10 Best NBA Sixth Man Players

The best NBA Sixth Man players have always been crucial to their teams’ success, providing scoring, and energy off the bench. These players have made a significant impact by stepping into high-pressure situations and often changing the momentum of games.

Moreover, NBA sixth man players are great NBA picks since they are reliable for bettors looking for scoring options. But of course, these sixth man players offer more than instant offense.

Whether specializing as dynamic scorers, lockdown defenders, or playmakers, the Sixth Man is a valuable position in the NBA. That said, let’s explore the 10 best NBA Sixth Man players of all time, highlighting their contributions and defining moments.

10. Vinnie Johnson

Career Stats: 13.3 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 3.7 APG; 46.3 FG%, 31.2 FG3%

Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion

Vinnie Johnson starts off the list of the Best NBA Sixth Man players. Johnson earned the nickname “The Microwave” because of his ability to heat up quickly and score in bunches. Coming off the bench, he provided instant offense for the Detroit Pistons, having the ability to score effectively and efficiently. This made him an essential asset for the Pistons, especially during their playoff runs where they needed another scorer.

One of the defining moments of Johnson’s career came during the 1990 NBA Finals. In Game 5, the Pistons led the series against the Portland Trail Blazers, 3-1. Johnson hit a clutch 14-foot jumper with 0.7 seconds left. to seal the win and give the Pistons. His shot secured the Pistons’ second consecutive NBA championship, and this play solidified his reputation as a clutch scorer. 

Moreover, his nickname, “The Microwave,” became symbolic of his ability to get hot in an instant, especially in crunch-time situations. Johnson was an incredibly efficient scorer, especially for a player who came off the bench. He had an excellent mid-range jumper and was capable of attacking the basket as well. 

Apart from that, Johnson could score both in transition and in half-court settings, making him a constant offensive threat. He had a smooth, fast release on his jump shot, and defenders often struggled to keep up with his quickness.

9. Lamar Odom

Career Stats: 12.0 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3.3 APG; 46.4 FG%, 25.4 FG3% 

Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 1x Sixth Man of the Year, 1x All-NBA selection

Lamar Odom is ninth on the list of the best NBA Sixth Man players. Odom was incredibly versatile, capable of playing and contributing in nearly every aspect of the game. He could play both forward positions (small and power forward) and even handle the ball like a guard at times. This allowed coaches to use him in a variety of roles depending on team needs. Moreover, his ability to score, rebound, pass, and defend made him a highly valuable asset off the bench.

Standing at 6′ 10″, Odom had the skills of a guard with the size of a forward. His ball-handling skills were exceptional for someone of his height, and he could create plays for his teammates. Odom averaged 3.7 assists per game in his career, making him a reliable playmaker at his position. Moreover, Odom was also a strong rebounder, averaging 8.4 career rebounds per game, including multiple seasons with double-digit rebounds.

Odom won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 2011 while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. He averaged 14.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game on 53.2% from the field. His all-around contributions helped the Lakers in both scoring and playmaking off the bench. 

As far as NBA betting lines were concerned, Odom during his prime was an excellent pick up. Odom was good for at least 10 points, a couple of rebounds, and an assist or two.

8. Toni Kukoč

Career Stats: 11.6 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.7 APG; 44.7 FG%, 33.5 FG3% 

Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 1x Sixth Man of the Year, 1x All-NBA selection

Toni Kukoč is one of the best NBA sixth men ever because of his versatility, basketball IQ, and unique skill. Kucoč’s skills made him a major contributor to the Chicago Bulls’ success in the 1990s.

“The Croatian Sensation” was a unique player for his time due to his ability to play multiple positions. Standing at 6’10”, he had the size of a forward but the ball-handling and passing ability of a guard. This made him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. He could play small forward, power forward, and even point forward when needed. 

Kukoč’s versatility allowed the Chicago Bulls to use him in a variety of roles, both offensively and defensively. Toni Kukoč had a well-rounded offensive game. He could shoot the three-pointer, create his own shot, and attack the basket. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, especially as a forward, was one of his key strengths.

Moreover, Kukoč was known for stepping up in crucial moments, especially in the postseason. One of his most iconic moments came during the 1st Round of the 1994 Eastern Conference. He hit a game-winning shot at the buzzer to help the Bulls defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

His ability to perform under pressure was why he was an essential piece to Bulls’ roster during their championship runs. Kukoč was often called upon in key playoff games, and his ability to make big plays led to Chicago’s success.

7. Kevin McHale

Career Stats: 17.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.7 APG; 55.4 FG%, 26.1 FG3%

Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 2x Sixth Man of the Year, 7x NBA All-Star, 8x All-NBA selections

“The Black Hole” Kevin McHale lands on the seventh spot on our list of the Best NBA Sixth Man Players. He’s a Hall of Fame player and one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history. But McHale’s time as a sixth man was instrumental in the Boston Celtics’ success during the 1980s.

McHale was one of the most skilled low-post players in NBA history. His scoring in the paint was exceptional, possessing a variety of moves including the deadly “up-and-under” that was virtually unstoppable. 

While he came off the bench, McHale often dominated offensively, using his refined footwork and post moves to score efficiently. McHale averaged 17.9 points per game during the 1984-1985 season when he was used primarily as a reserve. As the first option off the bench, McHale showcased his high level of scoring while not starting.

Kevin McHale won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 1984 for his invaluable contributions off the bench. That season, McHale averaged 18.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game and 60.4% shooting. His ability to provide scoring, rebounding, and defense as a bench player was key to the Celtics’ success.

6. Michael Cooper

Career Stats: 8.9 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.2 APG; 46.9 FG%, 34.0 FG3%

Notable Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 1x Defensive Player of the Year, 8x All-NBA selections

While most NBA Sixth Men are known for their offensive impact, Michael Cooper broke the mold with his defensive prowess. Cooper was one of the top defenders of his era, guarding multiple positions for the Lakers during the 80s. Standing at 6’7″ with a 7-foot wingspan, Cooper had the length, agility, and quickness to defend both perimeter players and bigger forwards. 

He was a 5-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection, winning the 1987 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. Coop’s ability to shut down opponents, create turnovers, and disrupt plays made him an integral part of the Lakers’ defense.

As a sixth man, Cooper came off the bench and provided energy, defense, and some scoring, maintaining the Lakers’ tempo. He was a solid three-point shooter, and his floor spacing helped the Lakers’ fast-paced offense. In addition to his shooting, Cooper could finish on fast breaks, add secondary scoring, and create opportunities for teammates.

5. Robert Horry

Career Stats: 7.0 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.1 APG; 42.5 FG%, 34.1 FG3%

Notable Achievements: 7x NBA Champion

Apart from being a spark off the bench, some Sixth Men are called upon for their clutch gene. Such is the case for “Big Shot Bob” Robert Horry, who is one of the winningest NBA players ever.

Horry’s reputation for hitting big shots in crucial moments sets him apart as one of the best NBA sixth man. He had a knack for making game-winning or series-deciding shots, particularly in high-pressure situations. Bettors who wanted more exciting NBA player props back in the day would bank on Horry for game-winners.

Horry has a number of memorable game-winners under his belt. For instance, his three-pointer in the 2002 Western Conference Finals versus the Kings is an all-time playoffs moment. He also had an iconic buzzer-beater in Game 3 of the 1995 Western Conference Finals against the Spurs. Horry made a name for himself as one of the most clutch players in NBA history.

Horry won seven NBA championships during his career with the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and San Antonio Spurs. This is an incredible achievement that highlights his ability to contribute to winning teams.

4. Manu Ginóbili

Career Stats: 13.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.8 APG; 44.7 FG%, 36.9 FG3%

Notable Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 1x Sixth Man of the Year, 2x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections

Manu Ginóbili lands in fourth place on our Best NBA Sixth Man players list. Ginóbili’s unique playing style impacts games in multiple ways, making him integral in the San Antonio Spurs’ success.

He brought scoring and playmaking off the bench as the Spurs’ go-to sixth-man. Ginóbili’s flair and creativity on the court had him Eurostepping to the rim and hitting clutch three-pointers. Moreover, Ginóbili averaged over 14 points per game during many of his seasons as a sixth man. He provided the Spurs with much-needed offensive production off the bench. 

He was also a talented playmaker, averaging over 4 assists per game throughout his career. His ability to run the offense when Tony Parker was on the bench was crucial for the Spurs’ sustained success.

While Ginóbili was known for his offense, he was also a very solid defender, especially for his position. His instincts, hustle, and ability to read the game allowed him to make big defensive plays. This included nabbing key steals, making deflections, or taking charges at pivotal points in the game. 

He was a key part of the Spurs’ defense-first mentality, making him guard multiple positions. This was important when he came off the bench against opposing second units, as he kept the pressure high. Ginóbili’s defensive contributions added to his overall value to the team, making him a well-rounded player.

3. Lou Williams

Career Stats: 13.9 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 3.4 APG; 41.9 FG%, 35.1 FG3%

Notable Achievements: 3x Sixth Man of the Year

Lou Williams lands on the third spot of the best NBA Sixth Man players list. Throughout his career, Williams has excelled in the sixth-man role, providing an instant offensive spark for his teams.

Lou Williams is renowned for his ability to score, especially as a reserve. He has been one of the NBA’s most effective and efficient bench scorers for nearly two decades. Williams averaged almost 14 points per game in a bench role, often leading the second unit with his scoring output. 

Williams has a variety of scoring tools, including a lethal pull-up jumper, and excellent finishing ability around the rim. He also had the capability to get hot from beyond the arc to give his team the lead. His ability to score quickly and efficiently makes him one of the most dangerous bench players in NBA history. Most NBA betting sites suggest betting on Williams for points and good field goal percentage back when he was playing.

Lou Williams won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award thrice (2015, 2018, and 2019). This solidifies his place as one of the best to ever play the role. During his Sixth Man award wins, he was the primary offensive weapon off the bench for his respective teams. As part of the Raptors and Clippers, he put up outstanding scoring numbers as part of the second unit.

Williams is one of the few players to win the prestigious award on multiple occasions, which speaks of his impact.

2. Jamal Crawford

Career Stats: 14.6 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 3.4 APG; 41.0 FG%, 34.8 FG3%

Notable Achievements: 3x Sixth Man of the Year

Jamal Crawford is the second best NBA Sixth Man to ever play the game. He epitomized the offensive spark sixth men are known for, thanks to his exceptional scoring ability, and versatility.

Crawford is one of the most skilled and creative scorers in NBA history, scoring from anywhere on the floor. He is known for his flashy ball-handling, lightning-quick first step, and smooth jump shot that would break down defenses. 

Once he got hot, his ability to score in a variety of ways made him nearly impossible to defend. This scoring versatility allowed him to be a consistent offensive weapon off the bench, regardless of the defense he faced.

Crawford won three Sixth Man of the Year awards, cementing him as the second best sixth man in NBA history. He won the award in 2010, 2014, and 2016 with the Hawks, and twice with the Clippers. Crawford usually came off the bench and provided immediate scoring, often changing the momentum of a game. This made him one of the most feared reserves in the league.

Moreover, Crawford is one of the all-time leading scorers off the bench in NBA history. He scored more than 19,000 points during his career, with most of that total coming as a bench player. Crawford’s high-level contribution off the bench for so many years is why he’s one of the best sixth men ever.

1. John Havlicek

Career Stats: 20.8 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 4.8 APG; 43.9 FG%, N/A FG3%

Notable Achievements: 8x NBA Champion, 1x Finals MVP, 13x All-Star, 20x All-NBA selections

“Hondo” lands on the top spot of the Best NBA Sixth Man players list. He is the reason why the NBA created an award for impactful players who came off the bench.

He was instrumental in the Celtics’ success, especially during their championships in the 1960s and 1970s. Hondo provided unmatched instant offense off the bench while being an elite defender and versatile player at the time.

He possessed a smooth mid-range jumper, and was known for his fast breaks, and relentless playing style. This made him average over 20 points per game in several seasons. Moreover,  Hondo’s versatility as both a scorer and a defender allowed him to fill many roles for the Celtics. He was up to the task when his team needed a go-to scorer or as a lockdown defender.

Havlicek’s incredible endurance and stamina were key to his success as a sixth man. He played at a high level despite often coming off the bench, usually racking up significant minutes. This is attributed to his incredible motor which allowed him to maintain his high energy throughout games. His relentless style and ability to tire out opposing players made him a unique asset to the Celtics.