Detroit Pistons star Malik Beasley believes he has the ability to finish the season as the league’s top three point shooter.
The evolution of the three point shot in the NBA over the past 30 years has split opinion.
But there is no denying there is a real art to shooting the three at a prolific rate, as the Golden State Warriors proved during their peak years, and the Boston Celtics demonstrated last season.
A player who has worked hard to add the shot to his game is Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards.
Anthony Edwards is the top three point shooter in the NBA currently. It has helped his ascent to superstar status.
But with the season not yet complete, there is no guarantee Edwards will finish at number one.
There is strong competition from Detroit Pistons star Malik Beasley, who is narrowly behind, and don’t rule Steph Curry out either.
| Player | Team | Three pointers | Games played |
| Anthony Edwards | Minnesota Timberwolves | 235 | 57 |
| Malik Beasley | Detroit Pistons | 226 | 58 |
| Stephen Curry | Golden State Warriors | 208 | 48 |
| Donovan Mitchell | Cleveland Cavaliers | 196 | 54 |
| Tyler Herro | Miami Heat | 196 | 53 |
It is notable in this battle that Malik Beasley has his eye on finishing number one, believing he can do it.
Speaking on a stream with N3on, Malik Beasley says he will find his way to the top spot – providing he gets the minutes required.
“Yes I can. He plays more minutes than me, and has more shots up, so that’s probably the only thing holding me back.
“But I will beat Anthony Edwards eventually.”
Beasley, 28, used to play alongside Edwards on the Timberwolves and knows him well.
And he is right that he has a disadvantage when it comes to minutes, demonstrating that he is making the most of his opportunity.
This season Anthony Edwards is averaging 36.8 minutes per game. Malik Beasley is averaging 27.6 minutes per game.
So if the Detroit Pistons star can overhaul him, it will be a very impressive achievement.
