Quote:
Originally Posted by BadBaronRudigor
Russell HAD dominant stats, just not scoring stats.
|
Sorry. My bad. I meant dominant offensive stats.
Quote:
|
He averaged 22.5 rpg over his career, the highest (non-Wilt) player other than Russell was Pettit with 16. If Duncan was averaging 19-20 rebounds a game that would be the equivalent (though Duncan IS an excellent scorer too, unlike Russell)
|
Hmmm... Does anyone know where to findt Wilt and Russell's RebRate or TRB%? Basketball-reference.com doesn't have it...
Quote:
|
Duncan is easily top 10 all-time. Comparing him to Magic and Bird because of rings isn't quite as interesting to me as comparing him to Shaq, Hakeem, and Moses where they are all pivotmen and comprise the second tier of great pivots behind Russell, Wilt, and Kareem. Those 7 big men plus Jordan, Magic, and Bird are probably the top 10 players all time (though Dr. J, Oscar and Jerry West might argue)
|
IMHO, that would depend on the criteria being used. Championships, Finals Appearences, MVPs, All-Nba teams, All-defense teams, era, stats, production. dominance, etc., can all tip the balance one way or the other regarding the greatest players ranking.
IMHO, these are some players who, independent of criteria, have a place in the Top-10, regardless of ranking: Wilt, Russell, Kareem, Magic, Bird, Jordan and Oscar. That leaves 3 spots open.
Shaq, Duncan, Hakeem, Jerry West, Karl Malone, Dr. J, Moses Malone can all be argued.