When we talk about the greatest NBA assisting guards, the spotlight often turns to their performance in the Finals. It's the apex of their careers, where every assist counts double. Take Magic Johnson, for instance. Over nine Finals appearances, Magic dished out an astonishing 584 assists. That's approximately 65 assists per Finals series, which is a staggering number if you consider the pressure and intensity of each game.
But Magic isn't alone at this elite level. John Stockton, although his Jazz team never won a championship, left an indelible mark with his 181 assists over two Finals appearances. He averaged 90.5 assists per series, showcasing an efficiency and vision that made him one of the most formidable point guards. When you watch footage of Stockton from that era, you can almost feel the precision in every pass, the meticulous calculation going into each play.
Another guard worth mentioning is Isiah Thomas. With 228 assists across three Finals series, Thomas averaged 76 assists per series. It’s not just the numbers but the context—Isiah was often playing through injuries and still managed to play at an elite level. Remember the 1988 Finals Game 6? Isiah scored 25 points in the third quarter alone while nursing a severely sprained ankle, and still managed to dish out significant assists. His performance didn't just contribute to the scoreboard; it embodied the tenacity and grit you want in a championship leader.
Let's not forget LeBron James, often considered more of a forward but who has played the role of a primary playmaker throughout his career. James ranks second all-time in Finals assists with 439 over ten series. Think about that for a second. Averaging 43.9 assists per Finals series while also being the main scorer for his team is a rare feat. LeBron's court vision, ability to read defenses, and sheer athleticism make him a unique case. In NBA history, very few players can orchestrate an offense like LeBron does.
Then there's Stephen Curry, one of the best shooters ever but also a fantastic playmaker. In six Finals series, Curry has accumulated 196 assists, averaging about 32.67 per series. While his shooting grabs headlines, his assists are just as vital to the Warriors' success. Curry's ability to draw defenses and find open teammates makes his assists crucial. During the 2015 Finals, his 38 assists were instrumental in leading the Warriors to their first championship in 40 years.
And who can overlook Clyde Drexler? Though he appeared in three Finals, his 175 assists highlight his versatile game. Averaging nearly 58.33 assists per Finals series, Drexler proved that he was a well-rounded player. In the 1992 Finals, the man known as "The Glide" exemplified his athletic prowess and unselfish play. His assists were pivotal in keeping his team competitive against Jordan's Bulls.
One might ask, how do these guards compare to today's players? Let's take a closer look at Chris Paul, who finally made his Finals debut in 2021. In his first appearance, CP3 handed out 82 assists over six games, which means he averaged 13.67 assists per game. That’s impressive for someone making their debut under such intense circumstances, showing that age and experience can indeed be leveraged effectively on the biggest stage.
Lastly, we can't forget about Jason Kidd. Over two Finals series, Kidd racked up 171 assists. With an average of 85.5 assists per series, Kidd's contributions were invaluable to his teams. His basketball IQ, combined with his unrelenting defensive skills, made him a cornerstone for any team he played for. During the 2002 Finals, his 52 assists were the highlight of an otherwise challenging series for the Nets.
It’s clear that assisting guards play a pivotal role in any Finals scenario. They’re not just facilitating; they’re orchestrating, setting the pace, and often dictating the flow of the game. The greatest among them have crafted legacies that extend beyond statistics and highlight reels. Their impact resonates through the annals of NBA history, solidifying their place in the pantheon of basketball greatness.