Playmaking is one of the most crucial aspects of basketball, and the top assist NBA leaders have consistently shaped the game with their vision, precision, and ability to create scoring opportunities. While scoring often grabs the headlines, elite playmakers play a vital role in orchestrating the offense, setting up teammates, and dictating the tempo of the game. In the article below, Wintips will give information about the top NBA assists.
Top assist NBA
The following players have etched their names into the record books by amassing staggering assist totals, proving their value as facilitators and leaders on the court.
10. Isiah Thomas – 9,061 assists
Isiah Thomas was the heart and soul of the "Bad Boys" Detroit Pistons, leading them to back-to-back NBA championships in 1989 and 1990. A 12-time All-Star in just 13 seasons, Thomas was one of the most fearless competitors in NBA history. Unlike many pass-first point guards, Thomas balanced his playmaking with elite scoring, capable of taking over games when his team needed him most. His quickness, handles, and ability to finish through contact made him a nightmare for defenders, while his court vision allowed him to set up teammates with ease.
What set Thomas apart was his ability to shine in the biggest moments. Whether it was his unforgettable 25-point quarter in the 1988 NBA Finals while playing on an injured ankle or his leadership during the Pistons' championship runs, Thomas had an undeniable clutch gene.
9. Russell Westbrook – 9,839 assists
Russell Westbrook, often referred to as the "triple-double king," has carved out a unique place in NBA history with his relentless energy, explosive athleticism, and unmatched intensity. Unlike many other point guards on this list who rely primarily on vision and precision passing, Westbrook has accumulated his assist total more dynamically—using his speed and agility to penetrate defenses, collapse defenders, and create scoring opportunities for teammates. His aggressive playing style forces defensive rotations, allowing him to dish out assists in ways few other players can replicate.
Beyond his passing, Westbrook is known for his rebounding ability, making him one of the most well-rounded point guards of all time. His high motor and determination have led him to average triple-doubles in multiple seasons, a feat that was once considered nearly impossible after Oscar Robertson first accomplished it.
8. Oscar Robertson – 9,887 assists
Oscar Robertson was one of the most complete and groundbreaking players the game has ever seen. Best known for being the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season, Robertson redefined what it meant to be a point guard. His dominance extended far beyond just passing—he was an elite scorer, a strong rebounder, and an outstanding playmaker.
His impact on the game transformed the way the point guard position was played, paving the way for many modern players who model their game after him. Robertson’s ability to control the pace, read defenses, and create scoring opportunities made him a nightmare matchup for opponents throughout his career.
7. Magic Johnson – 10,141 assists
Magic Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, and his passing ability was a major reason why. Johnson, who averaged over 10 assists per game in nine of his 13 seasons, amassed his impressive assist total in just 906 games—fewer than any other player on this leaderboard. His court vision, creativity, and ability to make impossible passes made him one of the most exciting players to watch. Magic's passing was complemented by his scoring efficiency and rebounding prowess, as he consistently hauled in at least 5.7 rebounds per game throughout his career.
His ability to play multiple positions at an elite level, including point guard, forward, and even center in critical moments, made him a unique talent that few have been able to replicate. As the leader of the "Showtime" Lakers, he orchestrated one of the most electrifying offenses in NBA history and secured five NBA championships, solidifying his place as one of the best all-around players the league has ever seen.
6. Mark Jackson – 10,334 assists
Mark Jackson was a true embodiment of a traditional point guard—one who prioritized making his teammates better over individual scoring. Throughout his 17-year career, Jackson showcased his elite court vision and basketball intelligence, allowing him to consistently orchestrate his teams’ offenses with precision. He averaged over eight assists per game in nine different seasons, a testament to his ability to control the game and set up scoring opportunities.
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Despite his impressive playmaking ability, Jackson never won an NBA championship, but his contributions to every team he played for were undeniable. Beyond his playing career, he continued to impact the game as a respected coach and analyst, further cementing his legacy as one of the most knowledgeable basketball minds in history.
5. Steve Nash – 10,335 assists
Steve Nash was one of the most dynamic and influential point guards of his generation, known for his exceptional passing, basketball IQ, and leadership. His ability to thrive in fast-paced offenses, particularly during his time with the Phoenix Suns, revolutionized how modern point guards approached the game. Nash was a master of the pick-and-roll, using his precise passing and quick decision-making to dismantle opposing defenses. His impact extended beyond individual statistics, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the offensive strategies of many teams in the 2000s.
A two-time MVP, Nash's style of play has influenced a new generation of guards, encouraging a faster tempo and greater emphasis on playmaking. Despite never winning an NBA championship, his legacy as one of the greatest facilitators in the game remains intact.
4. LeBron James – 11,504 assists (Active)
LeBron James’ presence on this list is nothing short of remarkable. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, James is best known for his scoring ability, yet he has also cemented himself as one of the best facilitators in the history of the game. The fact that he is both the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and among its top assist leaders speaks to his versatility and all-around dominance.
Unlike traditional point guards, LeBron plays multiple positions, using his size, strength, and elite court vision to dictate the flow of the game. His passing ability is on par with some of the greatest playmakers in history, as he can thread the needle in transition, deliver no-look passes with precision, and make cross-court reads that few players are capable of. His ability to anticipate plays and create opportunities for his teammates is one of the reasons he has been able to sustain excellence for over two decades.
3. Jason Kidd – 12,091 assists
Jason Kidd was a maestro on the court, blending creativity and precision to establish himself as one of the most dynamic playmakers in NBA history. His exceptional court vision allowed him to make jaw-dropping passes, whether in transition or half-court sets. Over his 19-year career, Kidd played for multiple teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, New Jersey Nets, and New York Knicks, always bringing leadership and an unmatched ability to distribute the ball.
Kidd’s passing was only part of his greatness—he was also an elite rebounding guard and a tenacious defender. His size and strength allowed him to battle bigger opponents, while his high basketball IQ made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Kidd’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Nets to back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003, and he eventually won an NBA championship with the Mavericks in 2011, cementing his legacy.
2. Chris Paul – 12,410 assists (Active)
Chris Paul, often referred to as the “Point God,” has solidified his place as one of the greatest floor generals the NBA has ever seen. Across his 20-year career, Paul has played for seven different teams, but his impact has been the same everywhere he goes—he elevates those around him. His leadership, defensive tenacity, and ability to control the pace of the game have made him an invaluable asset to every franchise he has played for.
Paul’s career is defined by his extraordinary ability to facilitate offense, finding open teammates with precision, and delivering perfect passes in tight spaces. His understanding of angles, timing, and defensive weaknesses allows him to break down defenses with ease. Additionally, Paul is a gifted mid-range shooter and a clutch performer, making him even more dangerous in late-game situations.
1. John Stockton– 15,806 assists
John Stockton remains the undisputed king of assists in NBA history. Across his illustrious 19-year career with the Utah Jazz, Stockton displayed an unparalleled ability to control the tempo of the game and orchestrate his team’s offense. He averaged over 10 assists per game in 10 different seasons, a feat that showcases his consistency and dominance as a floor general.
Stockton’s connection with Karl Malone was legendary, forming one of the most efficient pick-and-roll duos the league has ever seen. His ability to anticipate plays, deliver pinpoint passes, and make split-second decisions made him nearly impossible to defend. Despite not having the physical attributes of some of today’s top guards, Stockton’s high basketball IQ, court awareness, and elite passing ability allowed him to rack up an astonishing 15,806 assists—a record that many believe will never be broken.
Final thought
In the history of basketball, the top assist NBA has proven that playmaking is an art just as important as scoring. Their vision, creativity, and ability to involve teammates have shaped the game and defined the success of their teams. From past legends to current stars, these players have demonstrated that great passing can change the course of a game and elevate the performance of those around them.
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