When it comes to the best three-point shooters in the NBA during the 2020s, certain names inevitably come to mind for their sheer precision and consistency behind the arc. One player who undeniably stands out in this era is Stephen Curry. The Golden State Warriors' point guard, who shattered his own season records, hit an unprecedented 402 three-pointers in the 2015-2016 season and didn't stop there. By 2021, Curry set a career milestone by surpassing 2,974 three-pointers, overtaking Ray Allen's record, and his shooting percentage remained impressive at around 43% from the three-point line.
Another sharpshooter who commands respect in today's league is Damian Lillard. Playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, Lillard has developed a reputation for his clutch performances and deep three-point shots, often several feet behind the arc. In the 2020-2021 season alone, Lillard averaged 4.1 three-pointers per game, maintaining a shooting accuracy close to 40%. His incredible range and high-pressure shooting make him a formidable opponent and a game-changer in critical moments.
Klay Thompson, also a member of the Golden State Warriors, deserves mention despite his unfortunate injuries. Known for his "catch-and-shoot" prowess, Thompson has the unique ability to score three-pointers without needing much time to set up. Before his injuries sidelined him, he boasted a 41.9% career three-point shooting percentage, showcasing his durability and efficiency. Upon his return, many expect him to reclaim his status as one of the deadliest shooters in the league.
In the 2020s landscape, younger talents have also begun to make their mark. Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks represents the new generation of three-point marksmen. Known for his deep shots and quick release, Young averaged 3.3 three-pointers per game during the 2020-2021 season. This efficiency at a young age makes him one of the most exciting players to watch, and his potential seems limitless.
Joe Harris of the Brooklyn Nets has also carved out a niche as one of the NBA’s premier three-point specialists. Leading the league in three-point shooting percentage for several seasons, Harris shot an astonishing 47.5% from beyond the arc in the 2020-2021 season. His consistency and ability to find open spots have been crucial to the Nets’ offensive strategy, especially with stars like Kevin Durant and James Harden drawing defenders.
Other noteworthy mentions include Duncan Robinson of the Miami Heat and Buddy Hield of the Sacramento Kings. Robinson’s rise from undrafted to one of the league’s top three-point shooters is a compelling story. He hit 44.6% of his three-point attempts in the 2019-2020 season, proving that hard work and determination can lead to significant success. Hield, on the other hand, has consistently ranked among the league leaders in both attempts and makes, showing that volume shooters can also achieve high efficiency. In the 2020-2021 season, Hield averaged 4.0 three-pointers per game at a 39.1% clip.
While discussing these elite shooters, you can't help but appreciate the evolution of the game itself. The emphasis on spacing and three-point shooting has transformed the NBA. Teams now strategize around their shooters, searching for ways to maximize their players' strengths from beyond the arc. This shift has made the NBA more exciting, with games often coming down to three-point contests rather than traditional post-play.
Finally, the influence of these players extends beyond statistics and highlights. They've inspired a new generation of basketball players who now grow up honing their long-range shooting. Their impact on youth sports and how coaches teach the game can't be understated. With the rise of analytics and the measurable value of three-point efficiency, it's clear why teams prioritize these sharpshooters both in the draft and free agency.
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