Most 40-Point Games By Current NBA Players For Every Franchise

Scoring 40 points in an NBA regular season game is a remarkable feat that separates the elite scorers from the rest, and every franchise has a player who has proven to be their top offensive weapon in recent years. From Luka Doncic's explosive performances for the Mavericks to Stephen Curry's unparalleled shooting displays with the Warriors, these players have etched their names in their team's history with their scoring prowess. But who leads each NBA franchise in 40-point regular season games among current players? Let's find out.

Atlanta Hawks: Trae Young - 33 40-Point Games

Trae Young's prolific scoring ability has made him the centerpiece of the Atlanta Hawks' offense, and his 33 games with 40 or more points reflect just that. Since being drafted in 2018, Young has electrified Atlanta with his deep shooting range and incredible playmaking skills. His performance against the Portland Trail Blazers, when he scored 56 points (2021-22 season), placed Young on the map as one of the best offensive players of his generation.

Beyond the numbers, Young's swagger and confidence have endeared him to Hawks fans. He isn't just a scorer; he's an entertainer, often feeding off the energy of both home and away crowds. His 40-point games are often filled with dramatic flair, whether it’s hitting a deep three from the logo or dishing out assists that leave defenders puzzled. Young has truly become the face of the Hawks and one of the league's most thrilling young talents.

Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum - 25 40-Point Games

Jayson Tatum has developed into one of the premier scorers in the NBA, and his 25 games with 40 or more points for the Boston Celtics prove it. Since being drafted by Boston in 2017, Tatum has displayed a smooth scoring ability reminiscent of legends, with a lethal combination of shooting, footwork, and size. Interestingly, Tatum trails only Larry Bird (47) for the most 40-point games and the 27-year-old might one day surpass the legendary figure.

Tatum's growth as a scorer has paralleled his evolution as a leader for the Celtics. In 2022, he became the youngest player in Celtics history to reach 5,000 career points. His ability to explode offensively has redefined Boston's championship aspirations and solidified him as a cornerstone of the franchise's future.

Brooklyn Nets: Kyrie Irving - 14 40-Point Games

Kyrie Irving, known for his dazzling handles and ability to finish at the rim, recorded 14 games with 40 or more points during his time with the Brooklyn Nets. His ability to score in a variety of ways—from deep three-pointers to acrobatic layups—has often left defenders helpless. Kyrie only trails Vince Carter (17) for most 40-point games in Nets history but the point guard won't be able to surpass him since he has moved on to the Mavericks.

Irving's tenure with the Nets was filled with highs and lows, but when he was on the court, his offensive output was undeniable. His unique ability to create his own shot at any moment made him one of the most dangerous players in the league, and his iconic 60-point performance against the Orlando Magic was not only his career-high mark but the highest in Nets history.

Charlotte Hornets: Terry Rozier - 5 40-Point Games

Terry Rozier may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking of 40-point games, but his 5 games with the Charlotte Hornets demonstrate his capacity for explosive scoring because he ranks third in franchise history behind Kemba Walker (16) and Glen Rice (10). Known for his "Scary Terry" nickname, Rozier has shown an uncanny ability to heat up quickly, often catching defenders off guard with his pull-up threes and fearless drives to the basket.

In Charlotte, Rozier emerged from the shadows of his days in Boston, evolving into a go-to scorer and that is shown by his career-high 43 points with seven three-pointers made against the New Orleans Pelicans. His leadership on and off the court was crucial in establishing a competitive culture for the young Hornets squad, but the guard has since left the franchise and won't be breaking any records for them.

Chicago Bulls: Zach LaVine - 20 40-Point Games

Zach LaVine's tenure with the Chicago Bulls has been defined by his scoring explosions, with 20 games featuring 40 or more points. Trailing Michael Jordan in franchise history (165), LaVine has made his mark on franchise history. An example of his scoring prowess is his 13 three-pointers in a single game against the Charlotte Hornets, but also his career-high 51-point performance against the Detroit Pistons this past season.

LaVine's development as a complete scorer has made him one of the league's most dynamic shooting guards. His 40-point outings often involve a mix of athletic drives, mid-range jumpers, and deep threes, showcasing his versatility and making him a cornerstone for the Bulls' future.

Cleveland Cavaliers: LeBron James - 51 40-Point Games

LeBron James holds the record for the most 40-point games in Cleveland Cavaliers history with 51, a feat achieved over two separate stints with the team. His 40-point performances were not only a testament to his scoring ability but also to his overall impact on the game. James also has nine games of scoring at least 50 points for the Cavaliers, with his highest for the franchise coming on November 3, 2017, against the Washington Wizards. James dropped 57 points on 22-34 from the field, only four points less than his career-high for the Miami Heat.

During his time in Cleveland over two stints, LeBron carried a heavy scoring burden and delivered night in and night out. His ability to dominate games with scoring, passing, and defense cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players ever, and his 40-point game tally is just one facet of his legendary career.

Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic - 42 40-Point Games

Luka Doncic, in just five seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, has already accumulated an astonishing 42 games with 40 or more points which is the most in franchise history. This feat not only surpasses the Mavericks' previous record held by Dirk Nowitzki, who had 20 such games in his 20-season career, but it also sets Doncic apart as one of the greatest scorers in the league today. Known for his step-back three-pointers and crafty finishes around the rim, Luka's scoring ability is matched by his playmaking, making him a nightly triple-double threat.

Luka's career-high came in a stunning 73-point game against the Atlanta Hawks, a performance that highlighted his versatility as a scorer. From half-court buzzer-beaters to no-look assists, Luka's 40-point games are often filled with jaw-dropping moments that keep fans and defenders alike guessing his next move.

Denver Nuggets: Nikola Jokic - 20 40-Point Games

Nikola Jokic, the reigning three-time MVP, has recorded 20 games with 40 or more points for the Denver Nuggets, an impressive mark for a player known more for his playmaking and rebounding than his scoring. Amazingly, the Serbian has managed to have more 40-point games than Carmelo Anthony (19) and only trails Alex English (33). There is no doubt Jokic will one day have the record for the Nuggets considering the pace he is on.

Jokic's ability to score when needed makes him one of the most complete players in NBA history. While he's often content to dish out assists and involve his teammates, his scoring outbursts are a reminder of how versatile and dangerous he can be when he decides to take over a game. His career-high performance came in the 2020-21 season when he dropped 50 points on 60.6% from the field to go along with eight rebounds and 12 assists.

Detroit Pistons: Cade Cunningham - 2 40-Point Games

Cade Cunningham, the young star of the Detroit Pistons, has already notched 2 games with 40 or more points in his early NBA career. As the first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Cunningham's scoring potential was well-known, but he has quickly shown the ability to deliver big games even amidst the growing pains of a rebuilding Pistons squad.

While his 40-point games are still few, Cunningham's blend of size, skill, and court vision suggests that he could be the Pistons' go-to scorer for years to come. Cunningham still has a ways to go to catch Bob Lanier (21 games) for the record but he is on the right track.

Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry - 68 40-Point Games

Stephen Curry, the greatest shooter in NBA history, has amassed 68 games with 40 or more points for the Golden State Warriors, trailing only Wilt Chamberlain (235) and Rick Barry (70). Curry’s 40-point games are often spectacles of three-point shooting, where he sets the arena on fire with shots from way beyond the arc. His memorable 62-point game against the Portland Trail Blazers showcased his ability to score from anywhere on the court, solidifying his status as a scoring icon.

Curry's 40-point performances often come with an extra dose of flair—whether it's his shimmy after a deep three or a dazzling drive to the basket. As the Warriors' all-time leading scorer, his ability to go off for 40 or more points at any moment has defined an era of basketball and inspired a generation of young players.

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Houston Rockets: James Harden - 98 40-Point Games

James Harden's tenure with the Houston Rockets is marked by an extraordinary 98 games with 40 or more points, a franchise record that will likely stand for decades. Known for his step-back threes, ability to draw fouls, and unmatched isolation scoring, Harden's scoring prowess redefined what it means to be an elite scorer in the modern NBA. His streak of scoring at least 40 points for 10 straight games thrust Harden into the conversation for being one of the greatest scorers of all time.

Harden's time in Houston saw him win three consecutive scoring titles, a testament to his scoring ability and consistency. His 40-point games were often a mix of three-pointers, free throws, and clever finishes, making him one of the most unguardable players of his era.

Indiana Pacers: Paul George - 5 40-Point Games

Paul George recorded 5 games with 40 or more points during his time with the Indiana Pacers, where he emerged as a star following the departure of Danny Granger. George's offensive output was characterized by his smooth shooting stroke and ability to get to the rim. His standout 48-point performance (with eight threes made and eight rebounds) against the Utah Jazz stands as the swingman's best offensive performance to date.

While George's 40-point games were not as frequent as some other stars, they were often high-impact performances that helped solidify his status as one of the league's premier two-way players. His time in Indiana remains a defining chapter in his career when it comes to pure offensive prowess because he isn't far off from Reggie Miller's record of nine games of 40 points scored.

Los Angeles Clippers: Paul George - 7 40-Point Games

Paul George has had 7 games with 40 or more points with the Los Angeles Clippers, continuing to showcase his elite scoring abilities for another franchise. After joining the Clippers, George was a key player alongside Kawhi Leonard, often stepping up in Leonard's absence. His 40-point games are marked by a blend of three-point shooting, mid-range jumpers, and slashing drives that keep defenders on their heels.

George's scoring exploits with the Clippers have come in a variety of critical situations, including playoff battles and key regular-season matchups. His career-high with the Clippers came on December 13, 2019, when he dropped 46 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Los Angeles Lakers: LeBron James - 16 40-Point Games

LeBron James has recorded 16 games with 40 or more points as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, continuing his dominance even into the later stages of his career. His 40-point performances have been crucial in leading the Lakers while he has evolved his game, including his epic 56-point game on six three-pointers made against the Golden State Warriors.

In his time with the Lakers, LeBron has added to his legacy by leading them to an NBA Championship in 2020. His 40-point games remain a reminder of his greatness and his ability to perform at the highest level, no matter the circumstances or the age, although he is quite far off from Kobe Bryant's unbreakable Lakers record (122).

Memphis Grizzlies: Ja Morant - 8 40-Point Games

Ja Morant, the electrifying point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, has already recorded 8 games with 40 or more points, which is the franchise record ahead of some franchise legends including Pau Gasol (2). The superstar point guard managed to score a whopping 52 points against the San Antonio Spurs and that stands as his career-high so far.

Morant's 40-point games often come with highlight-reel dunks and jaw-dropping layups, making him a fan favorite. As he continues to develop his game, more 40-point games seem inevitable for this rising star and it is also interesting that his teammate Jaren Jackson Jr. is in second place with five games of at least 40 points.

Miami Heat: LeBron James - 10 40-Point Games

During his four-year stint with the Miami Heat, LeBron James recorded 10 games with 40 or more points, playing a central role in the team's back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013. Iconically, "Masked LeBron" managed to drop a career-high 62 points against the lowly Charlotte Bobcats in one of the most terrifying performances in The King's career.

LeBron's ability to dominate on both ends of the floor during his time with the Heat set the tone for one of the most successful runs in franchise history. His 40-point games were a mix of power, skill, and determination, underscoring why he is considered one of the greatest to ever play the game and his record is second to only Dwyane Wade (34) in Miami's history.

Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo - 49 40-Point Games

Possibly building a legacy to be the greatest player in Bucks history, Giannis Antetokounmpo has amassed 49 games with 40 or more points for the Milwaukee Bucks, trailing only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (55). His unique combination of size, speed, and skill allows him to score in a variety of ways, whether it's bulldozing his way to the rim or hitting mid-range jumpers. His career-high 64-point game against the Indiana Pacers showcased his unstoppable force and scoring versatility.

Giannis's 40-point games often come with jaw-dropping dunks and ferocious defensive plays. As a two-time MVP and 2021 NBA Champion, his ability to take over games has made the Bucks perennial contenders and a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Karl-Anthony Towns - 13 40-Point Games

Karl-Anthony Towns has recorded 13 games with 40 or more points for the Minnesota Timberwolves, displaying his versatile scoring ability as one of the league's premier big men. Known for his shooting range and post-up game, Towns has transformed from a high-potential prospect into a legitimate scoring machine. His 62-point explosion against the Charlotte Hornets remains a career highlight, showcasing his ability to dominate inside and out.

Towns' 40-point games are a mix of finesse and power, as he can score from the three-point line or take it inside with authority. As the Timberwolves' cornerstone player, his scoring outbursts are a glimpse into the potential for future success although Anthony Edwards is only three games behind him.

New Orleans Pelicans: Anthony Davis - 30 40-Point Games

Anthony Davis, during his time with the New Orleans Pelicans, recorded 30 games with 40 or more points, often shouldering the scoring load for his team. His ability to dominate both offensively and defensively made him one of the most impactful players in the league. Davis's 59-point game (along with 20 rebounds) against the Detroit Pistons was a testament to his scoring prowess and ability to take over games when needed.

Davis's 40-point games were marked by a blend of shot-blocking and scoring, showcasing his status as one of the most complete big men in NBA history. Even as he has moved on to the Lakers, his scoring feats with the Pelicans remain a significant part of his legacy.

New York Knicks: Jalen Brunson - 15 40-Point Games

Jalen Brunson has quickly emerged as a go-to scorer for the New York Knicks, recording 15 games with 40 or more points. After joining the Knicks, Brunson took on a bigger offensive role, and his scoring numbers have followed. The point guard erupted for a monster 61-point performance on 25-47 from the field and 5-13 from three-point range, a testament to his scoring dominance.

Brunson’s ability to score efficiently from various spots on the floor has brought much-needed stability to the Knicks' backcourt. His impact on the team is evident, and his 40-point performances have helped propel New York to greater heights in recent seasons.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Kevin Durant - 46 40-Point Games

Kevin Durant's 46 games with 40 or more points for the Oklahoma City Thunder showcased his scoring brilliance during his early years in the NBA. As one of the most versatile scorers in league history, Durant’s combination of size, shooting, and ball-handling allowed him to score at will. No surprise, Durant leads all players in 40-point games for the Thunder ahead of Russell Westbrook (43).

Durant’s time with the Thunder saw him win four scoring titles and an MVP award, establishing him as one of the league's elite players. His 40-point games are a reflection of his relentless scoring ability and his 54-point performance against the Golden State Warriors marked the second-best of his career and the highest during his stint in Oklahoma City.

Orlando Magic: Nikola Vucevic - 3 40-Point Games

Nikola Vucevic recorded 3 games with 40 or more points during his time with the Orlando Magic, serving as their offensive anchor for much of his tenure. Known for his scoring versatility, Vucevic could stretch the floor with his three-point shooting or dominate inside with post moves. His 43-point performance against the Chicago Bulls demonstrated his ability to carry the team offensively and interestingly, he tied his career-high with 43 points as a member of the Bulls two seasons later.

While Vucevic may not have had as many 40-point games as some other stars, his consistent scoring and rebounding efforts were vital to the Magic's competitive efforts during his years there. His 40-point games often came when the team needed him most.

Philadelphia 76ers: Joel Embiid - 48 40-Point Games

Joel Embiid has been a dominant force for the Philadelphia 76ers, recording 48 games with 40 or more points. His combination of size, skill, and touch has made him nearly unguardable, particularly in the post which is why the big man captured the MVP award in the 2022-23 season. Also to no one's surprise, Embiid only trails Allen Iverson (76) for the franchise record.

Embiid's 40-point games are often marked by a blend of finesse and power, and his presence on the floor has redefined the center position in the modern NBA. Embiid's iconic 70-point performance was beyond shocking because we haven't seen a big man dominate a game with scoring since Wilt Chamberlain.

Phoenix Suns: Devin Booker - 32 40-Point Games

Devin Booker has recorded 32 games with 40 or more points for the Phoenix Suns, a mark that is the highest in franchise history ahead of Amar'e Stoudemire (15). Booker's scoring prowess was on full display during his 70-point game against the Boston Celtics, one of the highest-scoring performances in NBA history. Known for his shooting stroke and ability to score from all three levels, Booker has been a nightmare for defenders since entering the league.

Booker’s 40-point games often feature a blend of step-back threes, mid-range pull-ups, and acrobatic finishes at the rim. As one of the young faces of the league, his ability to score at will has helped the Suns become perennial contenders in the Western Conference.

Portland Trail Blazers: Damian Lillard - 55 40-Point Games

Damian Lillard has established himself as the greatest scorer in Portland Trail Blazers history with 55 games of 40 or more points. Known for his clutch performances and deep shooting range, Lillard's "Dame Time" persona comes alive in these high-scoring games. Lillard is ahead of Clyde Drexler (17) for most 40-point games and it is still very strange to see the point guard in a different jersey.

Lillard's 40-point games are often filled with incredible moments, from deep threes to game-winning shots. One of the greatest players in Trail Blazers history, Lillard managed an iconic 71 points against the Houston Rockets in the 2022-23 season and that remains the best performance of the point guard's career.

Sacramento Kings: De'Aaron Fox - 14 40-Point Games

The player with the fourth-most games with 40 points in franchise history, De’Aaron Fox has recorded 14 games with 40 or more points for the Sacramento Kings, solidifying himself as one of the league’s most dynamic guards. The point guard had three games with 44 points scored, the highest mark of his career and the latest came against the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2023-24 campaign.

Fox's 40-point games are marked by his relentless drive and ability to attack the basket at will. As one of the rising stars in the NBA, his offensive skill set continues to develop, making him a constant threat on any given night. Fox needs to likely retire with the Kings to have a chance at challenging Oscar Robertson's record of 77 games or even Nate Archibald's 37 games.

San Antonio Spurs: Victor Wembanyama, Kawhi Leonard - 1 40-Point Game

Victor Wembanyama, the highly-touted rookie, has already made his mark with a 40-point game for the San Antonio Spurs, showcasing the potential that has made him one of the most anticipated prospects in years. Standing at 7'4" with guard-like skills, Wembanyama's scoring ability is as unique as his physical profile. His early 40-point performance is a sign of things to come for the young star, who is expected to be the centerpiece of the Spurs' future.

Kawhi Leonard, who had just one 40-point game during his time with the Spurs, was known more for his defensive prowess and efficient scoring rather than high-volume scoring outbursts. However, Leonard’s 40-point game highlighted his ability to take over offensively when needed. This game was a precursor to his evolution into a more prolific scorer in the later stages of his career with other teams such as the Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers.

Toronto Raptors: DeMar DeRozan - 13 40-Point Games

DeMar DeRozan, one of the Toronto Raptors’ all-time leading scorers trailing only Vince Carter for this record (14), recorded 13 games with 40 or more points during his time with the team. Known for his mid-range mastery and footwork, DeRozan was the Raptors’ offensive anchor throughout his tenure. His career-high 52-point performance against the Milwaukee Bucks epitomized his ability to score from anywhere on the floor.

DeRozan's 40-point games for the Raptors were characterized by his elite shot creation and his ability to get to the free-throw line. While Toronto's success in the playoffs was mixed during his years there, DeRozan's consistent scoring ensured that the Raptors were always a competitive team. His legacy in Toronto remains strong, as he helped lay the groundwork for the team’s later championship success.

Utah Jazz: Donovan Mitchell - 9 40-Point Games

Donovan Mitchell had 9 games with 40 or more points during his time with the Utah Jazz, cementing himself as one of the league’s most electrifying scorers. Known for his athleticism and fearless drives to the basket, Mitchell could explode for high-scoring games at any moment. With the Jazz, the shooting guard managed three games of at least 46 points which is the highest mark during his stint in Utah.

Mitchell's 40-point games were marked by a mix of three-point shooting, acrobatic layups, and an innate ability to score in isolation. His scoring ability helped lead the Jazz to multiple playoff appearances, where he often served as the focal point of the offense. Even after his departure to the Cleveland Cavaliers, his scoring feats with the Jazz are still fresh in the minds of fans.

Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal - 30 40-Point Games

Bradley Beal has recorded 30 games with 40 or more points for the Washington Wizards, establishing himself as one of the most prolific scorers in franchise history. Beal's ability to score from all three levels—whether it be deep three-pointers, mid-range jumpers, or crafty finishes around the rim—makes him a nightmare for defenses. His career-high 60-point performance stands as the guard's greatest scoring performance and Wizards fans will cherish it forever.

Beal's 40-point games were often the result of his high usage and necessity to carry the Wizards' offense, especially in seasons where the team lacked depth. His scoring outbursts have kept Washington competitive, and his loyalty to the franchise made him a fan favorite before his eventual trade to the Phoenix Suns.

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