Looking back at the 1980s, we can see a golden era for NBA point guards, with players revolutionizing the position and setting the stage for future stars. One of the names that instantly comes to mind is Magic Johnson. Magic wasn't just about his 6'9" size, but his numbers were staggering too. Over his career, he averaged 19.5 points and 11.2 assists per game. He led the Lakers to five NBA championships, embodying the "Showtime" Lakers era.
You can't talk about point guards in the '80s without mentioning Isiah Thomas. Thomas's ability to control the floor was unmatched. Standing at just 6'1", he played with a ferocity and intelligence that translated to two NBA championships with the Detroit Pistons. Over his career, he averaged 19.2 points and 9.3 assists, but his impact went beyond stats. Just watch any game from the late '80s, and you'll see how he dominated the court, particularly in clutch moments.
Then, there's John Stockton, a name synonymous with consistency and precision. Stockton's pick-and-roll with Karl Malone is the stuff of legend. Statistically, Stockton's career averages of 13.1 points and a record-breaking 10.5 assists per game put him in a league of his own. His durability also stands out, playing 19 seasons with the Utah Jazz and appearing in almost every game. His understanding of the game, his vision—it was all extraordinary.
We can't forget Maurice Cheeks, the steady hand for the Philadelphia 76ers. Cheeks was a key player in their 1983 NBA championship win, providing the defensive prowess and playmaking to complement stars like Dr. J and Moses Malone. Over his career, Cheeks averaged 11.1 points and 6.7 assists per game, but his defensive numbers were equally impressive, with more than 2000 steals, ranking him among the top in NBA history.
Mark Price was another standout point guard of the '80s. Playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Price's shooting accuracy was phenomenal. During his prime, he shot over 40% from the three-point line and around 90% from the free-throw line. His career averages of 15.2 points and 6.7 assists per game illustrate his balanced offensive game. It's also worth mentioning his four All-Star appearances, which highlight his status among the elite players of his time.
Lenny Wilkens, though his playing days were primarily in the 60s and 70s, made a significant coaching impact in the '80s, particularly with the Seattle SuperSonics. Known for his strategic prowess and ability to develop young talent, Wilkens led the Sonics to the NBA Finals in 1979. His contributions in the '80s might have been from the sidelines, but his influence on point guards like Nate McMillan was profound, helping them grasp the intricacies of the game.
Speaking of young talent, Kevin Johnson burst onto the scene in the late '80s with the Phoenix Suns. Known for his explosive speed and scoring ability, Johnson quickly became one of the premier point guards in the league. By the end of the decade, he had already made a name for himself with a career average approaching 19 points and close to 10 assists per game. The combination of speed, athleticism, and playmaking made him a nightmare for defenders.
Fat Lever was another elite guard who often flew under the radar due to the smaller market teams he played for, like the Denver Nuggets. Lever was known for his triple-double capabilities, something that was less common in the '80s. With career averages of 13.9 points, 6 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, Lever's all-around game was clearly evident. His ability to contribute in multiple statistical categories shows his versatility and importance to his teams.
Ricky Green, while not as celebrated as some of his contemporaries, still played a significant role throughout the '80s. Known for his speed and defensive skills, Green spent time with several teams, including the Utah Jazz and Milwaukee Bucks. His career averages of 9.4 points and 5.5 assists per game might not jump off the page, but his consistent performance and leadership qualities were invaluable to his teams.
Everyone remembers the 1989 NBA Draft and the emergence of Mookie Blaylock. Though he entered the league in the very late '80s, his impact was immediate. Known for his defensive tenacity, Blaylock quickly established himself as a top guard, with a career average of 13.5 points and 6.7 assists per game. His ability to read opposing offenses and generate steals made him one of the best defensive players of his generation.
This list wouldn't be complete without acknowledging the contributions made by Dennis Johnson, another pivotal figure in the 1980s guard scene. DJ, as he was commonly known, played for teams like the Seattle SuperSonics and the Boston Celtics. Johnson's defense was legendary; he made the All-Defensive team nine times. Plus, his knack for making clutch plays was instrumental in the Celtics' three championships during that era. With career averages of 14.1 points and 5 assists per game, DJ was the epitome of a guard who did whatever it took to win.
Each of these point guards brought something unique to the table, whether it's through stats, leadership, or pure skill. The '80s were a time of transformation for the point guard position, and these players were right at the forefront of that change. For more insights into NBA history and rankings, check out arena plus.