Left handed NBA players have left a lasting impact on the game with their unique style and elite skill sets. Unlike most stars, these southpaws often stand out for their creativity, shot angles, and unpredictable moves. From dominant big men to crafty guards, the NBA has seen lefties who changed how basketball is played.
Some of the greatest NBA picks have turned out to be left-handers who thrived under pressure. They brought championships, MVPs, and unforgettable moments to the league. Transitioning from different eras, these players adapted their styles to dominate opponents.
Whether through clutch performances or consistent All-Star seasons, each player earned their spot on this list. Many of them led franchises to success and inspired the next generation of players.
From old-school legends to current stars, left handed NBA players continue to shape the league’s future. Their skills make them valuable NBA picks for fans, teams, and fantasy leagues alike.
Let’s look at the ten best left handed NBA players who made history and changed the game forever.
Michael Redd: Sweet-Shooting Scorer
Career Stats: 19.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.1 APG; 44.7 FG%, 38.0 3FG%, 83.8 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA All-Star, 1x All-NBA selection
Michael Redd ranks 10th on the list of the best left handed NBA players due to his elite scoring ability. He played primarily for the Milwaukee Bucks, where he quickly became their offensive leader. Despite being a second-round NBA pick, Redd proved his worth with hard work and consistency.
Redd’s shooting touch made him one of the league’s top scorers during his prime. In the 2006-07 season, he averaged 26.7 points per game. His smooth left-handed jump shot was nearly impossible to defend. Moreover, he shot over 44% from the field during his career, highlighting his efficiency.
In addition to his NBA success, Redd represented Team USA at the 2008 Olympics. He helped the team secure a gold medal in Beijing. His ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting proved valuable at the international level.
Unfortunately, injuries shortened Redd’s prime years and affected his overall career totals. However, his impact on the Bucks and the league remains undeniable. He inspired many left handed NBA players who followed.
Though he didn’t win a title, his scoring prowess and dedication earn him a place on this list. Michael Redd remains one of the most underrated shooters in NBA history.
Lenny Wilkens: Dependable Playmaker for the Hawks
Career Stats: 16.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.7 APG; 43.2 FG%, N/A 3FG%, 77.4 FT%
Notable Achievements: 9x NBA All-Star
Lenny Wilkens ranks 9th on the list of the best left handed NBA players for his smooth playmaking and leadership. He played 15 seasons and earned nine All-Star selections during his career. As a point guard, Wilkens controlled the game with his calm demeanor and sharp court vision.
He averaged 16.5 points and 6.7 assists per game, showcasing his ability to both score and distribute. Wilkens led with intelligence and unselfishness, making teammates better. He used his left hand to execute clever passes and mid-range floaters.
Moreover, Wilkens transitioned into coaching while still playing, making him one of the rare player-coaches in NBA history. He later became one of the best NBA coaches of all time, with over 1,300 career wins. His coaching legacy adds another layer to his basketball greatness.
Although he didn’t win an NBA championship as a player, Wilkens earned respect for his consistency and leadership. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame as both a player and coach. That rare honor highlights his overall impact on the game.
Wilkens may not have had the flash of other left handed NBA players, but his influence was undeniable. His smart, steady play earns him the ninth spot.
Dave Cowens: The Celtics’ Big Man during the 70s
Career Stats: 17.6 PPG, 13.6 RPG, 3.8 APG; 46.0 FG%, 7.1 3FG%, 78.3 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion (Boston Celtics, 1974, 1976), 1x NBA MVP (1972-73), 8x NBA All-Star, 7x All-NBA selection
Dave Cowens ranks 8th among the best left handed NBA players for his toughness, versatility, and leadership. He played center for the Boston Celtics and led with intensity. Despite being slightly undersized, Cowens outworked bigger opponents every night.
He won the NBA MVP award in 1973 after averaging 20.5 points and 16.2 rebounds per game. Cowens also helped the Celtics win two NBA championships in the 1970s. His left handed hook shot and relentless hustle made him a fan favorite in Boston.
On defense, Cowens dominated the paint with energy and physicality. He could also guard forwards thanks to his quickness and instincts. Offensively, he passed well for a big man and started fast breaks with smart decisions.
Cowens earned eight All-Star selections and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1991. Although he played in a physical era, he never backed down from a challenge. His leadership and intensity set the tone for every team he joined.
Though other left handed NBA players may have flashier stats, Cowens’ all-around game and winning mentality stand out. His fearless style, MVP season, and championship pedigree make him a deserving choice at number nine on this list.
Nate Archibald: “Tiny” Always Came Up Big
Career Stats: 18.8 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 7.4 APG; 46.7 FG%, 22.4 3FG%, 81.0 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (Boston Celtics, 1981), 6x NBA All-Star, 5x All-NBA selection
Nate “Tiny” Archibald ranks 7th among the best left handed NBA players due to his speed, scoring, and playmaking. Despite his small size, Archibald dominated games with incredible quickness and fearless drives. He controlled the tempo and led his teams with poise.
In the 1972-73 season, Archibald made NBA history by leading the league in both points and assists. He averaged 34.0 points and 11.4 assists per game that season. No other player has matched that feat, which speaks to his rare talent.
Archibald made six All-Star teams and was named to five All-NBA selections. His left handed layups and smooth handles made him tough to guard. He also won an NBA championship with the Boston Celtics in 1981, proving he could adapt and lead on a title team.
Though he played in a tough era, Archibald’s toughness and flair helped him stand out. He is often ranked among the best NBA point guards in league history. His career averages of 18.8 points and 7.4 assists reflect his all-around impact.
Tiny Archibald’s unique blend of speed, scoring, and leadership places him sixth among the top left handed NBA players. His legacy remains strong among guards and fans alike.
Manu Ginóbili: Instant Impact off the Bench
Career Stats: 13.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.8 APG; 44.7 FG%, 36.9 3FG%, 82.7 FT%
Notable Achievements:4x NBA Champion (San Antonio Spurs, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), 1x Sixth Man of the Year, 2x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections
Manu Ginóbili ranks 6th on the list of the best left handed NBA players due to his creativity, clutch play, and leadership. He spent his entire NBA career with the San Antonio Spurs, winning four championships. Ginóbili embraced his role off the bench and became one of the best NBA Sixth Man players ever.
Although he wasn’t always a starter, Ginóbili delivered in big moments. He hit clutch shots, made smart passes, and played tough defense. In 2008, he won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, proving his impact went beyond the starting lineup.
His left handed drives and crafty footwork confused defenders. He was unpredictable, using Eurosteps, no-look passes, and fearless drives to score. Ginóbili also played with passion and intensity that inspired teammates and fans.
Internationally, he led Argentina to Olympic gold in 2004, defeating the USA in a historic upset. His global influence helped grow the NBA’s popularity worldwide.
Though not a volume scorer, Ginóbili always delivered when it mattered most. He averaged 13.3 points and 3.8 assists over his 16-year career. His unselfishness, winning mindset, and flair secure his place as the 6th-best left handed NBA player of all time.
Chris Bosh: Big Time Stretch Four
Career Stats: 19.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 2.0 APG; 49.4 FG%, 33.5 3FG%, 79.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion (Miami Heat, 2012, 2013), 11x NBA All-Star, 2x All-NBA selections
Chris Bosh ranks 5th on the list of the best left handed NBA players due to his versatility, consistency, and championship pedigree. He began his career with the Toronto Raptors, quickly becoming their franchise player and top scorer. Bosh used his left hand to finish smoothly around the basket and shoot mid-range jumpers with ease.
He averaged over 20 points and 9 rebounds per game during his time in Toronto. His skillset made him a difficult matchup for opposing big men. In 2010, Bosh joined the Miami Heat and formed the “Big Three” with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.
Though he took a smaller offensive role, Bosh became the Heat’s defensive anchor and floor spacer. His sacrifice led to two NBA championships in 2012 and 2013. Bosh hit clutch shots and often made game-changing defensive plays.
He earned 11 All-Star selections and was known for his high basketball IQ. His ability to adapt and contribute on both ends set him apart from other stars. Unfortunately, blood clot issues ended his career early.
Still, Bosh’s impact remains undeniable. His leadership, skill, and team-first mentality make him the 5th-best left handed NBA player of all time.
Willis Reed: Personified Grit and Heart
Career Stats: 8.7 PPG, 12.9 RPG, 1.8 APG; 47.6 FG%, N/A 3FG%, 74.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion (New York Knicks, 1970, 1973), 2x NBA Finals MVP (1970, 1973), 1x NBA MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1964-65), 7x NBA All-Star, 7x All-NBA selections
Willis Reed ranks 4th on the list of the best left handed NBA players due to his leadership, toughness, and championship success. He spent his entire career with the New York Knicks and became one of the best Knicks players in franchise history.
Reed won two NBA championships with the Knicks in 1970 and 1973. In both title runs, he served as the emotional and physical leader. In 1970, he famously walked onto the court in Game 7 despite an injury. That moment inspired his team and became an iconic part of NBA history.
He averaged 18.7 points and 12.9 rebounds per game across his career. Reed used his left hand to finish in the post and rebound aggressively. In 1970, he won league MVP, All-Star MVP, and Finals MVP – an incredibly rare triple achievement.
Reed also made seven All-Star appearances and five All-NBA teams. He played with discipline, heart, and a strong defensive presence. Although injuries shortened his career, his impact remained long-lasting.
His leadership, clutch play, and commitment to winning set him apart. As one of the best Knicks players ever, Reed’s legacy continues to inspire. His left handed dominance earns him the fourth spot on this list.
James Harden: The Beard has a Deep Bag
Career Stats: 24.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 7.2 APG; 43.9 FG%, 36.2 FG3%, 86.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x MVP, 1x Sixth Man of the Year, 3x NBA scoring champion (2018-2020), 11x All-Star, 8x All-NBA selections
James Harden ranks 3rd on the list of the best left handed NBA players due to his scoring, creativity, and offensive dominance. Known for his signature step-back three-pointer, Harden ranks among the best NBA shooters of his generation. He consistently stretches defenses and changes how teams defend the perimeter.
Harden won the NBA MVP award in 2018 and has made ten All-Star appearances. He has also led the league in scoring three times. With his left hand, Harden creates space, finishes through contact, and delivers precise passes to teammates.
He averages over 24 points and 7 assists per game in his career. Harden also draws fouls better than almost anyone in NBA history. This ability forces defenses to adjust and often shifts NBA odds in his team’s favor.
While he hasn’t won a title yet, Harden has played in multiple Conference Finals and one NBA Finals. His offensive numbers rank among the best ever for a guard.
Even as his role evolves, Harden continues to impact winning with his vision and shot-making. Few players can take over a game like he can. His elite scoring and playmaking make him the third-best left handed NBA player of all time.
David Robinson: The Admiral Commanded the Paint
Career Stats: 21.1 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 2.5 APG; 51.8 FG%, 25.0 FG3%, 73.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2× NBA champion (San Antonio Spurs, 1999, 2003), 1× MVP, 2× Defensive Player of the Year, 10× All-Star, 13× All-NBA selections
David Robinson ranks 2nd on the list of the best left handed NBA players because of his dominance, leadership, and two-way excellence. “The Admiral” anchored the San Antonio Spurs with elite defense and consistent scoring. He quickly became one of the best NBA blockers, using length, timing, and athleticism to protect the rim.
He averaged 21.1 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game throughout his career. Robinson led the NBA in blocks and rebounding during different seasons. His presence alone often shifted NBA player props and game outcomes.
In 1995, Robinson won the NBA MVP award after an outstanding all-around season. He also earned 10 All-Star selections and eight All-Defensive Team honors. Moreover, Robinson helped the Spurs win two NBA championships, in 1999 and 2003.
He used his left hand to finish strong at the rim, block shots, and control the paint. His combination of size, skill, and humility set a strong foundation for the Spurs’ dynasty.
Robinson’s leadership on and off the court was unmatched. He inspired teammates and gave back to the community. His incredible resume and lasting impact make him the second-best left handed NBA player of all time.
Bill Russell: Russell is 1st on the Best Left Handed NBA Players List
Career Stats: 15.1 PPG, 22.5 RPG, 4.3 APG; 44.0 FG%, N/A FG3%, 56.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 11x NBA champion, 5x MVP, 12x All-Star, 12x All-NBA selections
Bill Russell ranks 1st on the list of the best left handed NBA players due to his unmatched winning, defense, and leadership. He led the Boston Celtics to 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons, setting a standard that remains untouched. Widely regarded as one of the best NBA centers, Russell dominated without needing to score heavily.
He averaged 15.1 points and an incredible 22.5 rebounds per game. Russell controlled games with shot-blocking, positioning, and basketball IQ. Though blocks weren’t officially recorded then, teammates and opponents knew his defensive impact was legendary.
Russell won five NBA MVP awards and made 12 All-Star teams. His leadership and sacrifice turned the Celtics into a dynasty. He outworked and outsmarted his rivals using determination and relentless effort. As one of the greatest Celtics players, his legacy still defines the franchise.
Off the court, Russell was a civil rights advocate and respected role model. He later became the NBA’s first Black head coach, winning two titles as a player-coach. That achievement further proves his greatness.
Russell’s success, dominance, and character make him the top left handed player in NBA history. No other player combined winning and leadership quite like Bill Russell.
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