In today’s NBA, it feels like the three-point shot reigns supreme. With an ever-growing emphasis on spacing, pace, and perimeter shooting, many fans and analysts argue that the mid-range jump shot has been relegated to the backseat. But is the mid-range truly a “lost art,” or are we simply witnessing an evolution in the way the game is played?
The mid-range jumper, once a staple of the NBA game, has certainly lost its luster in a league dominated by the three-point shot. Coaches, front offices, and players all preach the value of spacing the floor and taking efficient shots — and while the three-pointer and rim-attacks dominate, mid-range shooting has often been seen as a less efficient way to score. Still, there are players who have perfected this shot, proving that while it may not dominate the modern game, it’s far from dead.
Here’s a look at a few players who had the middy game on lock and made sure that the art of the mid-range shot was alive and well:
1. Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard’s mid-range game is a thing of beauty. Whether it’s a pull-up jumper off the dribble or a fadeaway over a defender, Leonard has made a career out of scoring in the mid-range. What sets him apart is his ability to hit those shots in clutch moments. In fact, his Game 7 game-winner over the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2019 playoffs is one of the most iconic mid-range shots in NBA history. His patience, footwork, and ability to create space for that smooth jumper make him one of the game’s most lethal mid-range threats.
2. Chris Paul
For years, Chris Paul has been the king of the mid-range. As one of the most skilled floor generals in the history of the league, CP3 has mastered the art of controlling tempo and using the mid-range as a weapon. Whether it’s a pull-up jumper in the pick-and-roll or a contested baseline shot, Chris Paul’s mid-range shooting has always been a key part of his offensive arsenal. It’s not flashy, but it’s effective, and his ability to get to his spots and execute with precision has helped him stay at the top of his game well into his 30s.
3. DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan has revived the mid-range game in a way that few players in today’s NBA have. In an era where many players shy away from long twos, DeRozan thrives in that area. His mid-range jump shot is arguably one of the best in the league, and he’s developed a reputation as a reliable scorer in isolation. His footwork, patience, and ability to elevate over defenders make him one of the rare players who has brought the mid-range jumper back into the mainstream.
4. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant is one of the most lethal mid-range scorers in NBA history. Standing at 6’10” with an unguardable release, Durant is virtually unstoppable in the mid-range. His ability to pull up from anywhere on the floor and shoot over defenders with ease has made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Durant’s mid-range shot isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about versatility. Whether it’s a quick pull-up, a fadeaway, or a contested jumper, Durant’s silky-smooth stroke makes him one of the best to ever do it.
5. Michael Jordan
It’s impossible to talk about mid-range scoring without mentioning Michael Jordan. The Chicago Bulls legend built his game around an impeccable ability to score from the mid-range. His fadeaway jumper, especially from the baseline, was virtually unstoppable. Jordan’s footwork, combined with his impeccable timing and touch, made him a threat from anywhere within 15-18 feet of the basket. His ability to rise above defenders and knock down tough shots in crunch time helped cement his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.
Final Thoughts:
While the three-point shot has undoubtedly revolutionized the NBA, the mid-range jumper is far from a lost art. Players like Leonard, Paul, DeRozan, Durant, and even Jordan have shown that it’s still a valuable weapon in any player’s arsenal. In fact, as defenses become more focused on the three-point line and the rim, having the ability to knock down mid-range shots can be the difference between being a good player and a great one.
So, is the mid-range a lost art? Not quite. It may not be as popular as it once was, but for those who still have it in their bag, the mid-range jumper is as deadly as ever.
