure helped the Denver Nuggets to a solid season finish with a 53-29 record. Carmelo’s season averages were 28.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, vital in many of the Nuggets’ victories.

2010-11 NBA Season – Kobe Bryant

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Kobe Bryant – 4.3 PPG

T2. Kevin Durant – 4.1 PPG

T2. Russell Westbrook – 4.1 PPG

Kobe Bryant once again demonstrated his exceptional clutch abilities during the 2010-11 NBA season, leading all players with 4.3 clutch points per game. He participated in 38 clutch games, securing 23 victories for the Los Angeles Lakers, which were crucial in many tightly contested matches. Kobe’s knack for making critical plays when the game hung in the balance was a hallmark of his career and continued to be a defining feature this season.

The Lakers ended the season with a solid 57-25 record, heavily influenced by Kobe’s performance in clutch scenarios. Over the season, he averaged 25.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, highlighting his integral role on both ends of the court as they clinched yet another NBA title in June.

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, both from the Oklahoma City Thunder, also showcased their clutch skills, each averaging 4.1 clutch points per game. Durant appeared in 47 clutch games, achieving 31 wins, while Westbrook participated in 49 clutch games with 33 wins. Their performances helped the Thunder achieve a commendable season record of 55-27. Durant’s season averages were 27.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, and Westbrook’s were 21.9 points, 8.2 assists, and 4.6 rebounds, demonstrating their value in critical moments.

2011-12 NBA Season – Kevin Durant

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Kevin Durant – 4.7 PPG

2. Russell Westbrook – 4.1 PPG

3. Chris Paul – 4.0 PPG

Kevin Durant led the way in clutch performances during the shortened 2011-12 NBA season, averaging 4.7 clutch points per game. He appeared in 31 clutch games alongside his teammate Russell Westbrook, each securing 17 wins for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Durant’s prowess in tight game situations was a key factor in the Thunder’s impressive playoff run and their overall season success.

The Thunder finished the regular season with a 47-19 record, thanks in large part to the clutch contributions from both Durant and Westbrook. Durant’s scoring ability, combined with his capacity to make critical plays in the closing moments of games, was instrumental in many of the Thunder’s victories. Over the season, he averaged 28.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, showcasing his all-around skills.

2012-13 NBA Season – Chris Paul

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Chris Paul – 4.4 PPG

2. Kevin Durant – 4.2 PPG

3. Kyrie Irving – 4.1 PPG

Chris Paul demonstrated exceptional clutch prowess during the 2012-13 NBA season, leading all players with an average of 4.4 clutch points per game. He participated in 27 clutch games, managing to secure 16 wins for the Los Angeles Clippers. Paul’s strategic playmaking and decisive scoring in critical moments were key to many of the Clippers’ victories, particularly in tightly contested matchups.

The Clippers enjoyed a successful season, finishing with a record of 56-26. Paul’s influence extended beyond just his clutch performances; he averaged 16.9 points, 9.7 assists, and 3.7 rebounds over the season, proving integral to his team’s strong performance both in the regular season and the playoffs.

Kevin Durant also continued to excel in clutch situations, averaging 4.2 clutch points per game across 37 clutch appearances, with a win-loss record of 21-16. His ability to score efficiently under pressure helped the Oklahoma City Thunder maintain competitiveness, especially in close games, contributing to their 60-22 season record. Durant’s season averages of 28.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game further underscored his status as a premier NBA talent.

Kyrie Irving, despite the Cleveland Cavaliers’ struggles, shone in clutch moments, averaging 4.1 clutch points per game in 35 clutch games. Although the Cavaliers finished with a less favorable 24-58 record, Irving’s performances in critical situations highlighted his emerging star power and scoring ability, with season averages of 22.5 points, 5.9 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game.

2013-14 NBA Season – Kyrie Irving

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Kyrie Irving – 4.3 PPG

2. James Harden – 4.2 PPG

3. Kevin Durant – 3.9 PPG

Kyrie Irving topped the clutch performance charts during the 2013-14 NBA season, leading all players with an average of 4.3 clutch points per game. Participating in 35 clutch games, Irving secured 15 wins for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite the team’s overall struggles, finishing the season with a 33-49 record, Irving’s ability to perform in clutch situations was a standout feature of his game, showcasing his scoring prowess and knack for taking over in the game’s critical moments.

James Harden also demonstrated significant clutch capabilities, averaging 4.2 clutch points per game across 35 appearances, with a better win-loss record of 20-15. Harden’s performances were crucial for the Houston Rockets, who finished the season with a strong 54-28 record. His role as a closer was vital in securing many of those wins, highlighted by his averages of 25.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game.

Kevin Durant, although third in clutch points per game with 3.9, led in the number of clutch games played at 43, achieving a remarkable 25-18 record. Durant’s overall impact was immense, contributing significantly to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s excellent 59-23 season record. His season averages were outstanding, with 32.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, earning him the MVP award for that season.

2014-15 NBA Season – Kevin Durant

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Kevin Durant – 4.7 PPG

2. LeBron James – 4.2 PPG

3. Kobe Bryant – 4.0 PPG

Kevin Durant led the clutch scoring in the 2014-15 NBA season with a commanding 4.7 points per game in clutch situations, although he participated in only 9 clutch games due to injuries. Despite the limited appearances, Durant’s impact when he did play was profound, securing 8 wins out of those games. His ability to perform under pressure continued to underscore his value to the Oklahoma City Thunder, although the team faced challenges throughout the season, finishing with a 45-37 record.

LeBron James, with 4.2 clutch points per game over 25 clutch games, had a substantial impact on the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron’s clutch performance helped the team secure 17 wins in those games, contributing to a successful season where the Cavaliers finished with a 53-29 record. His leadership and ability to take control in critical moments were vital for the Cavs, especially in his first season back in Cleveland after returning from Miami.

Kobe Bryant also showed he still had much to offer in clutch moments, averaging 4.0 clutch points per game across 21 clutch games. Despite the Los Angeles Lakers’ struggles, finishing with a 21-61 record, Kobe’s performances in clutch situations were a highlight in an otherwise challenging season for the team. His season was also shortened by injuries, but his scoring ability in critical moments remained impressive.

2015-16 NBA Season – Reggie Jackson

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Reggie Jackson – 4.8 PPG

2. Stephen Curry – 4.4 PPG

3. LeBron James – 4.0 PPG

Reggie Jackson emerged as the top clutch performer in the 2015-16 NBA season, leading all players with an impressive 4.8 clutch points per game. He participated in 37 clutch games, securing 24 wins for the Detroit Pistons. Jackson’s ability to take control in the final moments of games played a pivotal role in many of the Pistons’ victories, particularly in a season where they finished with a 44-38 record and made a return to the playoffs.

Stephen Curry also showcased significant clutch performances, averaging 4.4 clutch points per game across 31 clutch appearances. His extraordinary play helped the Golden State Warriors achieve a historic 73-9 record, the best regular-season finish in NBA history. Curry’s clutch scoring and game-changing shots were crucial elements of the Warriors’ success, highlighting his value as a transformative player in high-pressure situations.

LeBron James, with an average of 4.0 clutch points per game in 30 clutch games, continued to be a decisive factor for the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron’s performances helped the Cavaliers to a strong season finish of 57-25, and his leadership in clutch moments was instrumental as Cleveland eventually won the NBA Championship that year.

2016-17 NBA Season – Russell Westbrook

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Russell Westbrook – 6.2 PPG

2. Isaiah Thomas – 5.1 PPG

3. Jimmy Butler – 4.3 PPG

Russell Westbrook dominated the clutch moments during the 2016-17 NBA season, leading all players with a staggering 6.2 clutch points per game. Participating in 40 clutch games, Westbrook secured 25 victories for the Oklahoma City Thunder. This season was particularly memorable for Westbrook, as he averaged a triple-double over the entire season and his performance in clutch situations was a significant contributor to many of the Thunder’s wins, solidifying his MVP campaign.

Isaiah Thomas also had a standout year in clutch performances, averaging 5.1 clutch points per game across 44 clutch games. His ability to score in critical moments was a key factor in the Boston Celtics achieving a 53-29 record and securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Thomas’ performances in the clutch were thrilling and earned him the nickname “King in the Fourth” due to his fourth-quarter heroics.

Jimmy Butler contributed 4.3 clutch points per game in 38 clutch appearances for the Chicago Bulls. His strong play in tight games helped the Bulls to a 41-41 season and a playoff berth. Butler’s ability to take over games in the clutch was evident, as he often carried the scoring load in critical moments.

2017-18 NBA Season – LeBron James

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. LeBron James – 4.4 PPG

2. Jimmy Butler – 4.3 PPG

3. DeMar DeRozan – 4.2 PPG

LeBron James led the clutch scoring during the 2017-18 NBA season with an impressive 4.4 points per game in clutch situations. He participated in 45 clutch games, securing 30 wins for the Cleveland Cavaliers. This season was notable for LeBron’s ability to consistently deliver game-changing performances in critical moments, driving the Cavaliers to a 50-32 record and yet another NBA Finals appearance. His clutch moments included several game-winning buzzer-beaters in the playoffs, showcasing his enduring dominance in high-pressure situations.

Jimmy Butler also had a significant impact in clutch scenarios, averaging 4.3 clutch points per game over 31 clutch games. Despite the Minnesota Timberwolves’ ups and downs throughout the season, Butler’s performances in tight games were crucial, helping the team secure a 47-35 record and their first playoff appearance in 14 years. His ability to perform under pressure was a key attribute that defined his first season with the Timberwolves.

DeMar DeRozan contributed 4.2 clutch points per game across 41 clutch appearances for the Toronto Raptors. His scoring in crucial parts of the game played a pivotal role in the Raptors finishing with the best record in the Eastern Conference at 59-23. DeRozan’s clutch performances helped maintain Toronto’s competitive edge throughout the season, reinforcing his status as a key player for the team.

2018-19 NBA Season – Victor Oladipo

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Victor Oladipo – 5.1 PPG

2. James Harden – 4.9 PPG

3. Kawhi Leonard – 4.6 PPG

Victor Oladipo led the NBA in clutch points per game during the 2018-19 season, averaging an impressive 5.1 points in clutch situations. Despite playing in only 15 clutch games due to a season-ending injury, Oladipo’s impact in those moments was significant, securing 11 wins for the Indiana Pacers. His ability to perform under pressure was crucial for the Pacers, particularly in maintaining competitive momentum in his absence, as the team finished the season with a 48-34 record.

James Harden followed closely, averaging 4.9 clutch points per game in 39 clutch appearances. Harden’s remarkable scoring ability helped the Houston Rockets navigate close games, contributing to a 53-29 record. His clutch performances included several high-scoring outputs that decided games in the Rockets’ favor, showcasing his value as one of the league’s most formidable offensive threats.

Kawhi Leonard also made his mark in clutch scenarios, averaging 4.6 clutch points per game across 33 clutch games. Leonard’s first season with the Toronto Raptors was marked by his critical contributions in close games, which played a significant role in leading the Raptors to their first NBA Championship. His season was highlighted by memorable clutch moments, including game-winning shots in the playoffs, particularly his buzzer-beater in Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers.

2019-20 NBA Season – Kyrie Irving

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Kyrie Irving – 5.4 PPG

2. Trae Young – 4.2 PPG

3. Joel Embiid – 3.8 PPG

Kyrie Irving topped the clutch points per game chart during the 2019-20 NBA season with a remarkable 5.4 points per game in clutch situations. Despite only participating in 11 clutch games due to injuries, Irving’s impact when on the court was profound, securing 5 wins for the Brooklyn Nets. His ability to take over games in crucial moments was a testament to his exceptional skill set, although the Nets had a challenging season, finishing with a 35-37 record.

Trae Young also demonstrated significant clutch capabilities, averaging 4.2 clutch points per game over 30 clutch appearances. Young’s performances were a bright spot for the Atlanta Hawks, though the team struggled throughout the season, ending with a 20-47 record. His ability to score and create plays in tight games highlighted his development as one of the young stars in the league.

Joel Embiid contributed 3.8 clutch points per game across 26 clutch games, playing a crucial role in the Philadelphia 76ers’ success. Embiid’s presence in critical moments helped the 76ers to a 43-30 record, showcasing his importance not just as a scorer but as a dominant force on both ends of the floor.

2020-21 NBA Season – Damian Lillard

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Damian Lillard – 4.8 PPG

T2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – 4.7 PPG

T2. Bradley Beal – 4.7 PPG

Damian Lillard was the standout clutch performer in the 2020-21 NBA season, leading the league with 4.8 clutch points per game. He participated in 34 clutch games, securing 22 wins for the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard’s exceptional ability to hit game-winning shots and his fearlessness in pressure situations were instrumental in Portland’s overall performance, helping the team to finish the season with a 42-30 record. His deep three-pointers and calm demeanor under pressure solidified his reputation as “Dame Time,” a player who rises to the occasion when his team needs him the most.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Bradley Beal both followed closely, each averaging 4.7 clutch points per game. Gilgeous-Alexander, in his 15 clutch games, managed to secure 11 wins for the Oklahoma City Thunder, showcasing his growth as a primary option in critical game moments, even as the Thunder navigated a rebuilding season with a 22-50 record.

Bradley Beal also made significant contributions in clutch scenarios, appearing in 32 clutch games and helping the Washington Wizards to 18 wins. Beal’s scoring prowess was on full display throughout the season, where he averaged 31.3 points per game, making him one of the league’s top scorers and a critical player in close games for the Wizards.

2021-22 NBA Season – Ja Morant

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. Ja Morant – 4.6 PPG

2. Joel Embiid – 4.4 PPG

3. DeMar DeRozan – 4.1 PPG

Ja Morant not only led the clutch points per game during the 2021-22 NBA season with an impressive 4.6 points in clutch situations but also had an overall outstanding season. He participated in 26 clutch games, securing 17 wins for the Memphis Grizzlies, contributing significantly to their strong 56-26 record. Morant’s season averages included 27.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, showcasing his dynamic ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

Joel Embiid also demonstrated his clutch skills, averaging 4.4 clutch points per game across 36 clutch games, which helped lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 51-31 record. Embiid’s season was marked by dominance, averaging 30.6 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, making him a central figure in the 76ers’ success and a strong MVP candidate.

DeMar DeRozan contributed significantly in clutch situations as well, with 4.1 clutch points per game in 38 clutch appearances for the Chicago Bulls. He was pivotal in Chicago finishing the season with a 46-36 record. DeRozan’s scoring finesse was evident in his season averages of 27.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, highlighting his role as a key offensive driver for the Bulls.

2022-23 NBA Season – De’Aaron Fox

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. De’Aaron Fox – 5.0 PPG

2. DeMar DeRozan – 4.7 PPG

3. Bradley Beal – 4.2 PPG

De’Aaron Fox, the inaugural winner of the Clutch Player of the Year Award, led the league with an impressive 5.0 clutch points per game during the 2022-23 season. He appeared in 39 clutch games, securing 22 wins for the Sacramento Kings. Fox’s performances were crucial in helping the Kings finish with a promising 48-34 record. His season averages were also impressive, with 25.0 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game, showcasing his all-around contributions to his team.

DeMar DeRozan continued to showcase his clutch capabilities, averaging 4.7 clutch points per game in 34 clutch appearances. Despite the Chicago Bulls’ struggles, finishing the season with a 40-42 record, DeRozan’s late-game heroics were a consistent highlight. He averaged 25.0 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game over the season, reinforcing his status as a premier clutch scorer in the NBA.

Bradley Beal also stood out in clutch scenarios, contributing 4.2 clutch points per game across 27 clutch games. While the Washington Wizards had a challenging season with a 35-47 record, Beal’s performances in clutch moments were key, especially considering his averages of 23.2 points, 5.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game.

2023-24 NBA Season – Stephen Curry

Leaders In Clutch PPG

1. DeMar DeRozan – 4.6 PPG

2. Stephen Curry – 4.4 PPG

3. Kyrie Irving – 4.2 PPG

DeMar DeRozan had a standout season in clutch scenarios, averaging 4.6 clutch points per game across 40 clutch appearances. His efforts were instrumental in several close games for the Chicago Bulls, although the team finished with a 39-43 record. DeRozan’s season was notable for his consistency and ability to perform in critical moments, averaging 24.0 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game.

Stephen Curry won the Clutch Player of the Year Award for the 2023-24 season, scoring 4.4 clutch points per game. Curry participated in 43 clutch games, securing 23 wins for the Golden State Warriors. His exceptional shooting and game management were crucial in many close games, helping the Warriors to a 46-36 record and a 10th-place finish in the Western Conference. Curry’s season averages of 26.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game highlight his continued impact as one of the NBA’s elite players.

Kyrie Irving was a significant clutch performer for the Dallas Mavericks, contributing 4.2 clutch points per game in 20 clutch games. Irving’s performances helped the Mavericks achieve a 50-32 record, securing the 5th spot in the Western Conference. However, the Mavericks are currently trailing in the Western Conference Semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Irving’s season averages were 25.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game.

(All Clutch Stats vía NBA.com/Stats)