The NBA has always been home to some of the most talented and electrifying athletes in the world. Over the past decade, the league has witnessed a shift in how the game is played, with an emphasis on offense, shooting, and high-scoring games. This era has seen some legendary players rise to the top and consistently lead the league in scoring, cementing their place in NBA history. From sharpshooters to explosive athletic talents, these players have not only dominated in their respective seasons but have defined an era of basketball.
As we reflect on the past ten seasons, it’s clear that scoring prowess has been one of the primary measures of greatness in the league. The following players have not only been the leading scorers in the NBA, but they have also shaped the landscape of modern basketball. Let’s take a closer look at the top scorers of the decade.
1. James Harden
James Harden’s scoring ability is arguably one of the most dominant in recent NBA history. Over the past decade, the Houston Rockets (and later, the Brooklyn Nets) star has led the league in scoring three times and finished as one of the top scorers nearly every season. His unique playing style, characterized by a combination of step-back threes, driving layups, and elite drawing of fouls, has made him one of the most difficult players to defend.
Harden’s ability to score from all areas of the floor is unmatched. He won the 2018 MVP award after leading the league with an average of 30.4 points per game, but his scoring didn’t stop there. In 2019, he averaged a career-high 36.1 points per game, proving that his offensive game was evolving in real-time. Despite changing teams, Harden’s ability to score at will has remained intact, and he is undoubtedly one of the premier offensive talents of this era.
2. LeBron James
LeBron James has been the face of the NBA for nearly two decades, and even in his later years, he remains one of the most prolific scorers in the league. While LeBron is often known for his playmaking and basketball IQ, his scoring ability cannot be overlooked. LeBron has consistently been among the top scorers in the NBA throughout his career, and the past decade has seen him maintain that level of dominance.
In 2018, LeBron James finished as the league’s fourth-leading scorer with an average of 27.5 points per game. Even as he entered his 30s, he continued to put up incredible numbers, showcasing his versatility in scoring both in transition and in the half-court. Whether it’s his ability to finish at the rim with power or his expanding three-point game, LeBron’s scoring numbers have only improved with age, and his legacy as one of the best scorers in NBA history is secure.
3. Kevin Durant
Few players in the NBA can match the scoring ability of Kevin Durant. Known for his smooth jump shot and ability to score in nearly any situation, Durant has been a constant presence near the top of the scoring leaderboard for much of the last decade. His combination of height, length, and shooting touch makes him nearly impossible to guard.
Durant won back-to-back NBA Finals MVP awards with the Golden State Warriors, where he was instrumental in their offensive firepower. He has consistently averaged over 25 points per game, and in 2014, he won the MVP after posting a career-high 32 points per game. Durant’s ability to score at an elite level while also being a key contributor in other areas of the game, like rebounding and defense, has solidified his place as one of the top scorers of the decade.
4. Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry, the greatest shooter the game has ever seen, has completely redefined the way basketball is played. Known for his deep three-pointers, quick release, and incredible range, Curry has transformed the NBA’s offensive approach. Over the last ten seasons, Curry has not only been among the league’s top scorers but also revolutionized the sport, leading a new wave of shooters.
In 2016, Curry had one of the most remarkable scoring seasons in NBA history, averaging 30.1 points per game while also setting the NBA record for most three-pointers made in a season. His 2015-16 campaign remains one of the best individual seasons ever, as he led the Warriors to a 73-win record, a feat that has yet to be matched. Even with injuries affecting his career, Curry has remained a scoring machine, proving year after year that he is one of the most dangerous offensive players in the game.
5. Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking about the league’s top scorers, but his quiet, efficient style of play has made him one of the most consistent offensive players of the decade. Leonard has always been known for his elite defense, but over the years, he has developed into one of the most reliable scorers in the league.
Leonard’s scoring approach is different from many of his peers; he’s not a volume shooter, but he is incredibly efficient with his attempts. He won back-to-back Finals MVPs with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014 and the Toronto Raptors in 2019, leading both teams to championships. His ability to score in clutch moments, especially in the postseason, has cemented his place as one of the top scorers in the NBA over the past decade.
6. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rise to the top of the NBA scoring ranks has been nothing short of impressive. The “Greek Freak” is an athletic marvel with the ability to dominate in transition, finish at the rim with authority, and even hit the occasional jump shot. His offensive game has evolved considerably over the past decade, and his sheer physicality makes him a matchup nightmare for opponents.
In 2019, Giannis won the MVP award after leading the league in scoring with an average of 27.7 points per game. His unique combination of size and agility has allowed him to put up big numbers, and his aggressive playstyle means he frequently gets to the free-throw line. Giannis’ scoring potential remains high as he continues to develop his game, and he will undoubtedly be a force in the years to come.
7. Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis has always been a defensive powerhouse, but his scoring ability has often flown under the radar. Known for his versatile game, Davis is capable of scoring from inside the paint, hitting mid-range shots, and even stepping out beyond the arc. His offensive game, paired with his elite defense, makes him one of the most well-rounded players of the decade.
Davis’ scoring has been particularly noticeable in his years with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he was often the focal point of the offense. In 2017, he averaged a career-high 28.1 points per game. As a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, Davis has continued to be a key scorer, contributing to the team’s success in their 2020 championship run.
Conclusion
The past decade has been filled with incredible scoring performances, and the players mentioned above have led the charge in shaping the modern NBA. From the deep threes of Stephen Curry to the all-around dominance of LeBron James, the scoring leaders of the past ten years have each brought their unique flair to the game. As the NBA continues to evolve, it’s clear that these players will be remembered not only for their scoring prowess but also for their lasting impact on the sport itself.
