Atlanta Hawks
Point Guard — Lenny Wilkens
Shooting Guard — Lou Hudson
Small Forward — Dominique Wilkins
Power Forward — Bob Pettit
Center — Dikembe Mutombo
What better way to kick off than with a lineup featuring five Hall of Famers? Wilkens, Hudson and Pettit carried the then St. Louis Hawks through the 1960s, collecting 26 All-Star nods between them. Though, the most popular Hawk of all-time is perhaps Slam Dunk Champion and seven-time All-NBA selection Dominique Wilkins — who leads the franchise in both games played (882) and points scored (23,292). Rounding out this group is big man Dikembe Mutombo. The shot-blocking savant only played four and a half seasons in Atlanta, but earned three Defensive Player of the Year honors (’97, ’98, ’01) during that stretch.
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Charlotte Hornets
Point Guard — Kemba Walker
Shooting Guard — Glen Rice
Small Forward — Gerald Wallace
Power Forward — Larry Johnson
Center — Alonzo Mourning
The Hornets aren’t exactly pulling from a deep pool of historically great talents. It’s been a franchise in constant rebuild ever since it reentered the league in 2004. Before that, Charlotte appeared to be a team on the rise following a span of seven postseason appearances in 10 years. In that span, the three players which defined Hornets basketball were the rim protecting, two-time Defensive Player of the Year Alonzo Mourning, the sharp-shooting three-point champion Glen Rice, and the bruising forward Larry Johnson. Though the team has struggled mightily over the past two decades, two bright spots include Gerald Wallace — who led the team to its only postseason appearance during the Bobcats era — and four-time All-Star Kemba Walker.
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Miami Heat
Point Guard — LeBron James
Shooting Guard — Dwyane Wade
Small Forward — Jimmy Butler
Power Forward — Chris Bosh
Center — Alonzo Mourning
A fairly straight-forward lineup as this five-man group highlights the past, present and golden age of the Miami Heat. Alonzo Mourning’s arrival in Miami helped kickstart a run of successful seasons, as the Heat reached the playoffs in each of the center’s first six years with the club. In 2006, a young shooting guard named Dwyane Wade helped the team capture its first NBA title. He was later joined by two close friends — LeBron James and Chris Bosh — who led the team to two additional championships. While the Heat experienced a bit of a lull following James’ departure and Wade’s retirement, six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler has helped guide the franchise back to relevancy — most notably leading the Heat to an NBA Finals appearance in 2020.
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Orlando Magic
Point Guard — Penny Hardaway
Shooting Guard — Tracy McGrady
Small Forward — Nick Anderson
Power Forward — Dwight Howard
Center — Shaquille O’Neal
In the case of the Orlando Magic, this is a franchise whose two best players were exclusively centers. Orlando has made the most out of winning the NBA Draft Lottery, selecting two all-time big men with the No. 1 overall pick. Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard may have each exited Orlando on rocky terms, but both players were completely dominant while donning a Magic uniform. Penny Hardaway and Tracy McGrady made a combined eight All-Star appearances (in just 10 years) with Orlando despite each dealing with a bevy of injuries throughout their tenures. Nick Anderson earns the final spot as an underrated contributor throughout the 90s. He’s Orlando’s all-time leader in games played (692) and steals (1,004), and trails only Dwight Howard for the franchise leader in points.
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Washington Wizards
Point Guard — John Wall
Shooting Guard — Bradley Beal
Small Forward — Gus Johnson
Power Forward — Elvin Hayes
Center — Wes Unseld
Without a doubt, a Washington all-time lineup must begin with the dynamic duo of Wes Unseld and Elvin Hayes. Two members of the NBA 75th Anniversary team, Unseld and Hayes led Washington to its most recent title in 1978. Though, we would be remissed if we did not mention another legend of the franchise in Gus Johnson who led the team during its days in Baltimore. The backcourt comes down to three more recent guards — John Wall, Bradley Beal and Gilbert Arenas. While Arenas may have had the highest ceiling, he also had the lowest floor and quickest departure. Wall was a five-time All-Star with the Wizards. Beal has been with the franchise for 11 years and averaged over 30 PPG during the ’20 and ’21 seasons.
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Denver Nuggets
Point Guard — Fat Lever
Shooting Guard — David Thompson
Small Forward — Alex English
Power Forward — Carmelo Anthony
Center — Nikola Jokic
Denver’s team is headlined by a trio of gifted scorers, a traditional point guard, and a two-time MVP. Thompson, English, and Anthony all knew how to score the basketball at a high rate. David Thompson’s 73-point single game effort has only been bested by Wilt Chamberlain and Kobe Bryant, Alex English was the league’s Scoring Champion in 1983, and Carmelo Anthony is the ninth all-time leading scorer. Lever played for the Nuggets during the high-scoring 80s, and was routinely among the league leaders in assists and steals. And then there’s Nikola Jokic, the greatest passing big man of all-time who has already won two regular season MVP’s and looking for a third.
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Minnesota Timberwolves
Guard — Anthony Edwards
Guard — Andrew Wiggins
Small Forward — Kevin Love
Power Forward — Kevin Garnett
Center — Karl-Anthony Towns
Minnesota’s frontcourt spots seem fairly locked into place. Kevin Garnett is an obvious choice as he’s the franchise’s only MVP and a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary team. While he never led Minnesota to a postseason appearance, Kevin Love posted monstrous individual numbers and made three All-Star teams with the T’Wolves. Karl-Anthony Towns was a key member in ending the 14-year playoff drought, and was a home run No. 1 overall pick for the franchise back in 2015. The team’s two other No. 1 overall picks — Andrew Wiggins (technically drafted by Cleveland) and Anthony Edwards — take up the last two spots. Wiggins due to production (third most points scored in franchise history) and Edwards based on early returns (named an All-Star at 21 years old).
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Oklahoma City Thunder / Seattle SuperSonics
Guard — Gary Payton
Guard — Russell Westbrook
Small Forward — Kevin Durant
Power Forward — Shawn Kemp
Center — Jack Sikma
Seattle still isn’t over losing its basketball team, as the franchise developed a rather rich history playing under the “Sonics” name for 40 seasons. The three defining players of Seattle’s NBA run are Jack Sikma, Gary Payton, and Shawn Kemp. The latter two led Seattle during the 90s — which saw the Sonics reach the postseason eight years in a row. Sikma was the team’s best player in the 80s, and was named a Hall of Famer after an illustrious 14-year career which included nine seasons with the Sonics. Since the team moved to Oklahoma City, two league MVP’s have highlighted the Thunder era. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are two of the great players of the last 20 years, and would have been extremely fun to watch run alongside the likes of Payton and Kemp.
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Portland Trail Blazers
Guard — Terry Porter
Guard — Damian Lillard
Small Forward — Clyde Drexler
Power Forward — LaMarcus Aldridge
Center — Bill Walton
While the Blazers have been struck with rotten injury luck over the years — Brandon Roy, Greg Oden, etc. — the team has had its fair share of breathtaking talents. Perhaps none more impactful than Bill Walton, who despite only playing four years in Portland (due to multiple injuries of his own) led the franchise to its only championship in 1977. Joining Walton in the frontcourt is LaMarcus Aldridge who logged nine fruitful seasons with the Blazers before continuing his successful career with the Spurs and Nets.
With the backcourt consisting of two point guards, a natural 2-guard in Clyde Drexler is asked to step into the small forward role here. The 10-time All-Star went toe-to-toe with all of the elite guards of the 90s. Same goes for Terry Porter who wasn’t an elite player by any means, but a steady hand for 10 years and was able to make two All-Star teams with the Blazers. With Porter running the point, current Blazer Damian Lillard is free to launch deep three-pointers to his heart’s content. Lillard has played his entire career in Portland and will undoubtedly be a first-ballot Hall of Famer when he decides to call it quits.
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Utah Jazz
Point Guard — John Stockton
Shooting Guard — Pete Maravich
Small Forward — Adrian Dantley
Power Forward — Karl Malone
Center — Rudy Gobert
Of course, the Jazz lineup must start off with Karl Malone and John Stockton — the dominant pick-and-roll combo who defined the best stretch of Utah basketball. The duo combined to play 37 seasons with the Jazz. Stockton is No. 1 all-time in career assists (and steals) and Malone ranks third in points all-time behind only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James.
The other three spots in the lineup are a bit trickier. ‘Pistol’ Pete Maravich enjoyed his best years with the New Orleans Jazz (25.7 PPG over five seasons) before the team moved to Utah during his final year. Adrian Dantley also had no trouble scoring, averaging just under 30 PPG during his seven years in Utah. All six of Dantley’s All-Star nods occurred during his time with the Jazz. Rounding out the lineup is three-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert who ended up being a steal for the Jazz — the French native was the 27th pick of the 2013 NBA Draft.
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Dallas Mavericks
Guard — Jason Kidd
Guard — Luka Doncic
Small Forward — Rolando Blackmon
Power Forward — Mark Aguirre
Center — Dirk Nowitzki
While this Dallas lineup might be lacking in rebounding and rim protection, there’s plenty of offensive firepower and playmaking savvy to go around. Nobody exemplifies those traits more than current Dallas star Luka Doncic who is already well on his way to an all-time great career. Of course, Doncic still has a ways to go to catch Dirk Nowitzki for “Greatest Maverick Ever.” Nowitzki cemented himself as such after leading Dallas to an NBA title in 2011. Though, he couldn’t do it alone as fellow Hall of Famer Jason Kidd was a stabilizing force for the title-winning club. Kidd played eight total seasons in Dallas — the most of any team during his career. Rolando Blackmon and Mark Aguirre were stars of the 80s who combined to make seven All-Star teams. The pair were the top two players on the 1988 Mavericks team that was one game away from making the NBA Finals.
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Houston Rockets
Point Guard — James Harden
Shooting Guard — Tracy McGrady
Forward — Moses Malone
Forward — Hakeem Olajuwon
Center — Yao Ming
Houston has been home to some of the most unique and era-defining players over the years. Absolutely nobody would want to face this team. Playmaking savant James Harden surrounded by a scoring machine in Tracy McGrady and three of the most dominant big men of their eras. The four retired stars are all in the Hall of Fame. Harden will join them shortly after his career comes to a close. In total, this five-man group have a combined 50 All-Star appearances, 39 All-NBA selections, five MVP’s, and five scoring titles. Olajuwon and Ming played (virtually) their entire careers in Houston, while the other three each had their longest NBA tenure with the Rockets.
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Memphis Grizzlies
Guard — Mike Conley
Guard — Ja Morant
Forward — Zach Randolph
Forward — Pau Gasol
Center — Marc Gasol
Memphis’ lineup shakes out a bit like Miami’s team — a modern star, a former star, and the trio which defined the team’s best run. The modern star, of course, is two-time All-Star Ja Morant. The star point guard appears to be a franchise cornerstone for a team still in search of its first NBA Finals appearance. If you can believe it, Pau Gasol actually played more regular season games with the Grizzlies than he did with the Lakers. When Pau was drafted in ’01, the Grizzlies had never made the postseason. He eventually led them to three playoff berths.
The team cannot be complete without some mention of the “Grit ‘n’ Grind” era. In this case, Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph and Mike Conley all deserve a spot in the starting lineup as they each played an integral role during a run which saw Memphis make seven-straight playoff appearances.
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New Orleans Pelicans
Point Guard — Chris Paul
Shooting Guard — Jrue Holiday
Forward — David West
Forward — Zion Williamson
Center — Anthony Davis
The Pelicans’ history stretches just 21 seasons and includes eight postseason appearances. The team hasn’t had a whole lot of time to develop a rich history. Though, there’s been no shortage of talent in New Orleans. Chris Paul, Jrue Holiday, and Anthony Davis are former Hornets/Pelicans who are still among some of the best players in the league today. Same goes for Zion Williamson when he’s healthy. While he’s played just over 100 career games, Williamson is the most electrifying star in team history and key to the franchise’s future. Filling in the final spot, David West gets the slightest edge over current All-Star Brandon Ingram. West spent eight years in New Orleans and was a pivotal piece during the two best seasons in team history (’08 and ’09).
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San Antonio Spurs
Point Guard — Tony Parker
Shooting Guard — George Gervin
Small Forward — Kawhi Leonard
Power Forward — Tim Duncan
Center — David Robinson
You can’t discuss the Spurs without starting with Tim Duncan. The five-time NBA Champion completely transformed the team as soon as he was drafted No. 1 overall in 1997. He joined 10-time All-NBA selection David Robinson who would go on to be a key member of the two early title teams. Later on, Duncan got help in the form of French point guard Tony Parker. The 2007 NBA Finals MVP, Parker’s speed and craft made him the perfect compliment to Duncan’s ground-bound game. In their most recent Finals run in 2014, Finals MVP honors went to Kawhi Leonard. Leonard played seven seasons in San Antonio and is one of the greatest development stories in league history. Taking the final spot in the starting lineup is George Gervin, one of the most brilliant offensive players the game has seen. This allows four-time NBA Champion Manu Ginobili to slide into his familiar Sixth Man role.
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Chicago Bulls
Point Guard — Derrick Rose
Shooting Guard — Michael Jordan
Small Forward — Scottie Pippen
Power Forward — Dennis Rodman
Center — Artis Gilmore
Chicago won six titles with Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen at the helm. There inclusions are obviously a no-brainer. Dennis Rodman joined that group for the final three titles, and led the league in rebounding each season he was with the Bulls. Derrick Rose became the youngest MVP in league history in 2008, and is the only Chicago Bull to win the award other than Jordan. After a strong career in the ABA, 7-foot-2 Hall of Fame center Artis Gilmore spent his first six NBA seasons with the Bulls.
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Cleveland Cavaliers
Point Guard — Mark Price
Shooting Guard — Kyrie Irving
Small Forward — LeBron James
Power Forward — Kevin Love
Center — Brad Daugherty
The second lineup to feature LeBron James (who is Cleveland’s all-time leader in points, assists, rebounds, steals, among several other categories), this Cleveland outfit is a bit more guard heavy with an emphasis on outside shooting. Former teammates of James, both Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love played a huge part in ending the team’s 40-year title drought. While they never reached the NBA Finals, the Mark Price and Brad Daugherty-led Cavs teams of the 90s were very competitive. Price and Daugherty were each All-Stars several times and played a combined 17 seasons with the Cavs. A supporting cast like this around James would have resulted in a ton of titles for Cleveland.
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Detroit Pistons
Point Guard — Isiah Thomas
Shooting Guard — Joe Dumars
Small Forward — Grant Hill
Power Forward — Ben Wallace
Center — Bob Lanier
A team rich in history, this seems like a fair balance of Detroit’s top talents. The guard spots cannot be altered. Isiah Thomas and Joe Dumars are among the best backcourts in league history, and were the driving force for back-to-back title-winning teams. All five players in this lineup are Hall of Famers, including recent inductee Ben Wallace — a four-time Defensive Player of the Year that served as the defensive backbone for Detroit’s run through the 2000s. Grant Hill is perhaps the most talented individual player in team history, winning Rookie of the Year honors in 1995 and earning an All-NBA spot each of his final five seasons with the Pistons. Bob Lanier was a top center during the 70s, making seven All-Star appearances with the Pistons.
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Indiana Pacers
Guard — Paul George
Shooting Guard — Reggie Miller
Small Forward — Roger Brown
Power Forward — Jermaine O’Neal
Center — Mel Daniels
We’re stretching it a bit with this lineup, as it features no traditional point guard. However, this configuration is the only way to include the five most impactful Indiana Pacers in team history. Roger Brown and Mel Daniels are likely unfamiliar to newer fans of the game, but the two Hall of Famers dominated for Indiana during the team’s days in the ABA. After being one of the most iconic teams of the ABA, the Pacers found it difficult to transition to the NBA. That is until Reggie Miller was drafted and led Indiana to 15 playoff appearances in 16 seasons — including a trip to the 2000 NBA Finals. Jermaine O’Neal and Paul George are tied with Miler for the most All-NBA selections for a Pacer (3). O’Neal is the only Pacer to be named to an All-NBA Second Team.
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Milwaukee Bucks
Point Guard — Oscar Robertson
Shooting Guard — Sidney Moncrief
Small Forward — Khris Middleton
Power Forward — Giannis Antetokounmpo
Center — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Milwaukee’s two NBA Championships came 50 years apart, and this lineup features each duo that led the Bucks to an ultimate victory. It doesn’t get much better than Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson. The duo only played ten total seasons in Milwaukee (the start of Abdul-Jabbar’s career and the end of Robertson’s), but delivered the franchise a title and are among the greatest players to ever live. Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo was the driving force for the ’21 championship, but he couldn’t have gotten it done without three-time All-Star Khris Middleton. Middleton hit several clutch shots down the stretch of Milwaukee’s title run. The last spot goes to one of the best defenders in league history — no, not Jrue Holiday — two-time Defensive Player of the Year Sidney Moncrief.
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Boston Celtics
Point Guard — Bob Cousy
Shooting Guard — John Havlicek
Small Forward — Paul Pierce
Power Forward — Larry Bird
Center — Bill Russell
While the Celtics have a deep pool of players to choose from, making these selection didn’t end up being overly complicated. Four of the five spots are set-in-stone. Russell won 11 NBA titles, Cousy was the league’s premier point guard during the NBA’s infancy, Bird was a three-time NBA MVP and Havlicek served as a bridge between the franchise’s eras. Paul Pierce’s spot could be contentious among some Celtics fans. However, this is a franchise that is tied for the most championships in NBA history (17), but has just one title since 1986. Pierce earned MVP honors for the 2008 NBA Finals, helped end a 30-year drought, and played 15 seasons with the Celtics. That is more than enough for him to earn a spot in Boston’s starting lineup.
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Brooklyn Nets
Point Guard — Jason Kidd
Shooting Guard — Julius Erving
Small Forward — Kevin Durant
Power Forward — Buck Williams
Center — Brook Lopez
When most basketball fans think of the Nets, the first player that comes to mind is typically Julius Erving. The man known as “Dr. J” was the star of the ABA, leading the Nets to two titles during the 70s. Following Erving’s departure, the team’s next star was Buck Williams who was named to four All-Defensive teams — all with the Nets. New Jersey had not made it to the NBA Finals until Jason Kidd took over at point guard in 2001. The Hall of Fame guard played more games with the Nets than any other team in his career. Believe it or not, the Nets’ all-time leading scorer is Brook Lopez. He also leads the franchise in blocked shots. With a rather shallow pool of players to choose from, we’ll round out the lineup with Kevin Durant. Durant brought relevancy to a Nets team that had been flailing since the move to Brooklyn.
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New York Knicks
Point Guard — Walt Frazier
Shooting Guard — Carmelo Anthony
Small Forward — Bernard King
Power Forward — Willis Reed
Center — Patrick Ewing
Patrick Ewing headlines a Knicks lineup which embodies each period in the team’s history. Ewing is the team’s all-time leader in points, rebounds and blocks — and second-place isn’t particularly close in any of those categories. Willis Reed was awarded both Finals MVP’s during the Knicks two title runs, but he got a lot of help from lead guard Walt Frazier. Frazier was a seven-time All-Star with the Knicks and routinely upped his play in the postseason. The last two spots go to two all-time great scorers — Carmelo Anthony and Bernard King.
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Philadelphia 76ers
Point Guard — Allen Iverson
Shooting Guard — Julius Erving
Forward — Charles Barkley
Forward — Joel Embiid
Center — Wilt Chamberlain
This 76ers outfit would not back down from anyone. Wilt Chamberlain and Joel Embiid have drastically different styles of play, but both became two-way phenoms due to their elite athleticism and fluidity at the center position. Charles Barkley was a matchup nightmare waiting to happen. Though shorter than a traditional power forward at the time, Barkley dominated the interior and was name an All-Star in each of his final six seasons with the 76ers.
Erving played his entire NBA career with the 76ers (11 seasons), making the All-Star team each year and winning a title in ’83. Over the last 40 years, the closest Philadelphia has been to an NBA title was during the 2001 season when league MVP Allen Iverson led the 76ers to a Finals appearance. Iverson played 12 years in Philadelphia, and no athlete has ever embodied the city’s relentless attitude better.
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Toronto Raptors
Point Guard — Kyle Lowry
Shooting Guard — DeMar DeRozan
Forward — Vince Carter
Forward — Kawhi Leonard
Center — Chris Bosh
The first 17 years of Raptors history didn’t exactly go too well. The two biggest names produced from that era are Vince Carter and Chris Bosh. At one point, Carter was one of the top wings in the league and was named to six All-Star teams in seven years with the Raptors. Bosh nearly matched Carter with five All-Star appearances in seven years, but neither player won a ton of games for the Raptors. Two players who seriously helped turn the franchise around occupy the backcourt — Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan.
Under the two All-Stars, the Raptors made five-straight playoff appearances and led the Eastern Conference with 59 wins in 2018. However, the team didn’t finally get over the hump until Kawhi Leonard came to town. Leonard is the only player featured on this entire list who played just one year with the team he’s representing. However, Leonard deserves a spot in this starting lineup. Without him, the Raptors would still be without a title.
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Golden State Warriors
Point Guard — Steph Curry
Shooting Guard — Klay Thompson
Small Forward — Rick Barry
Power Forward — Draymond Green
Center — Wilt Chamberlain
There isn’t too much to discuss about this lineup. Except, if you believe that Kevin Durant deserves a spot for basically sealing two title wins. However, the trio of Curry, Thompson and Green are locks for the team. Each one was drafted by the Warriors and played a major role in building a dynasty. Chamberlain has to make the team based on numbers alone. This is a guy who averaged 41.5 PPG and 25.1 RPG over six seasons with the Warriors. And, Durant can’t take Rick Barry’s spot. Barry was solidified when he took home MVP honors after his performance in the 1975 NBA Finals.
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LA Clippers
Point Guard — Chris Paul
Shooting Guard — Paul George
Small Forward — Kawhi Leonard
Power Forward — Blake Griffin
Center — Bob McAdoo
For nearly 40 years, Bob McAdoo was the only All-NBA First Team selection in Clippers history. The all-time great center earned that distinction in 1975 — the same year he won NBA MVP. In 2012, Chris Paul became the second All-NBA First Team player in Clippers history, and helped revitalize a pitiful franchise alongside high-flying power forward Blake Griffin. The pair engineered five-straight 50-win seasons after the franchise had never passed that bench mark previously. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George joining the team gave the Clippers hope of finally getting over the title hump. While they haven’t quite reached that milestone yet, they’re undoubtedly two of the most talented players to don a Clippers uniform. And, they helped the franchise reach its first ever Conference Finals. Baby steps.
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Los Angeles Lakers
Point Guard — Magic Johnson
Shooting Guard — Jerry West
Small Forward — Kobe Bryant
Power Forward — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Center — Shaquille O’Neal
The Lakers have what seems like an unlimited supply of Hall of Famers to select from. Elgin Baylor, Michael Cooper, Pau Gasol, Gail Goodrich, Jamal Wilkes, George Mikan, Anthony Davis and other great players in NBA history are left off the most exclusive lineup in this exercise. Not to mention, the game’s all-time leading scorer — LeBron James — must give up his spot to longer tenured veterans. The end result is a five-man group that won a combined 19 titles during their time in Los Angeles. Magic Johnson, Jerry West, and Kobe Bryant are among the greatest guards to ever play the game — and each only suited up for the Lakers during their professional careers. Abdul-Jabbar and O’Neal joined the Lakers later in their careers, but both were dominant for title-winning teams. The Lakers’ backups would likely take down most of the other teams featured on this list.
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Phoenix Suns
Point Guard — Steve Nash
Shooting Guard — Walter Davis
Small Forward — Shawn Marion
Power Forward — Charles Barkley
Center — Amar’e Stoudemire
Two former MVP’s headline a Suns all-time lineup which would have no trouble scoring the basketball. Barkley was awarded league MVP in his first year with the Suns in ’93, and led the team to the NBA Finals that year. Nash won back-to-back MVP’s in ’04 and ’05 as he helped engineer one of the most memorable teams of that era alongside Shawn Marion and Amar’e Stoudemire. Taking the final spot is Walter Davis, a six-time All-Star who is the Suns all-time leader in points scored (15,666).
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Sacramento Kings
Point Guard — Tiny Archibald
Shooting Guard — Oscar Robertson
Small Forward — Mitch Richmond
Power Forward — Chris Webber
Center — Jerry Lucas
While Oscar Robertson gets a ton of credit for his run with the Bucks, he was at his absolute best as a Cincinnati Royal. It was with the Royals (before they were known as the Kings) that Robertson became the first player to average a triple-double for a full season. Robertson won league MVP in 1964 alongside teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Jerry Lucas. Lucas made three All-NBA First Team appearances with the Royals and was a member of the 75th Anniversary Team. Nate “Tiny” Archibald earned three All-NBA First Team selections, as well. Chris Webber is the most recent All-NBA First Team selection, becoming one of just five players in team history to earn that distinction. The last spot goes to Mitch Richmond who played seven years in Sacramento and made the All-Star Game in six of those seasons.
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50 Greatest NBA Players of All-Time
50. Bob Cousy
Team: Boston Celtics/Cincinnati Royals
Career averages: 18.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 7.5 APG
Individual Accolades: 6x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 13x All-Star selection, 12x All-NBA selection, 8x Assists leader
The game’s first great point guard, Bob Cousy was an electric dribbler who loved to dish the rock. Cousy was an innovator in a time where the sport was just beginning to take shape. Unlike many of his peers, Cousy thought outside of the box and created new ways to make defenders look silly.
A prolific passer, Cousy led the league in assists eight-straight seasons from ’53-’60. ‘The Houdini of the Hardwood’ was named an All-Star in each of the 13 seasons he spent in Boston. Cousy was considered one of the league’s top two guards for a decade — earning All-NBA First-team honors 10 years in a row. Younger fans of the game may not appreciate his impact, but Cousy is undeniable one of the most influential figures in the history of basketball.
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49. Dave Cowens
Team(s): Boston Celtics/Milwaukee Bucks
Career averages: 17.6 PPG, 13.6 RPG, 3.8 APG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 8x All-Star, 3x All-NBA, 3x All-Defensive
Among all-time great Celtics, Cowens doesn’t get mentioned nearly enough. ‘Big Red’ won two titles for the Celts, operating as the team’s primary center despite standing at just 6-foot-9. One of the original “small ball” centers, Cowens used his quick feet and passing ability to frustrate opposing defenders.
Immensely skilled, Cowens operated as the team’s quarterback. Iconic head coach Red Auerbach ran Boston’s offense through its center. He became a fan favorite due to his relentless work ethic as he helped lead the Celtics to two titles in the post-Russell era.
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48. Anthony Davis
Teams: New Orleans Pelicans/Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 23.9 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2.3 APG, 2.3 BPG, 1.4 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 8x All-Star, 4x All-NBA, 4x All-Defensive, 3x Block leader
The “Brow” is slowly — but surely — climbing up the ranks of this list. It’s fair to say we haven’t seen a player quite like Davis before he joined the league. A former point guard in high school, the near 7-foot Davis is an exceptional ball handler and shooter for a player his size.
Additionally, Davis isn’t just a gifted perimeter player. He’s led the league in blocks three times in his young career, and is regularly in the discussion for Defensive Player of the Year. At 27, Davis is already an NBA Champion with eight All-Star nods to his name. It’s only a matter of time until he breaks into the top-40.
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47. Bob McAdoo
Teams: Buffalo Braves/New York Knicks/Boston Celtics/Detroit Pistons/New Jersey Nets/Los Angeles Lakers/Philadelphia 76ers
Career averages: 22.1 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.5 BPG, 1.0 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x MVP, 2x NBA Champion, 5x All-Star, 2x All-NBA, 3x Scoring Champion
Chris Paul, Kawhi Leonard, and Blake Griffin are great, but Bob McAdoo is the leading candidate for greatest player in Clippers’ (formerly Braves) franchise history. The 1975 NBA MVP was one of the best bigs of the decade. McAdoo dominated the game down low — erasing shots, cleaning the glass, and controlling the paint.
In his epic MVP campaign, McAdoo won the scoring title (34.5 PPG) while also being one of the top defenders in the league (14.1 RPG and 2.1 BPG). After 14 successful years in the league, McAdoo continued his playing career in Italy (where he collected two EuroLeague titles).
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46. George Gervin
Teams: Virginia Squires/San Antonio Spurs/Chicago Bulls
Career averages: 25.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.0 BPG, 1.2 SPG
Individual Accolades: 12x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 2x All-ABA, 4x Scoring Champion
Gervin was simply one of the top scorers ever. Despite the NBA making it easier to score with each passing year, Gervin remains atop the league’s all-time PPG leaders (11th). It wasn’t just how many points he scored, it was the manner in which Gervin could fill it up.
The “Iceman” was smooth as silk, equipped with a wide array of floaters, runners, and finger rolls which regularly garnered “oohs” and “ahhs” from the crowd in attendance. Gervin served as a pioneer for all of the offensive-minded wings that came after him.
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45. Gary Payton
Teams: Seattle SuperSonics/Milwaukee Bucks/Los Angeles Lakers/Boston Celtics/Miami Heat
Career averages: 16.3 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.8 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA, 9x All-Defensive, 1x DPoy, 1x Steals leader
“The Glove” made defense fun. Arguably the greatest defensive point guard of all-time, Payton was a savant on that end of the floor. He never backed down from a challenge, and showed the ability to defend multiple positions. In his most famed performance, Payton was integral in slowing down Michael Jordan in the 1996 NBA Finals. Payton’s defense on Jordan changed the series — and nearly gave the Sonics an opportunity to topple the mighty Bulls.
A gifted trash talker, Payton would often let his opponent know when he was getting the better of them. While Payton never won a championship as the top player in Seattle, he managed to capture that elusive title in his later years. In ’06, Payton was the starting point guard for a Miami Heat team that took down the Mavericks in the Finals.
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44. Clyde Drexler
Teams: Portland Trail Blazers/Houston Rockets/
Career averages: 20.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 5.6 APG, 2.0 SPG
Individual Accolades: 10x All-Star, 5x All-NBA, 1x NBA Champion
Drexler was a marvel in the air, earning him the nickname “The Glide” for his leaping ability. A 10-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection, Drexler is one of the best shooting guards in league history. He began his career in Portland, developing into one of the league’s top all-around threats. There was no weakness in Drexler’s game. The 6-foot-7 guard averaged over six assists per game during his prime, and routinely was among the league leaders in steals.
Not to mention, Drexler was a gifted scorer who poured in 20 points per game on a nightly basis. After failing to win a title in Portland, Drexler signed on with the Houston Rockets towards the end of his career. He eventually helped the team win the 1995 NBA Finals.
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43. Walt Frazier
Teams: New York Knicks/Cleveland Cavaliers
Career averages: 18.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 6.1 APG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 7x All-Star, 6x All-NBA, 7x All-Defensive
The famed Knicks broadcaster was also a pretty good player in his day. Frazier played for the Knickerbockers from ’68-’77. During that time, “Clyde” was named an All-Star seven times. Frazier was a member of each of the only two Knicks’ championship winning teams. In ’70, a 24-year-old Frazier poured in 36 points and 19 assists in a Game 7 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers to win the title.
Three years later, Frazier and the Knicks toppled the Lakers in the Finals again (this time only needing five games). Frazier was the quintessential point guard. The crafty playmaker dazzled crowds with pinpoint passes and stingy defense. He was named First-team All-NBA four times, and made the All-Defensive first team seven times.
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42. Kawhi Leonard
Teams: San Antonio Spurs/Toronto Raptors/LA Clippers
Career averages: 19.2 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.9 APG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 5x All-Star, 4x All-NBA, 6x All-Defensive, 2x DPoY
Leonard’s raw numbers don’t stack up with a lot of the other all-time greats. Selected 15th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft, Leonard joined a contending Spurs team which included three future Hall of Famers (Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili). Leonard settled into his role as one of the league’s premier 3-and-D threats. In ’13 and ’14, Leonard helped guide the Spurs to the NBA Finals — winning his first championship and Finals MVP the second time around.
As San Antonio’s stable of stars aged, Leonard’s role grew larger. By ’16, there was no doubt he was one of the very best players in the league. Regarded as one of the great two-way wings ever, Leonard is one of just two players (Hakeem Olajuwon) in NBA history to have multiple Finals MVP’s and multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards.
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41. George Mikan
Team: Minneapolis Lakers
Career averages: 23.1 PPG, 13.4 RPG, 2.8 APG
Individual Accolades: 5x NBA Champion, 4x All-Star, 6x All-NBA, 3x Scoring Champion
Before Wilt, Kareem, Shaq, Pau, and Davis, there was Mikan. The Lakers have been known (among other things) as the NBA’s Hall of Fame big man factory. Mikan was the one who really started it all for the then-Minneapolis Lakers. A winner of five titles, the four-time All-Star was one of the game’s best big men. Mikan prided himself on being able to finish with both hands. His hook shot was the trademark move for Mikan (who paved the way for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to create the skyhook).
In fact, according to legend, a number of rules were instituted simply based upon the fact that Mikan was too dominant of a player. This included adding the shot clock, widening the lane in order for him to not camp out in the paint, and also the goaltending rule (to prevent Mikan from obliterating every single shot attempt).
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40. Willis Reed
Team: New York Knicks
Career averages: 18.7 PPG, 12.9 RPG, 1.8 APG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 7x All-Star, 5x All-NBA, 1x All-Defensive
To this day, Reed remains an icon within the rich history of the New York Knicks franchise. A center from Louisiana, Reed took to the bright lights of the apple quite well. The 7-time All-Star helped in leading the Knicks to two NBA Championships.
He was the MVP of both those Finals’ runs. A rock-solid performer, Reed averaged 18.7 PPG, 12.9 RPG, and 1.1 BPG. In 1997, Reed was signified as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.
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39. Dominique Wilkins
Teams: Atlanta Hawks/LA Clippers/Boston Celtics/San Antonio Spurs/Orlando Magic
Career averages: 24.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.5 APG, 1.3 SPG
Individual Accolades: 9x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 1x Scoring Champion
Wilkins was ahead of his time when it came to violently attacking the rim. A dynamic athlete at about 6-feet-8, Wilkins made nine All-Star appearances throughout his illustrious career. To this day, there’s a real case to be made that he is still the best player to ever wear a Hawks’ uniform. Wilkins shot high percentages from both the floor and the free-throw line.
He loved to get out in transition — where he’d often terrorize opposing defenders. Wilkins was even a gifted defender. He averaged 1.3 SPG for his career. He’s only one of eight players to have averaged at least 25 PPG for 10-straight seasons.
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38. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Team: Milwaukee Bucks
Career averages: 20.9 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.3 BPG
Individual Accolades: 2x MVP, 5x All-Star, 4x All-NBA, 3x All-Defensive, 1x DPoY
The 26-year-old could retire from the NBA today, and still be a lock for the Hall of Fame. Hailing from Athens, Antetokounmpo already has five All-Star appearances, one All-Star Game MVP Award, and two MVP trophies under his belt. A freak in the best sense of the term, you rarely see players at 6-foot-11 who can guard every single position on the floor at an all-league level.
Antetokounmpo has guard skills, bounce off the dribble, and virtually every skill you’d want. The only remaining factor to improve upon is his shooting from both three and the free throw line. Once that happens, you’re looking at a virtually unstoppable player.
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37. Russell Westbrook
Teams: Oklahoma City Thunder/Houston Rockets/Washington Wizards
Career averages: 23.2 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 8.5 APG, 1.7 SPG
Individual Accolades: 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA, 1x MVP, 2x Scoring Champion, 2x Assists leader, All-Time Triple-Double leader
Few have been as polarizing as Russell Westbrook. Analytics enthusiasts do not love his game. They view him through the prism as a guy who turns the ball over way too much — with poor shooting percentages and inconsistent defensive metrics. One could opt to look at Westbrook that way. However, he’s also a player who plays harder than anyone. His disposition on the court is beyond fierce, and he plays the game with unparalleled passion.
Oh — and he’s averaged a triple-double on three separate occasions (including being the NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles accrued). From an athletic standpoint, Westbrook is arguably the pound-for-pound best athlete to ever play professional basketball.
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36. Patrick Ewing
Teams: New York Knicks/Seattle Sonics/Orlando Magic
Career averages: 21.0 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 2.4 BPG
Individual Accolades: 11x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 3x All-Defensive
The former ‘savior’ of the New York Knicks franchise certainly lived up to the hype he brought from his college days at Georgetown. The 7-footer was a core member of the ’90’s era where big men dominated the game of basketball. A former soccer player in his native Jamaica, it enabled Ewing to display terrific footwork around the rim. He could finish with either hand, and had a myriad of moves he’d utilize against the game’s best.
An 11-time All-Star, Ewing averaged a stellar 2.5 blocks per contest during his playing days (which also led to him being a 7-time all-league defender). For as good as Ewing was, he weirdly still feels a bit overshadowed both historically and for his era.
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35. Steve Nash
Teams: Phoenix Suns/Dallas Mavericks/Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 14.3 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 8.5 APG, 0.7 SPG
Individual Accolades: 2x MVP, 8x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 5x Assists leader
Nash is the perfect example of a player who relied on his brains rather than his athletic ability. In the process, the two-time MVP was as clever with the ball as practically any point guard. Nash was a true orchestrator — the type of guy who was far more willing to set up a teammate rather than settling for a long jumper.
Exquisitely skilled as both a shooter and ballhandler, he was the maestro behind the Phoenix Suns’ ‘seven seconds or less’ squad. This team transformed the way the NBA is played today, and Nash is a gigantic reason for why that’s the case.
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34. Allen Iverson
Teams: Philadelphia 76ers/Denver Nuggets/Detroit Pistons/Memphis Grizzlies
Career averages: 26.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.2 SPG
Individual Accolades: 11x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 1x MVP, 4x Scoring Champion, 3x Steals leader
Iverson is one of the most unique players the NBA has ever seen. Generously listed at 6-feet tall, the diminutive guard had the heart of a lion, and the testicular fortitude of an elephant. He was able to wiggle his way to the rim whenever he wanted. Iverson scored over bigger players with ease, and shook them with his patented crossover dribble.
His impact on the game certainly goes beyond the statistical output he cultivated over his career. Iverson brought joy to the court whenever he played, and captivated the audience equally as much. We may never seen another Allen Iverson ever again.
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33. James Harden
Teams: Oklahoma City Thunder/Houston Rockets/Brooklyn Nets
Career averages: 25.1 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.6 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x MVP, 9x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 3x Scoring Champion, 1x Assists leader
You may be surprised to see Harden rank so highly on the all-time list. However, the Los Angeles native has more than proven his worth as one of the best individual scorers the game has seen to date. Rarely do you see such a powerful athlete possess his levels of intelligence, creativity, and inventiveness.
Harden can literally score in any situation — whether bullying smaller players in the post, taking you off the dribble, pulling up for three, or creating space via his ballhandling. As of May 2021, he’s not yet won an NBA Title. With that said, we feel as if it’s only a matter of time until this highly-skilled athlete reaches the pinnacle of the sport.
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32. Chris Paul
Teams: Oklahoma City Thunder/Houston Rockets/Los Angeles Clippers/New Orleans Hornets/Phoenix Suns
Career averages: 18.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 9.4 APG, 2.2 SPG
Individual Accolades: 11x All-Star, 9x All-NBA, 9x All-Defensive selection, 4x Assists leader, 6x Steals leader
When ranking point guards based upon their play on both sides of the court, Chris Paul stands out as a true force. Paul is highly efficient on the offensive end. He’s averaged 18.3 PPG and 9.4 APG over the course of his career — including shooting at a 47.2-percent clip from the field.
Defensively, he’s been a seven-time All-Defensive First Team selection. While no one questions Paul’s leadership or competitiveness on the floor, his lack of postseason success limits his relative ranking when compared to his peers.
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31. Scottie Pippen
Teams: Chicago Bulls/Portland Trail Blazers/Houston Rockets
Career averages: 16.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 5.2 APG, 0.8 BPG, 2.0 SPG
Individual Accolades: 6x NBA Champion, 7x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 10x All-Defensive, 1995 Steals leader
Every great player needs the “Robin” to his “Batman.” Fortunately for Michael Jordan, his “Robin” also happens to be one of the greatest players to ever play the game. Pippen was a monster on the defensive end. He possessed ability to guard multiple positions effectively.
His unselfishness on offense also complemented Jordan well. Pippen mostly played within the flow of the offense. Rarely did you see him force anything on that side of the court. With that said, Pippen could score the basketball when called upon to do so.
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30. Rick Barry
Teams: San Francisco Warriors/Oakland Oaks/Washington Caps/New York Nets/Golden State Warriors/Houston Rockets
Career averages: 24.8 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.1 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 8x All-Star, 6x All-NBA, 1x Scoring Champion, 1x Steals leader
Rick Barry played during an era in which three-pointers weren’t recorded. Had he played with a three-point line, Barry likely would be the owner of many records from behind the arc. The former University of Miami star was a highly complete offensive player.
While Barry’s prowess from the perimeter is universally lauded, he also was excellent as a playmaker. To this day, Barry holds NBA Finals records for the highest scoring average in a Finals series (36.3 PPG) and field goals made in a single Finals game (22).
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29. Jason Kidd
Teams: Dallas Mavericks/Phoenix Suns/New Jersey Nets/New York Knicks
Career averages: 12.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.9 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 10xAll-Star, 6x All-NBA, 9x All-Defensive, 5x Assists leader
He wasn’t the star he once was when he finally captured the ever-elusive NBA championship in 2011, but Kidd still found ways to contribute. Kidd’s longevity and ability to stay relevant despite his waning athleticism is a key reason he will be remembered as an all-time great.
Few who played the game evolved as well as Kidd did throughout his career. In his heyday, Kidd could run and gun with the best of them. He was an all-time great passer, as well as an elite defender and rebounder at the point guard position.
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28. Bob Pettit
Team: Milwaukee Hawks/St. Louis Hawks
Career averages: 26.4 PPG, 16.2 RPG, 3.0 APG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 2x MVP, 11x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 2x Scoring Champion
The original “Stretch-4,” Pettit transformed the way teams scout big men. Had he been born a couple of decades later, Pettit could have been one of the most productive three-point shooting big men of all-time. He wasn’t just a shooter, though.
Standing at 6-foot-9, Pettit averaged more than 16 rebounds a game in his career. His career accolades also included being an 11-time All-Star, a 10-time All-NBA First Team member, a four-time All-Star Game MVP, and a two-time league MVP. Simply put, Pettit was ahead of his time.
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27. Kevin Garnett
Teams: Minnesota Timberwolves/Boston Celtics/Brooklyn Nets
Career averages: 17.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.4 BPG, 1.3 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 15x All-Star, 9x All-NBA, 1x Defensive Player of the Year, 12x All-Defensive, 4x Rebounds leader
Pure, raw intensity is the only way to accurately describe Kevin Garnett. He made a career off of playing with a fiery passion. Of course at 6-foot-11, it also helped that Garnett moved like a guard on the floor. Garnett had a smooth stroke from mid-range, and was the key component of the great Boston defenses of the late 2000s.
Had he been able to escape Minnesota a few years earlier, there’s no telling how much damage KG could have done. He’ll go down as one of the best two-way players — regardless of position — in NBA history.
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26. Kevin McHale
Team: Boston Celtics
Career averages: 17.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.7 BPG
Individual Accolades: 3x NBA Champion, 7x All-Star, 6x All-Defensive, 2x Sixth Man of the Year
A major piece to the great Boston teams of the 80s, Kevin McHale made his name through his excellent post game. McHale could score in an unlimited amount of ways on the block, and was near impossible to stop with his back to the basket. Though not overly explosive, McHale epitomized the prototypical ‘crafty’ basketball player.
The three-time NBA Champion was also a seven-time All Star, and a six-time All-Defensive team selection. When Charles Barkley says that you are the toughest player he’s ever guarded, you’re doing something right.
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25. David Robinson
Team: San Antonio Spurs
Career averages: 21.1 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 2.5 APG, 3.0 BPG, 1.4 SPG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 10x All-Star, 10x All-NBA, 1x Defensive Player of the Year, 8x All-Defensive, 1x Scoring Champion, 1x Rebounds leader, 1x Blocks leader
Due to obligations to the Naval Academy, it took Robinson a few years after he was drafted to make his much-awaited debut with the Spurs. The wait was well worth it, as Robinson helped the Spurs to two titles during his 14 years with the team.
‘The Admiral’ played a traditional style, but his enormous upper body helped him dominate other centers around the league. Robinson attacked the basket with real aggression, and protected the paint on defense as well as anybody that has played the position.
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24. John Stockton
Team: Utah Jazz
Career averages: 13.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 10.5 APG, 2.2 SPG
Individual Accolades: 10x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 9x Assists leader, 2x Steals leader
As tenacious as they come, John Stockton made a career off of intelligent and unselfish play. An all-time great distributor and defender, Stockton did whatever his team needed of him. Sure, playing with Karl Malone makes life a lot easier, but the Mailman can greatly attribute his spot on the all-time scoring list to Stockton.
The pick-and-roll connection between the two iconic players is widely regarded as one of the most lethal pairings in league history. Stockton also was a player that truly extracted out every ounce of ability he had.
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23. Elgin Baylor
Team: Minneapolis Lakers/Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 27.4 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 4.3 APG
Individual Accolades: 11x All-Star, 10x All-NBA, 1959 Rookie of the Year
Baylor was the original slashing forward — frequently playing above the rim and finishing with both finesse and power. An equally prolific scorer and rebounder, Baylor is in strong consideration as the best player in NBA history to never win an MVP award. Many actually feel that Baylor is one of — if not the most underrated player of all-time.
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22. Jerry West
Team: Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 27.0 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2.6 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 14x All-Star, 12x All-NBA, 5x All-Defensive, 1x Scoring Champion, 1x Assists leader
‘Mr. Clutch’ earned his nickname through magical postseason performances. From his 60-foot buzzer beater in the Finals, to his 40-point per game average in the 1965 playoffs, West always saved his best performances for the bright lights. West was a graceful player on the court.
Possessing an abnormally long wingspan, he terrorized the opposition on both ends of the floor. West was both a lethal scorer and a tremendous facilitator of the basketball. There’s a reason why West’s silhouette plays host as the logo of the league.
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21. Charles Barkley
Teams: Philadelphia 76ers/Phoenix Suns/Houston Rockets
Career averages: 22.1 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 3.9 APG, 0.8 BPG, 1.5 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x MVP, 11x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 1x Rebounds leader
Standing at only 6-foot-6, Barkley used his incredible lower body strength to become one of the best rebounders in league history. Don’t let the weight and the Krispy Kreme doughnuts fool you though, Charles was a force in the open court in his prime. He could finish with authority or use his impressive vision to find his teammates. Call him ‘Sir Charles,’ ‘The Round Mound of Rebound’ or any other name you like, but one thing remains unchanged: Charles Barkley could flat-out play.
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20. Isiah Thomas
Team: Detroit Pistons
Career averages: 19.2 PPG, 9.3 APG, 3.6 RPG, 1.9 SPG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 12x All-Star, 5x All-NBA, 1x Assists leader
The leader of the Bad Boys, Isiah Thomas constantly played with a chip on his shoulder. Thomas was lightning quick with the ball and was a very good shooter from the outside. However, what he will be most remembered for is his tremendous ability as a leader. One of the original floor generals, Thomas had an innate ability of knowing when to get the ball to his teammates versus getting himself going offensively.
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19. Stephen Curry
Team: Golden State Warriors
Career averages: 24.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.7 SPG
Individual Accolades: 3x NBA Champion, 2x MVP, 7x All-Star selection, 6x All-NBA selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 1x Steals leader
Much like his former teammate Kevin Durant, Curry is an absolute anomaly of a player. With a thin frame and rather average athleticism, he isn’t supposed to be this good. Having just turned 33, Curry already has two MVP trophies and three NBA Titles under his proverbial belt. Never has the game seen such a lethal perimeter shooter — whether it’s spotting up or shooting off the dribble.
Curry’s uncanny ability to get separation from defenders is truly impressive. Though he’s still got plenty of time left in his career, Curry’s already established himself as the greatest shooter the game has ever seen.
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18. Kevin Durant
Teams: Oklahoma City Thunder/Golden State Warriors/Brooklyn Nets
Career averages: 27.0 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.1 BPG, 1.1 SPG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 11x All-Star, 9x All-NBA, 4x Scoring Champion
Never has the NBA seen a player like Kevin Durant. He’s uniquely phenomenal in a multitude of ways. Nearing the 7-foot mark, Durant has ball-handling capabilities and the shooting prowess of a guard. He can score from anywhere on the court — demonstrating skill only seen among the elite players in the league’s history.
Additionally, Durant’s spider-like wingspan and rare athletic ability have helped him become an outstanding defensive player. Durant captured two NBA Titles with the Warriors and was on the cusp of winning a third before he tore his Achilles. Now a member of the Brooklyn Nets, barring good heath there’s a real chance he could finish as one of the 10 best players of all-time.
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17. Dirk Nowitzki
Team: Dallas Mavericks
Career averages: 20.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.8 BPG, 0.8 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 14x All-Star, 12x All-NBA
The German sharpshooter solidified his place among the all-time greats with his epic stretch during the Mavs’ 2011 playoff run. Securing his first championship and bringing home a unanimous Finals MVP trophy, Nowitzki shook off all “soft” labels.
Possessing a high-arching shot, Nowitzki made the famed one-footed fadeaway a staple for all young players to try and emulate. With his uncanny ability to make difficult shots, Dirk managed to play until he was 40. The German retired after 21 seasons with the Mavs.
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16. Karl Malone
Teams: Utah Jazz/Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 25.0 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.8 BPG, 1.4 SPG
Individual Accolades: 2x MVP, 14x All-Star, 14x All-NBA, 4x All-Defensive
‘The Mailman’ recorded 36,928 points and 14,968 rebounds over his illustrious 20-year career. Malone was a match-up nightmare for any player that had the displeasure of having to defend him. He was one of the strongest players of all-time, but could run in transition with the very best.
His money mid-range game set him over the top as an unstoppable offensive force. Though Malone doesn’t represent the current NBA power forward, he was the archetype during his era.
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15. Dwyane Wade
Teams: Miami Heat/Chicago Bulls/Cleveland Cavaliers
Career averages: 22.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.8 BPG, 1.5 SPG
Individual Accolades: 3x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 13x All-Star, 8x All-NBA, 3x All-Defensive, 1x Scoring Champion
It’s difficult to overlook the impressive resume Wade has accrued over his 16 years in the league. With three championships and the title of the best player in Miami Heat history, Wade has proven that he can perform and win in a multitude of situations.
In his athletic prime, his slashing ability bared a strong resemblance to a 6-foot-4 version of Michael Jordan. As he grew older, he adjusted his game to stay relevant — a prominent trait for an all-time great player.
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14. Moses Malone
Teams: Utah Stars/Spirits of St. Louis/Buffalo Braves/Houston Rockets/Philadelphia 76ers/Washington Bullets/Atlanta Hawks/Milwaukee Bucks/San Antonio Spurs
Career averages: 20.3 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 1.3 APG, 1.3 BPG, 0.8 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 8x All-NBA, 2x All-Defensive, 6x Rebounds leader
Malone played for nine teams in his career in both the ABA and NBA, but found the most success when he teamed up with Dr. J on the Philadelphia 76ers. Ruthless on the boards and a terrific finisher around the rim, Moses was one of the very best players in the league during the early 80’s.
Malone averaged a double-double for his career (20.6 PPG, 12.2 RPG) in addition to being an 8-time All-NBA selection, a 12-time All-Star, and a 3-time league MVP. There are few players possessing a resume as collectively impressive as Malone’s.
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13. Julius Erving
Teams: Virginia Squires/New York Nets/Philadelphia 76ers
Career averages: 24.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.7 BPG, 2.0 SPG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 11x All-Star, 7x All-NBA
Dr. J might be remembered more for his nickname and beautiful head of hair, but the 16-time ABA/NBA All-Star was also one of the best ball players in league history. He stuffed the stat sheet in all aspects. For his career, Erving averaged 24.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 4.2 assists per game. Dr. J also shot a fantastic 50.6-percent from the floor. A true entertainer, Erving accomplished everything with a flair the league had never seen before.
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12. Hakeem Olajuwon
Teams: Houston Rockets/Toronto Raptors
Career averages: 21.8 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 2.5 APG, 3.1 BPG, 1.7 SPG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 12x All-Star, 12x All-NBA, 2x Defensive Player of the Year, 9x All-Defensive, 2x Rebounds leader, 3x Blocks leader
A common similarity with the players near the top of this list is their individual uniqueness. Hakeem Olajuwon was the “unicorn” of centers in the 80’s and 90’s. He could dribble the ball and move his feet like a guard, but coupled this gracefulness with the overwhelming size of a legitimate big man. Hakeem captured glory with back-to-back championships in Houston, blocked the most shots in NBA history (3,830), and his patented “Dream Shake” move is still used by players today.
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11. Oscar Robertson
Teams: Cincinnati Royals/Milwaukee Bucks
Career averages: 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 9.5 APG
Individual Accolades: 1x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 6x Assists leader
Prior to Russell Westbrook accomplishing the feat last year, Robertson had been the only player in NBA history to have averaged a triple-double through an entire season. This was a mark that lasted nearly 60 years before being broken by Westbrook in 2017. The 6’5″ guard was supremely gifted as a passer. In many ways, Robertson was transcendent based upon his height for the position.
Duly, he was a highly efficient player — shooting 83.8-percent from the free-throw line and 48.5-percent from the field for his career. Robertson made the All-Star team in all but two years of his impressive 14-year career.
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10. Larry Bird
Team: Boston Celtics
Career averages: 24.3 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 6.3 APG, 0.8 BPG, 1.7 SPG
Individual Accolades: 3x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA, 3x All-Defensive
Larry Bird — with the help of Magic Johnson — helped resurrect the game of basketball in the ’80s. As a player, Bird was an assassin. He was a terrific shooter, passer, and rebounder, and played his best in the biggest games. Bird led the Celtics to three titles. He also made 12 All-Star Game appearances, and was a 3-time league MVP.
Bird’s overall level of competitiveness alone makes him an all-time great. Had it not been for chronic back issues later in his career, Bird could certainly have a case for a top-5 spot.
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9. Bill Russell
Team: Boston Celtics
Career averages: 15.1 PPG, 22.5 RPG, 4.3 APG
Individual Accolades: 11x NBA Champion, 5x MVP, 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 1x All-Defensive, 4x Rebounds leader
As the defensive stalwart for the early Celtics teams, nobody experienced more success winning basketball games than Bill Russell. An 11-time champion and 5-time regular season MVP, Russell spent the majority of his career filling in his expansive trophy case. At the time, the league had never seen someone possessing Russell’s skill-set as a defensive player.
The former University of San Francisco star had unbelievable timing when it came to blocking shots. Additionally, Russell used his long arms and elite athleticism to mop up misses at a high clip. These attributes led to Russell averaging 22.5 RPG for his career.
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8. Tim Duncan
Team: San Antonio Spurs
Career averages: 19.0 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 3.0 APG, 2.2 BPG, 0.7 SPG
Individual Accolades: 5x NBA Champion, 3x NBA Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 15x All-Star, 15x All-NBA, 15x All-Defensive
The soon-to-be Hall of Famer solidified his spot as the best power forward the game has seen. As such, he is easily deserving of a Top-10 spot. “The Big Fundamental” impacted the game on both ends of the floor from the moment he joined the Spurs. Duncan was excellent at utilizing his body to carve out space on the offensive end.
He also brilliantly positioned himself to always act as a deterrent defensively. More than anything, Duncan will be remembered for his calm demeanor, silky bank shot, and a pedigree rooted in winning at the highest level.
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7. Shaquille O’Neal
Teams: Los Angeles Lakers/Orlando Magic/Miami Heat/Boston Celtics/Phoenix Suns/Cleveland Cavaliers
Career averages: 23.7 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.5 APG, 2.3 BPG, 0.6 SPG
Individual Accolades: 4x NBA Champion, 3x NBA Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 15x All-Star, 14x All-NBA, 3x All-Defensive, 2x Scoring Champion
When there’s a legitimate strategy teams implement to their game plan that is named after you, your spot on this list is certain. The “Hack-A-Shaq” was truly the only way you could slow down this monster. O’Neal was a powerhouse from the get-go, and it’s almost criminal that the most dominant big man of recent memory ended his career with only one MVP trophy — not to mention he should have been a unanimous pick the year he won. With three Finals MVP trophies though, I’m sure he sleeps just fine.
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6. Kobe Bryant
Team: Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 0.5 BPG, 1.4 SPG
Individual Accolades: 5x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 18x All-Star, 15x All-NBA, 12x All-Defensive, 2x Scoring Champion
He wasn’t quite as athletically gifted as the other greats. He didn’t have the speed of Jordan, the size of Magic, or the strength of LeBron, but he made up for it by being the most skilled player in history. From immaculate footwork to impossible fadeaway jumpers, Kobe Bryant truly had every basketball skill you would want in a player.
With the unlimited skill-set, hyper competitiveness, and a resume that includes five championship rings, it’s safe to say we will never see another player quite like Kobe. The Black Mamba officially entered the Hall of Fame in May 2021.
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5. Wilt Chamberlain
Teams: Philadelphia Warriors/San Francisco Warriors/Philadelphia 76ers/Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 30.1 PPG, 22.9 RPG, 4.4 APG
Individual Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 13x All-Star, 10x All-NBA, 2x All-Defensive, 7x Scoring Champion, 11x Rebounds leader, 1x Assists leader
With a 100-point game on his resume, Wilt Chamberlain just barely edges out Shaq and Russell on the all-time list. Chamberlain was truly unstoppable on offense, scoring around the basket at will. He holds the record for most points (the aforementioned 100) and most rebounds (55) in a game, and has a season under his belt in which he averaged 50 points and 25 rebounds a night. Stat lines like these are truly “video game numbers.”
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4. Magic Johnson
Team: Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG, 0.4 BPG, 1.9 SPG
Individual Accolades: 5x NBA Champion, 3x NBA Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA, 4x Assists leader, 2x Steals leader
The most revolutionary player in the history of the sport, Magic Johnson’s uniqueness will have him at or near the top of these lists for decades to come. With size and vision that the game had never seen before, Johnson took the league by storm, heading the attack for the electric “Showtime” Lakers.
Players like LeBron, Tracy McGrady, Penny Hardaway and most recently Giannis Antetokounmpo all resemble bits and pieces of Magic’s style, but the league may never see a floor general with Magic’s size and leadership again.
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3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Teams: Milwaukee Bucks/Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 24.6 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 3.6 APG, 2.6 BPG, 0.9 SPG
Individual Accolades: 6x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 6x MVP, 19x All-Star, 15x All-NBA, 11x All-Defensive, 2x Scoring Champion, 1x Rebounds leader, 4x Blocks leader
Never has a player had a single move in their arsenal more dominant than Kareem’s patented sky-hook. The unorthodox shot helped “KAJ” win six NBA championships and a record six NBA regular season MVPs. Abdul-Jabbar transitioned effortlessly from an awe-inspiring athlete into a highly effective player reliant upon immense skill.
One also has to praise Abdul-Jabbar for his overall level of durability. In 20 seasons, the former UCLA star failed to make the All-Star team only once. In a sport filled with giants, Kareem was the best big man of all-time.
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2. LeBron James
Teams: Cleveland Cavaliers/Miami Heat/Los Angeles Lakers
Career averages: 27.0 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 7.4 APG, 0.7 BPG, 1.6 SPG
Individual Accolades: 4x NBA Champion, 4x NBA Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 17x All-Star, 15x All-NBA, 6x All-Defensive, 1x Scoring Champion, 1x Assists leader
Facing higher expectations than anybody that has played the game, LeBron James has delivered as well as anybody could have hoped. The versatile forward has done everything for the teams he has played for, and then some.
His spotty record in the Finals will ultimately be his “downfall” in any sort of debate concerning his place among the all-time greats, but his impact on the court speaks for itself. LeBron led the Lakers to their NBA-leading 17th championship in 2020, and is once again primed to contend in 2021.
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1. Michael Jordan
Teams: Chicago Bulls/Washington Wizards
Career averages: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 0.8 BPG, 2.3 SPG
Individual Accolades: 6x NBA Champion, 6x NBA Finals MVP, 5x MVP, 14x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 1x Defensive Player of the Year, 9x All-Defensive selection, 10x Scoring Champion, 3x Steals leader
Were you expecting anything different? His Airness reigns supreme over the basketball world, and is in contention for the greatest athlete (across all sports) of all-time. Equally impressive on the offensive and defensive sides of the floor, Jordan’s sheer dominance throughout the 90s may never be seen again. With an unblemished 6-0 record in the Finals, it will take a Herculean effort to unseat the true King of the hardwood.
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