The Ultimate NBA Quiz: Guess The Second-Leading Scorers Since 1977

Pedro Alvarez

6 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

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The 1977-1989 Era: A Look at the Supporting Cast

The 1970s and 80s NBA saw the rise of legendary teams and rivalries. This era was characterized by a more physical style of play, and the second-leading scorer often played a crucial role in balancing the team's offensive firepower. Teams like the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, and Philadelphia 76ers dominated, and their second-leading scorers were instrumental in their success. Think you can remember them all?

• Key Teams and Rivalries: The Lakers-Celtics rivalry was at its peak, with intense battles shaping the decade. The 76ers, led by Julius Erving, also posed a significant threat. These classic NBA matchups provided unforgettable moments.

• Memorable Second-Leading Scorers: These players didn't always grab the headlines, but their consistent scoring was vital to their team's success. Points per game (PPG) varied, but their contributions were undeniable.

• • Jamaal Wilkes (Los Angeles Lakers): Known for his smooth scoring ability, Wilkes averaged nearly 20 PPG during several seasons. A key contributor to the Showtime Lakers dynasty.
• • Adrian Dantley (Utah Jazz/Dallas Mavericks): A prolific scorer, Dantley often led the Jazz in scoring in the 80s. He averaged over 30 points per game in several seasons.
• • Alex English (Denver Nuggets): English consistently put up huge numbers for the Nuggets. He is one of the top-scoring players in Denver Nuggets history.
• • Larry Bird (Boston Celtics): While often the leading scorer, there were seasons where he played the supporting role, highlighting his all-around game.
• • Robert Parish (Boston Celtics): A defensive powerhouse and consistent contributor to the Celtics' scoring.

The 1990s – The Rise of Dynamic Duos

The 1990s witnessed a shift in NBA playing styles. The “triangle offense” and the importance of two-star players playing together were pivotal to a team's success. Second scorers became even more critical in this era. While Michael Jordan often dominated, his supporting cast provided the necessary firepower to secure championships. This decade presented unique challenges for our quiz.

• Shifting NBA Landscape: The rise of dynamic duos, like Jordan and Pippen, redefined team strategies and the role of the second-leading scorer.

• Key Players and Contributions: These players weren't just scorers; they were playmakers and integral parts of their teams' success.

• • Scottie Pippen (Chicago Bulls): Jordan's sidekick, Pippen was a phenomenal all-around player, frequently the Bulls' second-leading scorer.
• • Clyde Drexler (Portland Trail Blazers/Houston Rockets): A high-flying guard, Drexler consistently delivered for the Blazers and later the Rockets.
• • Karl Malone (Utah Jazz): The Mailman consistently delivered for the Jazz, often playing second fiddle to John Stockton.
• • Tim Hardaway (Golden State Warriors/Miami Heat): A talented ball-handler, he frequently put up significant points for the Warriors and later the Heat.
• • Gary Payton (Seattle SuperSonics): The Glove was a defensive maestro, but also a consistent scoring threat for the Sonics.

The 2000s – The New Millennium's Top Supporting Players

The 2000s NBA saw a blend of offensive styles, with scoring becoming even more crucial. The second-leading scorer often played a multifaceted role. Remember these key players and their contributions?

• Evolution of Offensive Strategies: The game became faster and more focused on offensive efficiency, demanding versatile second scorers.

• Prominent Players: These stars were more than just secondary scorers – they were crucial to their team's overall success.

• • Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers): While often the leading scorer, there were seasons where Shaq took the reins.
• • Shaquille O'Neal (Los Angeles Lakers/Miami Heat): The big man dominated the paint but often shared scoring responsibilities.
• • Tracy McGrady (Orlando Magic/Houston Rockets): T-Mac was capable of scoring 50+ points in a single game but often played as a supporting role.
• • Paul Pierce (Boston Celtics): The Truth was a key part of the Celtics’ championship run and consistently played as the 2nd-leading scorer in several seasons.
• • Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat): While often paired with LeBron James, Wade was a prolific scorer and MVP contender in several seasons.

The 2010s – Modern NBA Second-Leading Scorers

The 2010s NBA saw a fast-paced, high-scoring style of play. The role of the second-leading scorer evolved further, emphasizing versatility and adaptability. Can you identify these modern NBA stars?

• Impact of Fast-Paced Play: The increase in tempo demanded players who could score quickly and efficiently, shifting the role of the second-leading scorer.

• Best Second-Leading Scorers: These players thrived in the modern NBA game, showcasing exceptional talent and teamwork.

• • Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder/Golden State Warriors/Brooklyn Nets): Often the leading scorer, his ability to play both roles was key.
• • James Harden (Oklahoma City Thunder/Houston Rockets/Brooklyn Nets/Philadelphia 76ers): A prolific scorer, often as the second-leading scorer for several teams.
• • Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder/Houston Rockets/Washington Wizards/Los Angeles Lakers): A triple-double machine, often the second-leading scorer in supporting roles.
• • Kawhi Leonard (San Antonio Spurs/Toronto Raptors/Los Angeles Clippers): A two-way player, consistently delivering clutch performances.
• • Paul George (Indiana Pacers/Oklahoma City Thunder/Los Angeles Clippers): A high-scoring forward, consistently ranking as a top scorer for his teams.

The 2020s – Current Era Standouts

The current NBA landscape is defined by dynamic young stars and evolving playing styles. The second-leading scorer’s role continues to be essential for championship contention. Test your knowledge of the current NBA!

• Current Trends and Styles: The game remains fast-paced, with an emphasis on three-point shooting and versatility.

• Prominent Current Players: These young stars are shaping the future of the NBA and often take on the second-leading scorer role.

• • Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics): A key player in the Celtics' success, he frequently alternates between leading and second leading scorer.
• • Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers): A dominant center, often sharing scoring duties with James Harden.
• • Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns): A prolific scorer for the Suns, frequently playing the second-leading scorer role.
• • Donovan Mitchell (Utah Jazz/Cleveland Cavaliers): A high-scoring guard who often leads or is the second leading scorer for his team.
• • Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks): Often the leading scorer but frequently playing alongside other high-scoring teammates.

Sharpen Your NBA Knowledge with This Ultimate NBA Quiz

This quiz has taken you on a journey through NBA history, showcasing the significant contributions of second-leading scorers since 1977. From the classic rivalries of the 70s and 80s to the modern, fast-paced game of today, these players have consistently impacted their teams' success. Their scoring prowess, teamwork, and versatility made them indispensable to their teams.

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