Always a bridesmaid, never a bride
There are close to 500 players in the NBA. But there is only one NBA championship team every year. So that leaves tons of players year and year out without a ring.
I’ve made a list of 10 active players that I hope go to the altar and get a ring.
Remember there are plenty of great players that didn’t get rings during their career for one reason or another. Guys like Dominique Wilkins or Bernard King played during the Lakers and Celtics title runs. Others – like Patrick Ewing, John Stockton, Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, Reggie Miller – were blocked by the Bad Boys’ Pistons, Jordan’s Bulls, Hakeem’s Rockets and the Lakers of the Shaq/Kobe era.
The active players I am going to omit from my list are guys that are just getting into their prime and have years left to take a team to the promise land. So you won’t find LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki, Gilbert Arenas, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, Deron Williams, Chris Paul or Carlos Boozer.
Now… The List:
10. Steve Nash. Two-time MVP leading a very exciting team. Shows everyone that players can get better as they get older. He has the best chance on this list to get a ring even though there are three guys on the list that might think differently now.
9. Ray Allen. He’s one of those three guys I was talking about. Sweetest shot in the game. Great ambassador for basketball. And now in a place now where he doesn’t have to be The Man every night.
8. Jason Kidd. Has been to the rodeo before but came up short. Triple-double machine. Has slowed down a bit, but who wouldn’t want to play with him? Makes everyone better.
7. Jermaine O’Neal. People forget how he was written off as a bust his first few years in Portland. Now a premier big and All-Star. Wants to go to L.A. with Kobe. Smooth, but he needs another All-Star type player to ease pressure.
6. Paul Pierce. Second of the three guys whose chances have grown the past few days. Scorer, competitor and C’s captain. Got close to the Finals playing with Employee #8 (Antoine Walker, who has a ring; thanks, D-Wade).
5. Chris Webber. Went to Detroit for that title shot, but couldn’t accomplish the goal. Definitely has lost a step (or two, three, four!). Great passer. Will try to go to a team that needs one more piece to get over the hump.
3. Grant Hill/Tracy McGrady. I lump them together because I was part of the big free agent coup for the Magic in 2000. Headlines: “Magic sign three free agents to 200 million dollars.” The catch was that those two signed for 198 million of it. Do the math. They were supposed to be the next great duo. We know the story with Grant and T-Mac and still neither player has gotten out of the first round. That could change for both this year.
2. Allen Iverson. Love him. Toughest player I have ever played against. He’s fierce, plays hurt, has won every individual NBA award, now he just wants a real chance at a title again with a team who has legit chance to win – not that team he had in Philly.
1. Kevin Garnett. The Big Ticket. The last of the three guys I said that could make it happen coming from the East. Plays hard every possession, not just every night. Now he’s teamed up with two other All-Stars who are hungry like him. That’s why all three are on my list. For the first time in his career, he doesn’t have to be the main focal point and can just be KG.
The order is very debatable and it all depends on which player you like more than the other. But I can’t find 10 active star players more deserving than those 10. You can debate that also.
(Just a side note on list in reference to the Celtics getting KG… In August 1996, when the Houston Rockets traded their future (Sam Cassell and Robert Horry; nine rings combined) for Charles Barkley to team him with Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, they were two wins from the Finals, but the Stockton/Malone combo put that to an end and the Rockets haven’t won a playoff series since. KG, Pierce and Allen could get their bling-bling at the same time or all the players on the list could go home broken-hearted again with one of the young stars mentioned above taking home the nice jewelry).
A. Lindsay Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 12:05 pm
Hey Dee Brown, where’s Vince Carter?
Mateen Ahmed Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 12:33 pm
Hi Dee — agree with all the listings however I think the players below would be deserving of a title to:
Elton Brand — class act, 20pgs / 10rpg / 2bpg on any given night (in his prime)
Baron Davis — single handedly led resurgence of the Warriors (in his prime)
Marcus Camby — Defensive player of the year, former college player of the year, NBA finals appearance and a class act off the court
Antonio McDyess — on the verge of stardom, battled career ending injuries and now a valuable piece to the Pistons, All-Star, Olympian, 1 NBA Finals appearance
Eddie Jones — lived in silent infamy alongside Shaq and Kobe, led the Hornets back to respectability, anchored the Heat, veteran leadership with the Grizzlies and a true class act
Darrell Armstrong / Dikembe Mutumbo — combined for nearly 30 years in the league, valuable former Olymbian in Mutumbo, Defensive player of the year, 1 NBA Finals appearance and true gentlemen
David Wesley — nearly ended his career with the Bobby Phills trajedy, but resumed and thrived with the hornets, rockets and cavs. Class act.
Dale Davis — Iron man in the middle, grunt worker minus the baggage for decade +, NBA finals appearance, deserving of a ring
Craig Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 12:35 pm
Glad you left VC off the list. He is the sole reason I hope Kidd never wins a title.
Nash is my top choice on the list, but Kerr has already screwed him out of title with what he has done this off season. Don’t like one thing Phoenix did this off season. Is clearing the luxary cap really worth losing a title shot over????
Noori Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 12:43 pm
Truly spoken Dee Brown.
PSafe Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 1:34 pm
It is interesting that when you mentioned the up-and-coming players “LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki, Gilbert Arenas, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, Deron Williams, Chris Paul or Carlos Boozer”, you left out Chris Bosh. The last time I checked, he was a two-time all-star (as a reserve in 2006 and a starter in 2007), he was on a deep up-and-coming-team and a virtual lock on the US senior men’s basketball team. He should have been mentioned on that list.
matty Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 1:38 pm
So glad VC is left off. I cannot think of a player more befitting of the spoiled superstar label than him. He does not play defense, if there is anything on the line - he disappears, and if there is a chance to limp, grimace or have trainers and/or players help him off the court he is all over it. The guy is an embarassment to the league even being considered an elite player. The guys who deserve to be on this list are the ones who go hard every single night on every single play and on BOTH sides of the ball.
As someone else said above, Eddie Jones would have my vote as well.
Frank_head Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 2:29 pm
T-mac does not deserve a title in my eyes. Injured and miserable all the time it. Like come on, who gets hurt that often. I swear some of these guys are like fraile old ladies.
eli Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 2:46 pm
Only reason I do not want Carter to get a championship is his disloyalty towards the Raptors. I’m from Toronto and the biggest Raptor fan. I respect Carter for his game, but lost ALL respect due to his actions during the whole phase of leaving the Raptors. So I fully agree with Craig.
John Mackey Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 2:52 pm
I couldn’t agree more with that list. Good one Dee.
jackson Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 3:35 pm
“where’s Vince Carter?”
That’s what coach Frank always asks himself when the other team has the ball and it’s time for the Nets to play some solid D.
phillip rivera Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 3:39 pm
correct me if im wrong but mutumbo doesnt have a ring right…a very classy individual he should be on your list…but i guess he would be on the borderline of being active since he’s unsigned…
marvin Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 3:42 pm
the boston team will be just like the washington team. 3 very good players, but no defense. Nuff said!!!!
Andrew Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 3:58 pm
How is JO on this list, especially ahead of such great character guys like nash and allen. If you made a highlight reel of his career, it would start with sitting on portland’s bench, go to the pistons brawl, and then watch him get frustrated with the pacers instead of being a positive influence on the team.
Although there are a number of guys I’d add to the list, one who stands out is Elton Brand who always seems to be overlooked as a great pf.
Southwest Philly Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 5:01 pm
I want Dikembe Mutombo to get a Title in the worst way.A good guy on and off the court.
Lahab Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 5:01 pm
u racist ass hole what about Dirk? he is a great player and is better than everybody else on that list in terms of scoring except maybe peirce and AI
and wtf is Steve number 10? he has more heart than anybody else on that list. its not his fault his coach refuses to make their team play defense and how the refs cheat amare in playoffs by putting make up fouls on him?
u suck and go to hell and u sucked as a player as well
Nick Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 5:20 pm
I think it was a good idea to get under the cap and I do think they still have a pretty good chance at going to the championship. Like last year its all up for grabs. I truly dont like the Spurs at all. Yes they play the right way and they play team ball but I would rather watch DWade win the game by himself or the new Celtics dismantle teams with one player any day over the boring Spurs. And yes Bill Russell says I am not a NBA fan if I dont like the Spurs but I really dont like the name fan, I just like basketball. Basketball is suppose to be a fun game; to play and watch.
Eddie Jones probably should have been on this list.
Darius Frink Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 5:43 pm
I agree with all of em especially my favorite player AI he’s been through a whole lot nd i hope he and Melo can win one togther.Vc should be on there to he deserves it just like J-kidd. Honestly I don’t think everybody on that list is going to get one Dee.
Chris E Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 5:47 pm
Vince does not deserve to be on this list. Never accomplished anything title wish (MVP,ROY… etc.)
Wrongun Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 5:51 pm
Um Rockets didn’t morage their future. You say 9 rings between those but 4 because they were with Rockets, so really 5. And just cause they stayed wouldn’t have meant they’d keep winning now would they? The 5 other rings Horry won would have been when Hakweem was WAY out of his prime.
P.S. You forgot Elgin Baylor.
Chone Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 6:21 pm
Glad to see you’ve still got that Celtic Pride Dee.
Lupe Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 6:51 pm
I think the heat should not be on Kerr but rather on the Suns owner who wants to compete despite ordering Kerr to do so under financial limits.
I feel the same way about Vince, he just comes off too selfish for a ring, I hope Richard Jefferson and Kidd get one soon.
Hiriza09 Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 7:10 pm
I would like to see Mike Bibby get a ring. Anyone else agree?
john Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 7:55 pm
vince carter did win ROY chris e
HOTsauce PHIL Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 8:27 pm
I agree with all of them. Maybe Steve Nash can get his jewelry this year.. AI and KG may take some time to jell with their respective teams. Good one Dee…
Justin Dimengo Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 8:53 pm
Dee, don’t forget about the greatest point guard to ever play the game, Mark Price. Jordan put an end to city of Cleveland’s dreams of winning a basketball title. Mark Price is great person (unlike a few of these guys’ on your list), never demanded to be traded (half the guys’ on your list), and played his heart out in every game (sorry Tracy McGrady, Chris Webber, and Paul Pierce this doesn’t concern you). Your has too many “dogs” for my liking. I do however agree with you on guys’ like Garnett, Nash, and Hill.
C Dean Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 8:55 pm
Lahab,
Those comments had to be the most ignorant ever posted. I like Dirk and Nash as much as anyone and I believe that JO doesn’t belong on the list. Dee doesn’t say anywhere that this is YOUR list. Blogs are opinions. This one is his. Your stated opinion is blatantly rude. Dee was actually a very entertaining, skilled player who made it a lot farther than you in his basketball career.
On the topic of the blog, I also wish that Bosh had been included in the futures category, but not including VC appeased me so much that
I’ll let it pass.
I like Bibby, but he’s not high on my list.
statusmvp Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 9:03 pm
allen iverson and jason kidd should trade spots…jason kidd cares for his team, he didnt take his ball and leave like allen iverson did….kidd makes ppl better, iverson only cares about his stats…ball hoggers dont deserve anything
statusmvp Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 9:07 pm
and i agree with Hiriza also…..mike bibby deserves one, for the past two years he has been the only point guard on his team with no real backup ..ever since bobby jackson left….he dont complain about it and he plays injured with all of his heart
JK-VC Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 10:04 pm
To CHRIS E!!!
CArter Won ROY ( Rookie of the year) dumb head
He deserves to be there!!
It justs shows how dumb u are and doesn’t know anything about VC..haha
DL Said,
August 2, 2007 @ 11:53 pm
FORGET GARNETT. He’s a greedy player. Max contract again? Hamstring his team from being able to get role players again? His greed, his obscene contract doomed the T-Wolves, as did his agreeing to play for a man who contributed to their doom by illegally signing the very average Joe Smith, then getting docked 4 first round picks. That makes him a fool. And did I mention greedy??
DL Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 12:01 am
Also: MATEEN. Great list! Why do we always have to root for star players? Those are some serious NBA players who have paid their dues on some very average teams for a lot of years. Star players get accolades year round (plus a Hall of Fame ticket) and it’s hard to root for the same guys all the time. Camby, Davis and Brand? HELL YES!
Vince Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 1:46 am
A view from a French Fan,
From the eastern side of the ocean, NBA doen’t sound only like “boring T Parker and his slow motion grand’ fa team”.
San antonio won titles ? Life is unfair, even if some people believe its true victory, they got POP’s ugly game !
And u got guys like (thanks amazing Mister Dee Brown) NASH, C WEB, JO, KIDD who can’t wear the ring ?
What the heal is that world wher TP or Bowen get a ring and Nash or Kidd don’t ?
Please KG,Allen, Captain Pierce and all of the glorious C’s, bring back the hope and catch that RING !!!!
kowtz Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 2:06 am
@Lahab
COOL DOWN!
Dee ain’t racist… Dirk was not included in the list, coz he mentioned from the very beginning, is that he’s still in his prime, and has a long way to go and many more chances to get a ring… STUPID, reacting before reading…
And so what if Dirk is a better scorer, I know the guy is good, great maybe but beng MVP and choking in the first round, not beiong able to take your #1 team overall, and get beat by the eight seed? and you argue he is better? Close minded A**hole…
Read the part after KG… The order is very debatable, meaning Nash could go number one and number ten and it matters like D*ck… Besides, you cannot question nor compare anyone’s heart on that list, coz if you could, then it would have been on the stat sheet… If it is subjective, I doubt he has more heart than KG…
Agree with you dee… except maybe we could squeeze in Dikembee…
BJAY Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 2:21 am
Good list, but I agree with most of the feedbackers in that VC doesn’t deserve a ring. Entirely too lazy as a player overall, and disappears in the clutch.
To Lahab, c’mon, labeling someone rascist because they didn’t choose you’re favorite player…not cool. Also, to say Dee Brown ’sucked’ as a player is ridiculous. You could say Mark Madsen sucks but he’s playing in the L. What have YOU done in the NBA…? Make your own list like one of the other feedbackers, and chill with the name calling. That’s so juvenile!!
Migs041 Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 3:55 am
I’d love to see Mutombo win. He’s done so much for the teams he’s played on, and for the NBA in its entirety.
How about Jerry Stackhouse? I think he deserves a championship as much as Allen or Pierce. He’s a dependable player, and a good man off the hardwood.
Mord23 Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 6:13 am
VC was ROy in 1999 after the lock out, i think he deserve a spot too, he bring toronto on the nba map, failed close to milwauke in playoff 2001 i think, is a nice man on and off the court,
elton brand deserve a spot there, even more than JO, hes a bit like KG, very consistent every year.
i doubt mike bibby will ever get one if he doesnt move from sacramento….
i would cry of happiness if jerry sloan could land a ring and or a coach of the year, come on, utah played an awsome season, and toronto got the title!!!
Joe Blazer Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 6:29 am
Dirk has been in the NBA for 9 years, so he’s beyond being an up-and-comer.
And Jermaine was never written off as a bust in Portland. Stop trying to rewrite history.
Eyad Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 6:58 am
what about Dikembe Mutombo? i think he deserves it more than everyone on your list.
Joe D Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 10:11 am
pffff most of these guys havent been to the finals how can u call them even bridesmaids.
Only Iverson and Kidd have been there the rest hasnt done jack
BiG.G Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 10:28 am
Lahab is a hater, nash should be higher tho. prolly under or over kidd. watever tho good shit.
Holla.
RULZ Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 10:51 am
AI doesn’t improve his team? Eric Snow, George Lynch, and Aaron McKie were at their best with him. Ratliff also, but that is possibly due to injury. They are all bench players except for their time with the Sixers
Dallas Breckon Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 11:31 am
Most of you that ragged on vc are doing so without reason. Vince is a great ball player that brought the game back after jordan and before lebron. He is the best dunker of all time bar none(jordan,richardson,webb,wilkins are close).
He also brought excitement to the allstar game. And for any raptor fan that hates him no one in america even knew that canada had a basketball team before vince.
Also people that trying to put Mutombo into a list of active players doesn’t work. He will most likely not play this year, he’s not on a NBA team and if he was he would not be very active even when playing basketball.
Paul Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 11:52 am
Lahab, you had should have read the beginning of the article instead of just reading the list first. Dee said Dirk would not be on the list because he is still in his prime and has many more opportunities to win a title. Your comments were so juvenile man.
P.S. anyone who has ever played in the NBA does not suck, especially at guard. Anyone who says certain guys in the League suck should just give up watching the NBA. Some guys in the NBA are much better than others, of course. However, the worst player in the NBA would annihilate anyone of us. As a matter of fact, if you took the 12 worst players in the NBA, I guarantee you that they would beat the 12 best NCAA D1 players in a game.
nomore Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 12:14 pm
Kevin Garnet #1 bull poop
max contracts all the time hampering his teams cap space
crunch time he is missing in action
that’s why his teams don’t win, he’s no good
he can go spend all that money, title free
Makrau Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 12:37 pm
VC STOLE roy award from P-Double.
Smooth Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 1:08 pm
Mateen Ahmed-
Your list is comprised of players that are doing something now, or at least have had a decent career. Dee’s list is exactly what it should be, players that have been in the league for years, done it all, led their teams but just needed some help. None of your players have that. From your list who should Dee remove from his to make room? Maybe McDyess for Jermaine O’Neal, but thats it.
Coom Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 1:08 pm
this list is good..
yea more people deserve to be on but there is only room for ten…
the people that most deserve the ring are kidd and garnett.. they always think team..
and what superstar wouldnt take max money..
if u were a superstar ud take max money so get off garnetts D*ck
kidd needs to team up with a better scorer like kobe because the nets have no clutch players
Jax Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 1:28 pm
I believe that a “heart of a champion” is necessary for an individual for him to become one. This in mind… my top 4 would be :
1. Kidd
2. Iverson
3. Nash
4. Hill
however, sad to say the Nets are far from a title contention.
the Nuggets seems complete but really needs some help off the bench.
the Suns, needs a break!
where is Hill now? with the Suns right? Hope he and Nash could get past the Spurs this year!!!
Joe D Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 1:31 pm
I agree that KG was overpaid, as a player i understand you want to max out your value but with a salary cap you can’t have a winner and get paid that much, look at Tim Duncan, he doesnt command those numbers and his team is able to add good players every year that’s why he’s a champion and other’s just take care of themselves first (as that should but not to such extent)
Joe Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 1:36 pm
I pretty much agree w/ the list.. I agree w/ Nash’s position b/c he didnt reach superstar status until 3 years ago. Everyone else has been stars for a majority of their career. I would take JO off, I would take Grant off b/c he’s been hurt for damn near a decade, wishing he gets a title is a slight to a lot of guys in the league. Take TMAC off, i still look at him as a younger type guy, most of these guys are on the down slope relatively speaking. If you have TMac on (especially at 3) you have to put on Dirk (i would do neither). And DEFINITELY AI should be #1. He and KG have similar spots in history but AI has more accolades and he was in the leaugue before KG I believe. Plus a bit of KG’s plight was self inflicted, he could have been traded or helped the last 3 years but didnt want to take the pay cut (i dont necessarily blame him). J Kidd shoud be higher, he may go down as a top 5 PG all-time, he’s just never had a big man.
Jim Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 3:32 pm
Way to cover yourself in glory Marvin. You just compared Butler/Jamison/Areans with 3 hall of famers. Washington/Boston=Not same. Don’t be ridiculous.
James Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 3:55 pm
KG actually took less money when he signed his extension with Boston. Nobody in the NBA competes like Garnett does. It wasnt his fault that McHale f*cked up his chances at winning a title. The worst GM in NBA history! Every superstar needs a supporting cast. KG had that one year and Cassell got hurt in the W.C.F. and that is why the lakers sent the Wolves packing. I have followed Garnett since day one. He is a GREAT player, GREAT citizen, GREAT ambasador for the game, an NBA historian and never got into trouble.
swayze Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 4:13 pm
“what about vince carter?” what a douche. anybody who tanks games intentionally to force a trade and sloughs it off like it’s not his fault deserves to win nothing. Though maybe we see it from Kobe this year. At least there are still class acts in the league to follow, most of whom are on this list. Good call Dee.
Darth Celtic! Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 4:50 pm
great job Mr. Dee Brown!!!
always loved ya as a player
Darth Celtic! Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 4:51 pm
great job Mr. Dee Brown!!!
always loved ya as a player mwah
I agree with all the Celtics things on here, I love the Celtics, and all Celtic Haters just don’t have a clue to what you was doin back in the day!!
much love babay!!
Love, Darth
Chris S. Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 4:57 pm
Umm…. T-Mac HAS made it past the first round Dee. Or did you forget the series where they got robbed playing the Mavericks by the *cough* *cough* REFS *cough* a couple years back?
Hey… I’m just sayin’…. anyone that watched that series saw more consecutive bad calls than ever before.
But I’d say overall good list my man.
Oh, and P.S. Lahab is a dumbshit, and couldn’t tell a player if they dribbled his face off the pavement. You were a hell of a player, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
C Dean Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 5:28 pm
Those who want Carter on this list are kidding themselves. Carter is a self-centred mommas boy who comes to play when it suits him. Getting paid millions and showing up a half hour before your teams biggest playoff game ever was his first major mistake. Things have gone downhill ever since (see Swayze comment above). I like Kidd, but I’d rather see Kobe win another chip than VC. Even though Kobe is a ball hog and self centred, at least you know he’s doing it to win.
djhott Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 8:34 pm
mutumbo deserves a ring, or does he have one?
b.davis
j.richardson for getting traded
pj brown
hate to say it but mark cuban
if vince really wanted a ring he would have forced a trade to phoenix for diaw, banks, jones, and two picks nj saves, phoenix has nash bell carter marion stoudemire best 6manbalbosa best 7th man g-hill
Zak Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 9:34 pm
I like most of the list. I think Nash and Mutombo should be 1 and 2 however. I’d love to see Iverson get his as well… but I’m not thrilled to think Carmello would also get one. I disagree with T-Mac as well. Don’t think hes deserved it yet. I also would switch J. O’Neal with Elton Brand. Taking nothing away from Jermaine, I just feel anyone that can endure 6 grueling seasons with the Clippers deserves a ring.
My sympathy pick: Darrell Armstrong - PG - Indiana Pacers. 39 y.o., 15 seasons without a ring. Someone throw him a bone.
JT Said,
August 3, 2007 @ 9:38 pm
Great list of players all are deserving of rings. I hate to say this but honestly Nash is boderline 2x MVP (never played in the finals) and the guy does’nt know the meaning of defensive hustle. Picture anyone else being a 2x MVP and getting a pass for not making it to the finals. I hear guys like Kobe Bryant and Lebron James get thrown under the bus for not winning it all, but for some reason Nash is celebrated. Not saying he is’nt the best PG just seems to me that he gets a pass.
shaqfan4lyfe Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 12:33 am
Guys that should never be on that list:
- Carter
- McGrady
- Webber
- Jermaine O’Neal
All are talented but not good team mates or role models. None of them have the will to win, they don’t make their team mates better. Carter plays with no heart and can’t even lead such a talented Nets team to win the East. McGrady is a killer in the clutch, but with injuries and no supporting cast in Houston, he and Yao can’t do it by themselves. For now, McGrady hasn’t proved he deserves to win. Webber’s been a soft player all his career, a good passer of course. He could never lead his Sacramento team, he’d rather set the pick and let Bibby take the game winner instead of putting the team on his back. Jermaine O’Neal hasn’t proved anything. Chris Bosh only 4 years in the league is already better than JO. All JO knows how to do is complain and doesn’t play well in the clutch.
Steve Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 2:02 am
I disagree on ………
AI- The man doesnt even like to practice and isnt a leader
Garnett -I want him to win only because he is Boston now where I am from but dont think he deserves the number 1 spot he should have been more like Tim Duncun taking less money for more help .
JO- Hasnt done a thing since Artest and Reggie left probly the most over rated player in the Eastern Conference . Give Elton Brand the same teams JO had he would have taken them places further then JO . I am going Elton Brand way before JO .
Chance B Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 8:04 am
I would really like to see Dikembe win won but then i think he’s on the same team as the loser Tracy McGrady who shouldn’t be on that list, he can’t even get a team past the first round after all that talent around him. He’s pathetic and miserable. Agreee with most of the list but Steve Nash should be higher just because he doesn’t get all emotional like Iverson or KG about never winning won, he should still get some recognition. Love Jermaine O’Neal I will be ecstatic if he goes to the lakers it will blend so beautifully between them wat happened to Mike Bibby or Dirk who is reaching his prime CELTICS ARE NOT THAT GOOD WITH ALLEN PIERCE N KG THEY 4 SURE NOT WINNING IT THIS YEAR OR 4 YEARS TO COME
d-shine Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 11:02 am
Dirk is a chocking bum and I am glad you left him off the list. For that idiot who said that Dee Brown could not play ball, get a brain because they don’t let people who suck start on NBA playoff teams. You do need to remove Chris Webber off the list pecause he collapses under preasure and is cursed by his timeout at Michigan. He is also the reason my Pistons lost to LeBron and his band of officials. Any way keep up the good work and I will remain contributing to your blog.
Regards
Kev Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 11:04 am
JO was considered a bust in Portland at first. He showed flashes of greatness.. but people were looking at him as a mistake.. plus he even admitted that he struggled adjusting and fitting into the NBA level of competition.
This is a great list tho. But I’m not sure JO should be on that list… or at least that high. I would replace Web with Nash’s spot tho. Chris was a great player.. but you look at Nash and you just can’t help but lobby for him. I still will never forget the type of player Webber was in his prime though.
Nice Post.
Bear Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 12:35 pm
Vince Carter fix** matches by thro**** them ( not trying hard and tipping other players) to get out of TO. Thats a crime in Canada. At least Donaghy’s cheating was not obvious to the children in the crowd. Nice role model. He sure deserves a Championship.
Dre Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 2:32 pm
Duncan doesn’t make much less than KG does.
Rashidi Said,
August 4, 2007 @ 2:40 pm
So let me get this straight - Jermaine O’Neal actually ranks above Steve Nash, Ray Allen, and Jason Kidd in terms of who you want to win it all? Where’s Artest?
Terry D Said,
August 5, 2007 @ 12:02 am
Dee:
How valuable is a title if you’ve jumped on a bandwagon (Grant Hill, Chris Webber) in pursuit of one?
Chandan Said,
August 5, 2007 @ 12:59 pm
I completely agree that KG is one of the greatest ever. But as people said before, he salary makes it impossible for the team to add other pieces. You can’t pocket this much salary and expect to win at the same time. Thats not going to happen - Maybe you can try with Knicks.
Duncan is the greatest example. He has never demanded max money. And thats the reason he has the rings to show. Looking at the 5 yrs contract KG has right now, I don’t see KG winning anytime soon. No way!
Alton Said,
August 5, 2007 @ 1:20 pm
Hey Dee
I agree with your list and as a raptors fan I’m glad cry baby vince will never get close to a championship.
Nathan A. Said,
August 5, 2007 @ 4:57 pm
A. Lindsay, hate to break the news to you, but outside of New Jersey and maybe North Carolina, I don’t think there’s anyone who is pulling for Vince “If I don’t get my way, I’ll dog it on the court” Carter to get a ring. There’s probably more people just as happy to see him go ringless after what he pulled in Toronto.
cody barbour Said,
August 5, 2007 @ 5:33 pm
i have to say amen to jk-vc
i think that vc should earn a ring. he won ROY and he is great in clutch. vc works hard every night but htink about you would get tired of losing. i think everybody agrees that no team in the east is good at winning. vince is not a cry baby he just wants to win. raptors fans need to settle down at vc cause lets just face , 3 yrs ago toronto sucked. tmac should win even though he looks sleepy all the time.
here is my list:
10: vince carter
works hard and is a great scorer, good in clutch!!!!!!
9:paul pierce:
very underated player. he maybe the most hardworking player in the league. he did not want too leave boston he just wanted a better team around him. i agree with dee.
8: AI
hardworking. decent in alll catergories of the game.
7: KG
hardworking tallman that does not need to score that much any more.
6: dikemba mutomba
has worked alll these years. i have alot to say about this man. he is very generous and hardworking. everybody loves his fingr that he gives right after somebody gets blocked.
5: lebron james
i think he gets payed to much but he is a superstar.
4: shawn marion
great in every catergory. very hardworking!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
3: jason richardson
probably not going to win a championship with charlotte but is a great leader of a team. you got to love his effort
2: steve nash
not one of my favs but is a hardworking guy. won mvp 2 times and will probably win it again
1: RAY ALLEN
got the smoothest stroke an the nba hands down.will win the championship with the c’s
dee gotmost of my list and he is right
i also forgot elton brand he should be on the list
matrix Said,
August 6, 2007 @ 9:37 am
TMAC DOES deserve a ring in my opinion, at least he’s a team player who’s not all about himself.
Jay Said,
August 6, 2007 @ 11:37 am
Hehehe a lot of you guys dissing vince carter just because he left toronto. He did you guys a favor by leaving so now chris bosh is developing into a very good player in such a short time. but knowing you guys i think you will say the same thing about chris bosh in the future when he decides to leave toronto. so i suggest dont cheer for him that much and dont watch your favorite player’s highlights more than once if you cant accept the fact that in the NBA change is inevitable and MOST of the players good or bad will want out one way or another to look for a better opportunity.
As for the topic of this article i suggest to remove hill and mcgrady from the list coz they cant even get their teams pass the first round. same thing with pierce, allen and most specially garnett for not having more success in the playoffs. how can you talk about being “bridesmaid” when you cant even reach the conference finals in a consistent basis considering you are “one of the greatest ever”. iverson and lebron brought their team to the finals single-handedly. And dont start with the bull**** the western conference is a tough conference thing coz that’s not a valid excuse when you are being paid millions of dollars and your team cant sign anyone else because of it.
Rashidi Said,
August 6, 2007 @ 3:36 pm
“Duncan is the greatest example. He has never demanded max money. And thats the reason he has the rings to show.”
Duncan took slightly less than the max. That has nothing to do with why he has rings, and everything to do with stealing Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili in the draft (and being drafted to a team with David Robinson didn’t hurt either).
Rashidi Said,
August 6, 2007 @ 4:04 pm
KG’s salary had nothing to do with why the team couldn’t win.
The main reason KG is not a champion is Kevin McHale and Joe Smith. The Wolves lost numerous draft picks out of that, which is what led to them overpaying to keep various role players. They couldn’t afford to lose them, because they weren’t going to add similar, younger players. This also means they didn’t have draft picks to include in trades.
A quick look at what Minnesota missed out on
2004 (29th pick): Anderson Varejao, Chris Duhon, Trevor Ariza
2002 (24th pick): Carlos Boozer, Nenad Krstic, John Salmons, Dan Gadzuric, Flip Murray, Matt Barnes, Darius Songaila, Juan Carlos Navarro, Luis Scola
2001 (18th pick): Zach Randolph, Gerald Wallace, Gilbert Arenas, Tony Parker, Samuel Dalembert, Jamaal Tinsley, Jason Collins, Brendan Haywood, Mehmet Okur
Of course, the decision to draft (via 2003 mercy pick that Stern returned to them) high schooler Ndudi Ebi ahead of Leandro Barbosa, Josh Howard, and Maurice Williams didn’t exactly help matters.
reveline Said,
August 6, 2007 @ 4:30 pm
Mateen Ahmed, I checked out your list, and I can’t disagree with any of them. But, I have to comment on one player in particular. Eddie Jones REALLY deserves a ring. He was traded away from L.A. - then they won three ring. And, he was shipped away from Miami just before they won their ring.
Chandan Said,
August 6, 2007 @ 11:13 pm
>>Duncan took slightly less than the max. That has nothing to do with why he has rings, and everything to do with stealing Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili in the draft
I think TD signed his current contract maybe around 12-14 milion per yr. His salary has never gone beyond 20 million wheras KG went till 28 million.
Parker and Manu have been steals. But remember, they took average money to stay with Spurs bcoz of the example set by Duncan.
KG’s salary will always play a part in why he can’t win a ring. he could have easily signed his new contract at lower money in hope that Boston can find some suport cast around him for that money.
I think we will all have to agree….this Boston team can’t win the ring.
Montell Said,
August 6, 2007 @ 11:28 pm
Can you Stephon Marbury or Ricky Davis??now there two ballers that never gonna see the light of day of a championship hahahaha CANCERS!!!…
NikeAurrz Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 3:23 am
Only if Allan Houston was still playing, that dude had no chance playing with a team full of golliaz i.e Spreewell & Johnson..
Montell Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 3:26 am
Can you Say STEPHON MARBURY or RICKY DAVIS AHAHAHAHAH!!
reveline Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 8:24 am
cody barbour, you’re on crack. Jason Richardson and Vince Carter. One’s a “gunner” and the other (VC) admitted to not playing hard every night when he played for the Raptors.
drew Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 10:03 am
LeBron. The kid plays hard, works his tail off, great human being… Young and has a shot at it…I love the guy. Good list overall though.
Jacob N Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 10:12 am
Listen guys, Dee was picking superstars who have earned alot of respect playing this game, not role players like eddie jones, mutumbo, etc. he was picking guys who legit can win a title with a good team around them, just those guys had success with nothing around them to show for it.
so do us all a favor, save your role players who deserve a ring for a top role players list.
Jacob N Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 10:13 am
KG did take less money, he took a 3 year extension worth 51, compared to paul pierces extension of 3 years 60 million, and i think we can all agree KG was the highest paid last year because he is the best player in the league at his position, which if you ask tim duncan, is an extremely important role.
Sam Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 10:52 am
Dirk was in the same draft as Bibby, Carter, Jamison and Pierce so he is no more an up and comer than anyone else from that draft.
eRay Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 3:09 pm
whoever says the C’s won’t have any defense is forgetting about some things.
KG is a huge defensive presence, he plays awesome team D while still playing great individual D, and he can guard from the 2 to the 5 and always blocks shots and knocks down passes. Tony Allen isn’t that bad on defense, he hustles and knows where the ball is going most fo the time. Leon Powe showed me a lot this summer playing great man-up D on guys like Greg Oden and holding them to little points without tiring himself out for offense.
While the starting 5 does lack 5 great defensive players, the bench is solid in that area, and their offense should more than make up for a couple players not being the best defensive players ever. I’ll give you Ray Allen, Rondo, and even Perkins, but the rest of the guys are more than competent on D and hustle on top of that.
Bill Phill Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 3:22 pm
Dirk Nowitzki and Paul Pierce are both 29 years old. How is Dirk and up-and-coming player, and Paul Pierce over the hill?
Miles Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 3:39 pm
Why does everyone say that Iverson single handedly took the 76ers to the finals. He had a great big man in Dikembe Mutombo, who is arguably one of the top five great centers in regards to defense, not offense. He’s a defensive liability when he plays the two, and his defense is over-rated, he can’t play man to man defense well due to his anemic weight. If Tony Parker weighs 180 lbs. then someone 2 inches shorter should at least weigh 175 not this 165 garbage. Players like Eric Snow, Mutombo, Raja(though I’ll admit he is so much better offensively now) helped erase his mistakes with their effeciency. Iverson=Over-rated. Oh, and if Garnett wants rings the “Big Three” needs salary cap if they are going to get quality players to win.
Michael Jordan Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 5:29 pm
Only 4 players on that list deserve to win a championship.
1) A.I. (the most heart, revolutionized bball since Jordan, the toughest 1on1 player to guard outside of LeBron)
2) K.G. (a lot of heart, best all around PF of all time; give him Tony Parker, Ginobili, Horry and Bowen, he’ll win a championshp easily)
3) Kidd (One of the best PGs of all time, but lacks the shooting ability; anyone who wants to be a guard should be a good shooter at the same time)
4) Nash (two mvps, but never had a team with a bench). W/O Nash, Amare is a 21/9 player at best.
Ray Allen, JO, Elton Brand, Chris Webber, Grant Hill/Tmac, etc have not done enough for the league or for themselves to deserve a championship. They are frailed little girls who have spent way more time off the court than on the court. Feel bad for them? NO! They were making hundreds of millions a year while sitting around on the bench and cheering for their teamates who were actually working.
Paul Pierce? Are you kidding me? Nothing more than an all-star level that can never be a superstar.
I’d put Camby and Mutombo right after the top 5 list.
billy Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 8:03 pm
boston will be NOTHING like washington!!! GREAT LIST DEE………… (glad to see the 3 classy celtic superstars on their, CELTIC PRIDE DEE! YOU KNOW BABY!)………………… boston will get that ring too. 3 A+ superstars with capable roleplayers around them.
in the list of top 50 players for the nba in the nba season preview, allen pierce and kg all ranked in the top 15!!! we have THREE SUPERSTAR FRANCHISE PLAYERS!
these are three guys that have all been top dog/led teams to 50+ win seasons, all 3 have took their teams to conference finals, all 3 are unselfish veterans, A+ all-nba superstars, all 3 have finished top 10 for the mvp (garnett won it!!), all 3 are team players, they are elite at their position and play the right way……… its amazing. all 3 are still in their prime and hungrier than ever for a ring, all are great leaders, love the game and give it their all. this team will be special for the next 4 or 5 years!!!!! I CANT WAIT!!!!! GO Celtics!!!!!!
in nba player rankings position by position to preview the season Ray Allen was ranked as the #3 shooting guard in the nba(for the 2nd straight year). Paul Pierce was ranked as the #3 small forward in the nba(for the 2nd straight year). and Kevin Garnett was ranked as the #2 power forward in the nba(again, for the 2nd straight year). and all 3 of these elite superstars are now on my team… 3 SUPERSTARS!!! now that is what you call SPECIAL, my friend. LETS GO GET BANNER #17 BOSTON!!!CELTIC PRIDE!
billy Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 8:09 pm
hey statusmvp…….. you rip iverson, and then applaud BIBBY FOR PLAYING INJURED? AND WITH ALL HIS HEART????!?!?!?!?……… WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK IVERSON HAS DONE (WAY MORE THAN BIBBY OR ANYBODY) FOR THE LAST 10 YEARS?????
billy Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 8:15 pm
and he said at the end “THESE 10 STARS…….”, mutumbo used to be a star but he is just a bench 10 minute a night guy now. he’s talking about STAR’S that play a HUGE ROLE in their teams success for this list, i think.
billy Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 8:32 pm
kg did take less money for his extension with boston ya dummies. and the most he’s ever been paid in the past was 24 mil, duncan makes 19 mil.
billy Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 8:34 pm
perkins is bad on offense but GREAT on defense and a good rebounder. and rondo is GREAT on defense as well and a true point guard that can do it all. only thing he needs to improve is his shot, three superstars with those 2 will be fine. the depth will be fine. GO CELTICS!
4real Said,
August 7, 2007 @ 9:56 pm
who ever said VC is hardworking is a joke, the dude said himself he took nights off as a raptor in toronto, what makes u think he is giving it 110% every nets game… as a professional athlete he should be giving is all no matter the circumstance his team is in… VC is the definiton of a loser and he deserves nothing more
Alvin Said,
August 8, 2007 @ 9:07 am
Mutombo IS a star player in his days, which is about 10 years ago. He was in the finals with AI which that won the only game that Lakers lost in that 16-1 playoff run.
Mutombo is offered a contract at houston worth the vet min, but he is now rumored of trying to get 1.8m.
Another player i hope can win the big one is Jason Kidd, i just love that dude, if only somehow he happen to fall to Rox this year, then both of them can win the championship along with Tmac and Yao. Althought that would meant players like Steve Francis getting a ring as well…….
Luigi Said,
August 8, 2007 @ 4:29 pm
Lahab,
Your an a-hole. Dirk should be on the list, I agree with that. But Dirk is going to win a championship. Also, Dee Brown mentioned a list that players that still have a chance to take the team to the promise land, AND THAT INCLUDES DIRK. Your comments are rude and very disrespectful. Someone should slap you for cursing out a person that got treated that way for some opinions. I also think that you are the racist one here. Oh and Dee Brown, good list and i agree with most of those people. But I think you should have added Amare Stoudemire on there.
doni mina Said,
August 9, 2007 @ 5:26 am
what about jerry stackhouse?
Sean Said,
August 9, 2007 @ 1:43 pm
VINCE CARTER!
Okay, Just to set the record straight, Toronto will not boo Chris Bosh if he decides to leave Toronto. We don’t hate Vince because he decided to leave. We hate him because he quit on us a year and a half before he got traded, that’s why we boo him so venomously wvery time he’s back in town. Every time Jerome Williams came back we gave him astanding ovation, yet he got traded, so a lot of peoples points don’t make sense. Morris Peterson signed with the Hornets yet when he comes back he will also get a standing O. People in Toronto appreciate hard work and loyalty, and you get rewarded for that here. Its called pride. VC displayed none of that in his final two years. If Chris Bosh ever gets traded trust me he won’t get booed like VINCE. We in T.O see right through fake players, now NJ is getting a taste of it as well.
Frank_head Said,
August 9, 2007 @ 6:47 pm
carter is washed up and doesn’t deserve a title. he was a complete snake in toronto
RC Said,
August 9, 2007 @ 9:04 pm
Two words for everybody on this list. D-WADE!!!!!
Supernev Said,
August 10, 2007 @ 6:34 pm
For all you losers who keep putting the negative comments about Tmac, what f/cking game are you watching. The guy is one of the best clutch players in the NBA. So he hasn’t advanced past the first round yet, but it’s not his fault. The guy plays hard every night. Look at what he did in the playoffs last season against the Jazz. He did everything for his team damn near averaged a triple double. How can you say he doesn’t make teammates better. The reason they keep losing is because Yao plays like a pussy and until Yao steps up and does something then they’ll keep losing. But they should be a little better with steve Francis. By the way when’s the last time Kobe got out of the first round…um that would have to be when he played with Shaq. So Kobe can’t get crossed the first round either right.
billy Said,
August 11, 2007 @ 10:22 pm
tmac completely raised his game (and team around him) to the next level last year from when yao went out. he should have won the mvp award, he was amazing…………… jazz were just a better team overall. 4 points better, a rebound better, whatever, but the guy above me is right TMAC IS AMAZING. team player, superstar, leader, mvp.
billy Said,
August 11, 2007 @ 10:23 pm
but dont rip kobe he’s one of the best and already proven he’s a champ. three rings speaks for itself.
Luigi Said,
August 20, 2007 @ 10:06 am
hey rc d-wade already won a championship!!!!!!!!!
CHEERLEADER Said,
November 22, 2007 @ 10:36 pm
ALLEN IVERSON IS THE HARDEST PLAYER IN THE NBA, HANDS DOWN. HE HAS PLAYED MORE GAMES INJURED THAN ANY OTHER PERSON IN THE NBA. MY HATS OFF TO HIM. AND I AM IN FULL AGREEMENT WITH DEE’S LIST. KEEP ON KEEPING ON
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