Patrick Beverley Names the Greatest Point Guard of All Time: His Pick Might Surprise You
When it comes to NBA point guards, the debate over who holds the title of the greatest of all time sparks passionate arguments among fans, analysts, and even players themselves. Recently, veteran guard Patrick Beverley threw his own name into the conversation—not as the GOAT, but as a voice weighing in on who truly deserves that crown.
On a recent episode of his podcast The Pat Bev Pod, Beverley was asked to name the greatest point guard in NBA history. Without hesitation, he responded: Magic Johnson. No debate.
Beverley’s answer might seem predictable, but in a league where modern fans often lean toward Stephen Curry’s revolutionary shooting or Chris Paul’s playmaking longevity, his nod to Magic speaks volumes about how today’s players still revere the legends who laid the foundation for the game.
Magic changed the game. He made 6’9” at point guard normal. He won. He led. He was Showtime. That’s not something you overlook, Beverley explained.
While others might bring up stats, championships, or advanced analytics to make the case for someone else, Beverley’s focus was on impact and leadership. He emphasized that Magic Johnson not only dominated on the court but redefined what it meant to be a point guard.
Still, Beverley didn’t discredit the modern generation. I love Steph. I love what he’s done. Changed the game, made shooting what it is today. But Magic? He was the game, he added.
Coming from a player known for his gritty defense and intense on-court demeanor, Beverley’s perspective holds weight. He’s shared the floor with some of the best guards of this era—Damian Lillard, Russell Westbrook, Curry himself—and he’s always played with an edge rooted in respect for the game’s history.
The GOAT point guard debate will rage on, but Beverley’s take reminds fans to never forget the giants who came before. Whether you agree or not, Magic Johnson’s legacy remains untouchable in the eyes of one of the league’s fiercest competitors.
And in Beverley’s words: You can’t talk point guards and leave Magic out. You just can’t.Patrick Beverley has faced Stephen Curry in multiple playoff series throughout his career.
