The Best Current Ball Handlers in the NBA
Ball handling is one of the most entertaining and valuable skills in basketball. The league’s top creators can break ankles, shift defenses, and generate offense seemingly out of nothing. From crafty veterans to young stars redefining the position, here are the NBA’s best current ball handlers.
Kyrie Irving
At 33, Kyrie Irving remains the gold standard when it comes to dribbling. His dazzling crossovers, hesitation moves, and acrobatic finishes make him a nightmare for defenders. Irving’s creativity and precision have inspired a generation of young players who dream of pulling off the same ankle-breaking moves.
Team: Brooklyn Nets — Position: Point Guard
Stephen Curry
Known as the greatest shooter in NBA history, Stephen Curry is equally elite with the ball in his hands. His slick handles, quick combos, and ability to pull up from anywhere force defenses into impossible choices. At 37, Curry continues to prove that dribbling and shooting together can completely transform the modern game.
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Team: Golden State Warriors — Position: Point Guard
Trae Young
At just 26, Trae Young has already carved out a reputation as one of the NBA’s most dangerous ball handlers. Modeling much of his game after Curry, Young blends deep shooting range with crafty dribbling and playmaking flair. His ability to stretch defenses and create shots keeps fans and opponents guessing.
Team: Atlanta Hawks — Position: Point Guard
James Harden
James Harden, 36, is famous for his patented step-back jumper, but his overall ball handling is just as devastating. Few players in NBA history have been able to create space off the dribble as consistently as “The Beard.” Harden’s style has redefined what it means to be a scoring guard in today’s league.
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Team: Philadelphia 76ers — Position: Shooting Guard
Damian Lillard
Damian Lillard, now 35, is celebrated for his clutch three-pointers, but his dribbling deserves equal praise. Combining speed, strength, and control, he can break down defenses and create plays with surgical precision. His fearless mentality ensures that he remains one of the most respected guards in basketball.
Team: Milwaukee Bucks — Position: Point Guard
Chris Paul
At 40, Chris Paul continues to command games with intelligence and control. His ability to orchestrate offenses with tight ball handling and pinpoint vision has defined his career. Nicknamed the “Point God,” Paul embodies the traditional floor general while still dazzling with his ability to break down defenders.
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Team: Phoenix Suns — Position: Point Guard
Luka Dončić
Luka Dončić, just 26, has quickly become one of the league’s most unguardable players. His combination of size, skill, and ball-handling creativity makes him a matchup nightmare. Whether he’s creating for himself or dishing to teammates, Dončić’s poise and imagination set him apart from most modern forwards.
Team: Los Angeles Lakers — Position: Small Forward
LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball has exceeded expectations since entering the league, showcasing elite playmaking instincts and advanced handles. His flashy passes and off-the-dribble creativity regularly leave fans in awe. At 23, the Hornets’ star is already establishing himself as one of the NBA’s most entertaining young talents.
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Team: Charlotte Hornets — Position: Point Guard
Donovan Mitchell
Known as “Spida,” Donovan Mitchell blends athleticism with smooth dribbling to keep defenders off balance. At 29, his ability to attack defenses off the bounce and improvise in traffic makes him one of the most electrifying scorers in the NBA. Mitchell’s competitive edge ensures he’s never an easy cover.
Team: Cleveland Cavaliers — Position: Shooting Guard
Ja Morant
Few players attack the rim with the same explosiveness as Ja Morant. At 25, his lightning-quick handles allow him to slice through defenses, and his aerial finishes turn possessions into highlight reels. Fearless and spectacular, Morant has quickly become one of the league’s must-watch stars.
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Team: Memphis Grizzlies — Position: Point Guard
