With playoffs fast approaching, looking at 5 most clutch NBA players this season, featuring De'Aaron Fox, Joel Embiid, and others
Many NBA players turn into cold-blooded killers in the fourth quarter of close games. Having such players on the team is very valuable, especially during close matchups.
In the 2022-23 season, the NBA introduced the Clutch Player of the Year award. The award is named after Jerry West, who was renowned for hitting big shots during his impressive career.
On that note, here's a look at five players who are in contention to win the award this season:
#1 De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings have one of the best records this season. However, they wouldn't have been so successful if it wasn't for De'Aaron Fox and his impressive displays in clutch situations.
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The 6-foot-3 guard leads the league in clutch scoring with 5.0 clutch points per game. He's appeared in 38 such games and has converted 53.0% of his shots in this period.
#2 DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls
DeMar DeRozan is one of the most efficient mid-range scorers in the league. He's converted 51.2% of his shots from 10 to 16 feet and has had several 40-point games this season.
The Chicago Bulls guard is also very effective in the clutch. In 34 close games this season, DeRozan has averaged 4.7 clutch points per game on 47.1% shooting, making him the second-best clutch player.
#3 Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards
With a 34-45 record, the Washington Wizards are among the worst teams in the league this season. However, Bradley Beal has been great in the clutch and has done his best to help the Wizards win games.
Among all the clutch players this season, Beal is the most efficient, as he's converted 59.7% of his total clutch shots, including 44.4% from beyond the arc. The Wizards guard has averaged 4.2 points per game in this period.
#4 Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
The New York Knicks made a fantastic move last summer by signing Jalen Brunson in free agency. Not only has the guard turned into one of the best scorers in the league, but he's also been incredible in the clutch.
The Knicks star has played in 35 close games this season, averaging 4.0 points during this period. He's also been very efficient, shooting 51.6% from the field and 37.5% from long-range.
#5 Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid had a historically great performance against the Boston Celtics. He scored 52 points on 20-for-25 shooting, giving his MVP case a huge boost. Embiid has been astonishing on both ends of the floor this season, especially during clutch situations.
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Embiid has averaged 3.6 clutch points per game this season, converting 48.7% of his shots. Out of all the players on the list, the Philadelphia 76ers center ranks first in +/- rating with +2.8.
Honorable mentions:
- Jimmy Butler (3.5 PPG, 50.5% FG)
- LeBron James (3.6 PPG, 44.9% FG)
- Nikola Jokic (3.4 PPG, 50.9% FG)
- Steph Curry (3.7 PPG, 43.0% FG)
- Donovan Mitchell (3.5 PPG, 40.5% FG)