The Greatest Sixth Men in NBA History

While primarily known as a star, Harden redefined the sixth man role with the Houston Rockets by serving as a primary offensive engine off the bench. His ability to create shots for himself and teammates provided unmatched offensive versatility and helped the team dominate during the 2018 championship run.

A key contributor for the Orlando Magic during their 1995 NBA Finals appearance, Scott provided essential spacing and scoring punch off the bench. His ability to stretch the floor and hit crucial three-pointers made him one of the most effective shooters in league history during the mid-1990s.

The inaugural Sixth Man of the Year award winner in 1970, Hudson led the St. Louis Hawks to the NBA Finals. His versatile scoring ability and consistent production established the template for the modern backup guard who can carry an offensive load when starters rest.

Jones was a defensive anchor and reliable scorer for the Philadelphia 76ers during their 1983 championship season. His high-energy play, rebounding from the forward position, and ability to guard multiple positions made him an indispensable part of one of the most dominant teams in NBA history.

Manning served as a powerful scoring threat and rebounder off the bench for the Los Angeles Clippers and later contributed to championship contention. His size and skill set allowed him to dominate smaller backup lines and provide immediate offensive firepower when entering games during the 1990s.

A three-time Sixth Man of the Year, Crawford redefined backup guard play with his elite dribbling, scoring creativity, and ability to hit difficult shots. His longevity and consistent high-level performance over nearly two decades made him a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.

The San Antonio Spurs' most important reserve, Ginóbili provided electrifying scoring, vision, and clutch performance off the bench. His unorthodox style and ability to disrupt opposing defenses were crucial to San Antonio's four NBA championships, earning him a place among the greatest backups ever.

Before becoming a franchise cornerstone, Leonard excelled as a sixth man for the Indiana Pacers and later found success as a starter. His two-way dominance and defensive versatility allowed him to change games instantly, proving that elite two-way players can thrive even without starting duties.

Kerr was the premier corner three-point shooter in NBA history, providing crucial spacing and clutch shooting for the Bulls and Spurs. His ability to deliver game-winning shots and maintain composure under pressure made him an invaluable asset for championship-contending teams throughout the 1990s.

Cooper was the NBA's premier small forward defender and a reliable scorer for the Los Angeles Lakers during their Showtime era. His versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions and provide steady minutes off the bench, contributing significantly to the team's dynasty years in the early 1980s.

Rivers was a high-energy playmaker and scorer who provided instant offense for the New York Knicks and later the Chicago Bulls. His leadership, ability to run the offense, and clutch shooting made him a critical component of successful rosters throughout his career in the 1980s and 1990s.

Although often a starter, Pippen's value is sometimes contextualized within lineup flexibility, but his defensive versatility is legendary. He can guard any position and initiate offense, serving as a de facto sixth man in terms of impact when needed, though primarily recognized as a starter for the Bulls.

Porter served as a steady and efficient point guard for the Portland Trail Blazers and later the Minnesota Timberwolves. His ability to manage games, distribute the ball, and hit mid-range jumpers provided consistent value off the bench and in rotation roles during the 1990s.

Artest was a defensive specialist who could guard the opponent's best player while providing occasional scoring. His physicality and intensity off the bench for the Indiana Pacers and later the Rockets added a defensive dimension that transformed playoff series and contributed to championship success.

Smith was a dynamic scoring guard who provided explosive offensive bursts off the bench for multiple championship-contending teams. His ability to hit deep three-pointers and create his own shot made him a dangerous weapon in the second unit, particularly during the Cleveland Cavaliers' title run.

Knight was a highly efficient point guard who provided steady leadership and playmaking off the bench for the Cavaliers and other teams. His low turnover rate and ability to control the pace of the game made him a valuable asset for managers seeking reliable backcourt depth.

Gooden provided valuable frontcourt depth with his three-point shooting and rebounding for the Boston Celtics and other teams. His ability to space the floor as a power forward allowed teams to maintain offensive flow when their starting big men were resting or in foul trouble.

Williams was a versatile guard who contributed scoring, rebounding, and playmaking for the Boston Celtics during their 2008 championship run. His energetic style and ability to guard multiple positions made him a key rotational piece in a deep and talented backcourt.

Gill was a high-scoring guard who provided offensive punch off the bench for the New Jersey Nets during their late-1990s success. His ability to create shots and attack the rim added a significant scoring dimension that helped propel the team to multiple playoff appearances and an NBA Finals run.

Divac was a skilled big man who provided passing, scoring, and rebounding off the bench for the Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Lakers. His high basketball IQ and ability to facilitate offense from the post made him an invaluable asset for teams seeking frontcourt depth and veteran leadership.