The rise of three-point shooting, led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, has significantly impacted the game of basketball over the past decade. When the Golden State Warriors showed that a perimeter-focused offense could win championships, other teams tried to emulate their success. While no team has replicated the Warriors’ success, the trend of shooting more threes and setting new records quickly caught on throughout the league. It’s surprising to think that Draymond Green will be remembered as a better three-point shooter than Larry Bird.
Surprisingly, Draymond Green has surpassed Larry Bird in career three-pointers made. In the context of today’s game where three-pointers are more prevalent, this achievement may seem contradictory. Bird, known for his exceptional shooting, won the NBA’s three-point contest three times and was a dominant force in the 80s. Despite his skills, Bird’s three-point shooting statistics may not stand out as much in today’s game.
Bird’s era emphasized high-percentage shots over long-range attempts, making his three-point numbers less impressive compared to today’s standards. In contrast, Green has adapted to the current style of play, consistently shooting from beyond the arc. While Green’s accomplishment is commendable, it highlights the evolution of the game and the different eras in which these players competed.
Green’s success in three-point shooting this season suggests that he may surpass more players on the all-time list. However, it’s important to recognize Bird’s greatness and acknowledge that his numbers may have been even more impressive in today’s game. The comparison between Green and Bird highlights the evolution of basketball and how players adapt to changing trends and strategies.
