Magic Johnson epitomized the best assisting player of the 1980s. Magic played for the Los Angeles Lakers and led the league in assists for four seasons during this decade. His peak came in the 1983-84 season when he averaged an astonishing 13.1 assists per game. The speed and precision of his no-look passes highlighted the showtime era of the Lakers. Such a game-changer he was, that discussions about the best point guards inevitably include Magic's name, and deservedly so. His ability to see the court and make quick decisions set a standard few players have matched.
Move to the 1990s, and John Stockton dominated the assist charts. Stockton, playing for the Utah Jazz, was the league's assist leader for nine straight seasons from 1987 to 1996. Particularly in the 1990-91 season, he averaged 14.2 assists per game, a figure rarely approached by anyone else. His partnership with Karl Malone was legendary, and Stockton's efficiency in dishing out passes defined the era. People still marvel at his consistency – he missed only 22 games in his entire 19-year career, an astounding testimony to his durability and physical fitness.
In the 2000s, Steve Nash took over the mantle as the premier assist leader. Nash, playing primarily for the Phoenix Suns during this period, won the MVP award twice, not only because of his scoring ability but also his playmaking skills. His career peak in assists came during the 2006-07 season, where he averaged 11.6 assists per game. What made Nash special was his court vision and ability to make the right pass even under pressure. The Suns' offense, known as “Seven Seconds or Less,” was largely effective due to Nash’s rapid decision-making and impeccable passing.
Moving into the 2010s, Chris Paul stands out. He dominated the assists leaderboard multiple times and consistently averaged double-digit figures in assists. In the 2013-14 season, Paul averaged 10.7 assists per game with the Los Angeles Clippers. Known for his high basketball IQ and leadership on the court, Paul led the Clippers to multiple playoff appearances and became a quintessential floor general. The term "point god" often gets thrown around casually, but in Paul's case, it fits perfectly given how he orchestrates the game's flow.
As for the ongoing decade, Russell Westbrook and James Harden have been neck and neck. Both have had seasons where they've led the league in assists. Westbrook, known for his explosive athleticism, averaged 10.7 assists per game during the 2018-19 season and also achieved multiple triple-double seasons. Harden, particularly during his time with the Houston Rockets, showcased unmatched versatility. In the 2016-17 season, he averaged an incredible 11.2 assists. Despite their scoring prowess, both players have shown an uncanny ability to create opportunities for teammates.
These players have defined their respective eras through their playmaking. They transformed games, made teammates better, and filled highlight reels with their incredible passes. Their legacies thrive not just in their stats but in how they elevated the entire league and captured the imagination of fans worldwide. For more on the incredible performances in sports, check out arena plus.