Being the NBA’s all-time scoring leader, you would think that LeBron James would also rank at the top in the single-season scoring record, too, right? Apologies LeBron fans, but the ‘King’ is not at the top, nor is he in the top 10. Of course, you might argue that with the decorated resume that James boasts, this wouldn’t really matter. You’re probably right. But still, if not Bron, then who?

Surely, it must be the greatest three-point shooter! It is with a heavy heart that I inform you, Stephen Curry isn’t the ‘one’, either. Surprisingly, perhaps… not so surprisingly, it’s the Rockets legend, James Harden. Yup, you read that right. The only active player in the Top 10 of the all-time single-season scoring record is ‘The Beard’. 

Needless to say, the 10x All-Star got his place on the prestigious list during his prime years in Houston. It was the 2018-19 season when Harden tallied a remarkable 2,818 points that saw his name uttered in the company of some of the legends of basketball. The season also saw him average a career-high 36.1 points per game. In addition, James earned the title of scoring champion for three consecutive years, starting in 2018.

That wasn’t all, though. Harden also maintained a relatively high efficiency that season. The now-35-year-old shot 44.2% from the field, 36.8% from beyond the arc, and drained 87.9% shots from the charity stripe. While the man has had multiple high-scoring games throughout his career, perhaps the most memorable was his first 61-point performance in the Rockets’ 114-110 victory over the Knicks on January 23, 2019.

That matchup saw him tie with the ‘Black Mamba’s’ record for most points by a visiting opponent at MSG. More importantly, all of his 61 points were unassisted. Then again, his career 44.1 FG% and 36.8 3P% all point to the fact that James Harden was as consistent as they came. It was indeed an exceptional season for the 2018 MVP!

Not LeBron James nor Steph Curry – who are the other occupants of the top 10 list?

Now, we know that (don’t worry if you don’t, got you covered) the single-season scoring record shows a few repetitive names because it takes into account the highest points these players have totaled in one season. Following that logic, it is natural for the top 10 to have players whose names are mentioned more than once. Or twice, even.

That said, let’s take a look at the list.

Realistically, the chances of LeBron James making it into the top 10 might seem something of an overreach. However, we cannot discount the possibility. Despite nearing 40, James continues to perform at an elite level. In fact, he and the Lakers are vying for a championship in the upcoming season (as are way too many desperate teams!).

Anyway, James Harden continues to surprise us. Although he might not have a ring to his name, the 6x All-NBA First-Teamer has certainly solidified his legacy in the NBA. Considering that the 15-year veteran has been in pursuit of a championship for so long, and made the Clippers his home, just for his sake, we hope he gets that elusive ring this time.