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Chicago Bulls 2009-2010 Quarterly Report

It is about a quarter of the way into the 2009-2010 season, and the Chicago Bulls have seemingly regressed from last year. The Bulls are notoriously slow starters, and still have time to make a playoff push in the East, with a 7-12 record. So far the team has not looked good. The loss of Ben Gordon has hurt the team more than expected, the Bulls rank 28th in the league in scoring. Kirk Hinrich and Tyrus Thomas have both been sidelined with injuries, which hasn’t helped the team. Even with a healthy lineup, the Bulls have struggled to compete some nights. With that being said, since drafting Derrick Rose, the Bulls have failed to effectively build the team around Rose.

It all started with the hiring of Head Coach Vinnie Del Negro. The Bulls should have committed sooner to Mike D’Antoni. Rose would have thrived in D’Antoni’s 7-seconds or less offense (being one of the fastest players in the league). Instead Del Negro gets confused on the sidelines, the confusion seems to rub-off on Rose at times – as the Bulls offense sometimes looks stagnant. The Bulls have problems on the court, some players simply don’t mesh well with Rose. The Bulls shoot .432% from the field as a team (27th in the league), and .311% from three (23rd in the league), and are in the bottom ten for team assists per game at 19.5. The Bulls do have decent stats in team defense, ranking around the middle of the league in most categories. The bottom line is that the Bulls need to improve this season, without jeopardizing the summer of 2010 free agency. The Bulls might be best to let Del Negro finish off the season to see what he can accomplish, but Bulls management should be keeping an eye open for a Head Coach to hire next summer, one who likes to run a fast pace offense and swarming defense. Until then, the Bulls can still make a few trades to better their team this season and keep the franchise appealing for possible free agents this summer.

The Bulls need to add: perimeter shooting, high and low post scoring, and playmakers to help push them back into the playoffs. Here is the 2009-2010 roster priorities for the Chicago Bulls:

• Build around Derrick Rose

• The Bulls have one superstar-in-the-making player on the roster, and that is Derrick Rose. The Bulls will obviously try to find a go-to scoring option in free agency this summer, to pair with Rose, but until then the Bulls must do a better job of getting role-players around him. Rose is a player who plays extremely fast, who gets up and down the court, and pass-first. That means you need players who like to defend, run, and can shoot. It doesn’t hurt to have players who like to streak to the basket either.

• Keep: Joakim Noah, Luol Deng, Taj Gibson, and Kirk Hinrich

• Noah is proving himself to be a double-double threat and a pest on defense. Noah has a winning attitude and a swagger to go with it. He is the perfect garbage man in the middle of the Bulls defense, who does all the dirty work for the teams. Now the Bulls need to pair him with a scoring power forward.

• Luol Deng is a great fit with Rose. Deng is always the trailer running behind Rose and often cleans up a lot of Rose’s takes to the rim on fast breaks. Deng does not hold onto the ball and slow down the offense, and does not take bad shots. He is an effective team player, who puts himself in position to hit a high percentage of shots. Luol Deng is a keeper on this team, but may be best suited as a third or fourth scoring option.

• Taj Gibson has displayed a strong work ethic early on in the season. He is a keeper because he plays hard on both ends, and seems to complement Rose out their on offense. He is best suited coming off the bench for the Bulls – but is starting until they get reinforcements.

• Kirk Hinrich is not going anywhere. He is the ultimate glue-guy on the team. He can defend the one, two, and occasionally the three, and is a team player. He has never complained about his diminished role on the team, and is still a leader in the clubhouse. He plays well with Rose, because he does not need the ball in his hands to be effective.

Just because those are the only keepers, doesn’t mean the Bulls have to trade the rest of the guys right now. It simply means that the rest of the players should not be in the long-term plans for the team. The Bulls can maintain cap space for the summer, and acquire a few players that better fit the team.

• Trade Tyrus Thomas

• Since we don’t know who would accept or not accept a Tyrus Thomas trade, here are a couple of trades involving Thomas that would make sense for both teams.

1. Bulls send Tyrus Thomas to the Housten Rockets for Carl Landry and Kyle Lowery. It makes sense for both teams. All of the players are in the last year of their deal so the numbers match up. The Rockets could take a chance with a project player like Tyrus and try to turn him into a force playing alongside Yao in the future. Landry would be a tough, hard-nosed post player for the Bulls, who could benefit from playing next to Noah and with Rose. Lowry would be a throw in in the deal, but could end up seeing minutes with the Bulls.
2. Bulls send Tyrus Thomas to the Washington Wizards for Randy Foye and Dominic McGuire. Both teams are struggling right now and could use some tweaking to their rosters. The Wizards have a lot of players who need to have the ball to create for themselves to be good. The chemistry is not clicking in Washington. Foye is not seeing much action, and they would benefit from having a defensive player like Tyrus to roam the court. The Bulls could use Foye’s scoring ability off the bench, as he could be a poor-man’s version of Ben Gordon for the remainder of the season.

• Trade John Salmons

• Salmons is a nice player, but he has never adjusted to his starting role at shooting guard. Here are some trades the Bulls might consider, if either of the Tyrus Thomas trades above go through.

1. Bulls send John Salmons to the Phoenix Suns for Leandro Barbosa. Both players have two years left on their deals at about six million dollars per year. Salmons could put the Suns in better position in the post season, having a big two guard who can defend, to come off the bench for them. He could even spell Gran Hill at the small forward position, to save Hill’s legs for the post season. Barbosa only sees about twenty minutes a game this season, and could be awakened with a change of scenery. The Bulls could then start Hinrich at the two (like a new era Jeff Hornacek) next to Rose, and have Barbosa as the scoring 6th man.
2. Bulls send John Salmons and James Johnson to the Charlotte Bobcats for Boris Diaw. This trade would allow the Bobcats to slide Gerald Wallace to power forward, who basically is a power forward (averaging over ten boards a game). Then have Stephen Jackson and John Salmons playing either the two or three. This would provide flexibility in Charlotte’s lineup. As for the Bulls, we would have a skilled power forward I Diaw to fill in at the four-spot and help the ball movement on offense.

Trade scenario one is the best option for the Bulls. If both trades effectively went through from scenario one, the Bulls would be left with the same amount of cap space for this summer’s free agency, and their lineup would look like this:

- Point Guard – Derrick Rose               – Backup PG – Kyle Lowery
- Shooting Guard – Kirk Hinrich        - Backup SG – Leandro Barbosa
- Small Forward Luol Deng                 – Backup SF – James Johnson
- Power Forward – Carl Landry         - Backup PF – Taj Gibson
- Center Joakim Noah                           – Backup C – Brad Miller

This roster would propel the Bulls in the playoffs. The team would have an improved field goal percentage with Landry scoring effectively down low, and better three-point shooting with Barbosa on the perimeter. The Bulls would also still be solid defensively, if not better. If this trade can’t get worked out the Bulls may consider trade scenario number two. It isn’t as appealing as scenario one, but still will keep the Bulls with the same cap space for this summer. Trade scenario two would make the Bulls look like this:

- Point Guard – Derrick Rose            – Backup PG – Jannero Pargo
- Shooting Guard – Kirk Hinrich     – Backup SG – Randy Foye
- Small Forward – Luol Deng            - Backup SF – Dominic McGuire
- Power Forward – Boris Diaw         – Backup PF – Taj Gibson
- Center – Joakim Noah                      – Backup C – Brad Miller

This new-look roster wouldn’t be as good as the first option, but would still give the Bulls a better team. Diaw would be a nice fit, he can pass and shoot, and Foye would be a good scoring option off the bench. I think this would provide the Bulls with a little more scoring, and better team chemistry.

The Bulls have not lived up to expectations at this point in the season. If Gar Forman takes these priorities into account, the team will succeed. Either of the trades suggested would give the Bulls a better competitive advantage, without sacrificing the cap space for free agency this summer (2010).

Chicago Bulls “Dreaming Team”

When a team invests into a player via the draft or free agency, there are always expectations that follow. Sometimes a player can bring a buzz to a team or city and help revive a forgotten franchise. The word “savior” is thrown around an awful lot in the NBA. We have seen it with LeBron James brought the Cleveland Cavaliers from an annually irrelevant team to perennial contenders in the East. Shaquille O’Neal was traded to the Miami Heat and returned the favor with a championship in his second year there. The Kevin Garnett and Al Jefferson trade netted the Celtics a championship the first year KG played with the team. However, sometimes the arrival of a new player never brings pride and prosperity to the team that took a chance on them. Since 1998, the Chicago Bulls have had a crappy team’s worth of players who never lived up to their lofty expectations; but they have also had some players have opportunities to succeed – only to fall short. Here is the Chicago Bulls “Dreaming Team” since 1998, players that for whatever reason could not live up to the hype that came with putting on a Bulls jersey in Jordan’s shadow:

Point Guard – Jason Williams

• Drafted with the second overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft out of Duke, Jason Williams was one of the most highly touted point-guards coming out of college since Jason Kidd. Williams was in the conversation for the number overall pick even though Yao Ming (one of the most anticipated centers of this era) was also on the draft board. The Houston Rockets Selected Yao because they already had their own All-Star point-guard at the time (Steve Francis) leaving the Bulls with the prize collegiate player. NBA experts and analysts all labeled Williams as a “can’t miss” prospect after an illustrious career at Duke where he earned both the Naismith Award and Wooden Award as College Basketball’s Player of the Year in 2002. He also helped lead Duke to a victory in the National Championship game that year. The nbA was so ready for Jason Williams arrival that they invited him to play on the 2002 FIBA World Championship team. J-Will’s rookie season with the Bulls was filled with ups-and-downs but displayed his potential throughout the campaign. He started out off battling minutes with incumbent point-guard Jamal Crawford. He went on to start 54 games and average 9.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game; all while shooting a sub-par .399% from the field. Williams did manage to post a triple-double against Jason Kidd and the New Jersey Nets, flashing some of that game-breaking potential. At the end of his rookie year it was safe to say the expectations for Williams had not yet been reached. Still, most people familiar with the NBA predicted Williams would begin to flourish with a year under his belt. Before fans got the chance to see if these expectations would hold true, Jason Williams crashed his Yamaha YZF-R6 sport bike into a pole on a Chicago street. The crash severed a main nerve in his leg, fractured his pelvis and tore three ligaments in his left knee including the ACL and required physical therapy to regain the use of his leg. A week later the Bulls drafted point guard Kirk Hinrich to replace Williams who most certainly would never play in the NBA again. Many months later, after it was clear Williams would not be returning to the Bulls for some time, he was waived. Jason Williams was not a complete bust, his career still had a ton of untapped potential. Bulls fans will never know what could have been accomplished with Williams at the helm for the majority of this decade. Drafted behind Williams were future All-Stars: Amar’e Stoudemire, Caron Butler and former Duke teammate Carlos Boozer (whom the Bulls also passed on in the second round, opting for Roger Mason Jr.).

Shooting Guard – Kobe Bryant

• I still remember the Kobe Bryant to Chicago rumors like it was yesterday. It was in the fall of 2007 when the a video of Kobe telling to fans to “Get a Bulls jersey”. He was referencing a trade that would land him in Chicago. Kobe has a no-trade clause and became intent on being traded to Chicago; due to his disappointment with the direction of the Los Angeles Lakers. At the time, the Lakers were asking for a package that included: Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, Tyrus Thomas and Joakim Noah. The Bulls and Kobe rejected that trade. Bryant was insistent that Luol Deng was not part of the deal, as he saw Deng as a new-age version of Scottie Pippen. If this deal would have went through the Bulls would have looked something like this in their first year with Kobe:

-Point Guard – Kirk Hinrich

-Shooting Guard – Kobe Bryant

-Small Forward – Luol Deng

-Power Forward – Andres Nocioni

-Center – Ben Wallace

-Top Reserves: Chris Duhon and Thabo Sefolosha

The Bulls roster would have gone six or seven deep. However, it would have been enough to contend in the weak East. The previous season the East sent an over-matched Cleveland team to finals the to get swept by San Antonio. With Kobe Bryant on the Bulls that would attract solid veteran players to sign with the team for the chance to play with a contender; the same way San Antonio, Boston and Phoenix have done through the years. The Lakers were never on board with this deal and it never went through despite being virtually a “done-deal” throughout media outlets across the nation. The Bulls surely would have thrived had they nabbed Kobe Bryant. He and Kirk Hinrich would form one of the best defensive backcourts in the league. Luol Deng would be the slashing, mid-range shooting sidekick to Kobe’s lead. Andres Nocioni and Ben Wallace both would have provided the gritty work and garbage points, all while pestering opposing teams on defense. Chris Duhon and Thabo Sefolosha would be adequate role players off the bench. The Bulls would have eventually traded for or signed other key components to the team, possibly landing them to multiple NBA Finals appearances. It turned out to be one of the biggest rumors to circulate this decade and believed by most to be a foregone conclusion; in the end it turned out to be just that – a rumor.

Small Forward – Tyrus Thomas

• The Bulls drafted LaMarcus Aldridge second overall and traded him for Tyrus Thomas in the 2006 NBA Draft. The 2006 draft class was considered to be one of the weakest of the decade with no real superstars available. The Bulls needed a big-man that could score but decided to gamble on the player with the most “potential”. Tyrus Thomas was deemed that player. He had breathtaking athletic ability, being able to block shots with ease and dunk the ball at will in college. Many NBA scouts compared him to a Shawn Marion fused with Tracy McGrady type of player, but that never materialized. The Bulls would love Thomas to sprint the floor and use his jumping ability down-low to create mismatches. Tyrus sees himself more as a small forward though. On offense he has the tendency to float around the mid-range area waiting to shoot the ball; rarely does he slash to the lane or look to bang the boards for put-backs. So far Thomas’ career potential has been a slightly more athletic Stromile Swift. It is unknown whether or not Thomas will ever capitalize on his god-given gifts and beak free of the bad habits that has plagued his overall performance in the NBA. Thomas’ arrival to the Bulls in 2006 was suppose to be part of the reinforcements the Bulls needed in the playoffs, after playing the championship winning Miami Heat team to the brink of elimination the year before. The team did go on to sweep the Heat in the 2007 playoffs, only to lose to the Detroit Pistons the next round. Thomas did not play a significant role on the team’s success that season, averaging only 13.4 minutes per game in the regular season and only 12.2 minutes per game in the playoffs. The Bulls almost had a player they needed in LaMarcus Aldridge. Aldridge is a power forward who can shoot the mid-range jumper effectively and shows up every night to play. The Bulls also missed out on drafting Aldridge’s Blazer teammate and All-World shooting guard Brandon Roy. They opted not to draft Roy because they were set at shooting guard with Ben Gordon. Tyrus Thomas is another Bulls player who will never live up to the high expectations placed on him when he came to Chicago.

Power Forward – Tyson Chandler

• T he 2001 draft was the first draft to have a high school player drafted number one overall (Kwame Brown). It also featured a slew of other high school prospects, looking to strike gold in the NBA. The Bulls got the guy they were eying all along in Eddy Curry (more on him when we reach the “Center” position), then went ahead an did the unthinkable. Out of left field, Bulls GM Jerry Krause traded their franchise player and consistent 20-10 threat in Elton Brand, for the unproven high school star Tyson Chandler. Krause did not view Brand as a “championship caliber power forward” but for some reason saw Tyson Chandler as one. Chandler was constantly being compared to Kevin Garnett before playing the NBA. There was only one problem, Chandler could not shoot and was painfully awkward with the basketball. Krause had convinced himself that Chandler would be an elite power forward in the NBA on both ends of the floors, Bulls fans would soon find out he was wrong. Chandler never showed any confidence in his offensive game, usually freezing up whenever he touched the ball. He even struggled to stay on the floor due to lapses in judgment on defense. In the end of his Bulls stint, he was traded for an aging P.J. Brown. Chandler never lived up to his hype and is now on his third team since entering the league. The Bulls gave up an accomplished player in Elton Brand, to roll the dice on Tyson Chandler. Like many other gambles the Bulls have taken, it did not pay off.

Center – Eddy Curry

• In the 2001 NBA Draft the Bulls officially began a youth-movement, building around a pair of 7-footers directly out of high school. Eddy Curry was the prospect the Bulls were in puppy-love with. Curry had everything going for him. He was from Chicago, he was dubbed as “The Next Shaq” by many NBA scouts, and he could score in the low-post (something the Bulls have notoriously lacked throughout the history of the franchise). A front court of Elton Brand and Eddy Curry would be one of the biggest in the league – but not necessarily the most productive. Curry never scratched the potential he came to the NBA with. He has always been a decent low-post scorer, but was never good at anything else. There is a laundry list of things Eddy Curry refused to do during his stint with the Bulls, such as: not running the floor, not jumping for rebounds, being overweight and out of shape, committing stupid fouls and careless turnovers. Curry was and still is the definition of a lazy NBA player. The Bulls at least made a good deal when they traded Curry to the New York Knicks (they got the number two overall pick out of the deal in 2006). He now plagues the Knicks with the same type of problematic play. The Bulls missed out on a number of other highly talented NBA prospects in the 2001 draft. They passed on: Jason Richardson, Joe Johnson, Tony Parker and Gilbert Arenas (twice). The problem with the Bulls was that they were drafting on need (a big man) instead of taking the best player available. Eddy Curry was nothing but a complete disappointment in Chicago and shattered many fans dreams.

6th Man – Marcus Fizer

• The 2000 NBA Draft was one of the more forgettable ones in the past decade. The draft class was not very deep. To get an idea of how thin the talent was, Kenyon Martin was the first overall pick. The Bulls had there hearts-set on drafting Darius Miles, but the Los Angeles Clippers drafted him one spot ahead of the Bulls. The Bulls went with there backup plan and drafted Marcus Fizer out of Iowa State. The selection was fitting, the Bulls head coach at the time was Tim Floyd whose previous job was the head coach at Iowa State. Fizer was often compared to a less-athletic version of Charles Barkley. Experts got part of that comparison correct, he was not nearly as athletic as Charles Barkley was. Unfortunately, Fizer never turned out to be a quarter of the player Barkley was. He was a poor defender who did not appear to have the hardest work ethic. Questions about his commitment came into play and Fizer eventually found himself out of the league. He did have an occasional flash of offense on some nights, but ti was not enough to be part of a winning team. He never really looked like a basketball player to me. The Bulls also drafted Jamal Crawford in that draft, who also never panned out for the Bulls (although has had a decent career elsewhere around the league). The Bulls missed out on the opportunity to draft the likes of Hedo Turkoglu, and Michael Redd.

More often than not players do not reach their career potential in the NBA. The Bulls, and their fans seem to place insurmountable expectations on players coming to the team. Those expectations are often brought on because Bulls fans always compare everyone on the team to Michael Jordan, one way or another. Ever since Jordan left, no Bull has fully lived up to their potential or reached the desire goals of Chicago fans and media. But what are those goals, winning six championships and six NBA finals MVP’s? If that is the case, no Bulls player will ever reach that plateau. At the end of the day, these players made my Chicago Bulls “Dreaming Team”, because Bulls fans had dreams of these players bringing the team back to prominence in the NBA. For the reasons stated, none of the players lived up to their hype for the Bulls.

“NBA – 50 Greatest Players” Compared to Today’s Players

NBA enthusiasts often talk of a generation gap between the players of old and the players today. The debate of whether a player from an older generation would thrive in today’s game and vice-versa seems to be a constant question for debate. Another argument that always seems to come up is “Who is the next Jordan”. That question was a hot topic from the time of Michael Jordan’s first retirement, into the middle of the 2000’s. Kobe Bryant has seemingly answered the calls for the “Next Jordan”, but NBA fans constantly find themselves comparing current players style of game to older players they remember watching. It has been thirteen years since the release of the 50 Greatest Players of All-Time, and with the first decade of the new millennium coming to an end, there are a number of players playing today that can compare to the greats on that list. Here is the list of the NBA’s “50 Greatest Players” and their present-day counterparts, in alphabetical order.

1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (7-2 267 lbs.) and Yao Ming (7-6 310 lbs.)

• Kareem was an unbelievable physical specimen, listed at 7-2 and 267 pounds. However, so is Yao Ming. Listed at 7-6 and over 300 pounds, Yao has the physical tools to dominate the game they way Kareem once did. Yao does not own a sky-hook that was as dominant as Kareem’s, but he still has a variety of post moves that resemble Kareem’s moves around the basket. Yao’s go-to move may be his fade away on the baseline, which is basically unguardable. Kareem accomplished more than any other basketball player had during his 20-year stint in the league. No NBA player had ever scored more points, blocked more shots, won more MVP awards, played in more All-Star Games, or logged more seasons than Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Yao possesses some of the same tools that Kareem had, but still faces a long road of work to get anywhere near the career accolades that Kareem has achieved. Yao also faces perennial health problems, which may make it difficult for him to ever fulfill his career potential.

Career Stats:

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – .559 FG%, .056 3PT%, .721 FT%, 11.20 RPG, 3.6 APG .94 SPG, 2.57 BPG, 24.6 PPG

Yao Ming – .525 FG%, .200 3PT%, .832 FT%, 9.30 RPG, 1.6 APG, .40 SPG, 1.90 BPG, 19.1 PPG

2. Nate “Tiny” Archibald (6-1 160 lbs.) and Brandon Jennings (6-1 169 lbs.)

• I know it is still very early in Jennings career as he is only in his rookie season, but every time I watch him play I always think I am looking at a new-age Nate Archibald. I do not predict Jennings to lead the league in scoring and assists in the same season as Archibald did, but I do think they play with similar style. Brandon Jennings may very well turn into an All-Star in the NBA. If he does he will do it the same way Tiny Archibald made his way to six NBA All-Star games. Both point guards are listed at a generous 6-1 and average 165 pounds between them. Jennings is the kind of player you see on TV and think, “I am bigger than this guy” or “he is skinnier than me” but he still goes out and proves to be one of the best players on the court on any given night. These are both the 8^th grade AAU players that get called up to play on the their respective Varsity teams where the coach tells them “You have got the green light” and then proceed to shred the older team apart. Archibald was passed over by every team in the NBA the year he was drafted. Jennings was passed over by multiple teams in need of a point guard (including the New York Knicks who had only an under-equipped Chris Duhon running the point for them, only to pick forward Jordan Hill who has yet to get off the bench). Archibald played with that “little man syndrome” and with a chip on his shoulder, the same way Jennings does today.

Career Stats:

Nate Archibald – .467 FG%, .224 3PT%, .810 FT%, 2.3 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, .1 BPG, 18.8 PPG

Brandon Jennings – .457 FG%, .455 3PT%, .857 FT%, 4.3 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, .0 BPG, 20.7 PPG

3. Paul Arizin (6-4 200 lbs.) and Richard Hamilton (6-7 193 lbs.)

• Paul Arizin was a pioneer to the sport, being the first player to shoot the “jump-shot” in a time when everyone else was shooting two-handed set-shots. Arizin was an efficient scorer who relied on a steady dose of mid-range jumpers and solid defense. Rip Hamilton is a player in today’s game who earns a living making mid-range jumpers on a nightly basis. Hamilton is a pest to cover, as he is always running off of screens looking for a jump-shot. Hamilton is also a big two-guard who is a legit defender. Hamilton is not and will never be the rebounder that Arizin was.

Career Stats:

Paul Arizin – .421 FG%, .810 FT%, 8.6 RPG, 2.3 APG, 22.8 PPG

Rip Hamilton – .454 FG%, .348 3PT%, .853 FT%, 3.3 RPG, 3.4 APG, .8 SPG, .2 BPG, 17.9 PPG

4. Charles Barkley (6-6 252 lbs.) and Amar’e Stoudemire (6-10 249 lbs.)

• This may have been the hardest comparison with any of the 50 Greatest Players. Barkley was a basketball oddity when it came to terms of a “prospect”. He was listed at 6-6 although most agree he is closer to 6-4. Despite being so short, he was a staggering 250+ pounds and could bang down low with any of the big guys in the league. He had the ability to pull down a rebound and take it coast-to-coast all by himself for the finish. Nicknamed “The Round Mound of Rebound”, Barkley had a complete skill-set on offense, being able to knock down the mid-range and three-point shot consistently and being able to drive and finish around the rim quite often. The comparison to Amar’e is inevitably there. Stoudemire requires defenses to guard him up close from mid-range with the ability to hit 18-foot jumpers regularly. Stoudemire does have the given advantage with an extra six inches to his height, but displays the same explosive ability Barkley exhibited during his career. Sir Charles did have edge in ball-handling ability, rebounding, and three-point shooting, but both players shared traits in their games that were evident on the court.

Career Stats:

Charles Barkley – .541 FG%, .266 3PT%, .735 FT%, 11.7 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, .83 BPG,  22.1 PPG

Amar’e Stoudemire – .541 FG%, .192 3PT%, .754 FT%, 8.90 RPG, 1.4 APG, .90 SPG, 1.5 BPG, 21.0 PPG

5. Rick Barry (6-7 220 lbs.) and Hedo Turkoglu (6-10 220 lbs.)

• In his prime, Rick Barry was an offensive powerhouse. He could score from anywhere on the court and hardly ever missed a free throw. His secret to success at the charity stripe was the “granny shot”, Barry shot over 90% from the line for his career using the underhand “granny shot” at the line. Turkoglu is a player who I asked to make plays for his team while keeping others involved. Hedo is a good perimeter shooter as was Barry. One major difference is that Hedo stands a tall 6-10 while Barry was listed at 6-7. How many guys in the league are as tall as Hedo and can play point guard? Not many (Lamar Odom, Anthony Randolph), I don’t even think KG is as good of ball handler as Turkoglu.

Career Stats:

Rick Barry – .449 FG%, .330 3PT%, .900 FT%, 6.5 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.39 SPG, .33 BPG, 23.2 PPG

Hedo Turkoglu – .429 FG%, .385 3PT%, .800 FT%, 4.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, .8 SPG, .3 BPG, 12.4 PPG

6. Elgin Baylor (6-5 225 lbs.) and Kevin Garnett (6-11 253 lbs.)

• Elgin Baylor was everything Kevin Garnett can ever hope to accomplish. Baylor was the complete package. He could score from anywhere on the floor and was a relentless rebounder. He would often out-rebound centers throughout his career, despite being only 6-5 and 225 pounds. Baylor was also the consummate team player. Although frequently being called upon to score for his team, he was also usually one of team leaders in assists. His former teammate Jerry West was quoted as saying, “He was one of the most spectacular shooters the game has ever known. I hear people talking about forwards today and I haven’t seen many that can compare with him.” Kevin Garnett is blessed with the same kind of freakish athleticism that Baylor had. KG has the distinct advantage in being 6-11, but he still weighs about the same Baylor did while playing. Garnett is able to score in some of the ways Baylor did, but Baylor was able to do some explosive and acrobatic maneuvers that Garnett would not be able to pull off. Both players are consummate leaders to their team and play/played with an intense demeanor on both ends of the court.

Career Stats:

Elgin Baylor – .431 FG%, .330 3PT%, .780 FT%, 13.5 RPG, 4.3 APG, 27.4 PPG

Kevin Garnett – .496 FG%, .283 3PT%, .782 FT%, 11.0 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.6 BPG,  20.1 PPG

7. Dave Bing (6-3 185 lbs.) and Chauncey Billups(6-3 202 lbs.)

• Former player and Pistons scout Earl Lloyd once said, “Maybe some other player does this better, and another player does that better. Nobody does as much as Dave does.” The same could be said for Chauncey Billups as well. Bing seemed to thrive on not having any holes in his game, Billups is the same way. Chauncey always seems to do all the little things right, which has translated into overall success. Neither point guard put up amazing assist numbers. In fact neither player was a great showmen of their time, but Bing played hard on both ends and led successful teams in the NBA, as does Billups. Bing had to overcome adversity after sustaining an eye injury that doctors predicted would cut his Hall of Fame career short. To everyone’s surprise Bing came back and was just as good if not better than he was before the injury occurred. Billups also dealt with adversity early on in his career. He was unable to live up to his high draft status in Boston and bounced around from team to team his first few years in the league. He ultimately found his niche in Detroit and became known as an elite player. He brought that elite status to Denver when he was traded there for Allen Iverson too. Billups success in Detroit is a fitting comparison because Dave Bing is now the Mayor of Detroit.

Career Stats:

Dave Bing – .442 FG%, .330 3PT%, .775 FT%, 3.8 RPG, 6.0 APG, 20.3 PPG

Chauncey Billups – .416 FG%, .388 3PT%, .889 FT%, 2.9 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, .2 BPG, 15.1 PPG

8. Larry Bird (6-9 220 lbs.) and Dirk Nowitzki (7-0 245 lbs.)

• Year after year since Bird retired in 1992, I have asked myself “Who will be the next Larry Bird?” None of my optimistic expectations ever came through. I had a flaw in my logic. I was looking for strictly All-American corn-fed white guys to replace him. I always thought the next good white American baler was going to be the next Bird. There was Wally Szcerzbiak, Mike Miller and my idea of a “sure thing” at the time Adam Morrison. None of these players could live up to my unattainable expectations as the “Next Bird”. Then a 7 foot German with guard-like skills on the court took the NBA by storm. It took me a few seasons to realize it that this was it – Dirk Nowitzki is the closest thing to Larry Bird since – Larry Bird. However, no one will ever do more with less than Larry Bird has done. He was not fast, could not jump but he was one hell of a basketball player. Dirk has a slight edge physically over Bird. He is a legitimate 7 feet tall where Bird stood around 6-9. Nowitzki lacks the play-making ability where Bird thrived. Nowitzki is able to score in similar fashions as Bird could and relies heavily on his mid-range jump shooting. Both players possess a deadly accurate jump shot that is unparalleled to anyone in their respective eras.

Career Stats:

Larry Bird – .496 FG%, .376 3PT%, .886 FT%, 10.0 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.73 SPG, .84 BPG,  24.3 PPG

Dirk Nowitzki – .472 FG%, .378 3PT%, .872 FT%, 8.60 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.90 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 22.8 PPG

9. Wilt Chamberlain (7-1 275 lbs.) and Al Jefferson (6-10 265 lbs.)

• Of course it would be hard to find a player today as gifted physically as Wilt the Chamberlain. Few players in history had the offensive prowess and size that Chamberlain had. I debated putting Dwight Howard down here, but opted for Al Jefferson due to his more refined offensive skills. Jefferson is a great back to the basket scorer and has more offensive moves than Dwight. Chamberlain could score any way imaginable, while Jefferson has not reached that status in his career yet, he still has plenty left in the tank to get there. Both players are two of the bigger and more dominant post players of their generations with the ability to carry teams through offensive droughts. Jefferson does not have the social skills of Wilt Chamberlain, by that I mean Jefferson has not admitted to sleeping with over 20,000 women in his lifetime the way Chamberlain has. Wilt was never much of a winner either. Jefferson has never been the playoffs and (not to his fault) the Celtics won the title the year after they traded him.

Career Stats:

Wilt Chamberlain – .540 FG%, .511 FT%, 22.9 RPG, 4.4 APG, 30.1 PPG

Al Jefferson – .503 FG%, .696 FT%, 8.5 RPG. 1.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 14.9 PPG

10. Bob Cousy (6-1 175 lbs.) and Steve Nash (6-3 178 lbs.)

• Bob Cousy took the term “play-making ability” to another level. Cousy was an innovative point guard who pushed the pace of the game and the league. He brought a flash and showmanship to the NBA that fans had not seen before. Not only did Cousy rank among the tops in assists each year, he also was a top scorer in the league year in and year out. Nash is another player who shares the uncanny ability to find open teammates in dramatic fashion. His passes often leave crowds in collective gasps, spinning defenders heads around in the process. Like Cousy, Nash is often atop the assist leaders in the league wile also being a go-to scorer. One big advantage Nash has over Cousy is his efficiency scoring the basketball. Cousy had a career shooting percentage of .375% whereas Nash’s is at .488%. In today’s game it would be dismal to have your starting point guard shooting under 40%. Albeit, Cousy is still one of the NBA’s 50 Greatest Players and Nash is still making a case for his career among the league’s all-time greats

Career Stats:

Bob Cousy – .375 FG%, .376 3PT%, .803 FT%, 5.2 RPG, 7.5 APG, 18.4 PPG

Steve Nash – .488 FG%, .433 3PT%, .901 FT%, 2.9 RPG, 8.1 APG, .8 SPG, .1 BPG, 14.4 PPG

11. Dave Cowens (6-9 230 lbs.) and David Lee (6-9 250 lbs.)

• Dave Cowens was a relentless player and fierce competitor. He was an undersized center listed at 6-9 and 230 pounds, but that did not slow him from becoming one of the hardest working players in the league who made the most of his God-Given potential. David Lee is a similar type of player as Cowens. Lee, listed at 6-9 250 pounds is another hard-working overachieving big man in the NBA who unselfishly plays the game. David Lee has always been a tough rebounder and solid defender, but it was not until Mike D’Antoni started coaching Lee that his offensive game took off. Lee is not the 18-foot jump shooter that Cowens was, but gets his garbage points and second chance points the same way Cowens did. Lee has yet to be in the playoffs let alone propel his team to a championship the way Dave Cowens did.

Career Stats:

Dave Cowens – .460 FG%, .071 3PT%, .783 FT%, 13.6 RPG, 3.8 APG, 17.6 PPG

David Lee – .563 FG%, .000 3PT%, .756 FT%, 9.00 RPG, 1.5 APG, .80 SPG, .30 BPG, 11.1 PPG

12. Billy Cunningham (6-6 210 lbs.) and Shawn Marion (6-7 228 lbs.)

• Billy Cunningham was known as a winner, having won a championship as a player and coach. He earned the nickname “Kangaroo Kid” for his leaping ability on the court. Like Cunningham, Shawn Marion is among the league’s elite in terms of jumping. Marion also has earned a nickname for his freakish athleticism, commonly being referred to as “The Matrix”. The Matrix widely regarded as one of the better defenders in the league and has somewhat redefined the forward position by being a “hybrid forward”. Before Marion, Billy Cunningham was a rare hybrid forward. Marion is a small forward that can rebound with the bigger power forwards in the league and occasionally play at the four-spot; Cunningham had the same type of versatility.

Career Stats:

Billy Cunningham – .446 FG%, .071 3PT%, .720 FT%, 10.1 RPG, 4.0 APG, 20.8 PPG

Shawn Marion – .481 FG%, .337 3PT%, .820 FT%, 9.9 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.3 BPG,  17.7 PPG

13. Dave DeBusschere (6-6 235 lbs.) and Paul Millsap (6-8 250 lbs.)

• DeBusschere was one of the game’s all-time best defenders and earned that reputation by being one of the hardest working players in the league. He was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team in each of the award’s first six years of existence. DeBusschere was an average sized forward at 6-6 and 225 pounds, but he possessed a blue-collar work ethic that was second to none. Millsap is able to defend and work the same way DeBusschere would. Millsap is a team player who, often comes off the bench for the Jazz without complaining despite being a quality starting power-forward in the NBA. Millsap is also an overachiever who has made the most out of his talent since being drafted in the second round. Before writing this article I said to my roommate “Paul Millsap” is getting on this list some how, he is the epitome of a rugged old-school player. The NBA needs more guys like him.

Career Stats:

Dave DeBusschere – .432 FG%, .071 3PT%, .699 FT%, 11.0 RPG, 2.9 APG, 16.1 PPG

Paul Millsap – .522 FG%, .083 3PT%, .689 FT%, 6.4 RPG, 1.2 APG, .9 SPG, .9 BPG, 9.4 PPG

14. Clyde Drexler (6-7 222 lbs.) and Dwyane Wade (6-4 220 lbs.)

• Clyde Drexler was one of the most dynamic guards in the NBA during his time. He was an offensive juggernaut who attacked the basket at will – scoring at a high rate. Dwyane Wade is another high-flying type of guard. Wade’s game features an array of dunks and acrobatic moves to attack the hoop. Wade and Drexler have a championship under their belt (two for Drexler) and both are considered two of the best players in their generations. Drexler was not selected until the 14^th pick in the first round of the 1983 draft, Wade also was overlooked by teams in the 2003 draft slipping to 5^th overall. Is it bad that I feel this is a slight knock of a comparison on Dwyane Wade? I think D-Wade has a better career than “Clyde the Glyde” when it’s all said and done.

Career Stats:

Clyde Drexler – .472 FG%, .318 3PT%, .788 FT%, 6.1 RPG, 5.6 APG, 2.03 SPG, .66 BPG, 20.4 PPG

Dwyane Wade – .483 FG%, .283 3PT%, .773 FT%, 4.9 RPG, 6.6 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 25.3 PPG

15. Julius Erving (6-7 210 lbs.) and Andre Iguodala (6-6 207 lbs.)

• Julius “Dr. J” Irving was a dominant player in his era. He changed the way basketball was played with his “did he just do that?” moves. He was a high-motor player, performing drives that had never before seen. His midair spins and ball cradling were followed by thunderous dunks. Iguodala is a well-known dunker as he is constantly seen on the top plays with his dramatic takes to the hoop. They are both similar in stature and Iguodala plays for the Philadelphia 76ers, the team Irving was also a star player for. But really, Iguodala is no Dr. J – not even close.

Career Stats:

Julius Erving – .507 FG%, .261 3PT%, .777FT%, 6.7 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.80 SPG, 1.54 BPG, 22.0 PPG

Andre Iguodala – .469 FG%, .325 3PT%, .752 FT%, 5.7 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.80 SPG, .50 BPG, 15.7 PPG

16. Patrick Ewing (7-0 255 lbs.) and Elton Brand (6-9 254 lbs.)

• Patrick Ewing was one of the greatest centers to ever play the game. He was a constant threat on offense and a rock on defense. Ewing leads the New York Knicks in almost every major statistical category by the time he retired. Ewing was listed at 7-0 but NBA insiders claim he is closer to 6-9. Elton Brand is a similar payer in that he is 6-8 and can still play down low with most bigs in the league. Brand has extremely long arms for his height as did Ewing, making it easy for them to fall into two or three blocks per game. Brand is not the shooter Ewing was but is still efficient.

Career Stats:

Patrick Ewing – .504 FG%, .152 3PT%, .740 FT%, 9.80 RPG, 1.9 APG, .96 SPG, 2.45 BPG, 21.0 PPG

Elton Brand – .502 FG%, .143 3PT%, .737 FT%, 10.1 RPG, 2.6 APG, .90 SPG, 2.00 BPG, 19.8 PPG

17. Walt Frazier (6-4 200 lbs.) and Derrick Rose (6-3 190 lbs.)

• Frazier was an all-around player and a go-to-guy for the Knicks for ten seasons in the 60’s and 70’s. Frazier was a unique player who employed a well-rounded game that guided his teams to many wins. Derrick Rose is an old-school player in today’s game. He does not play for individual numbers, he instead plays for team success. Rose is a big point guard as was Frazier. Rose is a play-maker first and a scorer second; he looks to set up teammates and play the game the right way. Rose can eventually eclipse Frazier’s career if he puts in the time and work.

Career Stats:

Walt Frazier – .490 FG%, .786 FT%, 5.9 RPG, 6.1 APG, .82 SPG, .07 BPG, 18.9 PPG

Derrick Rose – .473 FG%, .208 3PT%, .791 FT%, 3.8 RPG, 6.2 APG, .8 SPG, .2 BPG, 16.6 PPG

18. George Gervin (6-7 185 lbs.) and Danny Granger (6-8 228 lbs.)

• George Gervin was a lethal scorer who won the league’s scoring title four times. Jerry West once described Gervin’s scoring ability, “You don’t stop George Gervin. You just hope that his arm gets tired after 40 shots. I believe the guy can score when he wants to. I wonder if he gets bored out there.” Danny Granger is a similar type of player as Gervin, he has the knack to score at anytime from anywhere. Granger could go onto to hold multiple scoring titles before his career is finished. Gervin was about 6-7 whereas Granger stands 6-8 with similar builds.

Career Stats:

Geroge Gervin – .511FG%, .297 3PT%, .844 FT%, 4.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.18 SPG, .84 BPG, 26.2 PPG

Danny Granger – .450 FG%, .391 3PT%, .840 FT%, 2.0 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, .5 BPG, 16.6 PPG

19. Hal Greer (6-2 175 lbs.) and Devin Harris (6-3 190 lbs.)

• Hal Greer was known for going to work every night. Throughout his 15-year career, Greer proved to be one of the most consistent players in the league. Both he and Devin Harris are about the same size at 6-3. Harris is able to guide his teams just like Greer, hardly taking a night off (unless due to injury). Harris also owns a lightning-quick first-step as did Greer, to blow by defenders.

Career Stats:

Hal Greer – .452 FG%, .801 FT%, 5.0 RPG, 4.0 APG, 19.2 PPG

Devin Harris – .456 FG%, .309 3 PT%, .800 FT%, 2.4 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, .2 BPG, 12.2 PPG

20. John Havlicek (6-5 205 lbs.) and Paul Pierce (6-7 235 lbs.)

• On stamina alone he’d be among the top players who ever played the game,” longtime New York Knicks Coach Red Holzman once said of John “Hondo” Havlicek. “It would’ve been fair to those who had to play him or those who had to coach against him if he had been blessed only with his inhuman endurance. God had to compound it by making him a good scorer, smart ball-handler and intelligent defensive player with quickness of mind, hands and feet.” Paul Pierce is the type of player who is just going to outlast his opponents. Pierce is also a great scorer, willing defender and intelligent player. Pierce was not blessed with the best basketball qualities, he is not extremely quick, he can’t jump that high, but he is a hell of a basketball player and a consummate leader on his team, as was Havlicek.

Career Stats:

John Havlicek – .439 FG%, .815 FT%, 6.3 RPG, 4.8 APG, .37 SPG, .97 BPG, 20.8 PPG

Paul Pierce – .444 FG%, .367 3PT%, .798 FT%, 6.3 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, .6 BPG, 22.8 PPG

21. Elvin Hayes (6-9 235 lbs.) and LaMarcus Aldridge (6-11 240 lbs.)

• Regarded as one of the most talented power forwards ever to play the game, Elvin Hayes used his trademark turnaround jumper and aggressive defense to secure his place in the NBA record books. LaMarcus Aldridge also features a turnaround jumper as his g-to move. Aldridge is not even close to the defender Hayes was, but there is still potential to tap in his young career. (It still kills me the Bulls picked Aldridge then traded him for Tyrus Thomas who will never reach his full potential. They could have had Brandon Roy too. Terrible – just terrible GM’ing by John “We like our core” Paxson.

Career Stats:

Elvin Hayes – .452 FG%, .670 FT%, 12.5 RPG, 1.8 APG, 21.0 PPG

LaMarcus Aldridge – .487 FG%, .000 3PT%, .774 FT%, 7.9 RPG, 1.5 APG, .7 SPG, 1.1 BPG, 15.3 PPG

22. Magic Johnson (6-9 255 lbs.) and LeBron James (6-8 250 lbs.)

• Magic Johnson was a unique player who revolutionized the point guard position and brought a sense of flare to the game of basketball. He was a triple-double threat every night and an MVP candidate every year. LeBron James brought a showmanship into the league that was few and far between. LeBron has an opportunity to average a triple-double throughout an entire season (which has only been done by Oscar Robertson) at some point in his career. LeBron is also a better scorer than Magic was, however he is not the winner that Magic is yet. LeBron has made it to the finals but was swept by the Spurs. When Magic went to the finals his rookie season against the 76ers, he started at Center in place of an injured Kareem and put up 42 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists in a series-clinching win. LeBron has yet to display that kind of versatility yet but still shows a capability of doing things few others players in the history of the game have done. I believe if you pair James with another elite scorer he could exert more energy on other areas in the game and average that elusive triple-double.

Career Stats:

Magic Johnson – .520 FG%, .303 3PT%, .848 FT%, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, .4 BPG, 19.5 PPG

LeBron James – .471 FG%, .329 3PT%, .738 FT%, 7.0 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.8 SPG, .9 BPG, 27.5 PPG

23. Sam Jones (6-4 205 lbs.) and Manu Ginobili (6-6 205 lbs.)

• Sam Jones had the bank shots, lightning quickness, and cool demeanor helped the Celtics win 10 NBA Championships in the 12 years he played with the team. Ginobili has the same quickness and cool drives in the lane who is one of the craftiest finishers in the league. Both players have been vital parts to their teams success and championship runs.

Career Stats:

Sam Jones – .456 FG%, .803 FT%, 4.9 RPG, 2.5 APG, 17.7 PPG

Manu Ginobili – .452 FG%, .375 FT%, .822 FT%, 4.0 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, .3 BPG, 14.8 PPG

24. Michael Jordan (6-6 216 lbs.) and Kobe Bryant (6-6 205 lbs.)

• Michael Jordan is widely considered the greatest player to ever play the game of basketball. His style of play and approach to the game has inspired a generation of ballers, many of who appear on this list. Kobe Bryant has evidently answered the call of the “Next Jordan”. He has the most championships among current players (tied with Tim Duncan and Shaq) at four, scoring titles and recently MVP of the league and the finals. Many would argue that LeBron should be in this compariso slot instead of Kobe; but no one since Jordan approaches the game as professional and as dedicated as Kobe Bryant does. He is often referred to as the hardest working player in the NBA. He plays top-flight defense to go along with his offensive repertoire just as Jordan did. Kobe’s offensive game and mannerisms on the court are very similar to Jordan as well. Kobe also has a post-up game that very few guards in the league have ever had, except for Jordan of course.

Career Stats:

Michael Jordan – .497 FG%, .327 3PT%, .835 FT%, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.34 SPG, .83 BPG, 30.1 PPG

Kobe Bryant – .455 FG%, .340 3PT%, .840 FT%, 5.3 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, .6 BPG, 25.2 PPG

25. Jerry Lucas (6-8 235 lbs.) and Al Horford (6-10 245 lbs.)

• Jerry Lucas is another “hustler” to make I into the 50 Greatest Players list. He hustled his way to a Rodman-like 15.6 rebounds per game while only standing 6-8 and weighing a lean 235 pounds. Al Horford is a big guy who can run the floor and hustles for his points. Although not the rebounder Lucas was (few are), Horford still is usually amongst the tops in rebounds every year. Both players are good defenders with a complimentary offensive game to go with that.

Career Stats:

Jerry Lucas – .499 FG%, .783 FT%, 15.6 RPG, 3.3 APG, 17.0 PPG

Al Horford – .516 FG%, .143 3PT%, .728 FT%, 9.6 RPG, 1.9 APG, .8 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 11.0 PPG

26. Karl Malone (6-9 256 lbs.) and Carlos Boozer (6-9 266 lbs.)

• Tough call here. There may never be a power forward like Karl Malone again. Built like a tank, he could run the floor with Stockton. Malone was deadly in the pick-and-roll game as well. He could knock down the medium range jumper regularly and overpowered defenders on his way to the rim. Boozer is only a fraction of Malone. He is able to knock down those medium range shots consistently but is not the fast and explosive player that Malone was.

Career Stats:

Karl Malone – .516 FG%, .274 3PT%, .742 FT%, 10.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.41 SPG, .7 BPG, 25.0 PPG

Carlos Boozer – .536 FG%, .111 FT%, .728 FT%, 10.0 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, .5 BPG, 16.9 PPG

27. Moses Malone (6-10 260 lbs.) and Andrew Bynum (7-0 285 lbs.)

• Moses Malone was the first player to play professional basketball directly out of high school. Once his career was over, he was considered one of the best centers to ever play. At 6-10 260 pounds Malone was one of the more intimidating players in the league. Andrew Bynum is also one of the bigger centers in the league at 7-0 285 pounds. Bynum is not yet the scorer that Malone was but has the potential to be a player in the mold of Moses Malone.

Career Stats:

Moses Malone – .491 FG%, .100 3PT%, .769 FT%, 12.2 RPG, 1.4 APG, .8 SPG, 1.3 BPG, 20.6 PPG

Andrew Bynum – .596 FG%, .000 3PT%, .674 FT%, 6.4 RPG, 1.1 APG, .2 SPG, 1.5 BPG, 9.3 PPG

28. Pete Maravich (6-5 220 lbs.) and Ricky Rubio (6-2 190 lbs.)

• I know Ricky Rubio is not even in the NBA yet, but when you watch the kid play how can he not remind you of “Pistol” Pete Maravich. Rubio has Maravich’s flashiness and showboating ability, however he does not have a shot the way Pistol Pete did. Maravich shot .667 from 3-point range over his career. The verdict on Rubio will be out for at least another year. He most likely will not play for the Timberwolves who drafted Jonny Flynn (who is a beast) a selection after him. Wherever Rubio goes he will play the same type of playground basketball Pete Maravich once did.

Career Stats:

Pete Maravich – .441 FG%, .667 3PT%, .820 FT%, 4.2 RPG, 5.4 APG, .89 SPG, .164 BPG, 24.2 PPG

Ricky Rubio – N/A

29. Kevin McHale (6-10 225 lbs.) and Kevin Love (6-10 260 lbs.)

• This might be a more obvious comparison than Kobe and MJ. Should I even explain it? Okay… McHale was a lanky armed white guy who could not jump but had a high basketball IQ. He was a good passer for a big-man and shot high percentage shots throughout his career. Not to mention he was a vital apart of multiple NBA Finals teams. Kevin Love is a new era McHale because he is throwback kind of player (like Millsap too), but he is not as fast or as gifted as a scorer. He does everything right and does not do many things wrong. He is a great outlet passer, good rebounder and has range on his jump shot. With hard work and dedication Kevin Love could ultimately end up as a Kevin McHale brand of player.

Career Stats:

Kevin McHale – .554 FG%, .261 3PT%, .798 FT%, 7.3 RPG, 1.7 APG, .35 SPG, 1.74 BPG, 17.9 PPG

Kevin Love – .459 FG%, .105 3PT%, .789 FT%, 9.1 RPG, 1.0 APG, .4 SPG, .6 BPG, 11.1 PPG

30. George Mikan (6-10 245 lbs.) and Chris Kaman (7-0 265 lbs.)

• I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to this comparison. Kaman is a legit 7 footer whereas Mikan was closer to 6-10. However, Chris Kaman is not one of the most dominating players of his era the way Mikan was. George Mikan was a man among boys when he played, in a time when people thought basketball was better suited for shorter players. The comparsion ends at their physical similarities. kaman can score and rebound, so could Mikan (except he was a once in a generation player, whereas Kaman is not). Kaman is a nice center to have in today’s game – that’s about as far as he can go.

Career Stats:

George Mikan – .404 FG%, .782 FT%, 9.5 RPG, 2.8 APG, 23.1 PPG

Chris Kaman – .537 FG%, .766 FT%, 8.6 RPG, 1.5 APG, .6 SPG, 1.5 BPG, 10.8 PPG

31. Earl Monroe (6-3 190 lbs.) and Monta Ellis (6-3 180 lbs.)

• Both Ellis and Earl “The Pearl” Monroe are similar in size listed at 6-3 and under 200 pounds. Monroe was a flashy player with a show-boater’s mentality – which turned out pretty good for him. Monroe was one of the deadliest scorers in the league when he played and brought flare to the game before Magic Johnson came into the league. Monta Ellis is one of the better scorers in the league just as Earl “The Pearl” was. Ellis does not show the same kind of flashiness in his game that Monroe displayed.

Career Stats:

Earl Monroe – .464 FG%, .807 FT%, 3.0 RPG, 3.9 APG, .5 SPG, .13 BPG, 18.8 PPG

Monta Ellis – .485 FG%, .295 3PT%, .767 FT%, 3.8 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.4 SPG, .3 BPG, 16.2 PPG

32. Hakeem Olajuwon (7-0 255 lbs.) and Chris Bosh (6-10 230 lbs.)

• Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon was and still is the most ideal prospect in an NBA draft. A 7-foot center with silky smooth moves and undeniable will on the boards, to go along with the long arms to aid in shot blocking. Hakeem had it all; that is why he was picked ahead of Michael Jordan in the 1984 NBA Draft. That is why Sam Bowie was drafted ahead of him but that is a whole other story. Chris Bosh was a rare talent coming out of Georgia Tech as a freshman. He has a similar game as Olajuwon with silky moves in the post and a face-up game to compliment it. Bosh may never reach the defensive prowess Olajuwon had on the court as a former defensive player of the year.

Career Stats:

Hakeem Olajuwon – .513 FG%, .202 3PT%, .712 FT%, 11.1 RPG, 2.5 APG, 1.74 SPG, 3.09 BPG, 21.8 PPG

Chris Bosh – .487 FG%, .312 3PT%, .794 FT%, 9.2 RPG, 2.2 APG, .8 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 19.8 PPG

33. Shaquille O’Neal and Shaquille O’Neal (7-1 325 lbs.)

• If Shaq had retired by now, Dwight Howard would have been the comparison here. But, since Shaq is still in the league he is still the best comparison to Shaq.

Career Stats:

Shaquille O’Neal – .582 FG%, .048 3PT%, .528 FT%, 11.2 RPG, 2.6 APG, .6 SPG, 2.4 BPG, 24.6 PPG

34. Robert Parish (7-1 250 lbs.) and Joakim Noah (6-11 232 lbs.)

• Robert Parish earned the nickname “The Chief” during his long tenure in the NBA. Parish played in more games than any other player in NBA history. Parish was a prototypical center standing at 7-1, with lanky arms and endurance that outlasted most other big-men in the league. Noah is also known as somewhat of a “chief” albeit for other reasons; but Noah is still a hell of an NBA player. He is tops in the league in rebounding this year and has the same undeterred hustle that Parish once showed while playing the game. He is also a lanky center who relies on his quickness and jumping to outplay other NBA big-men. If Noah expects to eclipse Parish’s career, he has got a long road ahead of him – at least another 20 years.

Career Stats:

Robert Parish – .537 FG%, .721 FT%, 9.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, .75 SPG, 1.46 BPG, 14.5 PPG

Joakim Noah – .524 FG%, .000 3PT%, .680 FT%, 7.0 RPG, 1.3 APG, .8 SPG, 1.2 BPG,  7.0 PPG

35.Bob Pettit (6-9 215 lbs.) and Antawn Jamison (6-9 235 lbs.)

• Bob Pettit came into the league under the radar despite being an elite college player. Many people in the pro game did not think the lanky 6-9 Pettit would be able to make it in the NBA – due to his small frame. Jamison also cam einto the league slightly disrespected, having been swapped for his college teammate Vince Carter and cash on draft day. Pettit was an undersized power forward who turned out to be one of the best rebounders of his era. Jamison is a top rebounder in the league today, even though he not considered a “big-guy” he is still one of the better power forwards in the league. Pettit was a go-to scorer as is Jamison.

Career Stats:

Bob Pettit – .436 FG%, .721 FT%, 16.2 RPG, 3.0 APG, 26.4 PPG

Antawn Jamison – .456 FG%, .347 3PT%, .733 FT%, 8.0 RPG, 1.7 APG, .4 BPG, 19.9 PPG

36. Scottie Pippen (6-7 228 lbs.) and Carmelo Anthony (6-8 230 lbs.)

• Scottie Pippen was the complete package as a basketball player. He could post-up, shoot from the outside, run the floor and defend all positions. Pippen was the perfect player to compliment a superstar (Jordan). Carmelo is an unstoppable offensive threat who is nearly impossible to defend. Pippen would have had the scoring numbers Carmelo has if he did not have to differ to Jordan. Carmelo is not yet the lockdown defender that Pippen was, but he has the potential to be that player. Both players are two of the most versatile forwards of their generation and have the ability to play the “point-forward” position.

Career Stats:

Scottie Pippen – .473 FG%, .326 3PT%, .704 FT%, 6.4 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.95 SPG, .80 BPG, 16.1 PPG

Carmelo Anthony – .460 FG%, .308 3PT%, .798 FT%, 6.1 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.20 SPG, .40 BPG, 24.4 PPG

37. Willis Reed (6-10 240 lbs.) and Jason Thompson (6-11 250 lbs.)

• Willis Reed was a brute force center who played pestering defense and had a complimentary offensive game. Reed played big on both ends of the court and even had the ability to knock down a 15-foot jump shot with regularity. Jason Thompson is nowhere close to Reed yet, but has the potential to someday reach that pennacle. Thompson has a soft-touch when shooting the ball but is not quite the defender nor winner that Reed was.

Career Stats:

Willis Reed – .476 FG%, .747 FT%, 12.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 18.7 PPG

Jason Thompson – .467 FG%, .000 3PT%, .715 FT%, 7.7 RPG, 1.3 APG, .6 SPG, .8 BPG, 11.5 PPG

38. Oscar Robertson (6-5 220 lbs.) and Brandon Roy (6-6 211 lbs.)

• Oscar Robertson may have been the most complete player in NBA history. He could score, defend, assist and lead his team. Brandon Roy is one of the most complete players in today’s game. Roy has yet to average a triple-double throughout an entire season but still plays the game at a high level. Roy has one of the smoothest offensive games in the league and approaches the game as a true pro.

Career Stats:

Oscar Robertson – .485 FG%, .838 FT%, 7.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 25.7 PPG

Brandon Roy – .464 FG%, .362 3PT%, .803 FT%, 4.6 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, .2 BPG, 19.8 PPG

39. David Robinson (7-1 250 lbs.) and Tim Duncan (6-11 260 lbs.)

• David Robinson was on the the most sought after college centers in the past few decades, Tim Duncan was too. Robinson may have been overall a better athlete but Duncan has proven to be the better winner. Duncan can score almost as easily as Robinson could. Both players are two of the best defensive players of their generations. Robinson also mentored Duncan early on in his career. Duncan makes his team better just as Robinson did, while playing together they were known as the “twin-towers”.

Career Stats:

David Robinson – .518 FG%, .250 3PT%, .736 FT%, 10.6 RPG, 2.5 APG, 1.40 SPG, 2.99 BPG, 21.1 PPG

Tim Duncan – .507 FG%, .185 3PT%, .685 FT%, 11.7 RPG, 3.2 APG, .80 SPG, 2.40 BPG, 21.4 PPG

40. Bill Russell (6-10 220lbs.) and Dwight Howard (6-11 265 lbs.)

• Bill Russell is arguably the best player (next to Michael Jordan) to ever play the game. He was the best defender of his generation and possibly the best defender ever. Russell had an underrated offensive game, preferring to differ to his teammates for a better chance to win. He is the winningest player in NBA history, having 11 NBA championships. Dwight Howard is not yet the winner or player that Russell was, but can make the climb into the upper-echelon of all-time great centers with hard work and dedication to the game. Howard is not the passer that Russell was but is one of the best defensive big-men in the game, just as Russell was. Howard dominates the game in similar ways that Russell did, with defensive prowess and leadership abilities.

Career Stats:

Bill Russell – .440 FG%, .561 FT%, 22.5 RPG, 4.3 APG, 15.1 PPG

Dwight Howard – .569 FG%, .07 3PT%, .600 FT%, 12.5 RPG, 1.4 APG, .9 SPG, 2.0 BPG, 17.3 PPG

41. Dolph Schayes (6-8 220 lbs.) and Mike Miller (6-8 220 lbs.)

• Dolph Schayes was a throwback player even back when he played. He was an effective scorer who played a team game who worked his way into the hall of fame. He had a high basketball IQ and out-hustled his way through opponents. Mike Miller is also an old-fashioned player who puts the team first. Miller is a reliable shooter as was Schayes, and plays the game with a high IQ.

Career Stats:

Dolph Schayes – .843 FT%, 18.2 PPG

Mike Miller – .463 FG%, .402 3PT%, .768 FT%, 5.0 RPG, 3.2 APG, .7 SPG, .3 BPG, 13.8 PPG

42. Bill Sharman (6-1 190 lbs.) and Ben Gordon (6-3 200 lbs.)

• Bill Sharman was perhaps the best shooter of his era. He was one of the first guards to shoot over 40% from the field for an entire season. Ben Gordon is considered one of the best long-range shooter sin the game today. Gordon is a streak shooter who ocasionally has an off-night shooting; the same held true for Sharman during his career. Gordon has yet to prove he can be the winner Sharman was, but is still a player in the same mold as Sharman.

Career Stats:

Bill Sharman – .426 FG%, .883 FT%, 3.9 RPG, 3.0 APG, 17.8 PPG

Ben Gordon – .437 FG%, .413 3PT%, .858 FT%, 3.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, .8 SPG, .2 BPG, 18.6 PPG

43. John Stockton (6-1 175 lbs.) and Deron Williams (6-3 207 lbs.)

• John Stockton is widely considered the best passer in NBA history (he is the all-time leader in assists). He may have been the best at executing the pick-and-roll as well. Utah has found quite the replacement for Stockton is Deron Williams. Throughout his young career, Williams has proven to be one of the best play-makers in the league. Williams seems to be able to score more easily than Stockton could, but he is still not the efficient passer Stockton was in his prime. Stockton was a great defender, while Williams has the physical gifts to be a great defender at the point guard position.

Career Stats:

John Stockton – .515 FG%, .384 3PT%, .825 FT%, 2.7 RPG, 10.5 APG, 2.17 SPG, .20 BPG, 13.1 PPG

Deron Williams – .467 FG%, .358 3PT%, .795 FT%, 3.0 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, .20 BPG, 16.3 PPG

44. Isiah Thomas (6-1 182 lbs.) and Chris Paul (6-0 175 lbs.)

• Few players could match Isiah Thomas’ speed, quickness and intangibles. The same seems to go for Chris Paul today. Both players are rare specimens at point guard with blazing quickness. They also played much bigger than their listed heights of 6-1 (Thomas) and 6 feet (Paul). Thomas had the ability to consistently knock down shots from anywhere on the floor and get to the basket at will, Chris Paul has the same skill-set to approach the game the same way Isiah did. Not to be overshadowed is their basketball IQ’s. They combine smart passing with great leadership to help make teammates better and are both two of the top playmakers of their generations. Take note of their career stat comparisons on average, they are eerily similar with Chris Paul surprisingly having the edge in a few categories. I just hope that CP3 does not follow the same path as Isiah once he retires. If Chris Paul keeps up his current pace and stays healthy, he will have the opportunity to surpass Isiah Thomas in the eyes of many.

Career Stats:

Isiah Thomas – .452 FG%, .290 3PT%, .759 FT%, 3.6 RPG, 9.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, .25 BPG, 19.2 PPG

Chris Paul – .474 FG%, .353 3PT%, .849 FT%, 4.7 RPG, 9.9 APG, 2.4 SPG, .10 BPG, 19.6 PPG

45. Nate Thurmond (6-11 235 lbs.) and Marcus Camby (6-11 235 lbs.)

• Nate Thurmond was an elite center of his era. He prided himself with an in-your-face defensive mentality and would not take a back seat to anyone. His offensive game was nowhere near his defensive capabilities, but he still was effective on both ends of the court.Marcus Camby is an elite defensive center who plays the the game with a tough work-ethic and relentless defensive effort. Camby has a decent offensive attack – but thrives mostly running the floor and getting put-backs.

Career Stats:

Nate Thurmond – .421 FG%, .667 FT%, 15.0 RPG, 2.7 APG, 15.0 PPG

Marcus Camby -   .471 FG%, .182 3PT%, .682 FT%, 9.8 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1 SPG, 2.6 BPG, 10.6 PPG

46. Wes Unseld (6-7 245 lbs.) and Ben Wallace (6-9 240 lbs.)

• Wes Unseld was built like a bull. He did all the dirty work for his teams while being the ultimate team player. Ben Wallace is listed at 6-9 though most people around the league believe him to be closer to 6-7. Wallace is not known for his offensive awareness, neither was Unseld. However, Wallace is a defensive rock as was Unseld. Unseld excelled with his passing game, he would make perfect outlet passes routinely. Wallace was not as good of an all-around player as Unseld, but both players still share qualities in their games.

Career Stats:

Wes Unseld – .509 FG%, .633 FT%, 14.0 RPG, 3.9 APG, 10.8 PPG

Ben Wallace – .473 FG%, .116 3PT%, .419 FT%, 10.2 RPG, 1.4 APG, 1.3 SPG, 2.2 BPG, 6.2 PPG

47. Bill Walton (6-11 235 lbs.) and Pau Gasol (7-0 250 lbs.)

• Bill Walton was one of the most skilled centers to ever play the game. He had the ability to do anything on the court and was a phenomenal passer. Pau Gasol is another giant who has a skill-set unlike any other big-man in the game. Pau has a smooth offensive game that also includes great passing ability. Both players are proven winners in the NBA.

Career Stats:

Bill Walton – .521 FG%, .660 FT%, 10.5 RPG, 3.4 APG, .81 SPG, 2.2 BPG, 13.3 PPG

Pau Gasol – .520 FG%, .234 3PT%, .739 FT%, 8.7 RPG, 3.2 APG, .5 SPG, 1.7 BPG, 18.8 PPG

48. Jerry West (6-2 185 lbs.) and Gilbert Arenas (6-4 215 lbs.)

• Jerry West was one of the most competitive players to play in the NBA. It is no coincidence that West is the NBA logo. He was an elite scorer in his era, with the rare ability to make his teammates better. Few other guards could light up a scoreboard the way West could, even to this day. Gilbert Arenas has yet to win at the level that West did, but he does have some of the same offensive firepower that West once had. Arenas is a deadly shooter who can score in a variety of ways. Defenses must game plan around Arenas before taking into account the rest of his teammates. Arenas likes to get others on his team involved the way West did too. “The Hibachi” as Arenas likes to be called is a fan favorite, just as West was in his prime.

Career Stats:

Jerry West – .474 FG%, .814 FT%, 5.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 27.0 PPG

Gilbert Arenas – .426 FG%, .358 3PT%, .807 FT%, 4.2 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, .2 BPG, 22.7 PPG

49. Lenny Wilkens (6-1 180 lbs.) and Jason Kidd (6-4 210 lbs.)

• Lenny Wilkens is known for being one of the greatest playmakers in NBA history. He was small in size but played much bigger than his program height of 6-1. Wilkens played the game with one approach – team first. He was never concerned with individual numbers or success, the only thing Wilkens cared about was winning the game (Wilkens is also the all-time leader for wins by a Head Coach). Jason Kidd is a once in a generation point guard who also does not care about his own numbers. Throughout his career, Kidd has sacrificed his numbers for the good of the team. He has yet to win that elusive championship, but did lead the Nets to the Finals in back-to-back years. Kidd is the classic pass-first point guard who makes everyone on the team play better.

Career Stats:

Lenny Wilkens – .432 FG%, .774 FT%, 4.7 RPG, 6.7 APG, 16.5 PPG

Jason Kidd – .402 FG%, .343 3PT%, .782 FT%, 6.7 RPG, 9.2 APG, 2.0 SPG, .3 BPG, 13.8 PPG

50. James Worthy (6-9 225 lbs.) and Kevin Durant (6-9 230 lbs.)

• James Worthy was known for his elevated level of play in big games, earning him the nickname “Big Game James”. Worthy had amazing athletic skills; he ran the floor like a gazelle, had smooth moves to the hoop and could dunk on just about anybody in the league. Kevin Durant is a player unlike any other in the league today. He has the height to play down low and could potentially be moved to power forward. Durant has the ball-skills of a guard and the shooting range to go with it. Durant has the potential to be one of the best players to ever play the game. We do not know if Durant will play as well in big games the way James Worthy did, but we may find out this year if the Thunder can make the playoffs.

Career Stats:

James Worthy – .521 FG%, .242 3PT%, .769 FT%, 5.1 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, .67 BPG, 17.6 PPG

Kevin Durant – .452 FG%, .344 3PT%, .865 FT%, 5.5 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, .8 BPG, 23.1 PPG

Basketball certainly has evolved over the past 50-plus years, but there are still the same kind of players now as there was back then. Hopefully this can put today’s game in perspective for older NBA fans and put the history of the game in perspective for younger fans.