Clutch is a term that each person has their own definition of.
To me being clutch isn’t just about making last second shots (even though that is a component), it has a deeper meaning.
When the opposing team goes on a 10-0 run in the 3rd quarter and you are on the road making that next basket to stabilize your team and quiet the crowd sometimes is as clutch as making a 20 footer to win the game.
When you are talking about last second shots, it is more about the killer mentality.
Who wants to take the shot and who are opposing teams are afraid of. Kobe Bryant’s percentage isn’t as high as some of these other player, but you have to take into consideration everyone and Perez Hilton knows he is going to take the shot and he still drains a good amount of them. That means something to me.
These stats also kill some urban legends, mainly about Lebron never making a shot that mattered or interestingly to me the amount of winners Vince Carter has made.
Carmelo Anthony leads the way and is one reason why you have to take these stats with a grain of salt. No question Carmelo is a killer in the last 24 seconds of the game, unfortunately for Melo many of his shots haven’t came with anything of substance on the line.
Being clutch isn’t just about random game winners against the Bobcats but moreso when the stakes are at their highest. Just something to consider as you read over the list. This takes into account shots attempted with under 24 seconds left in 4th quarter or ot trailing by two or less in regular season and playoffs (from 00-01 season until now). Only includes active players.
Carmelo Anthony – 51% (25 for 49)
Chris Paul – 41% (13 for 32)
Dirk Nowitzki – 36% (21 for 59)
Ray Allen – 35% (21 for 60)
LeBron James – 31% (21 for 68)
Vince carter – 30% (22 for 73)
Kobe Bryant – 30% (31 for 103)
Dwayne wade – 27% (15 for 56)
Joe Johnson – 26% (17 for 65)
Derrick Rose – 25% (8 for 32)
Kevin Durant – 24% (11 for 45)
One last thing, the worst player on the last was Chauncey Billups aka Mr. Big Shot at 13%