John Stockton might not have been the flashiest NBA legend, but he owns two of the most unbreakable records in basketball history: all-time assists leader (15,806) and steals king (3,265).

But just how insane is his assists record? Let’s break it down—and why even modern stars like LeBron, CP3, and Magic Johnson never stood a chance.

Why Stockton’s Record Is Untouchable

1️⃣ Iron Man Durability

Played 19 seasons, 17 of them FULL 82-game slates.

Only missed 22 games TOTAL in his career. (For comparison: Joel Embiid has missed 22 games this season alone.)

2️⃣ Assist Machine

Career average: 10.1 APG—that’d lead the NBA today.

Peak years? 14+ APG like it was nothing.

9 straight assist titles (no one else has more than 6).

3️⃣ The Mailman Connection

Half his dimes went to Karl Malone—the most lethal pick-and-roll duo ever.

No stat-padding: Assists were stricter back then (player had to shoot immediately).

4️⃣ Playoffs Every. Single. Year.

Never missed the postseason in 19 seasons. This wasn’t empty calorie stats—it was sustained dominance.

Why Modern Superstars Can’t Touch It

 LeBron James (11,455 assists – 3rd all-time)

22 seasons deep, still 4,351 assists short.

Even at 10 APG, he’d need 7 more injury-free seasons (lol).

Only one 82-game season in his career (2017-18).

Magic Johnson (10,141 assists – 6th all-time)

Retired at 31 (HIV diagnosis).

Was still dropping 12.5 APG in his final full season—could’ve challenged Stockton if he played longer.

Chris Paul (12,328 assists – 2nd all-time)

The closest active player… but too many injuries.

At 39, he’d need 5+ more elite seasons—not happening.

The ONLY Active Player With a Shot: Trae Young

✅ Averaging 9.7 APG for his career (11.4 this season).
✅ Three straight 10+ APG seasons since shifting to a pass-first style.
✅ Only 25 years old—has time to chase it.

BUT…

Needs to play 15+ more seasons at this pace (good luck staying healthy).

Must avoid decline (see: Westbrook’s falloff).

Would have to outlast rule changes (assists are easier to get now).

Verdict: Stockton’s Record Is SAFE

Unless Trae Young turns into a bionic point guard, this record might stand forever.