The offensive ability of the current NBA players has been significantly improved compared to the past, and players who score 30+ points in a single game abound, which is a reflection of the overall progress of the league, not only the physical fitness of the players has been greatly improved, but the skills have also been improved. At critical moments, it often relies on the star's excellent heads-up strength to complete the decisive blow. So, which of the five positions can be called heads-up kings? Based on my understanding, here are my answers.
Focusing on the center position first, Embiid is undoubtedly the best in the active team. His offense is so versatile that he's top-notch, even from beyond the three-point line. His ability to shoot from the inside in the low post and the guard's delicate step-back shooting, as well as his elite three-point range, has made him a two-time leading scorer, and this season he has set a record of 70+ in a single game, and if all goes well, he will be expected to win the scoring crown for the third time.
As for the power forward position, Brother Alphabet stands out with his simple and direct but unstoppable breakthrough ability. Although his attacking style is not complicated, with little tempo changes and feints, with his superior physical advantage, he looks like an irresistible small truck once launched. It was this high-impact style of play that helped him easily average 30+ stats per game and win MVP honors. If his shooting consistency can be further improved, it will undoubtedly form more dominance in the league.
Finally, when it comes to the small forward position, Durant beats James to become the heads-up king. Even though he is in his thirties and has experienced a serious Achilles tendon injury, Durant is still young and has unrivaled heads-up ability. He has an unrivaled static talent and an all-time shooting touch that allows him to finish games on his own whenever and wherever he wants. It's rare in history for a player to maintain such an efficient offensive firepower after a serious injury, and Durant's 30,000-point achievement is just around the corner.
Point guard – Irving.
No one will question Irving's prowess in heads-up duels, and once he is allowed to attack one-on-one, defenders are often difficult to handle. His skills are perfect, his strengths are combined, his fundamentals are solid and his rhythm is excellent, whether it is breaking through or shooting, it is difficult for opponents to defend. Irving often breaks the deadlock with individual heads-ups, as if he was born to score. As long as he can focus on the court, Irving will undoubtedly be among the league's superstars.
Shooting guard – Doncic.
At shooting guard, Doncic's performance is a dimensionality reduction, and his size is a misplaced threat to any opponent. He once set a record of 73 points per game for an active player, which is enough to prove his powerful attack. Doncic's almost omnipotent offensive approach and composure in key moments show that he has all the potential to become a superstar. In his early years, he claimed that it was easier for the NBA to score than in the Euroleague, but now it seems that this is not a lie; In the future, perhaps even Kobe's 81-point miracle may be rewritten by him.