When we talk about the greatest NBA duos in terms of stealing, Gary Payton and Nate McMillan practically invented the blueprint. Gary Payton, known as "The Glove," recorded an impressive 2.26 steals per game during his prime. On the other hand, Nate McMillan wasn't far behind, contributing around 2.0 steals per game. Together, their relentless defensive hustle paid off immensely for the 1995-96 Seattle SuperSonics, who made it to the NBA Finals. Their synchronized effort and incredible anticipation skills are still often cited in sports journalism.
Did you know that for a single game, the duo of Alvin Robertson and Johnny Moore of the San Antonio Spurs had one of the highest combined steals in the NBA? On April 5, 1986, against the Phoenix Suns, they racked up 16 steals combined, with Robertson alone grabbing a mind-blowing 10 steals. Robertson remains one of the most prolific thieves in NBA history, averaging over 2.71 steals per game for his career. The event encapsulated the sheer tenacity and frantic pace that translate stealing prowess directly into defensive efficiency.
Fast forward to more recent seasons, Jimmy Butler and Kawhi Leonard make a compelling case as one of the best modern duos. In the 2019-20 season, Butler and Leonard combined for an average of 4.0 steals per game. While Butler was playing for the Miami Heat, Leonard played for the LA Clippers, both displaying an acute level of defensive IQ. Their stats back this, as Leonard has twice won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year, and Butler often ranks in the top stealers each season.
Looking at contemporary superstars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis of the Lakers are not far behind. In the past 2020-2021 NBA season, their combined average stood at around 3.5 steals per game, showcasing their versatility and defensive caliber. Their coordinated defense is a significant factor in their recent success, culminating in their win in the 2020 NBA Finals. LeBron, with over 2,000 career steals, is especially known for his clutch defensive moments that lead to crucial game-winning plays.
But can we forget Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, the dynamic duo of the Chicago Bulls during the 90s? Definitely not. These two averaged over 4 steals per game combined during the peak years of their partnership. Their synergy on the court was second to none, playing crucial roles in the Bulls' six NBA championships. Jordan's infamous gambling defense and Pippen’s versatility helped create a long-lasting legacy. To this day, their stats hold up: Jordan finished his career with an average of 2.35 steals per game, while Pippen finished with about 2.0 steals per game.
Among the modern legends, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors have also made some remarkable defensive stands. Although known primarily for their shooting, the "Splash Brothers" set a standard on both ends of the court. The 73-win 2015-16 season saw them combine for around 3.5 steals per game. Their teamwork and communication are often highlighted in sports analysis, showcasing their defensive prowess beyond the perimeter shooting.
And let's not overlook the defensive duo of John Stockton and Karl Malone of the Utah Jazz. Stockton, the NBA's all-time leader in steals, once averaged an impressive 3.0 steals per game during the 1988-89 season. When partnered with Karl Malone, their defensive chemistry became a cornerstone for the Jazz, leading to multiple playoff appearances. Stockton's incredible 3,265 career steals is a record that might never get broken.
Another pairing worth mentioning is Allen Iverson and Eric Snow from the Philadelphia 76ers. The 2000-01 season where Iverson single-handedly led the 76ers to the Finals saw him average about 2.5 steals per game, while his backcourt partner Eric Snow added around 1.5 steals per game. This combination often led to fast-break points, a crucial element for their Eastern Conference dominance that season.
While the history of NBA is filled with countless such dynamic duos, comparing and analyzing them reveals the integral roles of anticipation, agility, and tactical awareness in their success. The relentless hustle and synchronized defense displayed by these incredible athletes continue to transform games and inspire future generations. For more insights, check out arena plus.