80s NBA Point Guards Who Would've Crushed Playing Today

The modern NBA is tailor-made for guards. With more spacing, less hand-checking, and an obsession with pick-and-rolls, it’s a point guard’s paradise out there.

And while the 1980s had its own share of stars, some of those floor generals were playing about 30 years too early. These 10 point guards would’ve absolutely thrived in today’s game—stat sheets would explode, highlight reels would be endless, and fans would go nuts.

10. Derek Harper

Harper was a tough, two-way guard who could score and defend with the best of them. In today’s switch-heavy, perimeter-driven game, he’d be a perfect modern lead guard.

9. Maurice Cheeks

Cheeks was a steady hand who didn’t need to dominate the ball to control a game. With modern spacing, his playmaking and basketball IQ would shine even brighter.

8. Sleepy Floyd

Floyd had quickness, creativity, and one of the best names in NBA history. He’d be an absolute menace in transition and a nightmare in today’s open-floor offenses.

7. Fat Lever

Lever was a walking triple-double machine before triple-doubles were cool. His versatility and hustle would make him a fantasy basketball dream in 2025.

6. Dennis Johnson

DJ was a clutch performer and defensive force who knew how to run a team. In today’s league, he’d be the kind of guard every contender wants in their starting five.

5. Norm Nixon

Nixon had speed, flair, and court vision that would look right at home in today’s pace-and-space era. Put him in a modern system, and he’d rack up assists with ease.

4. Mark Price

Price was a lights-out shooter who ran the pick-and-roll like a surgeon. He’d thrive in today’s era of stretch fives and deep threes—think Steve Nash with more range.

3. Isiah Thomas

Thomas was already a star in his time, but in today’s game, he’d be even more lethal. With more freedom to create and no hand-checking, he’d be impossible to guard.

2. Kevin Johnson

KJ was fast, explosive, and fearless attacking the rim. In today’s wide-open floor, his first step and finishing ability would be completely unguardable.

1. Magic Johnson

Magic could play any position, but he was still a point guard at heart. With his vision, size, and creativity, he’d dominate the league today—and probably put up a triple-double just for fun.