Throughout the years, unstoppable superstars like Wilt Chamberlain, Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson, James Harden, and Kevin Durant have dazzled NBA fans with their proclivity for scoring.
Even though scoring 30 points in a game is noteworthy, the top scorers frequently top 40 points. Let's quickly review the NBA players with the most 40-point performances.
Elgin Baylor
Elgin Baylor gets lost when we talk about the greatest players of all-time, but the electric small forward is one of the best in the game. At #5, Baylor scored 40 points eighty-eight times in his career mostly with the LA Lakers.
James Harden
He lands fourth on this list with 101 40-point games in his career. Harden’s step-back 3, crafty footwork, and lefty finish have made him almost unguardable back in his prime in 2017-2020.
Kobe Bryant
The late great Kobe Bryant is 3rd on this list and rightfully so. He managed to score 40-points 122 times in his career. Kobe’s game is modeled after Jordan’s and for the longest time, Kobe considered Jordan to be his big brother.
Michael Jordan
In second place on this list is the G.O.A.T. himself Michael Jordan. Jordan managed to score 40 points or more on 173 occasions. He led the Chicago Bulls to 6 championships and was named the MVP 5 times.
Wilt Chamberlain
It should come as a surprise to no one to see Wilt Chamberlain top this list. It seems that there isn’t a record in the NBA that doesn’t have Wilt’s name next to it. Chamberlain managed to score 40 points a whopping 271 times.