Canadian NBA players have made impactful strides on the league, earning recognition for their exceptional skills, leadership, and determination. From explosive dunkers to elite playmakers, these athletes are top NBA picks and blazed the trail for future Canadian hoopers.
Let’s take a closer look at the 10 best Canadian NBA players of all time, highlighting their accomplishments. Additionally, we’ll also dive into their contributions to the growing presence of Canadian basketball on the world stage.
10. RJ Barrett – 2nd Generation Canadian-bred NBA Talent
Career Stats: 18.9 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 3.3 APG; 44.1 FG%, 34.8 FG3%
Notable Achievements: N/A
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RJ Barrett has quickly established himself as one of the best Canadian NBA players of all time. He was drafted third overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, shouldering high expectations.
Barrett’s scoring ability is his standout trait, as he consistently puts up solid numbers, making him a primary scorer. He is known for his smooth drives to the basket, mid-range jumper, and growing three-point range, Barrett’s skillset is well-rounded. Barrett has also shown significant improvement in his playmaking and defensive abilities, making him a complete player.
Beyond his individual growth, Barrett has become a key figure for the Canadian national team, representing Canada in international play. His performances on the international stage have only solidified his status as one of the top Canadian NBA players.
With his skill and continued development, Barrett has potential to be one of the greatest Canadian NBA players in history.
9. Kelly Olynyk – A Dependable Canadian NBA Player
Career Stats: 10.2 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.5 APG; 48.6 FG%, 37.1 FG3%
Notable Achievements: NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2013-14)
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Kelly Olynyk starts off the list of the best Canadian NBA players of all time. He is known for his versatile skillset and impact on both ends of the court. Standing at 7 feet tall, his size, shooting touch, and basketball IQ made him a unique asset in the NBA.
The Dallas Mavericks drafted him in 2013, then traded him to the Boston Celtics. From there. Olynyk quickly established himself as a reliable stretch big man, capable of hitting three-pointers and spacing the floor.
Throughout his career, Olynyk has played for multiple teams, including the Celtics, Miami Heat, and Houston Rockets. He consistently contributed as a starter and bench player, with his scoring, passing, and rebounding key factors to his game.
His skillset has made him a valuable asset for any team he’s been on. Olynyk also played a crucial role helping the Celtics reach the 2017 Eastern Conference Finals against LeBron and the Cavs.
Olynyk also plays for the Canadian national team in FIBA competitions, further solidifying his place among the best Canadian ballers. His well-rounded game and consistency make him a standout figure in Canadian basketball history, inspiring future generations of players.
8. Jamaal Magloire – A Defensive-Minded Big Man Canadian NBA Player
Career Stats: 7.2 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 0.6 APG; 48.0 FG%, 0.0 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA All-Star
Jamaal Magloire lands on the ninth spot on the 10 Best Canadian NBA players of all time list. Standing at 6’9” and known for his toughness in the paint, Magloire made a significant impact in the NBA. His performance with the Charlotte Hornets in 2004 landed him an All-Star spot, his highest individual achievement in the NBA.
Magloire’s best season came in 2003-2004; he averaged a double-double with 13.6 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. This solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top rebounders and interior defenders. Over his 12-season career, Magloire played for several teams, including the Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Milwaukee Bucks. Magloire brought his physicality, toughness, and leadership to each squad he played for.
Outside the NBA, Magloire has been a key figure in Canadian basketball, representing his country in international competitions. His success paved the way for current Canadian talent in the NBA, making him a crucial figure for Canadian basketball. His grit and determination continue to inspire aspiring Canadian players who are honing their baller skills.
7. Tristan Thompson – Staunch Canadian Player Known for Rebounding
Career Stats: 8.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.0 APG; 52.0 FG%, 23.8 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2011-12)
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Tristan Thompson is seventh on the best Canadian NBA players of all time list, with his consistency and defensive prowess. Best known for his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Thompson was pivotal in the team’s historic 2016 NBA Championship. His relentless rebounding, particularly on the offensive glass, made him an invaluable asset for the Cavs during their title run.
Thompson established himself as one of the top rebounders, averaging over 8 rebounds per game for multiple seasons. His ability to secure second-chance points and battle down low against bigger opponents was critical for teams he played for. Thompson’s defensive presence, combined with his energy and work ethic, made him a key role player in clutch moments.
Internationally, Thompson represented Canada in international basketball, further solidifying his legacy as a standout Canadian player. With his 2016 championship, consistency, and gritty post presence, Thompson is one of the notable Canadian NBA players in history.
6. Bill Wennington – The Winningest Canadian NBA Player (in terms of championships)
Career Stats: 4.6 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 0.6 APG; 45.9 FG%, 13.9 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion (Chicago Bulls – 1996, 1997, 1998)
Bill Wennington is one of the most successful Canadian NBA players as far as championships are concerned. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Wennington’s basketball journey began in Canada, but his path to the NBA would see him become an integral part of one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history.
Wennington played for the Chicago Bulls during their second three-peat, winning three NBA championships (1996, 1997, and 1998). He was a second-stringer for the Bulls, but he’s a reliable center and solid defender on the floor. His experience in the league helped provide depth and leadership behind acclaimed teammates Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman.
Wennington’s NBA career, spanning from 1985 to 2000, also included stints with the Sacramento Kings and the Dallas Mavericks. His legacy is most firmly tied to his time with Chicago. Wennington raised the profile of basketball for his country, inspiring future generations of Canadian players to pursue an NBA career. His combination of hard work, leadership, and championship pedigree makes him one of the best Canadian NBA players.
5. Rick Fox – One of the Most Consistent Canadian Players to Come off the Bench
Career Stats: 9.6 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.8 APG; 45.0 FG%, 34.9 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion (Lakers – 2000, 2001, 2002), All-NBA Rookie 2nd Team (1991-92)
Rick Fox lands on the fifth spot on the best Canadian NBA players ever list. Fox is known for his exceptional skills, versatility, and contributions to some of the league’s most iconic teams. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Fox had a successful NBA career spanning from 1991 to 2004. His notable NBA run was with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won three NBA championships (2000, 2001, and 2002).
Fox was known for his strong defense, basketball IQ, and ability to play multiple positions against opposing teams. This made him a key component for the Lakers during their early 2000s dynasty alongside Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Fox was a valuable role player, often guarding the opposing team’s best player and contributing efficiently on offense. His leadership and clutch performances in crucial moments were essential to the Lakers’ dominance during that period.
Beyond his on-court achievements, Fox became a beloved figure in the basketball world, both in the U.S. and Canada. His championship pedigree, defensive prowess, and leadership makes Fox one of the most accomplished Canadian NBA players ever.
4. Andrew Wiggins – 1st Canadian 1st Overall Draft Pick
Career Stats: 9.6 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.8 APG; 45.0 FG%, 34.9 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (Golden State Warriors), 1x NBA-All Star, 1x All-Rookie 1st Selection (2014-15), 1st Overall Pick 2014 (Cleveland Cavaliers)
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Andrew Wiggins is fourth on the list of the best Canadian NBA players ever. Wiggins possesses an impressive skill set which contributed to the Golden State Warriors’ success during his time there. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Wiggins was drafted first overall pick in 2014, instantly showing promise as a dynamic player.
Wiggins’ career reached new heights when he joined the Warriors in 2020. In his first season with the team, he was pivotal in their offense and defense as a versatile two-way player. However, it was during the 2022 NBA Finals that Wiggins truly solidified his place in basketball history. He was instrumental in the Warriors’ championship run, earning recognition for his crucial defense on Jayson Tatum in long stretches. He also delivered key offensive plays, including a game-changing rebound in Game 5 of the Finals.
Beyond his contributions in the NBA, Wiggins has helped elevate Canadian basketball, being part of Canadian players making an impact. His combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive skills makes Andrew Wiggins one of the best Canadian NBA players ever.
3. Jamal Murray – Nuggets’ No.2 Scoring Option
Career Stats: 18.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.7 APG; 45.6 FG%, 38.2 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x All-NBA Rookie 2nd Selection (2016-17)
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Jamal Murray is third on the list of the best Canadian NBA players, with his remarkable skills, and clutch performances. Born in Kitchener, Ontario, Murray quickly rose through the ranks of Canadian basketball to become an NBA standout player. Drafted 7th overall by the Denver Nuggets in 2016, Murray developed into one of the league’s premier point guards.
Specifically, Murray’s breakout moment came during the 2020 NBA Bubble, where he delivered an unforgettable performance in the playoffs. His remarkable scoring displays, including multiple 40+ point games, helped lead the Nuggets to the Western Conference Finals. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations earned him widespread recognition, solidifying his place among the best in the game.
In 2023, Murray reached the pinnacle of his career, helping lead the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA championship. He was a key player on a championship-winning team, partnering with Nikola Jokić, and made crucial plays. This makes Murray a vital part of the Nuggets and one of the best Canadian NBA players ever.
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – One of the Top NBA Players Who Brings Efficient Offense
Career Stats: 24.4 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 5.1 APG; 50.1 FG%, 35.5 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA All-Star, 1x All-Rookie 2nd Team (2018-19), 2x All-NBA Selections
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is rapidly emerging as one of the best Canadian NBA players, thanks to his versatility, and court impact. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Shai blossomed into a must-watch superstar in the NBA over the past seasons. This is a testament to his relentless work ethic and natural talent, making him the focal point for his team. Initially, the Charlotte Hornets drafted him 11th overall in 2018, but then traded him to the Los Angeles Clippers. As a Clipper, he quickly showcased flashes of his potential as a dynamic guard. However, it was after his trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019 that Shai truly flourished.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him one of the most complete players in the league. He’s known for his smooth scoring ability, elite finishing around the rim, and impressive defense, making him a two-way threat. Recently, Shai has emerged as one of the NBA’s rising stars, earning All-Star selections and putting up impressive, consistent numbers.
As the cornerstone of the Thunder’s rebuild, he has helped put Canadian basketball on the map. Most NBA betting sites pick him to have amazing and efficient stat lines that bettors should take note of.
Shai’s rapid ascension to superstardom thanks to his efficient all-around game, makes him one of the best Canadian NBA players.
1. Steve Nash – Amazing Point Guard and Back-to-Back MVP
Career Stats: 14.3 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 8.5 APG; 49.0 FG%, 42.8 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 2x MVP, 8x NBA All-Star, 7x All-NBA Selections
Steve Nash is widely regarded as the best Canadian NBA player ever, thanks to his extraordinary career and legacy. Nash is considered as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, with his playmaking and efficient scoring.
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and raised in Victoria, British Columbia, Nash began his NBA journey in 1996. The Phoenix Suns drafted him 15th overall, where he got to hone his basketball skills. Namely, Nash was a superior floor general who made plays for his teammates via dazzling passes and positioning.
Nash was a two-time NBA MVP (2005, 2006) and is widely considered one of the best playmakers in league history. His ability to orchestrate an offense, make pinpoint passes, and control the pace of the game was unparalleled. He led the league in assists five times and had an underrated shooting efficiency. Namely, Nash was particularly deadly as a three-point shooter and free throw specialist, having high-percentage seasons. He was a sure bet for NBA player props back in the day, since he was so efficient offensively.
Beyond his individual accolades, Nash led teams deep into the playoffs, most notably with the Phoenix Suns. As the Suns’ floor general, he redefined how basketball could be played at a high level with his up-tempo offense and leadership.
Undoubtedly, Nash’s influence on the game, especially for Canadian basketball, is immense. Steve Nash’s legendary career and contributions make him the greatest Canadian NBA player to ever step on the court.