The NBA has evolved into a league of pace, space, and versatility—but some former point guards would fit right in today like they never left. Their skill sets, court vision, and hoops IQ were ahead of their time and tailor-made for the modern game.
From pass-first legends to crafty scorers, these 15 point guards could thrive in today’s NBA with ease. Honestly, some of them might even be better now than they were back then.
15. Nick Van Exel
Van Exel had range, flair, and a fearlessness that would make him a fan favorite in today’s league. He was built for the tempo and swagger of modern NBA ball.
14. Kevin Johnson
KJ was explosive off the dribble and could slice through defenses with ease. In today’s spaced-out offenses, he’d be living in the paint and racking up assists.
13. Sam Cassell
Cassell had a deadly midrange game, a smooth handle, and knew how to control the tempo. Throw him into today’s pick-and-roll-heavy sets, and he’d eat.
12. Stephon Marbury
Marbury had the speed, skill, and scoring instincts to shine in any era. With more spacing and freedom, his game would’ve been even flashier.
11. Derek Harper
Harper played with toughness, smarts, and defensive chops—traits that never go out of style. His two-way game would still be highly valuable today.
10. Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf
One of the smoothest shooters the league has ever seen, Abdul-Rauf had range before it was trendy. If he played now, he’d be launching threes like it was his job—because it would be.
9. Kenny Anderson
Crafty, shifty, and creative—Anderson had the kind of handle that would go viral on social media today. He’d fit perfectly as a modern lead guard.
8. Mark Jackson
Jackson had the size, smarts, and passing vision to run any offense. He’d be a perfect floor general in today’s read-and-react systems.
7. Andre Miller
Never flashy, but always effective, Miller was a master at getting to his spots and making the right read. He’d thrive in today’s slower-paced second units as a crafty veteran leader.
6. Rod Strickland
Strickland’s ability to finish at the rim and find open teammates was elite. With today’s spacing, he’d be a nightmare for defenses.
5. Deron Williams
In his prime, D-Will was strong, skilled, and built for the modern pick-and-roll game. He’d slide right into today’s NBA like nothing changed.
4. Baron Davis
BD was a highlight reel waiting to happen, with strength and explosiveness to bully modern guards. Give him today’s freedom, and he’d be even more dangerous.
3. Steve Francis
Francis had bounce, flair, and scoring instincts that would light up any arena. With today’s green light culture, he’d be letting it fly with confidence.
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2. Gilbert Arenas
Arenas was pulling up from deep before it was cool. In the modern NBA, he might average 30 a night without breaking a sweat.
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1. Steve Nash
Nash basically invented the kind of pace-and-space offense every team is running now. In today’s game, he wouldn’t just survive—he might dominate even more.
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