The Best Point Guards of the Last Decade in the NBA

The 2010s saw some of the most impactful and skilled point guards in NBA history. In this article, we will explore the top point guards who shine brightest during this era, as well as their contributions to their teams and the league as a whole.

Introduction

The 2010s were truly a golden age for point guards in the NBA. To pinpoint the best, we look at players who appeared on the All-NBA team, taking into account both the first and second teams since the "best" point guard isn't always the one with the highest performance. Additionally, we'll consider their impact on championship pursuits and individual accolades like the MVP.

Best Point Guards of the Last Decade

Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook is a force to be reckoned with, despite lacking a championship to his name. With two All-NBA 1st Team and five All-NBA 2nd Team appearances, as well as one MVP award, Westbrook has been a dominant presence in the league. Known as the "stats king," he has posted triple-doubles in all three primary categories—points, rebounds, and assists.

Westbrook's unyielding drive and formidable stats showcase his exceptional skill and dedication. He is one of the best point guards in the league, unmatched by his peers in terms of raw performance and consistency.

Chris Paul

Chris Paul, affectionately known as "CP3," is a rock in the middle of the court. With two All-NBA 1st Team and two All-NBA 2nd Team appearances, Paul's leadership skills and ball-handling prowess make him a conduit for team success. He is the epitome of the traditional point guard, with an exceptional assist-to-turnover ratio, a deadly mid-range game, and the development of a potent three-point shot in recent years.

Despite not having a championship, CP3's defensive acumen is standout, elevating his game on both ends of the court. His efficiency and versatility make him one of the best point guards of the decade.

Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and innovative players of this decade. Not only a generational talent, Curry, along with the Golden State Warriors, has transformed the game with his incredible three-point shooting and small ball tactics. Curry's MVP awards and three championship rings speak to his impact on the game.

Curry's efficient and gravity-defying three-point shooting has forced teams to adapt, driving the small ball revolution. His ball-handling skills and rim-finishing ability are next-level, making him an unmatched offensive threat. His championship wins solidify Curry's position as one of the best point guards of the decade.

Honorable Mentions

While not included due to their primary roles as wing players, Tony Parker and Damian Lillard are also noted for their exceptional play and contributions to their teams.

Conclusion

While these players have left an indelible mark on the NBA, they are now past their prime. The likes of Curry, Paul, and Westbrook are due for retirement within the next decade, and their legacy will be celebrated. They will be missed for the memories and game-changing moments they've provided throughout their careers.

Appendix: All-NBA Appearances (2009-2019)

2009-10: First: N/A, Second: Steve Nash 2010–11: First: Derrick Rose, Second: Russell Westbrook 2011–12: First: Derrick Rose, Second: Russell Westbrook, Tony Parker 2012–13: First: Chris Paul, Second: Tony Parker, Russell Westbrook 2013–14: First: Chris Paul, James Harden, Second: Stephen Curry, Tony Parker 2014–15: First: Stephen Curry, James Harden, Second: Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul 2015–16: First: Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook, Second: Chris Paul, Damian Lillard 2016–17: First: Russell Westbrook, Second: Stephen Curry, Isaiah Thomas 2017–18: First: Damian Lillard, Second: Russell Westbrook 2018–19: First: Stephen Curry, Second: Damian Lillard, Kyrie Irving