Who Truly Deserves the Title of Best SG in NBA Right Now?

As I sit here watching the latest NBA highlights, I can't help but ponder a question that's been buzzing around basketball circles lately—who truly deserves the title of best shooting guard in the NBA right now? Having followed the league for over fifteen years and analyzed countless player performances, I've developed some strong opinions about what separates good shooting guards from truly great ones. The position has evolved dramatically from the days of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, with today's game demanding more versatility while still requiring that classic scoring mentality that defines the position.

When I think about the current landscape, three names immediately jump to mind: Devin Booker, Donovan Mitchell, and Anthony Edwards. Each brings something unique to the table, but only one can truly claim that top spot in my book. Let's start with Booker, who's been absolutely sensational for the Phoenix Suns. The man averaged 27.8 points per game last season with shooting splits of 49/35/86, numbers that would make any basketball purist nod in approval. What impresses me most about Booker isn't just his scoring—it's his evolution into a complete offensive weapon. I've watched him transform from a pure scorer into someone who can run an offense, make smart reads, and elevate his game when it matters most. His mid-range game is arguably the best in the league right now, a lost art that he's perfected in today's three-point obsessed era.

Then there's Donovan Mitchell, who put up career-best numbers in his first season with Cleveland. The man dropped 71 points in a single game last season—71! That's not just impressive, it's historic. Mitchell averaged 28.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.4 assists while leading the Cavaliers to a surprising playoff berth. What stands out to me about Mitchell is his explosive scoring ability combined with improved playmaking. I remember watching him early in his career thinking he was mostly an athletic scorer, but he's developed into a more complete guard who can create for others while still carrying the scoring load. His playoff performances have been somewhat inconsistent though, which does factor into my evaluation when we're talking about the very best.

The young gun making waves is definitely Anthony Edwards. At just 22 years old, he's already shown flashes of superstardom that remind me of a young Dwyane Wade. Edwards averaged 24.6 points last season while shooting nearly 46% from the field, but what really catches my eye is his two-way potential. In today's NBA, where defense from star guards often takes a backseat to scoring, Edwards brings both. I've watched him take on defensive assignments against elite opponents and hold his own, something you don't always see from offensive-minded guards. His athleticism is off the charts, and he's got that undeniable swagger that great shooting guards seem to possess.

Thinking about these players reminds me of that incredible high school basketball story I came across recently—MGC-NLCA's double championship run where they first took down Uno High School 82-77 in the semifinals before completing a 2-0 series sweep in the finals. There's something about that kind of dominant performance that separates good teams from great ones, and the same applies to individual players. The best shooting guards aren't just putting up empty stats—they're elevating their teams when it matters most, delivering in clutch moments, and demonstrating that killer instinct we associate with the all-time greats.

If I'm being completely honest, my vote for the best shooting guard right now goes to Devin Booker. While Mitchell might have the flashier scoring outbursts and Edwards the higher ceiling, Booker's consistency, efficiency, and proven ability to perform in high-pressure situations give him the edge. His performance during Phoenix's 2021 Finals run was particularly telling—he averaged 27.3 points per game in his first postseason appearance, showing he could maintain his efficiency against elite defenses. What really seals it for me is watching how he's adapted his game to play alongside Kevin Durant while still maintaining his offensive aggression and efficiency.

That's not to say this is a settled debate by any means. The beauty of the NBA is that these hierarchies can shift dramatically from season to season. Edwards could easily claim this title in a year or two if he continues developing at his current trajectory. Mitchell might silence his remaining critics with another deep playoff run. But as of today, based on what I've observed and analyzed, Booker represents the complete package that defines what a modern shooting guard should be—elite scoring, improved playmaking, and the ability to perform when the lights are brightest. The position is in good hands with these incredible talents pushing each other to new heights season after season.