NBA Preseason Power Rankings For The ’23-’24 Season

30. Charlotte Hornets

Key Additions: Brandon Miller (R)

A healthy Hornets team with Brandon Miller living up to his draft billing as the No. 2 pick could be a feisty bunch. After all, this roster isn’t a whole lot different than the one that won 43 games just two seasons ago. However, health has long been an issue for this club. Gordon Hayward played in just 50 games last year — his most as a Hornet. LaMelo Ball missed nearly 50 games last year with an ankle injury. Even the typically durable Terry Rozier missed 19 games. The depth was already thin even before Kai Jones was released and Miles Bridges was arrested (again). This

29. Washington Wizards

Key Additions: Jordan Poole, Danilo Gallinari, Landry Shamet, Bilal Coulibaly (R)

Could the Wizards surprise some people next season? Trading away a player of Bradley Beal’s stature certainly signals a full rebuild. However, Beal struggled mightily with his shot over the last couple of years, and was never much of a defender. Perhaps moving on from Beal will allow the team to empower players like Kyle Kuzma, Deni Avdija and Johnny Davis. That being said, replacing Beal with Jordan Poole doesn’t exactly fix any sort of issues. This is especially the case with Poole coming off a dismal year from beyond the arc with the Warriors. The Wizards could be annoying to play on the back-end of a back-to-back, but they won’t win too many games with their current roster.

28. Detroit Pistons

Key Additions: Ausar Thompson (R), Joe Harris

The bottom-feeding teams across the league took strides in improving this past offseason. And, the teams that have made up this half of the ranking are a familiar bunch by this point. Detroit has been rebuilding for what seems like years now, though they have acquired a fair amount of talent along the way. The most intriguing of which, former No. 1 overall pick Cade Cunningham, was sidelined for 70 games last season after suffering an injury early in the year. The backcourt combo is nice. Jaden Ivey played up to expectation as a rookie, and fifth overall pick Ausar Thompson starred all Summer Still, this team has a way to go and a ton to prove.

27. Portland Trail Blazers

Key Additions: Deandre Ayton, Malcolm Brogdon, Rob Williams, Scoot Henderson (R), Kris Murray (R)

Damian Lillard is gone, and the Blazers have finally embraced a rebuild. Well, sort of. In the deal that sent away the franchise stalwart, the Blazers received C Deandre Ayton and G Jrue Holiday — the latter of which was quickly rerouted to Boston in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon and Rob Williams — in addition to a pair of pick swaps, a first-rounder in 2029, and rookie Tomanu Camara. Ayton is still young (25 years old), but is on a max contract which has him signed until 2026. The team didn’t even do much in decluttering their backcourt with the introduction of Brogdon. Seeing how the backcourt minutes are administered to Brogdon, Anfernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe, and Scoot Henderson will be interesting to monitor.

26. San Antonio Spurs

Key Additions: Victor Wembanyama (R), Reggie Bullock, Cedi Osman, Cameron Payne

The Victor Wembanyama hype is real. However, does the 19-year-old French phenom have what it takes to power the Spurs to a playoff berth in his first year? We have to pump the brakes on that notion for now. Wembanyama will be a game-changer from Day 1 — especially when you consider his defensive upside. The Spurs have some decent talent around the big man as well. Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson and Jeremy Sochan form a solid stable of wings that boast complementary skill-sets. However, it’s unclear how the Spurs manager Wembanyama’s workload throughout the season. He’ll have some incredible flashes, but will we even see Wemby suit up for 50-plus games in his rookie year?

25. Toronto Raptors

Key Additions: Dennis Schroder, Jalen McDaniels, Gradey Dick (R)

On the surface, exchanging Fred VanVleet for Dennis Schroder is a downgrade. Though, Schroder did come at a far more reasonable price — and coming off one of his better seasons as a key piece for the Lakers. Still, Toronto has historically struggled on the offensive end. Losing their top playmaker for nothing will likely not help matters. The team hopes draft pick Gradey Dick can help spread the floor, but there’s only so much that can be expected out of a rookie. 2022 Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes is going to have to take a huge step if the Raptors want to return to the postseason.

24. Indiana Pacers

Key Additions: Bruce Brown, Obi Toppin, Jarace Walker (R)

The Pacers are still a few pieces away from contending, but their base is strong. At the helm is star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who has quickly blossomed into of the top floor generals in the NBA. Indiana is content with building around the 23-year-old, and that means finding players who can thrive sharing the floor next to an elite playmaker. Indiana targeted free agent and NBA champion Bruce Brown with their cap space this past offseason, inking the former Denver Nuggets role player to a lucrative two-year deal. They also added Obi Toppin and Jarace Walker to aid Myles Turner in the front court. We’ll need to see this group in action, but it’s certainly an intriguing bunch under a winning head coach in Rick Carlisle.

23. Houston Rockets

Key Additions: Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, Jock Landale, Amen Thompson (R), Cam Whitmore (R)

We hesitate to jump the gun too early on the Rockets. This is a team that has won 17, 20, and 22 games over the last three years (while developing some awful habits). But, it’s hard not to like the talent. A young core made up of Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, Tari Eason, Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore is nothing to scoff at. Especially when you consider Eason is the oldest one in that group — and only just recently celebrated his 22nd birthday. Houston splurged in free agency by signing Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks. Some might view both signings as an overpay (which they probably were) but both players exemplify the grittiness and toughness that head coach Ime Udoka is looking for. If Udoka can find the right combinations — and Green and Smith Jr. live up to their potential — Houston will be a playoff hopeful.

22. Chicago Bulls

Key Additions: Jevon Carter

It’s fitting that the Bulls love mid-range jump shots, because they are the epitome of a ‘mid’ basketball team. Chicago had a fairly quiet offseason, re-signing both Nikola Vucevic and Coby White while adding defensive-minded guard Jevon Carter. Perhaps adding Carter to the backcourt with Alex Caruso will bring back the defensive identity the team has been missing since Lonzo Ball has been out. But, the Bulls are likely never going to be a good defensive team when their three highest-paid players are Vucevic, DeMar DeRozan and Zach Lavine. The development of Patrick Williams and Dalen Terry could potentially increase this team’s ceiling, but there isn’t a lot of optimism for a Bulls team that likely should have sold everything and built anew this offseason.

21. Brooklyn Nets

Key Additions: Dennis Smith Jr., Lonnie Walker, Dariq Whitehead (R), Jalen Wilson (R), Noah Clowney (R)

The Nets did about as well as they could have with the cards they were dealt. Teams typically get worse when they trade away three generational talents in rapid succession. Even more so when one of the returns in those trades completely forgets how to play basketball (Ben Simmons). Mikal Bridges blossoming into a bonafide star surely helps matters. Though, they’ll be facing an uphill battle to return to the postseason. With teams likely spending more of their gameplan trying to defend Bridges, it will be interesting to see who steps up as Brooklyn’s No. 2 option in 2024.

20. Utah Jazz

Key Additions: John Collins, Taylor Hendricks (R), Keyonte George (R), Brice Sensabaugh (R)

The Jazz vastly exceeded expectations in Year 1 under Will Hardy. Can they keep up their winnings ways now that the rest of the league is prepped for them? Lauri Markannen won’t take anybody by surprise after a breakout campaign. Walker Kessler and Ochai Agbaji figure to play even bigger roles as sophomores. Same goes for John Collins, who is looking to prove himself after a rough stretch to end his Hawks tenure. They might struggle defensively outside of Kessler, but the Jazz have more than enough firepower to be one of the top scoring offenses in the league. That sort of attack could carry them to a postseason berth.

19. Orlando Magic

Key Additions: Anthony Black (R), Jett Howard (R), Joe Ingles

The Magic are entering ’24 with a ton of momentum. After a 5-20 start to last year, Orlando went 29-24 down the stretch (lost their last four) and looked like a more competent team. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are as good of a young duo as there is in the league This is a team with a ton of pedigree. Banchero (1st), Wagner (8th), Jalen Suggs (5th), Wendell Carter Jr. (7th), and Markelle Fultz (1st) were all taken near the top of the draft. And, that’s not even mentioning Jonathan Isaac, Cole Anthony, or, their two most recent picks, Anthony Black and Jett Howard. With incremental leaps from a majority of this roster, the Magic will be at least a .500 team.

18. New Orleans Pelicans

Key Additions: Jordan Hawkins (R)

The questions surrounding the Pelicans will always come down to Zion Williamson’s health (until he’s off the team). When healthy, Williamson transforms the Pelicans into a team that could legitimately give any team out West issues. But, staying healthy has been an issue for Williamson — who played just 29 games last year after missing the entire ’22 campaign. There’s no shortage of talent across the roster. In fact, the Pelicans may have one of the deepest teams in the league. Brandon Ingram is a bonafide stud, and Trey Murphy III looks primed for a breakout year. Only time will tell if Williamson can stay on the floor.

17. Atlanta Hawks

Key Additions: Patty Mills, Wesley Matthews, Kobe Bufkin (R)

The Hawks are hoping a full offseason under Quin Snyder will help bring the team’s vision together. Snyder took over in late February, and helped guide the team to a playoff berth after a win in the play-in tournament. Getting Trae Young and Dejounte Murray on the same page will be paramount to their success — especially in situations where Murray is handling the ball and Young is off-ball. John Collins was finally dealt, opening up opportunities for guys like Onyeka Okongwu, De’Andre Hunter, Saddiq Bey, Jalen Johnson, and AJ Griffin. The Hawks aren’t scaring anybody out East, but they have two recent All-Stars and a number of intriguing role players.

16. Minnesota Timberwolves

Key Additions: Troy Brown Jr., Shake Milton

The Timberwolves are a bit of an enigma. On paper, Minnesota should be one of the top teams in the Western Conference. Their two stars are among the best players at their respective positions (Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns). Their defense is led by a three-time Defensive Player of the Year in Rudy Gobert. The rest of the starting lineup consists of a heady point guard (Mike Conley Jr.) and a defensive stopper (Jaden McDaniels). The bench isn’t even that bad when you consider the seasons Naz Reid and Kyle Anderson had last year. Yet, this is a team that struggled to get more than a couple of games above .500 all of last year. Maybe Year 2 of the Towns-Gobert pairing works out better, but the limitations of both players (Towns on defense and Gobert on offense) could also derail the season.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder

Key Additions: Davis Bertans, Chet Holmgren (R), Cason Wallace (R)

The path for the Thunder making their way into the playoff picture is clear. All-NBA First-team guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emerged as a legitimate star last year, and has the ability to go toe-to-toe with the league’s best. GM Sam Presti has accumulated perhaps the best young core in basketball, and we have still yet to see No. 2 overall pick Chet Holmgren. The collective height and wingspan of OKC’s projected starting group is bound to give their opponents problems. Young teams typically don’t excel defensively, but this Thunder team has the tools to be great on that end of the floor.

14. Dallas Mavericks

Key Additions: Grant Williams, Seth Curry, Richaun Holmes, Dante Exum, Dereck Lively (R), Olivier Maxence-Prosper (R)

Arguably the most disappointing team in the league last year, the Mavericks need a bounceback campaign in the worst way. Dallas missed the postseason entirely just a year after making it all the way to the Western Conference Finals. The trade for Kyrie Irving was supposed to turn things around, but the enigmatic star and Luka Dončić could never really figure it out. Irving was inked to a long-term deal this offseason, and the Mavericks hope a slightly retooled roster will be a better fit around Dallas’ two primary playmakers. The clock is ticking in Dallas, as another lost season could push Dončić to reconsider his place on the team.

13. New York Knicks

Key Additions: Donte DiVincenzo

Knicks fans were flying high following the team’s first playoff series win since 2013. However, the season ended on a bitter note after being ousted by the No. 8 seed Miami Heat. Jalen Brunson was everything the team could have hoped for…and more. The four-year/$100 million deal he inked last offseason seems like a bargain now. It will be interesting to see how Julius Randle responds following another dismal playoff run.

The offseason was uncharacteristically quiet for New York, though they did trade away Obi Toppin and sign Donte DiVincenzo. With how little Toppin was playing, adding a heady, defensive guard in DiVincenzo will likely be an upgrade. He and Josh Hart are ideal players in Tom Thibodeau’s system, and having both is a big boost to New York’s wing depth.

12. Sacramento Kings

Key Additions: Nerlens Noel, Sasha Vezenkov (R), Jalen Slawson (R), Colby Jones (R)

It’s fair to expect a slight dip from the Kings this upcoming season. After making the playoffs for the first time in 17 years – as a 3-seed – Sacramento is looking to make it two-in-a-row. And, while we think they will once again be in the postseason picture, expecting 48 wins and a Pacific Division title is a bit of a stretch. The Kings were the healthiest team in the regular season last year, and benefitted from a rather chaotic division.

While we do like some of the moves they made this offseason – trading for Chris Duarte and signing reigning EuroLeague MVP Sasha Vezenkov – not upgrading the Harrison Barnes spot seems like it could haunt them.

11. Cleveland Cavaliers

Key Additions: Max Strus, Georges Niang, Emoni Bates (R)

The young Cavaliers arrived last season, making the franchise’s return to the postseason for the first time since LeBron James left town. Cleveland won a whopping 51 games thanks to its dynamic backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. It also includes a jumbo frontcourt consisting of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. Though, the postseason proved to be a different animal for the youthful Cavs. Cleveland was overwhelmed by a tougher, more experienced Knicks team.

In hopes of adding more perimeter threats, the Cavs went out and signed Max Strus and Georges Niang this past offseason. However, the storyline for this team will mostly surround the future of Mitchell. The four-time All-Star has yet to sign an extension, leading some to believe he could be looking elsewhere after his contract expires.

10. Memphis Grizzlies

Key Additions: Marcus Smart, Josh Christopher, Derrick Rose, GG Jackson (R)

Memphis is looking to bounceback after an embarrassing defeat to the Lakers in the first round of last year’s playoffs. How the Grizzlies navigate through Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension will be extremely telling. In the past, Memphis has exceeded expectations when their superstar point guard has sat. But, those situations were due to injury and not a planned absence. Memphis did well in solidifying their backcourt with Morant gone, adding one of the toughest guards in the league in Marcus Smart. Smart might not be the same caliber of defender he once was, but he’s a proven winner who is unafraid of the moment. With Morant out, Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. will be called upon offensively.

9. Los Angeles Clippers

Key Additions: Kenyon Martin Jr.

The Clippers have all the talent to make a deep run in the postseason. Though, that has been the case for as long as Kawhi Leonard and Paul George have been a part of the team. The pair were able to both play over 50 games during the regular season, but broke down towards the end. Leonard was limited to just two playoff games, while George missed the postseason entirely. Now, the story surrounding the Clippers concerns their potential acquisition of James Harden. The Philly guard has reportedly expressed his desire to play in Los Angeles alongside Leonard, George and Russell Westbrook. As of now, there is no deal in place. But, adding a top-tier playmaker such as Harden to this group would certainly help matters.

8. Miami Heat

Key Additions: Josh Richardson, Thomas Bryant, Jaime Jaquez Jr. (R)

The reigning Eastern Conference champions are in limbo as they await Portland’s decision concerning Damian Lillard. Everybody knows that Lillard wants to go to the Heat. The NBA even went as far as threatening disciplinary actions against Lillard and his agent after both made the superstar’s intentions public. It remains to be seen if Lillard will face a penalty, but the Heat and Blazers have reportedly discussed multiple trade options. As of now, the Heat have proven capable of beating any team in the Eastern Conference — but they still seemingly lack the offensive firepower to knock off Western contenders like the Nuggets. Don’t count Miami out, as they always seem to make a splash.

7. Philadelphia 76ers

Key Additions: Patrick Beverley, Kelly Oubre Jr., Mo Bamba

The 76ers aren’t going to just give James Harden away. We know that considering GM Daryl Morey’s track record. Morey had no issue waiting for the right deal when Ben Simmons was being shopped around — eventually landing Harden in the deal. With Harden’s wish list dwindled down to just one team, Morey will wait as long as it takes until he gets what he believes to be fair compensation. With or without Harden, the 76ers will be one of the better teams out East thanks to reigning MVP Joel Embiid. That being said, Embiid must be growing tired of his co-stars demanding out. Perhaps his request to leave Philadelphia is coming next.

6. Golden State Warriors

Key Additions: Chris Paul, Dario Saric, Brandin Podziemski (R)

As long as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are in Golden State, the Warriors remain a threat to win the title. That was the case just two seasons ago, and the Warriors have retooled looking to make another run. The acquisition of Chris Paul gives the team an option they’ve never really had during the current era. Paul can control pace and feed Curry and Thompson easy looks. It will be interesting to see how Paul fits into the rotation, as benching either Andrew Wiggins or Kevon Looney will surely hamper Golden State’s defensive versatility. Curry has arguably never been better, and Thompson was excellent during the regular season. If Paul can find his role, this team will once again be a contender.

5. Los Angeles Lakers

Key Additions: Taurean Prince, Gabe Vincent, Christian Wood, Cam Reddish, Jaxson Hayes, Jalen Hood-Schifino (R), Maxwell Lewis (R)

After an unexpected run to the Western Conference Finals, the Lakers enjoyed a rather successful offseason. As opposed to previous Summer’s during the LeBron-era, LA opted to bring back most of their core while adding complementary pieces. Postseason standouts Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura return under affordable contracts. Same goes for D’Angelo Russell, coming off his best shooting season as a pro. Gabe Vincent and Taurean Prince were signed to replace Dennis Schroder and Troy Brown Jr. with Vincent coming off an impressive playoff run with the Heat. If LA’s two stars are healthy, this looks to be a 50-win team and among the top contenders out West. Of course, staying healthy could be a tall ask for the soon-to-be 39-year-old LeBron James and the oft-injured Anthony Davis.

4. Phoenix Suns

Key Additions: Bradley Beal, Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nasir Little, Bol Bol, Yuta Watanabe, Keita Bates-Diop, Drew Eubanks, Jordan Goodwin, Toumani Camara (R)

How is any team going to stop the trio of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and the newly acquired Bradley Beal? The Suns have as much firepower as any team in basketball, and could boast the league’s best offense. The front office did about as well as it could in addressing the bench this offseason. Yuta Watanabe, Keita Bates-Diop and Drew Eubanks are each coming off strong seasons with their respective teams. And, Phoenix is hoping defensive-minded head coach Frank Vogel will be able to devise a strong gameplan for that end of the floor. Trading away DeAndre Ayton was certainly a surprise, but the Suns hope their haul of three players can out weigh the loss of the former No. 1 pick. Especially Jusuf Nurkic who has had success defending Nikola Jokić in the past.

3. Boston Celtics

Key Additions: Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holliday, Oshae Brissett, Jordan Walsh (R)

The Celtics wasted no time benefitting from the Damian Lillard trade. After acquiring Kristaps Porzingis earlier in the offseason, Boston wasn’t done adding to its roster. In a somewhat surprising move, Boston shipped out Malcolm Brogdon and Rob Williams for All-NBA defender Jrue Holiday. They couldn’t have gotten a more perfect replacement for Marcus Smart. Holiday is every bit as good defensively as Smart, but comes with a more reliable jumper and less bone-headed plays. Adding Holiday and Porzingis to Boston’s established core of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and Al Horford gives the Celtics arguably the best top-6 of any team in the league.

2. Milwaukee Bucks

Key Additions: Damian Lillard, Malik Beasley, Cam Payne, Robin Lopez, Andre Jackson Jr. (R), Chris Livingston (R)

The Bucks did not take their first-round exit lightly. After being ousted by the No. 8 seed Heat a year ago, Milwaukee’s front office decided it was time to make a big splash. And, they made the biggest splash possible adding seven-time All-Star and NBA 75th Anniversary team member Damian Lillard. Now, the Bucks boast the league’s most dynamic duo. No defense is capable of covering the sheer amount of ground that Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo prefer to attack.

Pack the paint to defend Giannis? Lillard was knock down nine threes.

Crowd Lillard as soon as he passes mid court? Deal with Giannis going 4-on-4 with a head of steam.

There are no right answers to defend this pair if everything goes right. We still have questions about Milwaukee’s depth and Khris Middleton’s health, but the Bucks enter as one of the clear favorites to win the title.

1. Denver Nuggets

Key Additions: Julian Strawther (R), Jalen Pickett (R), Hunter Tyson (R)

The Denver Nuggets won their first, ever NBA Championship in ’23 — and, they made it look easy. This team has taken on the personality of their unassuming superstar Nikola Jokić. They’re never rushed or look out of control. Jamal Murray has developed into a legitimate No. 2 option, and guys like Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope fill their role immaculately. Losing Bruce Brown is surely a hit, but Denver believes Christian Braun and Peyton Watson can take that next step this season. Until a team proves they can slow down Jokić in any way, the Nuggets will be the team to beat.

The 30 Greatest 3-Point Shooters In NBA History

30. Jamal Crawford

Three-pointers made: 2,220 (10th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 6,377
Three-point percentage: 34.8%

Image Source: Troy Taormina/USA TODAY Sports

Crawford’s flashy dribbles would lack substance without a consistent jump-shot to pair it with. The 19-year veteran averaged at least one made three per game since his second season in the NBA. Crawford walked into any arena ready to shoot. His fancy ball handling has fooled countless defenders, and all Crawford needs is a little bit of space to get his high release jumper off. The eighth pick in the 2000 NBA Draft holds the all-time record for most career four-point plays with 55.

29. Jason Kapono

Three-pointers made: 457
Three-pointers attempted: 1,054
Three-point percentage: 43.4%

Image Source: Nathaniel S. Butler/Getty Images

UCLA’s all-time leader in three-point percentage was a three-point specialist during his nine-year career that included stops in Miami, Toronto and Philadelphia. One of the most impressive three-point contestants we’ve ever seen, Kapono won the event in back-to-back years with scores of 24 and 25 out of a possible 30. Having only averaged 6.7 points per game throughout his career, Kapono is the prime example of not having to be a great overall player to be a great shooter.

28. Chauncey Billups

Three-pointers made: 1,830 (22nd all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,725
Three-point percentage: 38.7%

Image Source: Allen Einstein/GETTY Images

Mr. Big Shot didn’t earn his nickname without hitting a few (hundred) timely three-point shots. From 2002-2009 (the entirety of Billups’ tenure with the Pistons), nobody made more postseason threes than Billups. During that span, Billups made 242 threes — 72 more than second place (Manu Ginobili). Instead of relying on elite athleticism, Billups utilized a crafty dribble and a deadly outside jump-shot to overwhelm his opponents.

27. Paul Pierce

Three-pointers made: 2,143 (12th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,816
Three-point percentage: 36.8%

Image Source: Brian Babineau/GETTY Images

Pierce proved that great shooters don’t always need the prettiest of looking shots. The Celtics legend utilized more of a push shot to knock down the 2,143 threes he made during his career. Always a great scorer, Pierce didn’t start gaining notoriety as a shooter until Boston formed “The Big Three.” In the trio’s four full seasons together, Pierce made 1.6 threes per game at a 38.7-percent clip. In 2010, Pierce won All-Star weekend’s Three-Point contest, beating out a field that included a rookie named Stephen Curry.

26. Jason Terry

Three-pointers made: 2,282 (8th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 6,010
Three-point percentage: 38.0%

Image Source: Paul Rutherford/USA TODAY Sports

Sadly for basketball fans, we no longer get to see The Jet bust out his signature celebration. A career journeyman, Terry’s most heralded stop was his eight-year run with the Dallas Mavericks. It was there that Terry won the Sixth Man of the Year award. He also capped off a brilliant playoff run with the franchise’s first championship ring in 2011. During that postseason, Terry made a ridiculous 44.2 percent of his threes, which included a white-hot 9-for-10 performance against the Lakers that ultimately sent the defending champs home packing.

25. Kevin Durant

Three-pointers made: 1,863 (21st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,841
Three-point percentage: 38.5%

Image Source: Troy Taormina/USA TODAY Sports

Durant would have been a great basketball player even if he were born 6-feet tall, but that extra length sure does help. Defenders are helpless once Durant decides to raise up and shoot. Not only is he an accurate marksman from well beyond 30-feet, but his high release coupled with his spider-like arms render any form of contest useless. His abilities don’t dwindle down the stretch either, as proven by his clutch triples at the end of Game 3 in both the 2017 and 2018 NBA Finals.

24. Joe Johnson

Three-pointers made: 1,978 (17th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,331
Three-point percentage: 37.1%

Image Source: Troy Taormina/USA TODAY Sports

Before he became “Iso Joe”, Johnson was the designated sharpshooter for Mike D’Antoni’s “Seven Seconds or Less” Suns. In 2005, Johnson’s last year in Phoenix, he knocked down a league leading 47.8 percent of his threes. Johnson took on a bigger role offensively once he joined the Atlanta Hawks, forcing a minimal dip in his efficiency. In 2013, Johnson showed off his marksmanship by knocking down eight three-pointers in a single quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers.

23. Michael Redd

Three-pointers made: 1,045
Three-pointers attempted: 2,751
Three-point percentage: 38.0%

Image Source: Gary Dineen/GETTY Images

The sweet-shooting lefty from Ohio State came into the league firing. By the time he was a full-time starter (Year 3), Redd was already hoisting 6.5 threes per 36 minutes — a number that closely resembles what you would see in today’s game. A 2004 NBA All-Star, Redd had the ability to get his shot off whenever he liked due to a lighting-fast release. Had it not been for a series of unfortunate injuries, Redd’s name would be much higher in the record books.

22. Mike Miller

Three-pointers made: 1,590 (36th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 3,910
Three-point percentage: 40.7%

Image Source: Jesse D. Garrabrant/Getty Images

The 2001 NBA Rookie of The Year reinvented himself as a player on several occasions, but the most effective version of Miller was when he was shooting the basketball from the outside. 22nd all-time in three-pointers made and 23rd in percentage is the reason Miller was able to sustain his level of play for the seven different franchises he played for. And if you can make a three on one shoe like Miller infamously did in the 2014 NBA Finals, you deserve a spot on this list.

21. J.R. Smith

Three-pointers made: 1,930 (19th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,178
Three-point percentage: 37.3%

Image Source: Geoff Burke/USA TODAY Sports

Smith’s picture-perfect release should be used by shooting coaches for the rest of time. The enigmatic star is one of the streakiest players to ever play in the NBA, and when Smith has it going, he can become virtually unstoppable from beyond the arc. After seeing his athleticism dwindle during stops in New Orleans, Denver and New York, Smith joined a contending Cavaliers team in hopes of providing an outside shooting threat for LeBron James. His most memorable moment in his four seasons as a Cav may have come in Year 1 when he went 8-of-12 from three in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals against the 60-win Atlanta Hawks.

20. Allan Houston

Three-pointers made: 1,305
Three-pointers attempted: 3,247
Three-point percentage: 40.2%

Image Source: Nathaniel S. Butler/Getty Images

Houston could fill up the score-sheet in a hurry, and the three-point shot was his most efficient weapon. A career 40 percent shooter from downtown, Houston was the best outside scorer for the Knicks during their deep playoff runs in the 90’s.

19. Dirk Nowitzki

Three-pointers made: 1,982 (16th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,210
Three-point percentage: 38.0%

Image Source: Tim Heitman/USA TODAY Sports

Standing at just about 7-feet tall, Nowitzki is widely considered the greatest big man shooter to ever grace the court. Nowitzki’s high release point and deep range has given defenders fits since he’s been in the league. While he does a majority of his work from the mid-range, his three-point shot is what separates him from the rest of the power forwards in the league.

18. Jeff Hornacek

Three-pointers made: 828
Three-pointers attempted: 2,055
Three-point percentage: 40.3%

Image Source: Rocky Widner/Getty Images

New York’s former head coach was also a dead-eye shooter during his career that spanned 14 seasons. Hornacek flirted with the 50-40-90 club on several occasions, and was consistently near the top of the league leaders in three-point percentage. Getting open looks from greats like John Stockton, Karl Malone, Tom Chambers and Kevin Johnson helps, but you still have to make the shot, which Hornacek did time and time again.

17. Mitch Richmond

Three-pointers made: 1,326
Three-pointers attempted: 3,419
Three-point percentage: 38.8%

Image Source: Focus On Sport/Getty Images

There’s something to be said for a player that is efficient from three while being the number one scoring option on his team. Richmond was a prolific scorer from every spot on the court, but when teams were worried about him getting to the basket, he burned them from the outside. He could create for himself, come off screens, or fire away in transition. In his heyday, Richmond could do it all, and was one of the best three-point bombers in the league.

16. Chris Mullin

Three-pointers made: 815
Three-pointers attempted: 2,120
Three-point percentage: 38.4%

Image Source: Brian Drake/Getty Images

Richmond was great, but not even considered the best shooter of the famed Run-TMC trio. That distinction would belong to Mullin, a sweet-shooting lefty that could get his shot off whenever he wanted to. A lightning quick release accompanied with deep range made Mullin a tough guard each and every night. He didn’t attempt many due to his skills in other areas, but when Mullin started heating up from the outside, he could put up points in bunches.

15. Mark Price

Three-pointers made: 976
Three-pointers attempted: 2,428
Three-point percentage: 40.2%

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Price regularly lit up scoreboards throughout his illustrious career. The longtime Cleveland point guard paved the way for guards that could fill up stat sheets in a number of ways, and he was able to do that because of the threat of his outside shot. Although it looks rather pedestrian compared to the numbers we see today, at the time, Price was hoisting a high-volume of three point shots and converting on a comparably efficient clip. Also one of the best free-throw shooters in league history, Price was automatic from all spots on the floor.

14. Craig Hodges

Three-pointers made: 563
Three-pointers attempted: 1,408
Three-point percentage: 40.0%

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An impressive 3-time NBA three-point contest winner, Hodges is arguably the most overlooked shooter in recent history. Equipped with a funky jump shot and short in stature, the former Chicago Bull dominated three-point contests in the early 90’s. He also wasn’t bad during actual games either, as he shot a solid 40 percent from the outside throughout his career. He wasn’t quite as prolific of a shooter as others on this list, but a three-peat in a contest that hosts the NBA’s best shooters justifies his place on this list.

13. Steve Kerr

Three-pointers made: 726
Three-pointers attempted: 1,599
Three-point percentage: 45.4%

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The NBA’s all-time leader in three-point percentage, Kerr used fortuitous situations and dead-eye shooting to build a great career. Playing with greats like Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan and Scottie Pippen was the perfect recipe for Kerr, as he was more of an off-guard than a point guard despite his smaller frame. Posting multiple seasons in which he shot better than 50 percent from the three-point line, Kerr played a big part in five separate NBA title runs.

12. Larry Bird

Three-pointers made: 649
Three-pointers attempted: 1,727
Three-point percentage: 37.6%

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One of the very best to ever play the game, Bird was just as good at shooting as we was at everything else on a basketball court. Known for his unorthodox form, Larry Legend was an impossible match-up because of the threat of his outside game. With three three-point shootout victories and countless clutch threes, Bird will be on this list for decades to come.

11. Glen Rice

Three-pointers made: 1,559 (41st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 3,896
Three-point percentage: 40.0%

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The smooth-shooting wing from Michigan currently ranks 23rd all-time in three pointers made and virtually only trails players that came into the league after he did. Rice was a trailblazer for the three-point shot in the 90’s and was the premier outside shooter for the majority of his career. His 6-foot-8 frame made it easier for him to get good looks over smaller defenders and his high release made him almost impossible to block. He paved the way for today’s brand of three-point focused basketball, showing the league just how effective it could be.

10. J.J. Redick

Three-pointers made: 1,950 (21st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,704
Three-point percentage: 41.5%

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One of the greatest to ever don a Blue Devil uniform, it took some time for Redick to adapt to the NBA game. He started off a bit shaky in Orlando, but found his footing and quickly evolved into one of the best knockdown shooters the game has ever seen. His shot is perfection, and should be featured on videotapes teaching young players how to shoot for the rest of time. What truly separates him though is how effective he is off the ball, a necessary trait for any great shooter. With an unlimited gas tank, quick feet, and deadly range, J.J. Redick carved out an impressive career for himself.

9. Dale Ellis

Three-pointers made: 1,719 (28th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,266
Three-point percentage: 40.3%

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Arguably the best pure shooter of the 80’s, Ellis was an absolute nightmare to defend on the perimeter. Quick as a hiccup and a high release point gave Ellis the edge en route to over 1,700 total three-pointers made. His best season came in 1989 when he converted 162 threes at just under a 48 percent clip – an impressive season from an efficiency/volume perspective by any era’s standards.

8. Kyle Korver

Three-pointers made: 2,450 (5th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,715
Three-point percentage: 42.9%

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With each passing year, somehow, some way, Korver continued to get better. Seemingly ageless, Korver torched teams from the outside for more than a decade as a relentless floor spacer. His true breakout season was in 2015, when he hit 221 threes at a remarkable 49 percent clip – a level of proficiency we may never see again. Sitting fifth all-time in made threes, Perhaps Korver’s greatest proof of his efficiency can be found in the fact that he has the 5th most made three-pointers all-time, but sits 11th in attempts.

7. Klay Thompson

Three-pointers made: 2,213 (11th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,317
Three-point percentage: 41.6%

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The second Splash Brother doesn’t always get the credit he deserves, but when he gets hot from beyond the arc, everybody tunes in. His picture perfect release should be enshrined on its own merits one day, and has helped him to some huge moments – a 60-point performance against the Pacers in 2016 and a 37-point third quarter outburst against the Kings in 2015. He can come off screens or shoot off the bounce, and rarely has to set his feet to make it a good shot. Even after a two-year run plagued by career-threatening injuries, Klay has come back stronger than ever to form the perfect tandem with Steph.

6. Dražen Petrović

Three-pointers made: 255
Three-pointers attempted: 583
Three-point percentage: 43.7%

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A career cut short due to an unfortunate car crash, Petrović could have been the owner of every NBA three-point record. A European basketball sensation, Petrović blazed the trail for international players by joining the NBA. He was able to showcase his skills to the league and to the world in his two impressive seasons with the Nets. The Croatian was able to catch the eye of all-time great Reggie Miller, who has stated on numerous occasions that Petrović was the best shooter he’s ever faced. That sort of high praise from one of the best shooters ever has to count for something.

5. Peja Stojaković

Three-pointers made: 1,760 (26th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,392
Three-point percentage: 40.1%

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Central Europe really has made some of the greatest shooters we’ve ever seen, but none better than the 6-foot-9 Croatian, Peja Stojaković. Stojaković’s sharpshooting skills were evident from his early years in Sacramento. He was an excellent foul shooter, automatic from inside the line, and an absolute sniper from beyond the arc. Teams changed the way they looked at wing players after Stojaković’s success with the Kings. Had he been born a few years later, his game would have translated perfectly to today’s style of play.

4. Steve Nash

Three-pointers made: 1,685 (30th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 3,939
Three-point percentage: 42.8%

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A premium card member of the 50-40-90 club, Nash is one of the best all-around shooters we’ve ever seen. As good from the free-throw line as he was behind the arc, Nash was a great scorer that didn’t get as much credit as he deserved because of how great of a playmaker he was. Consistently among the league’s best in three-point shooting percentage, the future Hall of Famer made a career out of his excellent vision and exceptional ability to shoot the basketball.

3. Reggie Miller

Three-pointers made: 2,560 (2nd all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 6,486
Three-point percentage: 39.5%

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One of the league’s all-time great clutch shooters, Miller almost always seemed to come through when the game was on the line. Miller’s jump-shot wasn’t exactly what they teach you in the textbooks – his elbow was flared out, he landed differently every time, and his release almost looked like he let it go with both hands. However, there’s no arguing the fact that it worked just fine for him. Sitting at No. 2 all-time for three-pointers made, Miller made a career for himself hitting big time shots from the outside.

2. Ray Allen

Three-pointers made: 2,973 (2nd all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 7,429
Three-point percentage: 40.0%

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Allen truly did it all on the court, from defending top perimeter players to finishing around the basket in traffic. But no matter how impressive of an all-around player Allen was, the most significant trait he will always be remembered for was his beautiful jump shot. If you search “Ray Allen” on any platform, the first page of results will be littered with clutch threes he made throughout his career. His biggest moment was undoubtedly the three he made that sent Game 6 of the 2014 NBA Finals into overtime, and is truly the microcosm of his phenomenal career.

1. Stephen Curry

Three-pointers made: 3,390 (1st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 7,329
Three-point percentage: 42.8%

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Steph has eliminated any and all arguments. He is the greatest shooter the game has ever seen, and it’s not particularly close. For comparisons sake, Reggie Miller never averaged three three-pointers per game over an entire season. Steph has averaged four or more three pointers in eight of his last nine seasons. Strictly combining the 2015 and 2016 seasons, Curry made 688 threes combined, which is more than Bird made in his entire 13-year career (649). You can say what you want about the era he plays in, or the team around him, but you can’t argue his brilliance. We’ve never seen anything like Curry, and we may never again. Just appreciate it.