76 greatest NBA players ever: The HoopsHype list
Since the first edition of our HoopsHype 75 list went so well with many people liking it better than the official NBA one, we decided to do another one with the catch being that we’re adding another player to make it a 76-deep list.
(We’re actually turning this into a yearly exercise with a new player after each season).
As far as who that lucky player is, we don’t want to give it away here, but just know that he’s Serbian and likes horses, and has a couple of MVPs on his mantle at home. Though no rings (yet).
The main difference between our list and the NBA75 one is that we give modern-era players their flowers to a larger extent. Egregious omissions from the official list like Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol easily made it onto our ranking.
Like last year, we held a team vote with the opinions of eight HoopsHype staff members, removed the highest and lowest rank for each and awarded points 76-1 for the rest.
Without further ado, let’s jump into it.
Michael Jordan
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Top accolades: Six NBA titles, six Finals MVPs, five MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 14 All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 3rd in steals, 5th in scoring, 47th in assists, 123rd in blocks, 132nd in rebounds
Share of the vote: 99.79 percent of the maximum amount possible
Not a consensus pick, but close to it, as six of our eight voters picked Michael Jordan again as the No. 1 player in their ranking. It’s impossible to argue that, too, as Jordan had the highest peak of any of the GOAT candidates and the longest list of top-level achievements (as of now). Jordan was a madman as a competitor, which led to him training as hard as any NBA player ever in order to get his body in elite shape to destroy opponents.
His mid-range game – face-ups, jab-steps, pull-ups, turnarounds, fadeaway, all of it – was second to none, and he was also a freakish athlete who could finish through contact and over length. And then there was the aspect of his clutchness, as Jordan was so often successful in nailing game-winners in the most high-pressure situations imaginable. Oh, and he was a top-tier defender, too.
Jordan was the face of the NBA for a long time, and his star status outside of the basketball world was almost hard to believe, and still sort of is. Overall, he’s still currently the GOAT, according to our voters.
Though Jordan safely locked up No. 1 again on our list this year, his spot is being threatened by the next player on this ranking, who doesn’t appear to be slowing down much.
LeBron James
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Top accolades: Four NBA titles, four Finals MVPs, four MVPs, 13 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 18 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 2nd in scoring, 7th in assists, 10th in steals, 38th in rebounds, 93rd in blocks
Share of the vote: 98.95 percent of the maximum amount possible
Two out of eight HoopsHype voters put LeBron James in the top spot of their vote. Of course, this is not over for James, who has a legit shot at more titles and historic accolades like top scorer in NBA history. James is already No. 1 in the playoffs in scoring and combined regular season + postseason points.
LeBron came into the NBA with unreal expectations and somehow managed to surpass all of them – and then some. James is clutch, he can score at a ridiculous level despite that not being his best attribute, rebounds well and is a fantastic playmaker, his most impressive trait. Few players have ever matched James’ absurd basketball IQ, one that he’ll use to continue to dominate for the next few seasons as his late prime winds down. When we re-do this exercise, James could very well finish first.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
John G. Zimmerman/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images/Getty Images
Top accolades: Six NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, six MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 19 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 1st in scoring, 3rd in rebounds and blocks, 45th in assists, 107th in steals
Share of the vote: 97.50 percent of the maximum amount possible
The GOAT debate is considered a two-horse race at this point in the NBA, but if there is a strong third candidate, it’s Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who dominated for almost two decades thanks to his skyhook shot and overall greatness as a scorer, rebounder and shot-blocker. If anything, the longevity argument is still with Abdul-Jabbar, as the all-time big man won his two Finals MVP awards 14 years apart, first in 1971 and then again in 1985. Most players’ careers don’t last anywhere near that long, yet Abdul-Jabbar was dominating at the highest level for that long. Still, Jordan and James are too tough to overcome, despite Abdul-Jabbar’s resume.
Magic Johnson
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Top accolades: Five NBA titles, three Finals MVPs, three MVPs, nine All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars
NBA rank: 6th in assists, 22nd in steals, 83rd in scoring, 146nd in rebounds
Share of the vote: 96.04 percent of the maximum amount possible
The consensus best point guard in NBA history comes at No. 4 on our list. The leader of one of the finest teams in basketball history, Magic Johnson had flash, pizzazz and any adjective you can think of as a playmaker, often hightailing it down the open floor and making spectacular passes that not many others would have attempted, let alone pulled off as successfully as he did. Magic was also a winner, making iconic plays over and over again in the biggest of stages. Add in his super charismatic personality and you have the complete package as one of the biggest superstars the league has ever seen.
Bill Russell
Top accolades: 11 NBA titles, five MVPs, 11, All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars
NBA rank: 2nd in rebounds, 114th in assists, 157th in scoring
Share of the vote: 93.33 percent of the maximum amount possible
Bill Russell’s record for most NBA titles will never be beaten, as no one has come, or will come close to his 11 career championships. Russell’s resume is actually hurt because many accolades, like Finals MVP or Defensive Player of the Years didn’t even exist in his heyday. What’s more, since blocks weren’t recorded as a stat in his career, there’s no way to know how many Russell had for his career. There’s a chance he would be at the top of blocks standings along with the player coming up next on our ranking. Russell may not have had the longest career, but boy, was that run successful. Just as a curious note: Russell had more MVPs than All-NBA 1st Team selections in his career (three).
Wilt Chamberlain
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one Finals MVP, four MVPs, seven All-NBA 1st Team selections, 13 All-Stars, two All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 1st in rebounds, 7th in scoring, 81th in assists
Share of the vote: 92.91 percent of the maximum amount possible
The most dominant big man offensively in NBA history, though that partially had to do with the level of competition Wilt Chamberlain faced in his era. Still, when you dominate at the level Chamberlain did, who cares who he did it against? Chamberlain did come a little short in the team success department as he was usually better in the regular season than in the playoffs, something that many believe had to do with an unwillingness to get fouled late in close games due to his unreliable free throw.
Chamberlain’s single-season rebounding and scoring records are unassailable. Plus he has the second-best scoring average behind only Jordan. And had MJ played one more year with the Wizards, Chamberlain might actually be No. 1 in that stat. Chamberlain is also the only guy to lead the league in total scoring, rebounds and assists for a season, and retired as the all-time leader in scoring and rebounding at the time.
Larry Bird
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Top accolades: Three NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, three MVPs, nine All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars
NBA rank: 36th in scoring, 38th in steals, 44th in assists, 55th in rebounds, 159th in blocks
Share of the vote: 91.66 percent of the maximum amount possible
Bird may not rank super high in the stat department – a byproduct of a shorter career than normal for NBA superstars and being part of a star-studded team – but there’s no questioning his status as an all-time great, as the legendary swingman filled the stat sheet and possessed a terrific all-around game, as a shooter, overall scorer, rebounder and playmaker.
Kobe Bryant
AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill
Top accolades: Five NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, 11 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 18 All-Stars, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 4th in scoring, 16th in steals, 33rd in assists, 111th in rebounds, 201st in blocks
Share of the vote: 91.45 percent of the maximum amount possible
Not as high a peak as other megastars, but his career is one of amazingly sustained excellence – a result of an almost unparalleled work ethic and devotion to his craft, which helped him develop into an outrageous scorer out of the mid-range and near the rim, and a high-impact perimeter defender. Kobe Bryant was first a sidekick to Shaq before then becoming the man for the Lakers and winning five titles overall, two of which he earned Finals MVPs for. Bryant, who finished his career with more All-NBA 1st Team selections than Jordan (!), also probably turned more people into basketball fans than any player not named Michael (or Earvin).
Shaquille O'Neal
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Top accolades: Four NBA titles, three Finals MVPs, one MVP, eight All-NBA 1st Team selections, 15 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 2nd Team selections
NBA rank: 8th in scoring and blocks, 15th in rebounds, 216th in assists
Share of the vote: 91.25 percent of the maximum amount possible
The most dominant physical specimen in the NBA since the days of Chamberlain, Shaquille O’Neal was an absolute freak with his blend of size, strength and unreal explosiveness. During O’Neal’s peak years, teams were making moves with the sole intention of containing the big man. Many ho-hum centers made a killing thanks to that just because they were another huge body to throw at O’Neal.
The fact the Big Artistotle won only one MVP was kind of ridiculous in hindsight, as there were various seasons he was the most dominant player in the league. O’Neal wanting to be a star off the court probably took away a bit of impact on the court, but he was devastating throughout his career regardless, even despite being a porous free-throw shooter.
Tim Duncan
Top accolades: Five NBA titles, three Finals MVPs, two MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 5th in blocks, 6th in rebounds, 15th in scoring, 103rd in assists, 163rd in steals
Share of the vote: 91.04 percent of the maximum amount possible
The rare low-maintenance superstar, Tim Duncan was impactful and successful team-wise from the get-go through the end of his career. Duncan anchored the winningest team of the century and did so in a low-key manner, without enough acclaim for his greatness or accomplishments. Don’t believe us? How about the fact that he never won Defensive Player of the Year despite being selected to eight 1st Team All-Defenses, making that slight a major travesty, one that shows how underrated he was even in his prime. There’s even a chance Duncan would be ranked higher in many GOAT lists with a more entertaining off-court persona, but either way, he’s the greatest power forward ever.
Hakeem Olajuwon 🇳🇬
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-stars, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 1st in blocks, 9th in steals, 12th in points, 14th in rebounds, 214th in assists
Share of the vote: 88.33 percent of the maximum amount possible
The first international player on the list, Hakeem Olajuwon was one of the greatest big men ever, and he competed and produced at an elite level on both ends of the floor with outstanding low-post moves and defensive skills to match. Olajuwon ranks first in blocks on record, though there’s a bit of an asterisk on that because they didn’t keep track of those before 1973-74. Also, he is the only player to rank Top 14 in four different major statistical categories: points, rebounds, blocks and steals.
Kevin Durant
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Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars
NBA rank: 21st in scoring, 94th in blocks, 117th in assists, 136th in rebounds, 168th in steals
Share of the vote: 84.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
Scoring comes so easy for him it’s almost ridiculous, as Kevin Durant is a 7-footer with ball-handling, quickness and a pristine jumper that he can hit from legitimately anywhere on the floor. Durant’s also an impactful defender when he needs to be, moving his feet quickly and blocking shots at pivotal moments. Durant may still move up a few spots in the rankings, but will not be in contention for the top spots due to missed time because of injury.
Oscar Robertson
Top accolades: One NBA title, one MVP, nine All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars
NBA rank: 7th in assists, 13th in scoring, 76th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 84.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
The first player to average a triple-double in league history, Oscar Robertson was an expert playmaker, rebounder and scorer at the lead guard spot, and a somewhat underrated player historically. He experienced very little team success until he joined forces with Lew Alcindor in Milwaukee, but did eventually win an NBA championship. One of the most well-rounded offensive guards ever.
Stephen Curry
Top accolades: Four NBA titles, one Finals MVP, two MVPs, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Stars
NBA rank: 47th in scoring, 56th in assists, 65th in steals
Share of the vote: 82.5 percent of the maximum amount possible
Stephen Curry changed the way the game is played, as now, basically every player on the floor wants to shoot threes, and needs to be able to hit them for your offense to keep up with modern scoring. Curry’s a wizard not only as a shooter, but his playmaking deserves more credit than it receives. The future Hall-of-Famer out of Davidson is already the greatest shooter ever – and it’s not particularly close.
2021-22 was an eventful season for Curry’s legacy, too, as no player did more to add to their list of accolades than Curry, who won his fourth championship – his second without Durant – and locked up the final award he was missing: a Finals MVP. Thanks to that, Curry went up four spots on this list from the HoopsHype 75, from No. 18 last year to No. 14 this season.
Karl Malone
Top accolades: Two MVPs, 11 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 14 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 3rd in scoring, 7th in rebounds, 12th in steals, 61st in assists, 69th in blocks
Share of the vote: 81.25 percent of the maximum amount possible
A model of consistency through the years, Karl Malone had a 17-year stretch, just discounting his first and last seasons, where he averaged at least 20 points per game. In that span, he put up 26.0 points and 10.3 rebounds per contest, numbers that most players would love to average for one season, let alone 17. Malone did have some shortcomings in the playoffs, however, at least compared to fellow megastars, and that put him a little lower on the totem pole than he could have been with a ring or two on his resume.
Moses Malone
Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, three MVPs, eight All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars, two All-Defensive Team selections
NBA rank: 5th in rebounds, 10th in scoring, 27th in blocks, 135th in steals
Share of the vote: 80.0 percent of the maximum amount possible
Perhaps the most underappreciated superstar ever, Moses Malone was as dominant as it gets at the center spot with physical toughness as a rebounder, leading the league in nightly boards an astounding six times, including once at 17.6 rebounds per game. Malone was also a monster scorer in the paint, using his brute strength to batter smaller foes down low. Many consider Malone the greatest offensive rebounder the league has ever seen, as his timing and instincts to chase boards on offense were second to none.
Jerry West
Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 14 All-Stars, four All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 23d in scoring, 34th in assists, 233rd in rebounds
Share of the vote: 79.58 percent of the maximum amount possible
No one on this Earth can possibly hate the Celtics as much as Jerry West, having lost to them in the Finals six times out of the six he faced them. Impossible to blame West for those championship defeats, though, as he put up beastly numbers against them on a consistent basis – just as he did against the rest of the NBA. West was a masterful combo guard who performed at a high level thanks to his scoring and playmaking. He was also a great shooter, both off the dribble and with his feet set. He made the All-Star each of his seasons in the league, which only four other players with 10-plus seasons of NBA experience have accomplished.
Kevin Garnett
Top accolades: One NBA title, one MVP, nine All-NBA Teams, 15 All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 9th in rebounds, 18th in scoring, blocks and steals, 52nd in assists
Share of the vote: 79.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the first unicorns in the NBA, Kevin Garnett had the size of the center and all-around skills of a guard, even bringing the ball down before big men were really allowed to do that. Garnett took a run-of-the-mill Wolves teams to the playoffs consistently while scoring, rebounding, distributing and defending at an elite level. One could even argue Garnett sacrificed offensive numbers to put all-out effort on defense. Fun fact (except if you’re a Wolves fan): Minnesota made the playoffs in eight of 14 Garnett seasons and only once in the 18 years without him. That’s the kind of impact he had. His championship ring with the Celtics came late, but it was beyond deserved.
Dirk Nowitzki 🇩🇪
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Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, one MVP, 12 All-NBA selections, 14 All-Stars
NBA rank: 6th in scoring, 26th in rebounds, 53rd in blocks, 92nd in steals, 152nd in assists
Share of the vote: 77.29 percent of the maximum amount possible
The first European player on the list, Dirk Nowitzki was another revolutionary player thanks to his three-point and off-the-dribble prowess in a 7-foot-tall body. Nowitzki’s elite skill level made the common thinking go from being that big men need to stay in the paint to: If your big men don’t space the floor, you’re at a disadvantage. Nowitzki made a contender, and eventually a champion, out of the Mavericks without star sidekicks for the most part of his career, hoisting the trophy in 2011 and winning Finals MVP for his efforts.
Julius Erving
Top accolades: One NBA title, one MVP, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, 11 All-Stars
NBA rank: 49th in steals, 51st in blocks, 74th in scoring, 191st in assists, 215th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 75.62 percent of the maximum amount possible
He was 26 by the time he made his NBA debut after years in the ABA, so Julius Erving would rank far higher in the statistical categories had he spent his whole career in the Association. Erving was the most spectacular player to date at the time thanks to his unreal athleticism and ability to fly down the floor in transition to hammer in dunks… and he was a winner, too. Often considered Jordan before Jordan (just without a jumper), Erving was an All-Star every season he played (ABA or NBA).
Elgin Baylor
Top accolades: 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 11 All-Stars
NBA rank: 27th in rebounds, 33rd in scoring, 153rd in assists
Share of the vote: 74.79 percent of the maximum amount possible
With ridiculous scoring and rebounding numbers, especially for a non-big man, Elgin Baylor was one of the first players who would awe fans with impressive athleticism. He never got the championship he deserved, however, and the Celtics largely to blame, as out of his seven Finals losses, six came against Boston. Baylor finished his career with as many All-NBA 1st Teams as Kareem.
Giannis Antetokounmpo 🇬🇷
Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, two MVPs, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, six All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, four All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 136th in blocks, 167th in scoring, 170th in rebounds, 218th in assists
Share of the vote: 72.08 percent of the maximum amount possible
A rags to riches story if there ever was one, Giannis Antetokounmpo went from playing in a semi-professional league to being a 15th-overall pick in the draft to winning multiple league MVP awards in just a few years. Antetokounmpo is a player who will likely finish far higher on this list. He actually moved up two spots from the HoopsHype 75 list, from No. 24 to No. 22, after a 2021-22 season that saw him be named an All-Star, make 1st Team All-NBA and 1st Team All-Defense.
The Greek forward boasts freakish length and athleticism plus massive work ethic and motor, which help him absolutely dominate despite lacking an outside jumper.
Dwyane Wade
Top accolades: Three NBA titles, one Finals MVP, eight All-NBA selections, 13 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 2nd Team selections
NBA rank: 31st in steals, 32nd in scoring, 43rd in assists, 128th in blocks
Share of the vote: 70.0 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the greatest shooting guards ever, Dwyane Wade never won a league MVP award but came close in 2008-09 and 2009-10. He was also a solid playmaker and a plus-defender, especially as a shot-blocker, as he ranks as the player 6-foot-4 or shorter with the most blocks ever. Wade also showed great humility in playing second fiddle to LeBron to chase titles later in his prime.
David Robinson
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one MVP, 10 All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, eight All-Defensive selections
NBA rank: 6th in blocks, 32nd in rebounds, 42nd in scoring, 61st in steals
Share of the vote: 69.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the best bodies in NBA history, David Robinson’s physique looked like it was molded out of clay in his prime. He used his frame and strength to torture opponents on both ends for years, doubling as a high-level scorer and freakishly impactful defender, especially protecting the rim. Still, Robinson didn’t get over the hump until Duncan came around, which hurt his spot on this list.
Charles Barkley
Top accolades: One MVP, 11 All-NBA selections, 11 All-Stars
NBA rank: 19th in rebounds, 27th in scoring and steals, 104th in assists, 126th in blocks
Share of the vote: 67.50 percent of the maximum amount possible
The Round Mound of Rebound, Charles Barkley was extremely unique not just for his outspoken personality but for his dominance down low despite being generously listed at 6-foot-6. He was a beast on the glass and as a scorer thanks to his absurd strength and explosiveness in his prime. Barkley never got the ever-elusive ring, but he’s still one of the all-time greats at power forward.
Isiah Thomas
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one Finals MVP, thee All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars
NBA rank: 9th in assists, 17th in steals, 67th in scoring
Share of the vote: 66.45 percent of the maximum amount possible
Perhaps the best player ever under 6-foot-1, Isiah Thomas combined talent with fierce competitiveness. He could create at an elite level but could also score out of the midrange off the dribble. He was the face of the Bad Boys Pistons who beat Jordan’s Bulls three straight times in the playoffs in the late ’80s. The one thing holding Thomas back on this list is he had a short career for star standards.
Scottie Pippen
Top accolades: Six NBA titles, seven All-NBA selections, seven All-Stars, eight All-Defensive Teams
NBA rank: 7th in steals, 35th in assists, 64th in scoring, 90th in rebounds, 110th in blocks
Share of the vote: 65.0 percent of the maximum amount possible
Arguably the greatest Robin in league history, Scottie Pippen was a fierce defender with freakish physical attributes, including long arms and extremely quick feet, who would absolutely stifle opposing stars. Pippen was at his best as a slasher and transition scorer but could also create for teammates at a high level, making him a point forward ahead of his time.
Chris Paul
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Top accolades: 11 All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars, seven All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 3rd in assists, 4th in steals, 39th in scoring
Share of the vote: 63.95 percent of the maximum amount possible
The Point God, Chris Paul is one of the steadiest floor generals in NBA history, capable of acting as a head coach on the floor, getting teammates into the right spots, destroying opponents out of the pick-and-roll and scoring at a high level when needed thanks to his unreal touch as an off-the-dribble scorer in the midrange. Only thing still missing from his legacy is a ring, but he’s a first-ballot Hall-of-Famer with or without one.
John Havlicek
Top accolades: Eight NBA titles, one Finals MVP, 11 All-NBA selections, 13 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 17th in scoring, 37th in assists, 74th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 63.54 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of just four players in league history with eight championships, John Havlicek was a great scorer on the wing, a player who could hit mid-range jumpers or get buckets in transition, and who was always willing to do the dirty work, as evidenced by the legendary “Havlicek stole the ball” moment from the 1965 Eastern Finals.
Allen Iverson
Top accolades: One MVP, seven All-NBA selections, 11 All-Stars
NBA rank: 14th in steals, 26th in scoring, 48th in assists
Share of the vote: 61.87 percent of the maximum amount possible
A cultural icon as well as one of the best lead guards of his era, Allen Iverson has to be one of the most ridiculously explosive athletes the sport has ever seen, especially out of a player generously listed at 6-feet tall. Iverson’s crossover was devastating (just ask Jordan), and his bombastic styler as a scorer made for thrilling viewing throughout his prime.
Bob Pettit
Top accolades: One NBA title, two MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 11 All-Stars
NBA rank: 18th in rebounds, 41st in scoring
Share of the vote: 60.83 percent of the maximum amount possible
The first player to reach 20,000 career points, Bob Pettit was a smooth power forward, especially for his era, who would do a ton of damage in transition and as a mid-range scorer. He won Finals MVP in 1958 after exploding for 50 points and 25 rebounds in the deciding game.
John Stockton
Top accolades: 11 All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 2nd Team selections
NBA rank: 1st in assists and steals, 51st in scoring
Share of the vote: 59.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
John Stockton’s assists and steals record will never be beaten, as the Jazz legend finished his career with 15,806 assists (3,715 more than the second-highest player) and 3,265 steals (581 more than anyone else). Was he ever the best point guard in the NBA? Perhaps not. But the longevity speaks for itself, and Stockton was excellent for a very long time.
Kawhi Leonard
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, five All-NBA selections, five All-Stars, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, seven All-Defensive selections
NBA rank: 17st in steals
Share of the vote: 58.95 percent of the maximum amount possible
Kawhi Leonard owns the distinction for having the highest winning percentage in NBA regular-season history. Leonard was a secondary character in his first title run (until the 2014 Finals, at least) but led the Raptors to the mountaintop on his back. Always steady, even in the highest of pressure situations, and the King of Load Management.
Steve Nash 🇨🇦
Top accolades: Two MVP awards, seven All-NBA selections, eight All-Stars
NBA rank: 4th in assists, 90th in scoring, 231st in steals
Share of the vote: 58.75 percent of the maximum amount possible
Along with Mike D’Antoni and the Seven-Seconds-or-Less Suns, Steve Nash moved basketball forward thanks to his pick-and-roll wizardry and ability to shoot off the dribble, including from beyond the arc, something that wasn’t as common in his era. Nash’s two MVP awards were quite controversial, but there’s no discussing he’s one of the finest players of his generation.
Patrick Ewing
Top accolades: Seven All-NBA selections, 11 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 2nd Team selections
NBA rank: 7th in blocks, 24th in scoring, 25th in rebounds, 118th in steals
Share of the vote: 57.50 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the legendary big men of the ’90s, Patrick Ewing was a beastly shot-blocker who had great size and strength down low, but who also had soft touch as a scorer in the post and out of the mid-range. Was never able to win a title, however, due mostly to the Rockets and Bulls.
Rick Barry
Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Stars
NBA rank: 72nd in scoring, 118th in assists, 130th in steals
Share of the vote: 56.04 percent of the maximum amount possible
An excellent scorer on the wing, Rick Barry may be best remembered these days for his granny-style free-throw shooting, but he was so much more than that, as he could handle the ball at 6-foot-7, shoot off the dribble or around the rim and do a bit of everything else well, including rebound and create for others.
Bob Cousy
Top accolades: Six NBA titles, one MVP, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 13 All-Stars
NBA rank: 20th in assists, 100th in scoring
Share of the vote: 55.41 percent of the maximum amount possible
The original floor general, Bob Cousy was the first star player who did everything a modern point guard should do, be it dribble, give quality passes, direct teammates or shoot jumpers. Cousy was called the Houdini of the Hardwood because of his ballhandling skills and creativity.
Jason Kidd
Top accolades: One NBA title, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, 10 All-Stars, nine All-Defensive selections
NBA rank: 2nd in assists and steals, 58th in rebounds, 87th in scoring
Share of the vote: 54.79 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the greatest point guards ever, Jason Kidd could make the flashy pass or the simple play with the best of them while also loving to hightail it in transition to wear opponents down in transition. Also used his ridiculous basketball IQ to rack up steals and defend at a high level. He even became an adept outside shooter later on in his career, which really added to his longevity.
James Harden
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Top accolades: One MVP, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 10 All-Stars, one Sixth Man of the Year award
NBA rank: 28th in scoring, 31st in assists, 54th in steals. 240th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 54.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
James Harden already has a Hall-of-Fame resume thanks to his unreal scoring ability and playmaking. His crossover and stepback jumper have made him impossible to slow down when he gets going, as does his strong shoulder on drives to the rim. He has a chance to add to his legacy in a major way over the coming years. However, he’s starting to run out of time to accomplish that as Harden, now 33, is starting to make it an impossible-to-ignore habit to fall short in the playoffs. 2022-23 will be a great chance for him to change that, though, as the 76ers are stacked and Harden will have the opportunity to lead the team on a deep playoff run.
Elvin Hayes
Top accolades: One NBA title, six All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars, two All-Defensive 2nd Team selections
NBA rank: 4th in rebounds, 11th in scoring, 24th in blocks
Share of the vote: 54.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
An old-fashioned big man who was really strong and aggressive, especially on defense. Elvin Hayes also had a masterful post game with a trademark turnaround jumper that he’d go to when he was defended by taller players. Hayes was called the Bionic Man because he was relentless, rarely missing a game until he was 38.
Gary Payton
Top accolades: One NBA title, nine All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 5th in steals, 10th in assists, 35th in scoring, 245th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 48.12 percent of the maximum amount possible
Perhaps the greatest point guard defender of all time, Gary Payton had unnatural strength for his size, quick feet and elite hands and timing to help him lock down foes one-on-one as well as rack up the steals. He was also an excellent playmaker and a solid scorer, who used a solid mid-range game to get buckets.
Dominique Wilkins
Top accolades: Seven All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars
NBA rank: 14th in scoring, 62nd in steals, 104th in rebounds, 199th in blocks
Share of the vote: 47.50 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the most explosive players of all time, Dominique Wilkins was more than just a dunker. He could score with the best of them, using his physical advantages and unreal athleticism to torture opponents in the deep-to-short mid-range area.
George Gervin
Top accolades: Five All-NBA 1st Team selections, nine All-Stars
NBA rank: 43rd in scoring, 189th in blocks, 206th in steals
Share of the vote: 47.29 percent of the maximum amount possible
A smooth operator on the wing as a scorer, George Gervin could fill it up with the best of them despite lacking much of a three-point shot. He is best remembered for his beautiful finger-roll layup, still one of the nicest moves in any player’s arsenal ever.
Clyde Drexler
Top accolades: One NBA title, five All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars
NBA rank: 8th in steals, 34th in scoring, 36th in assists, 131st in rebounds, 172nd in blocks
Share of the vote: 46.87 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the best 2-guards ever, Clyde Drexler was a fantastic scorer, rebounder and playmaker for his position, while also using his athleticism well defensively.
George Mikan
Top accolades: Five NBA titles, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, four All-Stars
Share of the vote: 44.16 percent of the maximum amount possible
The first truly dominant NBA big man, George Mikan used his massive size to his advantage along with the unusually soft touch he had for a player of his era. Mikan could finish ably with either hand in the paint. There’s a reason the Mikan Drill is still used to this day.
Anthony Davis
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Top accolades: One NBA title, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Stars, four All-Defensive selections
NBA rank: 43rd in blocks, 164th in scoring, 168th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 41.25 percent of the maximum amount possible
A player who could move up this list as his career progresses, Anthony Davis already has Hall-of-Fame credentials despite having some of his prime still to go. Davis is extremely skilled for his size, able to shoot and dribble, as well as being ridiculously mobile, which, coupled with his otherworldly length, make him an elite defender. Davis has the skill set and freakish physical attributes to make a run up this list, but his durability and injury issues are starting to become seriously problematic.
Russell Westbrook
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Top accolades: One MVP, nine All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars
NBA rank: 11th in assists, 25th in steals, 30th in scoring, 87th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 39.79 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the most energetic players the NBA has ever seen, Russell Westbrook is absolutely tenacious every minute he’s on the floor, often fighting off bigger opponents for rebounds and flying down the floor in transition to throw down monstrous dunks. Of course, as is the case with basically every player, age is starting to affect the former triple-double machine, and that athleticism and energy level are starting to dwindle as Westbrook’s effectiveness pales in comparison to what they used to be.
James Worthy
Top accolades: Three NBA titles, one Finals MVP, one All-NBA 3rd Team, seven All-Stars
NBA rank: 107th in scoring, 158th in steals, 213th in blocks
Share of the vote: 38.75 percent of the maximum amount possible
A 3/4 hybrid, James Worthy had the quickness to get by larger, slower defenders and the size to score over small opponents. Worthy was especially terrific in transition as a member of the Showtime Lakers.
Carmelo Anthony
Top accolades: Six All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars
NBA rank: 9th in scoring, 75th in rebounds, 88th in steals, 175th in assists, 197th in blocks
Share of the vote: 36.45 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the smoothest scorers in the wing the league has ever seen, Carmelo Anthony has become renowned for his jab step in the mid-range, but he had many more moves than that. Melo also liked to bully smaller defenders and hit them with turnaround fadeaways.
Paul Pierce
Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, four All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars
NBA rank: 16th in scoring, 21st in steals, 79th in assists, 88th in rebounds, 166th in blocks
Share of the vote: 34.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
Paul Pierce was a beastly scorer in his prime, one who could fill it up from all three levels and score on even the most elite of defenders. Pierce was also quite clutch, hitting a ton of big shots in his day.
Bob McAdoo
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one MVP, two All-NBA selections, five All-Stars
NBA rank: 67th in blocks, 68th in scoring, 71st in rebounds
Share of the vote: 32.08 percent of the maximum amount possible
A monster-scoring big man who led the league in points three consecutive seasons, including once at 34.5 points per game, Bob McAdoo had a pristine mid-range jumper and a plethora of post moves to torment opponents with.
Reggie Miller
Top accolades: Three All-NBA 3rd Team selections, five All-Stars
NBA rank: 22nd in scoring, 50th in steals, 113th in assists
Share of the vote: 30.41 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the finest shooters ever, Reggie Miller ranks fourth in league history in made three-pointers (2,560). He was also extremely clutch about his shot-making, with a career highlight tape featuring multiple game-winning threes from high-pressure postseason contests.
Wes Unseld
Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, one MVP, one All-NBA 1st Team selection, five All-Stars
NBA rank: 13th in rebounds, 137th in assists
Share of the vote: 30.20 percent of the maximum amount possible
Despite standing just 6-foot-7, Wes Unseld was one of the most physically imposing centers ever thanks to his incredible strength and stout frame. Unseld was one of the best rebounders in NBA history, averaging 14.0 for his career and leading the league in boards in 1974-75, and was extremely efficient at finishing down low.
Kevin McHale
Top accolades: Three NBA titles, one All-NBA 1st Team selection, seven All-Stars, six All-Defensive selections, two Sixth Man of the Year awards
NBA rank: 29th in blocks, 92nd in scoring, 107th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 29.79 percent of the maximum amount possible
Celtics legend Kevin McHale was known for putting opponents in something called the torture chamber, which basically meant when McHale would post up, it was torture for foes to defend due to his sharp elbows, long arms and ridiculous array of moves in the paint. Few historically can match McHale’s mix of post-up moves, including up-and-unders, step-throughs and drop-steps galore.
Damian Lillard
Top accolades: Six All-NBA selections, six All-Stars
NBA rank: 76th in assists, 88th in scoring
Share of the vote: 29.58 percent of the maximum amount possible
Of course, like with any active player on this list, Damian Lillard could see himself outperform his ranking depending on how the rest of his prime goes. Even as is, however, Lillard is one of the best score-first point guards ever, with outstanding shooting ability and clutch shots galore on his resume already.
Ray Allen
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars
NBA rank: 25th in scoring, 53rd in steals, 94th in assists, 244th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 29.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
Had his peak come 20 years later, it’s fascinating to ponder what Ray Allen’s numbers might have looked like, as his bombastic style of play consisting of shooting a ton of threes would have fit wonderfully in today’s NBA. Still, Allen carved out a Hall-of-Fame career in his era anyway as one of the best shooters ever.
Pau Gasol 🇪🇸
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, four All-NBA selections, six All-Stars
NBA rank: 21st in blocks, 28th in rebounds, 40th in scoring, 125th in assists
Share of the vote: 27.70 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the greatest international NBA players of all time, Pau Gasol was a menace in his heyday, a supremely skilled big man who could shoot, dribble a bit, pass and create for teammates, and use his long limbs well when tasked with protecting the rim. Despite being a well-liked figure around the NBA, winning two rings and having such a well-rounded skill set, Gasol was one of the most glaring omissions of the NBA75 list. We didn’t make the same mistake.
Nikola Jokic 🇷🇸
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Top accolades: Two MVPs, three All-NBA 1st Team selections, four All-Stars, one Olympic silver medal
NBA rank: 186th in assists, 227th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 27.08 percent of the maximum amount possible
The best passing big man of all time (yes, it’s already beyond safe to proclaim that), Nikola Jokic makes his debut in this series on our HoopsHype 76 list, checking it at No. 58. Jokic can legitimately do it all from the center spot, creating for teammates like a point guard, posting up with incredibly high efficiency as a finisher, spacing the floor from three and almost never missing on his signature floater. Even his defense has improved, as he rebounds like a monster and has quick, intelligent hands to rack up steals. How high up on this list Jokic can soar will partly depend on how many – if any – championships he wins, but there’s no doubt the Serbian big man will get higher than 58th over the coming years.
Walt Frazier
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, seven All-Stars, seven All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 70th in assists, 128th in scoring
Share of the vote: 26.45 percent of the maximum amount possible
Walt Frazier, remembered partly by his cool nickname Clyde, was one of the smoothest point guards of his era, one who could also take over the bulk of the scoring load for the Knicks. Frazier was also one of the best point-guard defenders ever, making a ridiculous seven 1st Team All-Defenses in his career.
Robert Parish
Top accolades: Four NBA titles, two All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars
NBA rank: 8th in rebounds, 10th in blocks, 29th in scoring, 89th in steals
Share of the vote: 25.41 percent of the maximum amount possible
The starting center on those legendary Celtics teams of the 1980s, Robert Parish was a great complement to the likes of Bird and McHale, willing to do all of the dirty work down low while still providing a solid scoring punch in the paint. Parish ranks in the Top 10 in both career rebounds and blocks.
Willis Reed
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, five All-NBA selections, seven All-Stars, one All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 64th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 24.16 percent of the maximum amount possible
Best-known for limping out onto the court for Game 7 of the 1970 Finals for New York and hitting his first two shots on a bad thigh, Willis Reed is now widely considered one of the greatest Knicks of all time, a big man slightly short on stature but not on talent and sheer will. Reed was a monster rebounder and shot-blocker despite standing just 6-foot-9.
Dwight Howard
Top accolades: One NBA title, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Stars, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, four All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 10th in rebounds, 13th in blocks, 55th in scoring, 141st in steals
Share of the vote: 22.08 percent of the maximum amount possible
At one time, Dwight Howard was the best big man in the NBA, an era that lasted for multiple seasons during his time with the Magic. Howard was an awe-inspiring athlete for his size, who would often sky for rebounds, to block shots or to finish alley-oops. Now in the late stages of his career, Howard is already Top 10 in rebounds and could soon crack Top 10 in blocks too.
Like Gasol, Howard was another glaring omission from the NBA75 list despite being a Top 10 rebounder ever, ranking 13th all-time in blocks and having three Defensive Player of the Year awards. But that might have to do with him not being that well-liked by coaches and teammates during his time in the league.
Dolph Schayes
Top accolades: One NBA title, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars
NBA rank: 29th in rebounds, 71st in scoring, 213th in assists
Share of the vote: 22.08 percent of the maximum amount possible
A big man far ahead of his time, Dolph Schayes was one of the first power forwards who would space the floor and shoot jumpers from the deep mid-range, something he did quite well in the late ’40s, ’50s and early ’60s. Schayes could also dribble past opponents and drive to the hoop on hard closeouts. Schayes paved the way for the modern stretch-4.
Chris Bosh
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one All-NBA 2nd Team selection, 11 All-Stars
NBA rank: 85th in rebounds, 97th in scoring, 114th in blocks
Share of the vote: 20.20 percent of the maximum amount possible
Chris Bosh’s accolades are impressive enough, and that’s with his career tragically being cut short due to issues with blood-clotting. Bosh went from being a No. 1 option with the Raptors to willingly playing third fiddle to James and Wade in the Big 3 era in Miami, and did so as an excellent safety valve, one who could hit open jumpers at a high level, as well as attack in isolation when needed.
Dennis Rodman
Top accolades: Five NBA titles, two All-NBA 3rd Team selections, two All-Stars, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, seven All-Defensive 1st Team selections
NBA rank: 24th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 19.37 percent of the maximum amount possible
Dennis Rodman didn’t just have a great nose for knowing where a ball was going to go after hitting the rim, he was also absolutely relentless, refusing to let anyone get in his way to secure a board. Rodman was also an elite defender of multiple positions using absurd strength to bully opponents trying to body him. An underrated passer, his mind games destabilized many a team… including his own sometimes.
Nate Archibald
Top accolades: One NBA title, three All-NBA 1st Team selections, six All-Stars
NBA rank: 26th in assists, 104th in scoring
Share of the vote: 18.95 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the hardest-to-stop players of his era thanks to ridiculous quickness and speed, Tiny Archibald tormented opponents in the ’70s and early ’80s when attacking the basket. Archibald was also a very solid playmaker and could hit jumpers from the short midrange area.
Pete Maravich
Top accolades: Four All-NBA selections, five All-Stars
NBA rank: 117th in scoring, 158th in assists
Share of the vote: 17.50 percent of the maximum amount possible
“Pistol” Pete Maravich was one of the flashiest players ever, with a highlight package filled with behind-the-back, no-look passes and stop-on-a-dime shooting prowess, one that impresses to this day. The NBA’s leading scorer in 1976-77, Maravich’s legacy is negatively affected by losing more games than he won in his career and only playing 17 playoff games in his prime, 26 in total.
Dave Cowens
Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one MVP, three All-NBA 2nd Team selections, eight All-Stars, one All-Defensive 1st Team selection
NBA rank: 35th in rebounds, 198th in scoring, 238th in assists
Share of the vote: 16.25 percent of the maximum amount possible
Florida State legend Dave Cowens is one of just two players ever to win league MVP in a season they weren’t voted 1st Team All-NBA along with another Celtics legend, Bill Russell. He was a bundle of energy in his prime, one who was a monster rebounder, averaging 15.2 rebounds over his eight-year prime.
Tony Parker 🇫🇷
JOHN RUTHROFF/AFP via Getty Images
Top accolades: Four NBA titles, one Finals MVP, three All-NBA 2nd Team selections, six All-Stars
NBA rank: 19th in assists, 56th in scoring, 150th in steals
Share of the vote: 15.83 percent of the maximum amount possible
Tony Parker, surely the best European point guard the NBA has seen, dominated opposing backcourt players with quickness, a tight crossover and a beautiful tear-drop floater in the lane. He changed the game for guards trying to reach the NBA from overseas.
Vince Carter
Top accolades: Two All-NBA selections, eight All-Stars
NBA rank: 19th in scoring, 44th in steals, 77th in assists, 126th in block, 141st in rebounds
Share of the vote: 15.0 percent of the maximum amount possible
Aside from being one of the most explosive dunkers in league history, Vince Carter was a productive player for 22 years – something that not many could have expected considering how reliant on athleticism he was during his prime.
Earl Monroe
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Top accolades: One NBA title, one All-NBA 1st Team, four All-Stars, one Rookie of the Year award
NBA rank: 89th in scoring, 156th in assists
Share of the vote: 11.66 percent of the maximum amount possible
Nicknamed The Pearl, Earl Monroe was a smooth ball-handler and scorer from the midrange, who could stop on a dime and knock down jumpers with aplomb. His accolades and production don’t speak to how well-respected he was as a player, with his game being one of the original confident guards who scored with creativity. A lot of players of later generations modeled their games after him, so his influence was huge.
Alex English
Top accolades: Three All-NBA 2nd Team selections, eight All-Stars
NBA rank: 20th in scoring, 95th in assists, 144th in blocks, 147th in rebounds and steals, 145th in steals
Share of the vote: 11.45 percent of the maximum amount possible
The highest-scoring player of the ’80s, Alex English was ahead of his time as a 6-foot-8 swingman with an elite nose for scoring the basketball smoothly around the rim. Even without a reliable three-pointer, English averaged 26.0 points in the 1980s, all as a member of the Denver Nuggets.
Paul Arizin
Top accolades: One NBA title, three All-NBA 1st Team selections, 10 All-Stars
NBA rank: 110th in scoring, 171st in rebounds
Share of the vote: 11.45 percent of the maximum amount possible
A champion with the Philadelphia Warriors in 1955-56, Paul Arizin was one of the first players to use the jump shot to his full advantage, becoming a very effective shooter from that area during the NBA’s infancy.
Bernard King
Top accolades: Two All-NBA 1st Team selections, four All-Stars
NBA rank: 52nd in scoring
Share of the vote: 11.04 percent of the maximum amount possible
Injuries in his prime really hurt his place on this list, as Bernard King blew out his knee the year he earned the second 1st Team All-NBA of his career, missing the entire following season and never regained his explosiveness after that. Even so, King, the NBA’s leading scorer in 1984-85, was one of the smoothest high-scoring wings of his era.
Tracy McGrady
Top accolades: Seven All-NBA selections, seven All-Stars, one Most Improved Player award
NBA rank: 73rd in scoring, 111th in assists, 148th in blocks, 243rd in rebounds
Share of the vote: 9.79 percent of the maximum amount possible
A more impressive playoff career (he never made it out of the first round in his prime) could have greatly changed where Tracy McGrady finished in this ranking, as could have more longevity. But at his peak, McGrady was one of the most explosive and productive do-everything wings in basketball, one who would have dominated in the modern NBA.
Hal Greer
Top accolades: One NBA title, seven All-NBA 2nd Team selections, 10 All-Stars
NBA rank: 37th in scoring, 87th in assists, 208th in rebounds
Share of the vote: 9.58 percent of the maximum amount possible
One of the best and underrated guards of the 1960s, Hal Greer was an All-Star 10 times that decade and an All-NBA 2nd Teamer seven times, helping lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a championship in 1966-67 alongside Chamberlain in what was one of the most slept-on guard-big duos in league history.
ALSO RECEIVING VOTES
Bill Walton, Draymond Green, Lenny Wilkens, Kyrie Irving, Artis Gilmore, Adrian Dantley, Sam Jones, Klay Thompson, Nate Thurmond, Dikembe Mutombo, Chris Webber, Paul George, Jerry Lucas, Manu Ginobili, Dave Bing, Alonzo Mourning, Derrick Rose, Bill Sharman, Shaquille O’Neal, Bob Lanier, Billy Cunningham, Dave DeBusschere, Dennis Johnson, Joe Dumars, Jamaal Wilkes, Bobby Jones and Robert Horry
DIFFERENCES WITH OFFICIAL NBA LIST
IN: Pau Gasol, Nikola Jokic, Dwight Howard, Chris Bosh, Tony Parker, Vince Carter, Alex English, Bernard King and Tracy McGrady
OUT: Lenny Wilkens, Jerry Lucas, Bill Walton, Sam Jones, Nate Thurmond, Bill Sharman, Dave Bing, Dave DeBusschere and Billy Cunningham
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