Historically, the shooting guard position has been filled with some of the best players in the NBA. Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant all played this position and now that Kobe is on his way out, it’s time to pass the torch on to the next great shooting guard. But who will it be? Who is the best shooting guard in today’s NBA? Here’s your look at the top 5 shooting guards to make the best shortlist for the next one.
- James Harden
James Harden is by far the best shooting guard in the NBA today. He scores like no other and recently has become more dynamic by showing ability to both pass and rebound. One thing that could come back to bite Harden is his inability to cover even the most incompetent opposing player. Harden is a great offensive talent, but is arguably one of the worst defensive players in the league.
- Jimmy Butler
Butler is a 2-way player who turned the corner from a supplemental player to the Bull’s best player. Although he only averages 20 points per game, Butler has shown that he has the ability to go off for 40 on any given night. At just 26, Butler will continue to improve and could turn into one of the league’s elite players.
- Klay Thompson
Thompson is the second best player on arguably the best team in NBA history. With elite scoring ability, covering Thompson is a task that scares many opponents. Thompson is more than just an elite scorer, he is also one of the best passing shooting guards in the league. Klay has also showed the ability to lock down opposing players when he needs to, but is not as consistent of a defender as the Warriors would hope.
