Who's the Greatest Passing Forward in NBA History?

The debate over who is the greatest passing forward in NBA history has a rich history, with names like Magic Johnson and Scottie Pippen topping the list. However, the term 'point forward' itself does not officially exist, leading us to reconsider the criteria of what defines a great passing forward. In this article, we will explore the candidates and discuss their contributions to the game.

Joe Montana of Basketball?

Some might argue that the title of the "greatest point forward in NBA history" often goes to Magic Johnson, but we'll instead focus on the term 'passing forward.' In this context, we explore the role of players who excel not only in scoring but also in their ability to set up their teammates.

Tim Duncan's Skillful Passing

Tim Duncan is one of the most accurate and strategic passers on the court. Throughout his 19 seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, Duncan averaged 19.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. Additionally, Duncan won two MVP awards and was selected to play in 15 All-Star Games. His ability to pass the ball effectively, combined with his presence in the paint, made him a key contributor to the Spurs' success.

Kevin Garnett's Defensive Versatility

Kevin Garnett, born May 19, 1976, is known for his versatility and defensive prowess. He put up impressive stats of 20.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.8 blocks per game. Garnett was named to the All-NBA Third Team, highlighting his consistent performance and defensive skills. Although he may not be as universally celebrated for his passing as others, his overall impact on the game makes him a strong contender.

LeBron James: The Modern Passing Legend

LeBron James is often compared to the greats of the past, but his modern style of play makes him a unique candidate. LeBron is frequently used as a point forward due to his exceptional ball-handling skills, playmaking ability, and scoring prowess from anywhere on the court. His ability to create plays for his teammates and his scoring ability make him a formidable force on the court. LeBron's impact on the game and his success make him a strong contender for the title of the greatest passing forward.

Scottie Pippen: The Swiss Army Knife of Defense

Scottie Pippen is widely regarded as the best due to his versatility. He excelled in every aspect of the game, from defense to offense. Pippen's defensive prowess, ability to play both forward and center, and his role in the Bulls' championship runs make him a standout player. His defensive skills, often compared to those of the best on-ball defenders ever, were a key factor in the success of Michael Jordan's and the Bulls' teams.

Conclusion

While opinions may differ, the candidates for the greatest passing forward in NBA history include Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, LeBron James, and Scottie Pippen. Each player brings unique strengths to the game, contributing to the rich history of basketball. Whether it's Duncan's strategic passing, Garnett's defensive versatility, LeBron's all-around playmaking, or Pippen's multifaceted contributions, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport.