Ray Allen vs. Klay Thompson: Three-Point Shooting Comparison
Ray Allen and Klay Thompson are two of the most renowned three-point shooters in NBA history. Both players have made significant contributions to their respective teams with their prowess from beyond the arc. However, when comparing their career three-point averages, there is a clear distinction in their performances.
Career Three-Point Averages
Ray Allen, known for his precision and consistency, averaged 2.9 three-pointers per game throughout his 18-year NBA career. This average significantly outshines Klay Thompson, who recorded 2.4 three-pointers per game during his 14 seasons in the league. These statistics alone speak volumes about the sheer volume of threes Allen was capable of sinking, making him the king of the three-point range in terms of career averages.
Individual Records
While Ray Allen's career averages highlight his prolific three-point shooting, individual accomplishments often encapsulate the pinnacle of a player's prowess. Ray Allen is the record holder for the most three-pointers made in a single season, a landmark he etched with 269 in the 2008-09 season. This incredible feat underscored Allen's exceptional shooting skills and his ability to deliver clutch performances.
In contrast, Klay Thompson's individual record comes in a slightly different category. He is famous for his performance in the 2016 NBA Finals, where he dropped 37 points on 9-for-11 three-point shooting in a decisive Game 4 victory. However, his career record for the most three-pointers made in a single game is 14, achieved in a 2016 playoff game against the Houston Rockets. This impressive feat speaks to Thompson's sudden burst of accuracy and the ease with which he can put away opponents from the perimeter.
Legacy and Impact
Both players have left an indelible mark on the NBA, but their legacies are distinctly shaped by different strengths. Ray Allen's consistency and volume of threes make him a hall of fame-caliber player, whereas Klay Thompson's explosiveness and ability to deliver game-changing performances, particularly in high-stakes situations, make him a fan favorite and an inspiration to many young players.
Including Other Players for Comparative Analysis
It's instructive to compare Allen and Thompson to other legendary three-point shooters such as Ray Allen (obviously), Stephen Curry, and Jason Terry. While Ray Allen averages more three-pointers per game, Stephen Curry has the highest all-time three-point percentage, and Jason Terry is known for his high volume of threes per game in the prime of his career.
Conclusion
When it comes to the number of three-pointers made per game in their respective careers, Ray Allen and Klay Thompson each bring a unique skill set to the table. Ray Allen stands out as the league's most prolific three-point shooter during his career, making an average of 2.9 threes per game. In contrast, Klay Thompson's contributions are driven by his ability to make high-volume, high-impact three-point baskets in critical moments. Both players have been instrumental in shaping the modern basketball landscape with their unmatched three-point shooting prowess.