Steals are one of the most crucial defensive stats in basketball. The ability to read the game, anticipate passes, and disrupt opponents makes a great defender. In NBA history, some players have mastered the art of stealing the ball and changing the momentum of a game. Here, we look at the Top 10 Steals Leaders in NBA History, ranking them from #10 to #1 based on their career steals.
Here The List Of Top 10 Steals Leaders in NBA History
10. Hakeem Olajuwon – 2,162 Steals
Hakeem Olajuwon is one of the best defensive players in NBA history. He was known for his quick hands and elite footwork, making him a nightmare for offensive players. Despite being a center, he ranks #10 among the Steals Leaders in NBA History, which is rare for a big man. Olajuwon’s ability to time his steals while also being an elite shot-blocker made him one of the greatest two-way players ever.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Hakeem Olajuwon | 2,162 |
9. Clyde Drexler – 2,207 Steals
Clyde Drexler was not just a scoring machine; he was also an elite defender. His long arms and quick reflexes helped him intercept passes and create fast-break opportunities. As the 9th-ranked player in Steals Leaders in NBA History, Drexler’s defensive contributions were key to his team’s success. His ability to combine offense and defense made him one of the most well-rounded guards in NBA history.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Clyde Drexler | 2,207 |
8. Scottie Pippen – 2,307 Steals
Scottie Pippen was the defensive anchor for the Chicago Bulls during their championship runs. His versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions, and he was known for his ability to shut down elite scorers. As the 8th-ranked player in Steals Leaders in NBA History, Pippen’s ability to steal the ball and create fast breaks made him an essential part of the Bulls’ dynasty. His combination of length, speed, and defensive IQ was unmatched.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Scottie Pippen | 2,307 |
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7. Maurice Cheeks – 2,310 Steals
Maurice Cheeks was an underrated defensive star who had an incredible ability to read the game. His quick hands and positioning helped him rack up 2,310 steals, ranking 7th in Steals Leaders in NBA History. Despite not being the biggest or most athletic player, Cheeks used his intelligence and discipline to become one of the best defenders at the point guard position.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Maurice Cheeks | 2,310 |
6. LeBron James – 2,311 Steals
LeBron James is one of the most complete players in NBA history. While he is known for his scoring and playmaking, his defensive skills are also elite. He ranks 6th in Steals Leaders in NBA History, with 2,311 steals and counting. His combination of size, speed, and basketball IQ allows him to disrupt passing lanes and create fast-break opportunities. LeBron’s defensive versatility makes him one of the greatest two-way players ever.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| LeBron James | 2,311 |
5. Gary Payton – 2,445 Steals
Gary Payton, also known as “The Glove,” was one of the greatest perimeter defenders in NBA history. He had a reputation for locking down elite scorers and getting into their heads. His 2,445 steals place him 5th among the Steals Leaders in NBA History. Payton’s aggressive defense and trash talk made him a nightmare for opponents, and he remains one of the best defensive point guards ever.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Gary Payton | 2,445 |
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4. Michael Jordan – 2,514 Steals
Michael Jordan was not only an offensive legend but also a dominant defender. He won Defensive Player of the Year in 1988 and consistently ranked among the best in steals. Jordan’s 2,514 steals make him 4th in Steals Leaders in NBA History. His ability to read passing lanes and pressure ball handlers was a key part of his greatness. Jordan’s defense was a crucial factor in his six championships.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Michael Jordan | 2,514 |
3. Chris Paul – 2,672 Steals
Chris Paul is one of the smartest defenders in NBA history. Despite being undersized, he uses his quickness and anticipation to disrupt opponents. He ranks 3rd among the Steals Leaders in NBA History, with 2,672 steals and counting. His leadership on both ends of the court has made him one of the best point guards of all time. Paul’s ability to control the game with both his offense and defense makes him elite.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Chris Paul | 2,672 |
2. Jason Kidd – 2,684 Steals
Jason Kidd was a defensive powerhouse at the point guard position. His vision, quick hands, and relentless energy made him a nightmare for opposing teams. With 2,684 steals, he ranks 2nd in Steals Leaders in NBA History. Kidd’s ability to turn defense into offense helped him become one of the best all-around players in the league. His defensive skills were key in leading the Dallas Mavericks to an NBA Championship in 2011.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| Jason Kidd | 2,684 |
1. John Stockton – 3,265 Steals
John Stockton is the undisputed steals leader in NBA history. His incredible defensive awareness and quick hands allowed him to rack up 3,265 steals, making him #1 in Steals Leaders in NBA History. Stockton was not the most athletic player, but his anticipation and effort made him a defensive legend. He remains the all-time leader in both steals and assists, cementing his place as one of the greatest point guards ever.
| Player | Steals |
|---|---|
| John Stockton | 3,265 |
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