If you’re a beast in the paint, it’s going to take more than the right physical attributes in NBA 2K21. Badges are an essential part of any MyPlayer build, as these can not only complement your player, but they also give that extra boost when needed the most.
In the next-generation version of NBA 2K21, there a few badges that return from the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions, but there are some new ones as well. That rings true for Finishing badges, but which ones are the best for 2K21? Let’s go over our picks and our reasoning for each.
Acrobat
- Boosts the ability to make layups that have a high degree of difficulty
Let’s start off with the Acrobat badge, which boosts a player’s ability to make very tight layups. This badge would fit very well for any big (power forward or center), as it would add a little something extra against opponents who are playing tight man defense. It can be a war sometimes in the paint, so having a badge like Acrobat active can go a long way.
Fearless Finisher
- Boosts contact layups and decreases fatigue
Much like with the Acrobat badge, Fearless Finisher will work well with most builds for bigs. This badge boosts layup efficiency when making contact with a defender, while at the same time decreasing fatigue. Given that this badge gives two sweet benefits, it’s hard to ignore Fearless Finisher.
Giant Slayer
- Heightens the effectiveness of layups over taller defenders
Giant Slayer may not work well with all builds, especially those with either max or near max height. However, if you’re planning to go with either a shorter center build, a 6’6” or 6’7” PF setup, or even a strong guard that can make big shots from the paint, this badge might work well for you. Giant Slayer increases the effectiveness of layups over taller defenders, which should come in handy in essentially any situation.
Lob City Finisher
- Improves the chances of completing a successful alley-oop dunk/layup
Lob City Finisher is a straight-forward badge, as it boosts the chances of making a successful alley-oop or layup. This badge might sound rather basic, and it is, but the reason why Lob City Finisher makes this list is rather simple to figure out: it can work with pretty much any build. Whether you are planning to run with a big or small power forward, a havoc-wrecking center, or a sneaky shooting guard, Lob City Finisher can have a role in essentially any build.
Pro Touch
- Gives an additional boost for having good layup timing or aiming
Working the new shot stick in NBA 2K21 is a bit more difficult as compared to doing so in previous games, but once you get the hang of it, Pro Touch should be a nice complimentary badge. Pro Touch adds an extra boost to layups that have good timing or aiming, so in order for this badge to work, you’ll need to be proficient with the new shot stick. However, because this badge applies a boost to layups, the room for error is greater than when compared to a mid-range jumper or a three-point attempt. Considering that, this badge should work well with most builds for power forwards and centers.
