As the NBA heads into the 2026 All-Star Weekend, the league’s best playmakers have already put on a masterclass in ball movement and creativity. The assists per game leaders aren’t just piling up numbers — they’re shaping the identity of their teams with vision, timing, and unselfishness. From superstar point guards to versatile big men, this season’s leaders prove that elite passing is still one of basketball’s most beautiful arts.
1. Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) reacts in the second quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Ball Arena. Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
– 10.7 assists per game
Jokić continues to redefine what playmaking looks like from the center position. His vision is almost point-guard level, threading backdoor passes and cross-court lasers with effortless precision. Denver’s offense flows through him because he reads defenses two steps ahead. What makes his assists special isn’t just the number — it’s how calmly and creatively he creates easy shots for everyone else.
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2. Cade Cunningham
Cade Cunningham
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the first quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
– 9.6 assists per game
Cunningham has fully embraced the role of Detroit’s offensive orchestrator. He controls tempo, keeps defenders on his hip, and consistently finds shooters in rhythm. His size allows him to see over defenses, making sharp reads out of pick-and-roll situations. Cade’s passing has become the heartbeat of the Pistons’ offense.
3. Luka Doncic
3. Luka Doncic
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during the second quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
– 8.6 assists per game
Dončić remains one of the most dangerous dual threats in the league. His scoring gravity forces double teams, and he punishes them with pinpoint passes to cutters and shooters. Luka’s ability to manipulate defenders with hesitation dribbles opens up lanes others simply don’t see. Every possession feels like a chess match — and he’s usually winning it.
4. Jalen Johnson
Jalen Johnson
Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) handles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
– 8.2 assists per game
Johnson’s playmaking leap has been one of the most impressive developments this season. As a forward, he pushes the pace and makes quick decisions in transition. Atlanta benefits from his versatility, as he can facilitate from the wing or the top of the key. His assists often come from aggressive drives that collapse the defense.
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5. James Harden
5. James Harden
Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) during the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
– 8.1 assists per game
Even years into his career, Harden remains an elite offensive conductor. His mastery of pick-and-roll reads and pocket passes keeps defenses constantly guessing. He patiently surveys the floor before delivering perfectly timed kick-outs to shooters. Harden’s passing IQ continues to age like fine wine.
6. Jamal Murray
6. Jamal Murray
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Keon Ellis (14) defends on Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) in the second quarter at Ball Arena. Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
– 7.6 assists per game
Murray’s chemistry with Jokić fuels one of the league’s most fluid offenses. He balances scoring and facilitating beautifully, knowing when to attack and when to distribute. His ability to draw help defenders opens clean looks on the perimeter. Murray’s assists often come in high-pressure moments, showcasing his composure.
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7. Andrew Nembhard
Andrew Nembhard
Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) controls the ball against New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) during the first quarter at Madison Square Garden. Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
– 7.5 assists per game
Nembhard has quietly developed into a reliable floor general for Indiana. He makes smart, efficient reads and rarely forces unnecessary passes. His steady presence keeps the Pacers organized, especially in half-court sets. The growth in his assist numbers reflects his increasing confidence and command.
8. LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball
Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
– 7.4 assists per game
LaMelo’s flair is unmatched when it comes to creative passing. Whether it’s a no-look dime or a full-court hit-ahead pass, he thrives on turning routine plays into highlights. His instinctive feel for spacing allows him to find teammates in stride. Charlotte’s offense sparks whenever he’s orchestrating.
9. Isaiah Collier
Isaiah Collier
Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (8) passes during the second half against the Orlando Magic at Kia Center. Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
– 7.2 assists per game
Collier’s emergence as a facilitator has been a bright spot for Utah. He shows maturity beyond his years with his patience in the lane and sharp kick-outs to shooters. His ability to break down defenders off the dribble creates consistent scoring chances for teammates. The assist numbers highlight his growing comfort at the NBA level.
10. Davion Mitchell
Davion Mitchell
Miami Heat guard Davion Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (8) during the third quarter at Kaseya Center. Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
– 7.1 assists per game
Mitchell’s playmaking complements his well-known defensive intensity. He attacks gaps aggressively, forcing rotations that lead to open looks. His improved court awareness has elevated Miami’s ball movement this season. Mitchell’s assists often come from hustle plays that turn defense into offense.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) drives to the basket against Charlotte Hornets guard/forward Kon Knueppel (7) during the second half at Spectrum Center. Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
With the spotlight of All-Star Weekend shining bright, these assist leaders have earned their place among the league’s most impactful players. Their ability to elevate teammates and control the flow of the game makes them invaluable every single night. As the second half of the season unfolds, expect their playmaking brilliance to continue defining the race toward the playoffs.
* as of February 10, 2026
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