The Top 25 (again)
More than three months into the season, I guess it’s time to update my Top 25. Here you go…
25. Al Jefferson
Jefferson bumps Shawn Marion out the last spot and gets in over players like Devin Harris, Rajon Rondo, Jameer Nelson and Mo Williams. When Shaq retires, Jefferson will probably become the game’s most dominant low-post scorer. He has a variety of moves and stays so low on his drives, it is extremely difficult for players to guard him. The Wolves have improved at a fast rate since Kevin McHale took over and Jefferson has been dominant. That should be no surprise since McHale was the best post player of his time.
24. Ray Allen
Allen should have probably been here already. He is one the best shooters ever and has played as well or better than Garnett and Pierce the first half of the season. Pick any player you want to take a game-tying jump shot to tie or win the game and Allen will be definitely at the top of the list. He replaces Tracy McGrady, who can’t stay healthy enough to warrant a spot.
23. Danny Granger
A scoring machine who plays on the ground although he can elevate on a defender when he needs to. He is the most improved player in the game and I see him getting better. Granger can play 15-plus years and be productive with his efficiency towards the game. The Pacers are very competitive despite their poor record and that is why first-time All-Star Granger moves in and Caron Butler drops out.
22. Steve Nash
No player has been asked to change his game this year more than Nash. He has been asked to slow down his tempo and creativity. I guess it is similar to buying a Ferrari and only being able to drive it 55. The reason Nash has dropped is not because of his abilities, which I think are still there. It’s his inability so far to grasp the new system and give us the production we have seen and been spoiled with the last few years. I still consider Nash the most unselfish player in the league and its best all-around shooter.
21. Brandon Roy
Moves in as Baron Davis drops out. Roy is the cousin of Manu Ginobili. He finds a way to attack the basket regardless of the defensive tactics of the opposing team. He uses his left hand better than some left-handers. He is dangerous because he has continued to stretch his range and now can run off numbers at a rapid pace. The Blazers are the most talented team in the league 1 through 12 and one way Roy can continue to move up is not becoming too shot happy and getting his teammates involved more in the early parts of the game.
20. Manu Ginobili
Moves up four spots and I am sure my Spurs readers will still not be happy. The guy is just a pure nightmare to guard and he is definitely one the toughest clutch players in the league, but I still can’t stand how he flops consistently when touched. I will still give him the benefit of the doubt and call him one the top 10 offensive players with the game on the line. And yes, I would love to have him play on my favorite team.
19. Deron Williams
Has been dealt a tough blow. He gets hurt to start the season and he loses his running mate Carlos Boozer as well. He falls eight spots by no fault of his own. I still think he is the second best point guard in the game and will be in the Top 10 at season’s end if he gets healthy. He is the only player in the league that gives Chris Paul problems on a consistent basis.
18. Shaquille O’Neal
Stays at number 18 and probably deserves to be rated higher. Please name me a true center other than Howard that has played better than Shaq? The reason he stays at 18 is because although he is playing extremely well, the Suns as a team have struggled. I would like people to finally applaud Shaq for improving not only on his conditioning but his free-throw shooting as well.
17. Amare Stoudemire
Falls 10 spots and, if he does not improve his basic defensive skills, could fall further. Amare potentially could be the best power forward in the game, but has not shown an overall consistency on the defensive end to warrant staying at number 7. I admire how Amare was able to rebound from ACL surgery and regain his explosiveness, but we need to see more growth on the court with regards to the dirty parts of the game, like defense and rebounding.
16. Joe Johnson
Moves into the Top 25 as Allen Iverson drops out. He has proven that the Hawks’ run last year was no fluke and his ability to lead and become a top-notch scorer was real as well. He has the best handle (next to LeBron and Kobe) for players over 6-foot-5. He has become a triple threat and is one of the league’s best defenders as well.
15. Pau Gasol
Gets in the Top 25 and Elton Brand drops out because I am convinced that he is determined and motivated to get to the level I expected him to. I thought he would take a back seat to Andrew Bynum, but he did not. His passing ability is the reason why he scores so easily around the post. I still think he can be a better shot blocker and he will have to now with Bynum down.
14. Carmelo Anthony
Has had tough luck come All-Star time, but he is one of the best players in the league and he moves up three spots. I think he is the most versatile small forward in the game offensively with his ability to post and knock down the three-point shot. I have always wondered when he would start to show the leadership abilities that he showed at Syracuse during his NCAA championship run.
13. Chauncey Billups
Jumps nine spots and could be higher if Denver continues to play consistent basketball. Billups has undoubtedly become the best pick-up this season based on the improved play of the up-and-down Nuggets. Billups has helped them realize working hard every game and staying focused will have them in most games – and, most importantly, beat bad teams. The Nuggets are 20-1 against sub .500 teams all because of Billups’ leadership.
12. Dirk Nowitzki
Stays at number 12 and deservedly so. He is really starting to gain momentum and the Mavericks seem to be regaining their swagger back as a team. Dirk is the best shooting seven-footer ever and if he can continue to improve defensively the Mavericks will make a serious run come playoff time.
11. Paul Pierce
I think Paul is the best scoring small forward in the game not named LeBron. He scores whenever he wants and does not run come crunch time. Garnett is the Celtics’ MVP, but Pierce is their MIP (Most Important Player). He is also the biggest trash talker in the league, which I happen to think fuels his consistency.
10. Chris Bosh
Could have dropped more because he has not shown me an ability to put his team on his back and get them through tough times. He is so unorthodox offensively that he is impossible to figure out. His mid-range shot has improved big time and has shown a willingness to take the big shots. I still believe we should be seeing better leadership abilities and, if not, I can’t see him staying at this spot for long.
9. Tony Parker
I keep trying to figure out why I put Parker seven spots up from 16. I just flat out think he is a point guard with a center mentality. The guy constantly is in the Top 5 in scoring in the paint. Name me a point guard historically that dominated like that consistently. He now has improved his mid-range jump shot, which makes him virtually impossible to guard. He also has become one of the best clutch players in the league as well.
8. Yao Ming
Drops two spots but only because Tracy McGrady and Ron Artest can’t stay on the floor. Yao is the most unguardable center in the game because of his ability to shoot from 20 feet and post up without fear of a hand in his face. I would like him to get tougher, but there is not one team that would not think about trading their best player for him other than the Lakers, Hornets, Spurs and Cavaliers. I still say the Rockets, if healthy, can win the Western Conference.
7. Dwyane Wade
He is proving how good a player he is when in top shape. I have said consistently over the last few years that he has a bad body and will always have injuries. But with a new body and demeanor, Wade is showing why he is one of the best players we have ever seen. What he is doing with Miami is equivalent to what Chris Paul is doing in New Orleans.
6. Kevin Garnett
I would love to be a psychologist and sit in a room with KG for a day. He goes from calm to incredibly psychotic within minutes. The one thing I enjoy about KG is that he has always been like this on the floor. There is no fake in him when it comes to exuberance on the court. The Celtics have molded themselves around him and that’s why a small blip of losing games did not affect them for long.
5. Tim Duncan
Drops a spot and mainly because of one little blemish that seems to be always correctable and that is the Spurs’ slow start against teams above .500. The Spurs are 11-11 against top teams. Duncan is ageless. Just when you think he is losing a step, he makes you look bad for speaking too soon. I think he is the most professional player on and off the floor in the NBA. And its best leader.
4. Dwight Howard
Moves up four spots because he has become the second coming of Shaq. The Magic is his team and he has elevated everybody’s games – especially first-time All-Star Jameer Nelson. That appealing smile is hiding a nastiness that opposing players fear and Howard seems to get a kick out it. Just remeber one early season incident where he elbowed Suns rookie Robin Lopez and received a technical foul. As they retreated, he mockingly patted Lopez on the rear, thus sending a message… It’s not personal, but I will hurt you next time you get in my way.
3. Chris Paul
If there was a wonder how valuable Paul is, just witness the Hornets’ second half meltdown against the Blazers and the beat-down from the Chicago Bulls in the first two games of Paul’s groin injury. I have not seen a team fall to such levels since Magic Johnson missed games. Paul has re-defined the two-man game and how to guard against it. He is the toughest player in the game pound for pound.
2. Kobe Bryant
His drive to succeed is beyond reason. He is the best late-game assassin offensively I have seen since Jordan and Bird. I really have enjoyed his willingness to allow his talented teammates to excel, but with Bynum down are we ready to see the old Kobe surface again? The 61 points and 0 rebounds against the Knicks were probably a sign of things to come. I feel sorry for all the players who have to guard Kobe from here on out, but will it be for the good of the Lakers?
1. LeBron James
He continues to hold on to the No. 1 spot because he is doing the best job of carrying a team since Hakeem Olajuwon carried the Rockets to back-to-back championships. Also, his follow up to Kobe scoring 61 against the Knicks was downright ridiculous. Scoring 50-plus is one thing, but getting a (quasi) triple-double to boot was the icing on the cake that has kept LB on top. I watched that game and he could have easily gotten 60 if he wanted to.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 9:37 am
Love the list.
My only problem is with this statement: “When Shaq retires, Jefferson will probably become the game’s most dominant low-post scorer.”
See your #4.
Al Jeff shoots right around 50% from the field, scoring 22 ppg, and he takes the bulk of the shots on a mediocre Minnesota team. Dwight Howard has a capable 1-4 (with 2 other All-Stars) and shoots at roughly 60% FG at 20 ppg. When he cleans up his foul trouble, allowing him to shoot four or five more times a game, he’s at Shaq-in-his-prime numbers - 28 ppg 14 rpg.
Craig Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 11:32 am
ditto MB’s comments. No chance that Jefferson is ever as dominant as Howard.
shab Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 11:45 am
I think he is on the money with jefferson being the premier low post scorer in the game. howard is a better rebounder and defender; but as a low post scorer; few players can hang with big al. imagine if miller and foye were hitting 3’s like nelson and lewis (and hedo)? al would easily be avg’ing 25+ppg with the space that’d create for him…good list btw.
Andrew Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 12:12 pm
I think David Lee should have the number 25 spot over Al Jefferson
Renevang Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 12:26 pm
Jefferson is a much better low post scorer than Howard! He is proving it for years now. Howard offcourse is the more dominant player overall!
*netsfreak* Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 12:27 pm
ys but all jefferson canmake a mid range j a lot better than howard
AJE Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 12:53 pm
Big Al is way better then Howard offensively, maybe not defensively though. I suggest you to watch one T Wolve game. And the fact that Dwight has other all starts on his team is proving my point… if you where to swap Big Al and Howard, Big Al would look like “Shaq” because he wouldnt be getting double and triple teamed in the paint because of the threat of other scorers. Dwight dosn’t have anywhere near the amount of lowpost moves that Big Al has and never will.
Jamaalstar Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:02 pm
I dont think Mr. Johnson was calling Jefferson the next best center or post player. He was calling him the next most dominant low-post SCORER. Dwight is a dominant force, but if you watch the magic play, you understand he’s not a great scorer. he scores alot because of his size, athleticism and timing. He leads the leagues in dunks. But you can’t just throw him on the block and expect him to produce ala Shaq and Duncan. Jefferson can do this, and while he is less of a force, his right handed jump hook is un-stoppable. He’s an extremely legitament, consistent option in the low post. This is very rare. Garnett, Howard, and Dirk are all examples of great big men who aren’t unstoppable low post scorers. Dirk is a shooter, Howard and Garnett are dominant athletic forces, who; while they can score in the post, make their living off alley-oops, put backs, broken plays, pick and rolls. Howard might develop a more effective back to the basket game, but even if he doesn’t, he’s still pretty unstoppable. Al’s just furter along in this one aspect.
Derek Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:15 pm
This list is bogus. Dirk Nowitzki should be up there with the other great power forwards such as Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan in the 5-8 range. There is no way you can put Chris Bosh ahead of him.
Dirk Nowitzki: 25ppg./8 rpg./2apg./1spg/1bpg/91FT%
Kevin Garnett: 16ppg./8rpg./2apg./1spg/1bpg/84FT%
Chris Bosh: 22ppg./9rpg./2apg./1spg/1bpg/80FT%
Tim Duncan: 20ppg./10rpg./3apg./1spg/2bpg/68FT%
Dirk also has more game winning shots than any of these players with 12. http://www.82games.com/gamewinningshots.htm
Philip Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:24 pm
Kevin Durant has earned his way on to the list in just about any measure of comparison.
jab Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:26 pm
Guys, EJ got it right about Jefferson. Watch Jefferson. Watch Howard. Dwight scores mostly on Dunks. Jefferson is notorious throughout the league among players as having more moves around the basket than anyone in the league and a soft touch from 15 and in. Jefferson can come out and get the ball and score. Howard can’t. The ball has to be dumped in to him. Zones and fronting cause Howard problems. This isn’t to say that Howard isn’t a monster. But, If Howard had Jefferson’s moves and feathery touch he would average 35 a game. Oh and Mike, the fact that nelson , rashard and turk create space allow Howard to get easy shots and vice versa. Jefferson creates, If Jefferson had Rashard and Turk, his FG% would be around 58% and he would average close to 30 this year. Miller was supposed to help the Wolves in that area but because of injuries he has been slow to get his shot back.
dsfkj Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:29 pm
D WADE #7 WTF?!?!?!?!?!
gunclaappa Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:32 pm
i think the point was that AJ is a better SCORER than dwight, though dwight is clearly a more imposing presence. Jefferson has an array of post moves and creative shots within 14 feet, whereas dwight has far fewer moves and shots, but is far more athletic. AJ is reminiscent of Lakers/current Shaq and Dwight is like magic shaq.
But Eddie I do have a problem with you ranking bosh over pierce. if you could find a GM that would take bosh over pierce for the playoffs or even one season (big man deficiency/swingman overload notwithstanding) i would like to see that sucker. Just like you said, Pierce scores whenever he once and has probably the best footwork in the league.
gunclaappa Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:34 pm
i think the point was that AJ is a better SCORER than dwight, though dwight is clearly a more imposing presence. Jefferson has an array of post moves and creative shots within 14 feet, whereas dwight has far fewer moves and shots, but is far more athletic. AJ is reminiscent of Lakers/current Shaq and Dwight is like magic shaq.
But Eddie I do have a problem with you ranking bosh over pierce. if you could find a GM that would take bosh over pierce for the playoffs or even one season (big man deficiency/swingman overload notwithstanding) i would like to see that sucker. Just like you said, Pierce scores whenever he wants and has probably the best footwork in the league.
Chris Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:34 pm
Vince Carter?? Devin Harris?? Why no love for the Nets?
akhil Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:35 pm
I dont think you can determine #1 and #2 when Lebron and Kobe are the options. Lebron has a gifted body and thats the reason he is a multi talented all rounder. The best part is that he improved his shooting by far. On the other hand, Kobe without the size of lebron is as dominating as lebron. He is a scorer and a team player. Once again i dont think we can compare and pick the Number 1.
Matt Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:41 pm
He said Jefferson is the best low-post scorer after Shaq, not that he’s the best low-post player. Obviously Dwight is a better all around player and that’s why he’s rated so much higher but as far as scoring around the basket is concerned, Jefferson is better than Dwight.
As MB said, Al Jefferson shoots right around 50% from the field on a mediocre team. Don’t you think that if he played with guys like Turk, Shard and Jameer that it would open things up for him to be even more efficient scoring the ball?
Criteria? Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:43 pm
Seems like an All-Star list which depends partially on winning…
Just some thoughts…Not even a mention of Kevin Durant? Obviously I give deference to Eddie as a former player…but I would think any GM would take KD over Nash in a heartbeat…he’s too liable on D…and Devin Harris and Derrick Rose should be the next two in after KD…Shaq is too limited now to be on there…he’s playing well when he plays, but I think Durant should be on there before him too…also, your analysis of Jefferson also seems to forget Yao Ming with respect to the game’s most dominant low post scorer when Shaq retires…
DOMICO Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:43 pm
brons almost triple dbl almost came in a lost aginst a bad knicks. yeah kobe didn’t have the stat line, but 61 pts in 37 min in a blowout is more impressive. he demoralized the knicks into submission
Jaredallas Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:44 pm
I agree with most of the members, exept Amare. It struck me as somewhat odd that the Suns–who are playing well but not stellar–have 3 of the top 25. I’d drop him to round about 30 (with a bullet, granted) and bring maybe Howard but most likely GERALD WALLACE.
Where is the love for Wallace? Being the best player on a bad team is no biggie; Dan Dickau did it. But year in and year out G-Wall is destroying his body to dominate his opponent, even if the scoreboard usually tilts the other way. And when he can play, he does play.
g money Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:47 pm
WTF where is Vince Carter or Devin Harris…what a joke….i dont think ray allen should be on the list
Stefan Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:50 pm
Hey,
I just wrote a comment and tried posting it…but to no avail. What’s goin on? WHen I try again it tells me that it detects a duplicate comment. But I can’t see my comment posted at all.
Confused?
Oguz Genc Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:54 pm
lebron shot 17-33 kobe shot shot 19-31 and kobe played fewer minutes than lebron did it is not that easy to score 60 points and kobe could have got a 100 when he outscored dallas with 62-61. Lebron is physically much ore dominant than kobe but he will never be as talented as him. it is just a pity for lebron that he tries to prove himself to everyone that he is better than kobe. the truth that everyone has to exept is that kobe’s style gives people so much joy that he is the only player to have the number 1 position with jordan. lebron will only be an advertising success.
ps: sorry for lebron again that he almost killed himself to get the rebound to have the triple-double. there is no triple-double and he won’t enter the history books for that reason while kobe entered it twice in MSG with the most points scored and having the most free throws made without missing in MSG (20-20).
Stefan Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 1:56 pm
So much blah blah… Bennett, as usual, your stat-citing is nauseating. I think I need some chamomile or a licorice root to gnaw at. You are so unsettling.
Eddie, I love your stuff, and it’s always exciting to read any list you offer us. However, I think it may be a bit ambitious to nail down the best 25 in the league. You’re running out of superlatives. How many ways are there to describe a group of players who do very much the same things? What’s the difference between saying a player is “the most versatile offensive small forward” and “the best scoring small forward”? It seems like these words lose their meaning in lists of this type.
How about making a distinction between MVP and MIP! Are you freakin’ serious?!!
C’mon man, I’m reminded of NBC broadcasts from the late 90’s, when every other game, Bill Walton would shower undeserved praise on yet another player, making comments like (and I’m paraphrasing here): “He’s the best player in the league with the ball in his hands, at the end of the quarter, in a game seven overtime” or “he has the best left-handed lay up of a right-handed player in the history of the NBA”.
Blech! This sort of over-cooked praise cheapens the game just a little bit. More importantly it devalues the words used and weakens the arguments of those using them.
Peace
Nic Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:01 pm
In Eddies defense, he said most dominant low-post scorer. Dwight Howard is a freak of nature in terms of athletesisim, and he does get 20 points a night, but his points come MOSTLY from dunks, oops, and putbacks. Al Jefferson does the little moves that Shaq used/uses. Like baby hooks, and shot fakes, and other inside post moves. D-How will always be the better player, and may even average as many points as Jefferson, but Jefferson has a more poloshed offensive repitior.
Dino Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:01 pm
Howard is no.4 because he’s the most intimidating rebounder and defender at C. He’s probably the Defensive player this year. If there was offensive player award though, he wouldnt be in the top 20. He still can score a lot, but he’s not a Shaq on offense yet.
Jefferson has way more offensive skill than Howard. I think what Eddie meant was dominant in a Kareem, Duncan and Sabonis way. No real weaknesses on offense.
Howard can beat up people because of his size and strength and get his points. He can get 40 points against soft teams. But he has gaps in offensive game - poor free throw %, poor range, not that great at passing out of double teams yet, way more reliant on floor spacing from 3pt shooters than guys like Kareem, Duncan or Sabonis.
Unless u are Shaq in his prime, u need either a great offensive skillset or a great floor spacing from teammates to play against double and tripple teams. Howard right now relies on the 3 pt shooters getting him out of double teams. While Jefferson can outplay double teams without anything close to Magic’s perimeter shooters.
That said, Howard will always be a better C than Jefferson because their difference on D is huge.
Nic Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:03 pm
Sorry for the repetitveness of my view, I had left this on and only saw the first two comments..
bigdog Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:09 pm
Al Jefferson is a vastly better offensive post player than D-12. Dwight has few low post moves other than the dunk. He literally has no go to move in the post. Al has a great blend of moves including a short J that opens up his post game even more.
I’m a Cavs fan, so this isn’t coming as a T’Wolves homer, but if you know anything about basketball the offensive skill set of Al Jefferson is far and away more impressive than Dwight who gets by on pure size and athleticism while Al has a variety of post moves that Dwight will likely never compare to. Give Al some of Dwight’s size and he’s be as dominant as Shaq was, but since he’s on Minny nobody sees the guy enough.
Jeff Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:13 pm
Good list, but regarding the other comments about Al Jefferson and Dwight Howard, I think the operative term is “When Shaq retires.”
It is in future tense, so while the current statistics do dictate Dwight is more dominant scoring wise, it means Dwight is dominant today.
But maybe, (in Eddie’s words: will probably) Al Jefferson will develop into the most dominant low post scorer - in the future.
Although yeah, Dwight Howard will still rule rocking the rim a few years from now.
Things can happen.:)
Paul Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:21 pm
Where is Kevin Durant?
25 ppg 6.6 rpg 3 apg, also he has more game winners than LeBron James. I think hes a far better player than Ray Allen this year and Yao Ming.
Keith Ortega Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:39 pm
Eddie only put three suns players on lest ( Shaq , Nash and amare) because he works with the suns and sees all there games. He’s not completely objective.
P.S
Kobe is #1… eddie get over your disdain for the lakers
Pickett Smith Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:40 pm
This list is ridiculous. Wade should be much higher, at least three, maybe four if you put Duncan in front of him…but then again Duncan could still be number one.
Wade is just as good as Kobe and Lebron, if not better.
David Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:41 pm
Eddie can be accused of being a “homer” by putting 3 Suns into the top 25. However, to counteract that, he also put 3 Spurs as well. There goes that criticism, out the window,
Freddie Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:50 pm
Dirk shouldn’t be on the list. You can’t win with him. He’s Michael Redd. They can score but offers nothing else. Dirk is a great second option on a team with a leader and go to guy. Joe Johnson should be higher on the list.
Brian Libby Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 2:55 pm
There is NO WAY Brandon Roy is only the 21st best player in the NBA. Put him in Yao’s #8 spot. Only Kobe, LeBron, Paul and Wade are better guards.
KaJaromme White Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 3:02 pm
Yall niggas are crazy if yall think Lebron be number 1 on you list. Kobe is best player, no doubt dog. He put down 60 against the Kpricks you know.
Zander Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 3:06 pm
Pau Gasol too high. Brandon Roy too low. Otherwise I agree pretty much across the board.
Rick Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 3:21 pm
I want to carry the banner for Caron Butler being on this list in Ray Allen’s spot. Maybe even Kevin Durant. Ray is the sickest shooter in recent history but I question if he has the resolve and strength to pull the weight Caron and KD pull night in and out. I know the team records are abysmal but if Granger and Al Jefferson are considered, Caron and KD are worth a mention.
Mirak Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 3:29 pm
How can you say that Jefferson will be the most dominant low post scorer when there is someone as dominant as Dwight Howard in the league? He is already a monster down there and teams are having a heck of a hard time stopping even his offense. The Magic are having a great year, primarily because of this crazy monster. You look at Al Jefferson and he has not been able to do too much!
Chris Paul is way too high on that list. He is an extremely talented player, but number 3 in the league right now? I don’t think so. Tony Parker at no.9? Are you serious? He is fast, he can even score once every 5 games, but if anything he should be barely making this list. He is still young though, as long as he doesn’t flee to Europe, he will only improve, but he’s not there yet.
Manu should be way higher. Number 2 to Tim Duncan in that dynasty is Manu, not Parker. His scoring ability as the sixth man is unbelievable. He makes the difference in most of the Spurs’ games, much more important than Parker. Very soon this team is going to have to start making important decision as Manu and Tony get expensive… I can see them holding on to Manu, because quite frankly, Tony is replaceable.
Deron Williams…. wayyyy to low. This guy is a tremendous player, and a great energy on the basketball court. He got snubbed from the all star game, and how does he respond? He scores 35 points first game, and 34 the next two. The Jazz are without Boozer and Kirilenko now, and they are still playing decent basketball. How about when those guys get back? This is the team to be careful for in the playoffs and possibly the only team in the western conference that can put up a fight against the almighty Lakers…
Lebron deserves the number 1, primarily because of his age. This guy is still so young, but already playing incredible basketball. It took Kobe how many seasons before he reached his 81? or even his 61 a few nights ago… Lebron has a long way to go in his career. He just needs to be smart in the offseason.
Derek Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 3:37 pm
Eddie,
So you arguing that Dirk shouldnt be on the list because he cant win but Joe Johnson can and thats why he should be on the list? LOL If thats your argument then you obviously must not know much about basketball.
JBEAN Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 3:37 pm
This list is ridiculous. I have lost all respect for eddie, there are so many problems but i will bum it up with one. there are 2 suns players ranked higher than Steve Nash. REALLY? One a washed up player than can’t play on connsecutive nights and the other one a player whos game was lifted to the hights it obtained because of Nash’s abilities and playmaking. Oh and Lebron could have scored 60 easily, seemed like he tried pretty hard to me dominateing the ball the entire game, playing the entire game, and going solo down the stretch which almost cost them the game. His game was rediculous in a good way but cmon, kobe scored 60 easy in just 36 minutes on a lot fewer shots.
Kyle A Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 3:37 pm
For the most part this is a pretty good top 25 with a few players that i would place in different spots but that is what opinions are for right?
Kobe and Lebron:
Two different styles of play so we will not compare the 2. But, i personally think that Kobe is the best player in the game. His game is untouchable. He is a much better shooter than LBJ and if someone thinks otherwise than they are crazy. He can shoot for 60 or drive for 60 where as Lebron lacks the ability to shoot a consistant jumper. Now before you all get upset for that comment, im not saying LBJ cant shoot…im not…he has improved his shot tremendously every year and he is 1 season away from being the most dominate player to ever play the game. But lets be honest, KB can shut down any player on D whether it be a PG or a PF, he can shoot from anywhere on the court, back turned the the basket, spinning in the lane, fade away from the baseline falling out of bounds, hands in his face on every shot, and he can posterize you at any given time and he is getting up there in age compared the the youth he is up against.
Lastly: The mental game.
There is nobody that has more fire in his eyes than Kobe and he is the last player anybody wants to piss off during a game or before with some locker room talk. Lebron is missing that FIRE but he will soon get it once he makes some enemies in the league that figure out how to stop him.
AJE Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 4:24 pm
Ya Freddie,
How can you take Dirk off this list? He single handily took the mavs to the NBA finals a few years ago. He is the best shooting big man in NBA history. Without him the Mavs are easily one of the worst teams in the league. And he won the Most Valuable Player award two years ago.
And Joe Johnson is good but definitely cant be higher when he is so streaky and cant be a superstar but an really good role player.
Pickett Smith Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 4:36 pm
this is the biggest sham i’ve ever seen. Wade at 7?
boooooo
face Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 4:42 pm
Lebron could of scored 60 if he wanted to!?! LOL I guess when kobe scored 81 he could of scored 100 LOL what a joke these agruments Lebron is better then kobe arguments are this is not who has the most tattoos contest Kobe is better then Lebron deal wit it! And Wade is jus as good if not better then him! Wade’s starting line up is Chalmers/Diawarra/Haslem/Maglorie and has his team in 6th or 5th place and is getting no love for MVP he is the most valuable to his by far. The NBA already gave lebron rookie of the year when they completely screwed anthony and now it looks like theyre gonna give him some more this year.
Chris Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 5:13 pm
Kobe is definitely #1 and Lebron could not have scored sixty that game he was forcing shots and rebounds, he is a stat sheet checker. Kobe could have dropped 70 that game but didnt need to. Not to mention Al Harrington hung 40 on Lebron?
Nash is done and he has been exposed.
And Al Jefferson will what? He doesnt dominate the post and thats why they lose.
Kirigalagans Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 5:28 pm
put eddie’s list (reduced) that way:
pg: Paul, Parker, Billups, Williams, Nash
sg: Bryant, Wade, Johnson, Ginobili, Roy
sf: James, Pierce, Anthony, Granger
pf: Duncan, Garnett, Bosh, Nowitzki, Gasol
c: Howard, Yao, O’Neal, Jefferson
these are the best players (generally). everyone of us would change some players for sure. but everyone of them deserves to be on that list.
so this rating is nothing special because everyone who reads this article could write it, too.
eddie tell me something i do not know!
yours, KGG
Mobiz Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 5:32 pm
Most definitely have it right putting Bron Bron in the #1 spot over Kobe. He’s the better all around player, and far exceeds Kobe in making the players around him better. Gotta agree with what others have written though, no way is Wade at # 7, he should be at #4, possibly #3. The guys is averaging almost a block and a half a game! From the guard position! He is Miami! Without him the team is in last place.
Winkstrap Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 5:40 pm
top 10 is so easy to pick its not funny:
1 l.james
2.k.bryant
3.c.paul
4.k.garnett
5.d.wade
6.t.duncan
7.d.howard
8.d.nowitzki
9.p.pierce
10.a.stoudemire
other notes*
25. Al Jefferson has his shot blocked more than any other player in the nba but still warrants this selection
18. Shaquille O’Neal
Stays at number 18 and probably deserves to be rated higher. Please name me a true center other than Howard that has played better than Shaq?
tim duncan is a center or dont you watch any games? - by the way i was just about the only person who agreed with you on having shaq in the initial top 25 list
10. Chris Bosh : put down the pipe this guy is way over rated and his team sucks - better than dirk and amare - no clue at all
9. Tony Parker (give me a freaking break how many times do he and manu consistently get away with travelling and carrying the ball - what a joke) he cant shoot 3’s to save his life!!!
8. Yao Ming - do you have a boner for this guy or something, hes tall we get it - you wouldnt be sucking up to the chinese people would you???
Pickett Smith Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 5:49 pm
winkstrap, your list is so teribbly it isn’t even funny.
Wade is number one or two, its between him and Lebron. After that it is Kobe.
Tizio Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 7:18 pm
Good list other than:
Duncan should be 4
Garnett should be 25
Wade should be 1.
kenograndmaster Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 7:26 pm
Kobe should be number 1. He has more talent than Lebron. Lebron is more powerful but he cant shoot like Kobe can. Also, Kobe is the best clutch player in the game today. (Dont quote me, all the coaches in the league cant be wrong!) He has scored 81 in one game, 56 in 3 quarters, 62 in 3 quarters(outscoring a team), 40 something average in a month (only 3 players have done that), 40 something 7 straight games, nba record 12 3 pointers. Regarding that NY game, first of all kobe scored 61 in 37 minutes and lebron scored 52 points in more minutes played (44 minutes) with almost a triple double. Thats damn good but nobody mentions how he allowed his opponent who he was guarding Al Harrington 39 points??!!??
Also, Yao Ming at #8?1? Share some of what you’re smoking. How he is ranked above the players like Tony Parker and Dirk is not even funny. Dwayne Wade should’ve been number 3 behind Lebron and Kobe. After that, its tough to choose one over the other if youre looking picking your best top ten and that goes for anybody. However these 3 guys there should be no discussion. Im only putting Lebron over Wade because Wade is probably at his maximum potential. He’s young yeh but I dont see him playing any better than he has this season. Lebron has more potential left in him such as his outside shooting and his defense.
Kmart Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 7:29 pm
Wheres Kenyon?^^
I agree with this list, I mean its nearly impossible to determine who is no 1 in the Nba, If your a lakers fan kobe is No 1 , a cavs fan lebron, heat fan wade so its hard. And the person that said that david lee is amongst the 25 best players in the league you might wanna do a check-up on your mental health^^. And ofcourse Big al is a better low post scorer then dwight, dwight is Mr dunk and maybe a hook here and there, but he is still top 3 inside scorers because nobody can stop him!
Bentley Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 8:15 pm
Gr8 list but i have to agree on many peoples arguments, this year no matter how great he is Nash is having an average year at best, Shaq is shining and probably deserves to be on the list…just. I have so much love for my boy Amare but he needs to start fillin up stat sheets across the board not just points. I also cant frakin stand the Human Flop Machine in Mr Manu but the guy has game big time, TP is outstanding and in a more free running offense like Portland, Denver etc he would be rackin up McDonalds numbers. LBJ or Kobe really they both are just off the hook night in and out both their teams have fantatstic records and Flash is finally back to his playoff like form from a couple of years back. David Lee is a gr8 Blue Collar guy but no way top 25 worthy. Danny Granger was a steal in that draft and will exceed what Jermaine did at Indy if he stays healthy, a real cornerstone. AJ is great and will only get better if they surround him with some real talent and as for Dwight…please a man amongst boys, the guy is flat out dominant, somebody just work on the mans touch around the hoop from 10-12ft and u tell me who will stop him. Durant is gonna be another franchise player if they get the man some help…
John Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 8:25 pm
so let me get this straight…. Wade scores more, assists more, steals more, and blocks more shots than Lebron…but lebron’s better because you have a man crush on him?
miamigetoveryourselves Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 8:37 pm
This is getting ridiculous Miami fans. Wade is #4 in the league with a firm hold but is a half a notch below Cp3, Lebron, and Kobe.
I love wade and always have sense he has come into the league but he isnt at good as either of the 3 I’ve mentioned.
1a.)Lebron
1b.) Kobe
3.) Cp3
4.)Wade
5.)Duncan
6.)Howard
7.) Garnett
8.) Dirk
9.)Melo (Finally playing team ball and thou #s down playing best ball of his life
10.)Danny Granger I know it sounds crazy but this guy is most underrated player in league and a terrific scorer
11.)Chris Bosh
Game Time Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 9:04 pm
Kobe should be number 1 hands down
SPURS IN THE NEWS Feb 8th - SpursReport.com Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 9:24 pm
[...] Blog ranking HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs - Eddie Johnson The Top 25 (again) By Eddie Johnson 20. Manu Ginobili Moves up four spots and I am sure my Spurs [...]
Matt Said,
February 7, 2009 @ 10:07 pm
I used to respect Eddie but he’s a mouth piece for the Suns now.
If you have three players in the top 25, shouldn’t you be a top team? The Suns SUCK. “Amare could be the greatest”…… blah blah blah. He’s been in the league 7 years and hasn’t figured it out. He’s Shawn Kemp with no lift anymore. 3 knee surgeries already, he’s done. I’m sick of the excuses, he doesn’t have what it takes up stairs to be a winner.
Nash is done as well, and Shaq, as well as he has played, can barely get off the floor. The Suns have 3 guys in their starting lineup over 35. Amare is a shell of what he was. This team is finished, naming those 3 in the top 25 is an embarrassment to NBA analysts everywhere. SHAWN MARION getting kicked out of your top 25??? WTF has he done? Are you serious? You should quit and let little Tom Leander do your job too.
Jaredallas Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 12:22 am
…since i can’t edit… I meant (Devin) Harris, not “Howard” would be my 25… as if you were wondering.
Vlad K Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 12:58 am
1.james 2.duncan 3.paul 4.bryant 5.howard 6.nowitzki 7.yao 8.wade 9.parker 10.pierce 11.roy 12.garnett 13.bosh 14.deron williams 15.granger 16.melo 17.gasol 18.amare 19.al jefferson 20.devin harris 21. vince carter 22.ray allen 23.kevin durant 24.billups 25.ginobili
Put your man crushes aside and think with reason, these are the players who dominate with the most regularity and are the best in the NBA.
Stuckey Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 1:09 am
2009 belongs to Kobe.
Lets talk more about it in June.
D Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 2:41 am
Overall, i agree with almost everything here. I’d slip Devin Harris and Kevin Durant in place of Granger and Allen. Roy and Deron Williams should have been higher too. I love that Ginobli’s still making the list. It’s refreshing to see players still getting recognized without having to start…Iverson should take note
jordannmogal Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 3:01 am
people need to understand, basketball is not all about scoring, that’s all newbie knows. hey, i take lebron’s all around game over kobe’s 60 anyday all day. kobe has 3 rebound and 0 assist….geeez ridunculous bad….it’s a team sport hello. kobe lovers….jump off his dick rite now hahahh
Kevin Durant Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 4:15 am
Dear Mr.Johnson,
Hopefully by the time I turn 21 you could perhaps consider me in your Top 25 list. Obviously you put an age restriction on this list of yours.
Thank you,
-Kevin Durant
PS. Here are my statistical numbers since Coach Scott Brooks moved me into the Small Forward position:
29.8 ppg
8.8 rpg
3.7 apg
.508 fg%
.448 3pct%
.875 ft%
1.4 spg
0.9 bpg
Jordan23wizards Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 6:07 am
1.Kobe Bryant simply better than LeBron. Kobe is a better lockdown defender, scorer, shooter. LeBron is a better assist man(I wouldn’t say passer) and rebounder. Last time I checked how u win games is stopping the other team from scoring and the scoreboard. Kobe has both of those things on 10. Kobe’s whole game is great. LeBron still has things he needs to work on (FT’s, jumpshot, when not to be unselfish)
2. Chris Paul is not better than D-Wade. period point blank
My list would be :
10.Carmelo Anthony
9.Deron Williams
8. Dwight Howard
7. Dirk Nowitzki
6. Tim Duncan
5. Kevin Garnett
4. Chris Paul
2 or 3. LeBron or Wade (IDK)
1. Kobe Bryant
Dwyane Wade Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 6:15 am
Wow what a shame man, I’ve been visiting this site since like 07, but I dont think im bad as no. 7.
But still, I appreciate that, it might serve as an insipiration to me and be hungry in our game tonight, vs. Charlotte, I’ll do my best and prove to you that I need more respect than that.
As my team’s motto is, “I got something to prove.”
Watch me tonight buddy. If ever we have interviews, I’ll mention your name.
Yours sincerly,
Dwyane Wade
jay Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 6:22 am
Kobe scored 61 points and also have 0 rebounds and 3 assists, that shows what kind of a player he is in a team game hehehe!!!
nelly Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 8:54 am
Yo, let me school y’all on what the man meant by his statement of Al becoming the most dominant low post scorer, first of all, you people have to actually be watching basketball to understand who Al Jefferson is in comparison to a guy like Howard.
Jefferson is a “scorer” …meaning he scores points! his team runs most of their offense through him and he gets the majority of the touches simply because he can create, then score!
Shaq is not as dominating as he was in LA, but his presence and size is what makes him so dominating on the low blocks, for 16 years every opposing team Shaq has faced, has been concocting some sort of plan or strategy to play him or at least contain him and for 16 years they have failed….the only thing that the NBA has ever come up with is the “hack a shaq” …..now that is dominance!….
..now you people see what Eddie meant?….Al will and is already that type of player, you just dont know how to deal with him offensively, but at the moment it doesnt matter because his team is not as good as Oneal’s Lakers or Heat were…but! just imagine when the Wolves do get some prime time players surrounding Al…..Howard has one of the best supporting cast in the league and the only thing he has shown us so far is his freakish physical ability…..thats all….no touch, no swagger, no offensive repertoire and no go to shot, no low post moves…just jump, grab and dunk……oh and smile….
ackilez Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 9:38 am
oh yeah nice one jay
kobe 61pts 0rbs 3ast a very good “team player” or should you say an “all complete player” LOL. I would rather have Wade at no.2 next to Lebron. Lebron all the way ^^,
Jacob Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 9:57 am
Jefferson is the best low post scorer the game has TODAY and will be for a long time. If the celtics didn’t win a championship we would be having the debate if AL jefferson is better then KG… but hes not because AL jefferson hasnt learned how to play defense. (more of the steals and blocks come from poor play, not because his good defense)
Pickett Smith Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 10:10 am
Vlad K put Dirk ahead of Wade???
hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahh!
markied Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 11:11 am
miamigetoveryouselves claims that wade is number 4 hands down. I didnt know avg. more stats puts you further down on the list but ok.
it makes no sense how wade scores more, averages more assts, steals and blocks than both kobe and lebron, but is considered number 7 according to eddie.
yes i am a heat fan, but im aware of whats out there. i would never say Zo in his prime was better than shaq in his prime so dont get the whole miami thing twisted, but what wade did to dallas was remarkable, and what he is doing this year with the inexperience we have from player to head coach to me proves he is more than being ranked below garnett, duncan, and even cp3.
the top 3 is kobe bron and wade only, in any order you like, but give the man the respect he deserves.
markied Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 11:14 am
and to add, d howard is a beast defensively, but puts a lot of effort into his offense. he is def not a natural scorer, just blessed with insane strength and hopping ability, being able to grab rebound and put back dunks..Al Jeff is by far a better scorer and not that far off in rebounds either..
Cman Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 11:26 am
Great list.
Agree 100% about Big Al. Over time, he will move up lists like these.
Someone above wrote “Kobe is a team player”. That was good for a laugh!
G Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 12:01 pm
“1.james 2.duncan 3.paul 4.bryant 5.howard 6.nowitzki 7.yao 8.wade 9.parker 10.pierce 11.roy 12.garnett 13.bosh 14.deron williams 15.granger 16.melo 17.gasol 18.amare 19.al jefferson 20.devin harris 21. vince carter 22.ray allen 23.kevin durant 24.billups 25.ginobili
Put your man crushes aside and think with reason, these are the players who dominate with the most regularity and are the best in the NBA.”
Wow nice list Vlad K. Nowitski ahead of D Wade nice one there, I guess thats why Dallas won the championship in 06, oh wait. Talk about disapearing in big games. And the nets have 2 of the top 25 players? I never noticed. I guess thats why they are on of the top championship contenders in this league. If you are going to mock EJ, at least come up with a list that makes sense.
Big J Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 12:27 pm
It’s very refreshing to hear someone who has played the game and knows what he’s talking about,however I have Pierce alittle higher because he’s a clutch performer and I have KG alittle lower he’s turning more and more onto a jump shooter.
Big J Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 12:33 pm
I know Dirk is putting up great numbers but he’s a seven foot jump shooter. Until Dallas get somebody who can bang and play inside they will never win a championship.I like Dirk and Dallas have won alot of games because of him but championships are won in the paint!
Craig Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 12:49 pm
HMM SMH left to right @ this stuff. Lebron is not better than Kobe. Lebron’s game consists of driving the lane and taking jump shots that he occassionally hits. yea he’s great, he’s a beast but Kobe’s game is in another universe. U cant draw up a defensive plan for Kobe b cuz watever u do he has a counter. Now Lebron, force him to shoot jumpers oh and umm put him on the free throw line. lmao and is D Wade not getting any love. come on ppl. here’s my top 10
1. Kobe
2. D Wade
3. Lebron
4. CP3
5. KG
6. Tim Duncan
7. Dwight Howard
8. Paul Pierce
9. Dirk
10. Amare
Bill Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 12:55 pm
Andre Iguodala should make the list of top 25 but i think the 5-14 spots need some serious re shuffling, especially tony parker cracking the top 10. Another thing is T-mac is still one of the top 25 players on the planet hurt or not.
Poopy McSquirtsalot Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 2:35 pm
All I wanna know is why isnt Chucky Atkins anywhere on this list?!?!?!?!
John Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 2:35 pm
again i ask..how is dwade so low? he scores the same as lebron, gets more assists, more steals, and more blocks. yet he is lower. because ‘lebron carries his team.’ Wade carries his team, and does it better. the heat were 15-67 a league worse 1 year ago. wade has them in playoff contention with a rookie point guard and a rookie 6th man. puff puff pass man.
the rest of the NBA is missing out on an MVP season here in miami.
asmall Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 2:35 pm
I think Lebron is the best in the nba, he is really quick, powerful and can shoot the mid range jumper
Reggie Fontaine Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 2:38 pm
1. Kobe Bryant
2. Lebron James
3. Chris Paul
4. Dwight Howard
5. Dwyane Wade
6. Dirk Nowitski
7. Al Jefferson
8. Carmelo Anthony
9. Amare Stoudemire
10. Tim Duncan
11. Brandon Roy
12. Joe Johnson
13. Chris Bosh
14. Danny Granger
15. Carlos Boozer
16. Kevin Garnett
17. Deron Williams
18. Kevin Durant
19. Devin Harris
20. Paul Pierce
21. Steve Nash
22. Gilbert Arenas.
23. Chauncey Billups
24. Allen Iverson
25. Yao Ming
26. David West
27. Tony Parker
28. Baron Davis
29. Ray Allen
30. Vince Carter
31. Rashard Lewis
32. Andris Biedrins
33. Caron Butler
34. Elton Brand
35. Antawn Jamison
36. Kevin Martin
37. Michael Redd
38. Stephen Jackson
39. Josh Smith
40. Zach Randolph
41. Tracy McGrady
42. Manu Ginobili
43. Derrick Rose
44. Rudy Gay
45. Josh Howard
46. Rip Hamilton
47. Andrew Bynum
48. Jason Terry
49. Ron Artest
50. Gerald Wallace
51. OJ Mayo
52. Richard Jefferson
53. Jason Richardson
54. Andre Igoudala
55. Pau Gasol
56. Ben Gordon
57. Jameer Nelson
58. Al Harrington
59. Jason Kidd
60. Andre Miller
61. Emeka Okafor
62. Mehmet Okur
63. Chris Kaman
64. Tayshaun Prince
65. Hedo Turkoglu
66. Corey Maggette
67. Mo Williams
68. Shaquille Oneal
69. Jamal Crawford
70. Lemarcus Aldridge
71. John Salmons
72. Jose Calderon
73. Luel Deng
74. Paul Millsapp
75. Mike Bibby
76. Nene
77. Randy Foye
78. Rasheed Wallace
79. Zydrunas Ilgauskas
80. Shawn Marion
81. Al Thornton
82. David Lee
83. Jeff Green
84. Rodney Stuckey
85. Marcus Camby
86. TJ Ford
87. Tyson Chandler
88. Michael Beasley
89. Al Horford
90. Rajon Rondo
91. Jermaine Oneal
92. Monta Ellis
93. Chris Duhon
94. Russell Westbrook
95. Brad Miller
96. Raymond Felton
97. Lamar Odom
98. Nate Robinson
99. Charlie Villanueva
100. Drew Gooden
101. Adrew Bogut
102. Andrea Bargani
103. Peja Stojakovic
104. Marvin Williams
105. Mike Dunleavy
106. Andre Kirelenko
107. Troy Murphy
108. Beno Udrih
109. Thadeos Young
110. Marquis Daniels
HoopsHype saca la lista de los 25 mejores jugadores de la NBA : Blogografia Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 3:20 pm
[...] HoopsHype, el website más famoso en cuanto a rumores de la NBA se refiere, han sacado a la luz la lista con los 25 mejores jugadores de la NBA actual, en la que hay luchas, ausencias, y gratas, muy gratas [...]
INDIANA_ELITE Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 3:33 pm
how could you not put chris bosh up in the top 10 talk..are you guys serious???just hatin on the man because hes playin in toronto???
Tyrone Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 4:39 pm
Kevin Martin was 6th in the NBA in scoring last year and is currently 7th in scoring at 24.4 points a game. He should be in the top 25, no doubt about it, just poll the GM’s and it would be a no brainer.
c money Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 5:15 pm
Great analysis. One thing is for sure….it will get response!! Here’s mine.
I think Kobe is the best player in the world. His skillset is still more broad than Lebron’s. Just look at me KOBE haters (i’m am one too) there are out there. That alone should tell you who is the most feared and best player in the league.
I see alot of posts pertaining to D12’s low post dominance. You guys havae to remember he is so young into his NBA career that it is ridiculous. I think the guy just turned 22. His low post game WILL DIVERSIFY. I actually project him to be a better low post scorer than JEFFERSON when it is all said and done. Not taking anything away from JEFFERSON he is the best low post threat in the league other than maybe Shaq right now, but when the played the MAGIC both times this season he was shut DOWN. I see a lot of excuses to why his stats aren’t better and most say it is because he dosen’t have the supporting cast. All you need are three point shooters. Look @ the magic. I know MILLER can shoot, FOYE can shoot. MCCANTS, hell LOVE has enough range to space his position too. If you have a dominant low post scorer there is no reason for a team to have a sub 500 record.
Jordan23wizards Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 6:22 pm
kobe just beat lebron
Brant Lavery Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 9:09 pm
I agree with alot of the players on this list but there are alot of players to choose from. I think that Vince Carter should be in the top 25 for sure doesn’t mean he has to be the highest pick or anything but to be only 1 of 3 players last year to be averaging at at least 20pts,5rebs,5assts and is average the same this year those are good numbers. I know he has lost a lot of respect since the Toronto issue but plenty of players have went through the same situation and have not recieved the attention Carter has…..not cool.
ronald Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 11:35 pm
people should not get all worked up about someones opinion, that’s right an opinion. After all we are all individuals.CHILLAX
scott Said,
February 8, 2009 @ 11:47 pm
it’s amazing how all the kobe fans know how much better lebron is than kobe (stats) and how much better the lakers are than the cavs mainly because of the controversial gasol trade from a year ago but it still doesn’t hinder the fact that okay maybe the lakers swept the cavs this year but didn’t the cavs do the same to them last year? yet nobody was talking about it like they are now because everyone is looking for a reason to say “see i told he was better than him” when in fact i personally believe they should be judged by how they play each other in the the ultimate stage, the NBA finals, and i guarantee you all it will happen this year and lebron’s going to definitely surprise people (by beating down the so-called best player and best team in the league) that is if david “satan’s spawn” stern doesn’t get involved and possibly corrupt the officials so the cavs would lose (just like today) and try and force lebron to go to NY because of it.
P.S.
Reggie Fontaine your list sucks ass there’s no way in hell iverson’s still in the top 25 and elton brand shouldn’t be where he is, to tell you the truth i could criticize that fucked up list all night but i won’t waste my time like you unknowingly did so leave it to the pros.
ricky@hk Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 1:14 am
This list sucks hard.
The author is definitely a celtic’s big fan.
Where is dirk, del harris, and why the hell bullups is higher than nash…
And chris paul at the 3rd, stop kidding me. I am sure tim and kg will make a face when they see the list…..
fvbruin Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 3:17 am
C’mon Eddie, Lebron is great but your comment and many other writers hating after Kobe dropped 61 on the Knicks shows you guys just dont understand what makes Kobe so special.
Here is Phil Jackson on the defining moments of the six-game trip: “There were two things that happened. One was, obviously, Andrew (Bynum) going down and the immediate shock of one of our key players being on the floor and the subsequent review of almost a year ago. The other thing was the game after that, with Kobe coming out and having a 61-point game at New York. The big pick-me-up type of game kind of infused the energy with this club.” The Lakers lose Bynum and Kobe makes statement to his teammates and the league that the lakers are still the best team. Then they go out and beat the Celtics on the 2nd of a back-to-back in OT and win in Cleveland against your beloved Lebron holding him to 5-20 shooting while vomiting at halftime and taking ivies and scoring 19 pts. Lebron is a great player and anyone who is 6-9 260 lbs with his athleticism should rebound better that Kobe. But when the game is on the line, we all know who everyone would rather have in the game. Someday Lebron may be the No 1. player, but that day has not arrived yet until he delivers a Championship or two.
The DBA Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 5:54 am
I hope this article was written to spark controversy. Kobe at number 2 is one of the most ridiculous things I have ever seen. Even more ridiculous, your reasoning.
First of all, how can you say LeBron’s performance at the Garden was more impressive than Kobe’s? Kobe had 61 on 31 shots. That is mind blowing. Also, with Kobe you have a complete player.
Secondly, LeBron still has no back to the basket ability. If you need proof, check out yesterdays game. Now take Kobe’s back to the basket game. It is untouchable and undefendable.
Lastly, he has shut down defense. Kobe will guard the best player on the team night in and night out. He doesn’t back down. Not only does he guard them, but he also shuts them down.
To say Kobe is anything but number 1 is blasphemous. You should be ashamed.
Nav Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 7:51 am
These are ranking based purely on average stats so far this season:
Taking every category into account. FG% FT% Points, Rebounds, Assists, Steals, Blocks, Turnovers
1. Chris Paul
2. LeBron James
3. Danny Granger
4. Kobe Bryant
5. Dirk Nowitzki
6. Dwyane Wade
7. Marcus Camby
8. Kevin Garnett
9. Kevin Durant
10. Al Jefferson
11. Jason Kidd
12. Yao Ming
13. Chauncey Billups
14. Jameer Nelson
15. Ray Allen
16. Jason Terry
17. Jose Calderon
18. Amare Stoudemire
19. Rashard Lewis
20. Carlos Boozer
21. Troy Murphy
22. Antawn Jamison
23. Gerald Wallace
24. Pau Gasol
25. Nene Hilario
again this not my opinion, based purely on stats, and if your wondering why deronwilliams is not there, he had a bad start. again not my opinion, based purely on average stats so far this season.
boi boi Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 8:48 am
dis list is good…but Melo and B. Roy should be lower…and Kobe Bryant has 2 be #1 on dis list
Avi Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 8:59 am
Good list. Though I would probably move Kevin Durant in there and bump Ray Allen off. He just isn’t a Top 25 player anymore. Also, I would have Brandon Roy higher and Joe Johnson lower.
c money Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 9:39 am
lol. Scott you a fool boy!! Yeah that list is pretty bad.
I know Dirk won an MVP still not sure how but he is too high. How in the world is Jefferson that high….higher than Duncan have you even seen him play? You really think that there are 96 players better than Lamar Odom? Granger at 14? Gilbert Arenas even on the list? Every is entitled to an opinion, yours MIGHT be more accurate than mines. But i cannot (umm will not) take the time to complete a 100 player list.
Abe Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 10:29 am
Yeah Eddie …
Your such an expert dude…
Ohh yeah check your stats cause Kobe could have went for 70 , only played 36 min…
Your boy Labreeze was still in late in the game , kobe was chillin on the bench done 4 the night..
John Lappi Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 11:03 am
Kobe is still #1. Just put Lebron in a triangle offense and let see if he averages 7 assists. Lebron starts the cavs’ offense. He has the ball about 85% of the time. He will drive to the basket and try to score or create for his teammate. The good defensive teams will pack the paint and force him to shoot as we saw yesterday agains the Lakers. Don’t get me wrong he’s a great all-around player but Kobe has a different role. He finishes in the offense. Also, everybody touches the ball in a triangle offense. Kobe still averages 4-5 assists a game. Now, should I talk about their respective defense? Lebron will make some incredible weak-side blocks but doesn’t he shut down the opposite teams’ best offensive player?
JD Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 11:05 am
It seems as if you made this list just a game too soon. Because for the second time Lebron was shut down by the Lakers 5 of 20 at home no less.With three on the clock who would you pass the rock to for the final shot Lebron or Kobe? So why then is Lebron ranked #1 (3 for 22 last second shots) It’s gotta be Kobe #1 D,Wade #2 Lebron #3. And for all you Lebron fans out there make no mistake Lebron is the future of the NBA but Kobe is the right now.
John Lappi Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 11:05 am
Also, I’m always hearing that Kobe doesn’t make his teammates better. Do you believe that Pau Gasol of Memphis would have made this list? Isn’t D. Fish having a career year? What about Ariza, etc?
Cordell Taylor Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 11:08 am
Excellent list again Eddie
However, I like Chauncey Billups but I would not put him at 13, thats too high,especially when Deron Williams is back at 19th spot. I would probably dip KG’s spot down a few spots because he relies on Pierce and Allen for big clutch shots….and I think his behavior toes the line between being intense to being plain obnoxious.
D Wade deserves to be higher than 7. I would probably place him in the Top 5.
junjun Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 12:10 pm
somebody above put vince carter in the top 10…. ARE YOUS SERIOUS?!?!?!?!?! you’re probably just saying that because he’s one of your favorite players because of his dunks! vince cannot play at the same level he used to anymore!! he and tmac are washed up!! devin harris is the one carrying the nets now. and if they trade vince for agood enough 2 guard,and surround harris with better players,the nets would make it to the playoffs. vince is done!!
and wade should be in the top 5.
Sir Right Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 12:13 pm
And that’s why knowledgeable basketball fans and analysts don’t care about stats.
Dee Ranoe Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 12:25 pm
Al Jefferson right now definitely have way more low post moves than D12. But no worries Magic fan, when D12 matures his game, his ceiling is shaq-like. This is also to illustrate how dominant Shaq was in his prime, he had the skills of Al Jefferson and the athleticism of D12.
Hotboi719ATL Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 2:16 pm
You still holding onto LeBron as the Best player in the game. Gimme a break. The guy is good but please Eddie, let him do something first before you give him the rest of these guys this title of best player in the game. He hasn’t even completed the big test yet. Oh yeah he went to the finals but he got swept. It’s one thing to say he carried or is carrying the team but if he carried them there and they got swept then where does his responsibility lay? You want to give him all the credit for the wins but you want to blame the surrounding players when they lose. On the other hand you won’t give Kobe the same benefit. He took his squad to the Finals last year too but he didn’t get swept. Zydruna is just as much of a star as Gasol to me and that’s not saying much but that they are decent International Players, and can shoot.
Hotboi719ATL Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 2:26 pm
So how does Kobe keep his team in the mix in the West (supposedly with better teams to play against) and Lebron just has to place at least 4th in the East and be considered the best in the game. Cause with Boston and Detroit and Orland being in the top 5 if they can’t be at least 4th then how does LBJ get to be considered the best player in the league?
I hope you wrote this article before you saw The Lakers beat Boston and Cleveland stopping both of their streaks… And while LBJ does get more rebounds isn’t that a main part in a small forward or power forwards job ? Shooting guards are not rebounders per say. I mean it’s an added dimension but Kobe is not in the position to rebound like that plus he has (3) 7 footers under the board so why should he have to rebound at a double digit clip. That’s ridiculous.. The offense for the Cavs run through Lebron. He draws the double team and kicks it to an open player. How hard is it to get an assist when your offense is setup like that? The triangle does not run through Kobe and when he gets the ball the first few options have been exhausted and it about 6 secs left of the shot clock… Plus when he does kick it to them don’t the players acutally have to hit the shot for an assist. Maybe Kobe’s spot up shooters are not as good as Zerbiack and Mo Williams, DeLonte West, Boobie Gibson. Luke Walton is not a shooter, LaMar is not a shooter, Ariza is not a shooter; the triangle is not a drive and kick offense and Kobe does not shoot everytime he gets the ball. He passes a great bit but if the spot up shooter is not hitting then he’s not going to get an assist. I just don’t see the leadership and the gamesmanship in LeBron yet. I mean with all the talent and size he has taking over any game should be a breeze. Hell he’s bigger and better than everyone as you say, but limit him to shooting a J and he’s average at best…
chanman Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 2:49 pm
Referring to scott above, lets hope your cavs make it to the finals against my lakers i would love to see lebron shoot 31% again. they’re number 1 in the EAST?!?! wooopty doooo. they’ll have a tough time with the C’s and no way u can say lebron is bettter than kobe. Bron makes his teammates better, so does kobe, the only difference is kobe plays in the west and the competition is much higher than the JV east. Kobe got better jumper, scores anywhere on the court, plays guard so he average less rebounds since he’s guarding out on the perimeter. if u watched the game yesterday kobe would’ve made all those chippy lay ups bron missed. shot better than bron while playin with the flu, one on one kobe cant be stopped as u saw that fadeaway over and over on sportscenter today!!! com’on now yall kobe haterz gotta stop hatin cause nobody can take over a game like kobe can
junior Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 2:51 pm
Sorry Mr. Johnson, Tim Duncan should be number #3
c money Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 3:30 pm
I agree with you that KOBE is simply the best in the game right now.
However, about Lebron, driving and dishing is not as easy as you think. The concept is easily thought out, but being able to do it is another story. The defense is actually there to stop you; I mean I am sure that they know his intent most of the time he puts the ball on the floor going in the direction of the the basket its to either score a lay-up/dunk or to dish. Finding the open man and getting the ball to them is not always as easy as you think.
B-Ball Knowledge Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 4:01 pm
Can’t argue with the list too much with the list. I too agree Big Al is a better low-post scorer than virtually everyone in the basketball world. Shaq and Tim Robot are probably the only that are better (maybe… MAYBE…Boozer when he’s on his game).
Kobe vs. Lebron??? I’d take Kobe just because he’s been to the mountain top already, and brought back gold. Plus when Team USA needed buckets, they went to Kobe.
I do think it’s worth noting that Kobe only played 36 mins in that 61 pt game. Give him another 6 or 7 minutes, and we would’ve been seeing Kobe with a #1 next to his name on this list.
Folks complain about this “new era of basketball”, yet we have a list where D-Wade is ranked #7 in the Association…..and it’s a pretty accurate rating. Needless to say, the NBA is still OK.
Kevin Durant Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 5:06 pm
Dear Mr.Johnson,
Hopefully by the time I turn 21 you could perhaps consider me in your Top 25 list. Obviously you put an age restriction on this list of yours.
Thank you,
-Kevin Durant
PS. Here are my statistical numbers since Coach Scott Brooks moved me into the Small Forward position:
29.8 ppg
8.8 rpg
3.7 apg
.508 fg%
.448 3pct%
.875 ft%
1.4 spg
0.9 bpg
eddie Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 5:32 pm
The problem with some of you guys is that you are looking at the number but not the description. READ my comments about the player.
For example– i said Deron Williams is the second best point guard in the league, but injuries have him at 19. i said Steve Nash has not missed a beat he is just struggling with a new offense. I Said Amare physically should be one of the best power forwards in the league, but has to improve in a few of the dirt areas.
i like the fact you love your favorite players, but stop putting value in only the number. because the number has changed in three months already and will again.
Finally, Lebron and Kobe are right now the best in the league. I had Kobe number the last 3 years and the Lebron Lovers hated on me and now i put Lebron 1st and the same Laker fans loved me. lol
i will never win, but i really dont care……. they are both great, but i give Lebron the edge for better overall play. —–that does not mean Kobe will not end up first again.
B-Ball Knowledge Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 5:59 pm
Truthfully, an argument can also be made that Tim Duncan is the league’s best.
At the end of the day, you need to win to be the top dog. Nobody has won more than Duncan (my fav guy Shaq has equaled Tim…not bettered), a great big man still beats a great little man, and the guy’s been dishing the rock like Wilt in ‘68 (slight exageration, but you get the point).
Definitely understnd where you’re coming from and going with this list Mr. Johnson.
Now, where’s your all-time list(s)? Best Player….Best Rebounder…Best “Passer”….Best defender…..Best “Shooter” (not scorer)????
g Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 7:13 pm
No vince carter? hes been draining game winning shots and getting everybody easy baskets and being unselfish and not even a mention?
Vlad K Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 9:09 pm
Dirk is better then Wade because Dirk has the BEST mid range game in the league and is harder to stop then Wade who relies almost purely on the refs to get him 10 or more of his points, if the game is not called in his favor he struggles. Wade turnovers the ball carelessly and off very poor decisions and is lazy on man defense and prefers to just run around and reach in. Dirk is not a good defender either but he is easier to hide then Wade since you can put him on crappy bigs and he can just rebound, which he is one of the best in the league at.
I put 2 Nets on my list because of their ultra high skill level and ability to play well on most nights, if you can name 2 more deserving guys, name them.
Lebron has the passing skills and physical tools Kobe can only dream of, Lebron does more with less and doesent have a sulky, me first attitude like Kobe, AND HE IS UNDER 25. Lebron is the reason the Cavs are the best D in the league and while Kobe is a GOOD defender but he is not dominate like Duncan,KG,Lebron,Howard etc…
Don’t throw that Wade title crap at me because anyone who watches any ball knows that the refs swung that series in the Heat’s favor when Dallas was about to sweep, the WORST ref’d series of ANY sport from the 90’s to present. Wade showed his true colors leading a team that was prejected to have a winning record to about 10 wins, congrats Wade. He has a good core but is only going to be knocked out of the first round unless they play the Celtics, maybe then they can can win because the Celtics WILL be exposed just so you know.
Refer to my list above if you have anymore baseless comments.
sweetestbaby Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 9:13 pm
All the more reason for Phoenix to trade Amare Stoudemire for Chris Bosh.
sean Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 10:54 pm
Ok,
Wade is amazing, but he is not “as good or better than Kobe or Lebron”
he is sitting pretty there at number 3 and he wouldnt complain with that cuz he knows thats the best possible place for him
markied Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 11:46 pm
John Lappi is trying to claim kobe is a team player by stating the improvements of gasol, fisher and ariza.
gasol is averaging about the same as he did in memphis, fisher is not having a career year, tho is playing still at a high level and ariza is still a nobody. get of kobes nuts and look at the game.
jordan always had top stats in assts and steals, where does kobe fill those stats sheets consistently. Hes an offensive killer, but thats about it.
lebron on the other hand is better all around and has made cleveland a contender
and whers is love for d wade? I think what he is doing in miami is crazy, just filling up stat lines, avging more asst and steals and even blocks then both kobe and lebron so i think eddie should have more basketball i.q. for someone who actually played in the league.
markied Said,
February 9, 2009 @ 11:49 pm
why would the refs favor the heat over dallas? i think everyone in the world favored dallas to win except for the few true miami fans.
get over it vlade k. dirk is top ten but not at all better than wade
Tsig Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 12:01 am
#1. Kobe Bryant
#2. Tim Duncan
#3. Kevin Garnett
#4. Dwayne Wade
#5. Lebron James
Vlad K Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 12:19 am
markied, I have no Idea why the ref’s favored Miami(Wade specificly) in the series over Dallas but they clearly did with the consistant bad calls made againist Dallas. We all should know that Dirk is a top 10 player in the NBA, but I would sincerly rather have him then Wade, the quality of shots Dirk gets is second to none an he doesent do those truly AWFUL turnovers Wade is in love with four times a game. Sure Dallas was FAVORED in that series in terms of who is a better team, and that showed since they crushed them the first two games, I just feel the series was called way differently after game two. BTW claiming Kobe,KG and Wade are more dominate players then Lebron is too funny…
Tony Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 12:49 am
I think Tim Duncan is being overlooked. He sacrificed alot of his game to accomodate parker and manu. The still dont make playoffs without him.
Duncan is definitely top 4.
vpg86 Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 1:08 am
bynum will be a better post scorer than both dwight and jefferson… hes already got more post moves than both and has the size that jefferson doesnt have
Kell Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 1:52 am
Ok your number 1 & 2 bothers me… Dont get me wrong Lebron is a great player and is still coming he can go to the basket when ever he feels but one thing he dosent have is a jumper he cant just soot jumpers like Kobe can… Kobe has an all around game that no1 can stop and the comment about Andrew going down it doesnt hurt us we got to the finals without him…. But with him we are unstoppable… back to Lebron… He said him_self that Kobe is A KILLER Kobe knos when he can take over a game he knows how to run a game and get the team involved Lebron does to but that manin thing is that Lebron doesnt have a jumper maybe another year or two you can give him that number 1 spot but thats Kobe’s hands down….. I hate the celetics… But Paul P. should be after 15 or sumthin he’s to close to number 1 he hastn proven him_self he has one of the most best power forwards and a dangerous shooter name Ray Allen b4 they came there what was he doin Kobe got the Lakers to the first round thats all Paul does is talk trash… About a week ago he made a comment that he can take over the game at anytime… and in that same game they were playing the T-Wolves shit i can go out and give them 25-30 pts so please brotha who ever did this list fix it.. This is embarassing
BB Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 2:02 am
No way you can leave VC off this list…not after being the leader on a Nets team who is contending for a playoff spot. If I had to take any one guy off it’d be Ray Allen. He’s balling this is true but the Celtics have 2 other superstars that take some pressure off of him. Put Ray Ray on the Nets and they aren’t as good guaranteed.
He doesn’t even get a mention but Shawn Marion does? Eddie, you’ve got a bit of Phoenix bias going on here. 3 suns? Are you kidding me?
The rest of the list is decent though.
bobby Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 2:12 am
KOBE!!!!
bobby Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 2:15 am
#1. kobe
#2. lebron
#3. wade
#.4 cp3
#5. D - howard
kobe is #1 cause hes has that fire lebron dont have yet and wade is right behind lebron and kobe. the hornets aint nothing without cp3 and howard is just a monster
Mandrake Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 4:04 am
Eddie– What change did you see in Tony Parker from last year when you argued that he wasn’t a star but was a good role player, and this year where you think he’s the 9th best player in the league?
carnelld Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 5:14 am
Steve Nash plays absolutely no defense. Each year the Suns made the play offs Nash was torched by other point guards. Now that he is older, there is no defense at all. Also Dwayne Wade is one of the top four players in thge league, night in and night out. Ginobili is over rated.
Kevin Durant should be on the list and Al Jefferson should be rated higher. After McHale took over, Jefferson numbers have improved. He had no coaching for almost half of the season and still excelled.
c money Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 7:53 am
Vlad i’d rather have WADE. Dirk is too soft to be rated higher than wade. When you have Dirk on your team you have to have alot of very solid defensive players around him, because is a major deficiency as a low post defender. Then you will have to have a dominant rebounder, or good rebounding wing players on the boards.You want to talk about a flopper, talk about ya boy….this dude plays like he just got finished watching FIFA with a note taking pen and pad.
I have no idea why the refs favored MIA either. I will say that something was kinda fishy about how WADE was shooting almost as many free throws as the Dallas team in that finals. And that was a Dallas team with Harris, Howard and Floppin *ss Dirk.
Shadyray Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 8:20 am
i disagree wit number one kobe is the best player in the game his defense and jumper alone makes him better then lebron did u not see the two games they have played this season lebron cant guard kobe even with the flu i think eddie has bitten into the lebron hype he doesnt hit enuff clutch shos to be on kobes level and also ginobli is over rated id take rip hamilton over him any day
jay Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 8:35 am
What about Kevin Durant eddie ?? What about Kevin Durant??
For the simple fact that you haven’t mentioned his name in your column, you are now known as a subjective columnist who provides “insight” straight out of his ass.
And also why can’t you admit that Steve Nash is simply old and that his numbers have been inflated by D’Antoni’s 07 seconds or less offense. Or that he’s a total liability on defense?
The next time you post a column of such sort why don’t you at least do some research before posting some bullshit disguised as journalism.
Hotboi719ATL Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 9:08 am
You said don’t look at the nubmers but look at the description.
“He continues to hold on to the No. 1 spot because he is doing the best job of carrying a team since Hakeem Olajuwon.
OK… LA lost Bynum last year and Kobe lead them to the finals. LA loses Bynum again this year and Kobe goes on a 6 game road trip playing the Cavs and Boston the last two games and goes 6-0. How is he not carrying his team Eddie!? How is Lebron carrying his team better? I don’t get it. KB’s team has the best record in the NBA. The Western conference’s race is alot tighter throughout than the East with better teams.
Also, his follow up to Kobe scoring 61 against the Knicks was downright ridiculous. Getting a (quasi) triple-double to boot was the icing on the cake that has kept LB on top. I watched that game and he could have easily gotten 60 if he wanted to.
Ok LJ scores 50 plus, and ALMOST a triple double. Needless to say he only tried to to that because of what KB did the night before but oh well he did it. Now lets look at the 40 his man got in the same game. I thought his defense was so great this year? So much better than KB. I don’t know of any guard who was matched up with KB and that guard dropped the same amount that KB did unless it was a 20 pt or so game. Not a 40 pt game or even 30. KB is just better all around Eddie. LJ is great, No doubt and he has the ability to be the greatest. But just like when MJ was in the league, you have one alpha male in the NBA currently and he wears the Lakers #24 jersey. Ask the rest of the league. Ask Lebron. Ask USA basketball, cause without KB at the end D-Wade, and LeBron would have come up losers again…
Mr. Grizz Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 11:08 am
I got a question or better yet a comment. All you writers are the same. And I do have a lot of respect for your opinions. BUT none of you writers or ex-players EVER said Pau was that good while in Memphis. Heck his game hasn’t changed only his scenory. I mean good grief, all we heard here in Memphis was he was soft or a fenesse player. Then you pair him with Kobe, Odem, and Phil Jackson and he is the best thing sense sliced bread.
The reason Pau was not considered a great PF here becuase he disapears in BIG games. There were several times when we could have won home playoff games but we didnt BECAUSE he backs away. Pau isn’t great, he is a good PF who who gets more aculades than he deserves for being on a team with one of the GREATEST basketball players in the history of the NBA. To gibe you a comparison KG was looked on as being just as dagerouse in Minny as he is in Boston. You guys kill me next you all will be finding things to say about Rud Gay and O.J. Mayo so our dumb Gm will trade them for tyron lue and cap space.
Ghana Boi Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 11:27 am
brandon roy and carmelo should be in da top 10…
6.Dwight Howard
5.Brandon Roy
4.Chris Paul
3.Dwyane Wade
2.LeBron James
1.Kobe Bryant
Warriors Inquiring About Bosh - Page 3 Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 11:48 am
[...] Could have dropped more because he has not shown me an ability to put his team on his back and get them through tough times. He is so unorthodox offensively that he is impossible to figure out. His mid-range shot has improved big time and has shown a willingness to take the big shots. I still believe we should be seeing better leadership abilities and, if not, I can’t see him staying at this spot for long. HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs - Eddie Johnson The Top 25 (again) [...]
tony Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 12:22 pm
Duncan should be number 1 on this list. All he does is win and has the best resume of all the players on it.
YeLLz Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 1:34 pm
******TO EVERYONE CONFUSED BY THIS LIST PLEASE REMEBER THAT “BEST PLAYERS” IS NOT ALL DEFINED BY STATS BECAUSE I COULD AVERAGE 20PPG ON THE RAPTORS< KNICKS, ETC. IF THAT WAS THE CASE ID BE ONE OF THE BEST IN THE LEAGUE…. LMAO!******
ima Rockets fan and i totally disagree with Yao being that high on the list right now… it looks like he is digressing instead of progressing… he looks like the Yao a couple years back when he was still figuring out when he had figured out how good he was but hadn’t figured out the “NBA DEFENSE”
Bosh should not be getting the #10 nod at all… as great a talent as he is… he AND his team are failing HORRIBLY and are underacheiving their expectations!
And lastly, to the guys who said David Lee should be on this list:
WHAT THE HELL IS EVERYONES LOVE AFFAIR WITH DAVID LEE?!?!!?
i saw on another post everyone saying he should’ve gotten an Allstar spot! REALLY?! great player… yes. Allstar/Top 25 NBA player… HELL NO!
PS - love the Olajuwon reference Eddie… he truly carried us on his back like few ever have in history (i dare a non Houstonian or Rockets fan to name ANYBODY else that was on those 2 championship teams besides Sam “E.T.” Cassell
Balla Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 1:51 pm
Lebron does his THING!, but Kobe is #1, I think people assume the dethroning is near and jumped the gun, but….not yet
John Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 2:40 pm
Kevin Durant needs more love
markied Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 4:21 pm
Vlade k
i think wade got to the line so much because he attacks the basket as if shooting the ball is illegal. tell dirk to take his big ass in the paint once in a while and he’ll get his calls also. All dallas does is shoot jump shots, thats their life or death, just look at devin harris this year gettin to the line in the top three ft attempts per game, because he attacks also. I hope you didnt think that the refs favored GS also when they put a beating on dallas in the first round, as dirk won that bullshit MVP. dirk skill puts him in top ten, but he doesnt have the killer instinct to put games away, and thats why wade lebron kobe and duncan are the top four, any order you like…
Vlad K Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 7:39 pm
c money, first you gripe about Dirk “flopping” but please watch Wade, we always talk about floppers on defense but Wade is the rare type that flops on OFFENSE, it’s really funny when he falls for no reason. Wade might get the blocks and steals but thats not REAL shut down D, the Nuggets led the NBA last year in blocks and steals but anyone with common sense knows they played no D. Dirk might not be an elite down low defender like Duncan, but you know what thats why he will never be on Duncans level. But in terms of playing D hard and rebounding with passion Dirk can give you that.
markied, How dare you say that Wade got to the line just because he drove so much, plently of players drive a lot and dont get every call, not only did Wade get EVERY call but if you watch some highlights you see he got calls that were the most phantom fouls EVER, face it, the NBA wanted to give the Heat more then enough chances to win that series so they decided to give one of it’s superstars a leg up, 10 wins, thats all I got to say about Wade, the co called SUPERSTAR won 10 games, Lebron wins 30 games just by his presence and goes to the Finals with no true talent on his team, and will win it by molding his so so talented team into one of the great NBA teams of this year. Kobe needs the best frontcourt teammates plus the best bench just to have a shot at losing the Finals, were was Kobe’s killer clutch with a 3-1 lead on the Suns? It faded away not to be talked about again… anytime someones man crush like Kobe fails people love to hide it under a rug.
LakersWin!!!! Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 9:07 pm
take out
-Kevin Garnett
-Tony Parker
-Paul Pierce
-Chauncey Billups
-Shaquille O’Neal
-Manu Ginobili
-Steve Nash
-Ray Allen
add
-Carlos Boozer
-Kevin Durant
-Zach Randolph
-Antawn Jamison
-Devin Harris
-Stephen Jackson
-Vince Carter
-Caron Butler
Mike B Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 10:58 pm
To me, Danny Granger and Brandon Roy may need to be bumped up a little more. I know that Indiana isn’t consistent, but they beat the top 4 teams in the league (Lakers, Cleveland, Celtics, and Magic) and I think they’re the only team to do that . It was good other than that and i was surprised to see Ginobli up there, meaning he is playing fantastic basketball.
joefrom cleveland Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 11:37 pm
I’m from C-town and Akron. I love Lebron. In fact is model his game after me but until he gets a pure jumper or a become a better streak shooter (I was a streak shooter as well) or just stop taken bad jump shot against when guard by the Courtney Lee’s of the world. Stop bouncing the ball instead of dribbling the ball which leads to no fault turnovers and stop acting like a baby and walking off the court like he did tonite. Kobe overall b-ball skills and stone cold killer approach to every shot and every game. KOBE IS NUMBER 1
P.S. A RING COULD ERASE ALL MY BAD MOUTHING BUT LEBRON DOES NOT HAVE THAT YET NEITHER. KOBE HAS 3 AND HAS BEAT LBJ and the CAVS both times this year. SCOREBOARD KOBE
WITH ALL THAT SAID LEBRON IS AN AMAZING DIAMOND PLAYER WITH THE ABOVE SLIGHT INCLUSIONS.
joefrom cleveland Said,
February 10, 2009 @ 11:45 pm
Eddie Johnson you are a great shooter can you help Lebron with his poor form and leaning back and flinging the ball. (I wish you coulkd have helped me. I could make shot from the opposite free throw line and 33% and I never fix my poor form because I could shot from anywhere and over anyone with a hard drill step back) Lebron needs some help that I could not give him
Joe M. Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 4:18 am
1. Kobe
2. Lebron
3. Wade
4. C. Paul
5. D. Howard
6. Duncan
7. Garnett
8. Shaq
9. Roy
10. Bosh
…and everyone else
Big J Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 12:36 pm
once again I enjoy hearing from some one who have laced them up,however many of our basketball writing brotheren don’t under stand that winning trumps stats. There’s alot of guys who can score if they jack up enough shots but can you score in the paint and get to the freethrow line consistenly can you take your team to the next level and make others better and win a championship. Sorry Dirk fans he can’t!
c money Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 12:59 pm
Vlad….Dirk is an equal opportunity flopper. He flops more on offensive than defense……and he is the softest “superstar” in the league. While he is a prolific scorer, he is below average on every other aspect of his game….in my opinion.
Wade gets so many foul calls because he is very aggressive, and he can finish well at the hoop. How often do you see Wade out of control going to the hole? But he always hits the hole hard (when he goes), has good body control, and can finish. I have watched a lot of games in my time, enough to know that the more aggressive players tend to get the whistle in their favor.
Lebron gets 30 wins? Lebron has a far better supporting cast than Wade. Besides Haslem, who is merely a solid starter, who else can you name on MIA’s roster? Don’t say Marion, he is clearly overated and a product of the system he played under in PHO. Every single position of CLV supporting cast trumps MIA’s.Z > Maglorie, MO>Chalmers, WADE, BRON, Varejo = Haslem, Bench CLV>>>>>>>>>Mia (does not have one)
wallysworld Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 1:14 pm
Your list is good,but I have to put kobe over Lebron,and I am cavs fan. What kobe did was try to win a game. To me lebron tried to outdo him and almost cost us the game. He was holding onto the ball trying to go one on three. His boards were good,but watching that laker game kobe’s points came from the team doing alot of passing. Kobe nor any of his team really held the ball. Plus kobe was able to get his and let others shine. When lebron goes off,others are left out in the cold. Like last night,guys never really got a rhythm because lebron was chucking. Alot of that has to do with coach brown so I won’t put it all on Lebron. Lastly what people need to remember is kobe got 61 in basically three quarters of basketball. If he had played as many minutes as lebron he could have dropped 80+ on the knicks.
TheLakeShow Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 1:35 pm
Before i say anything…Let’s all put our ego’s, bias’, and likes or dislikes aside. I just want to say that most of you must not be paying attention to what’s happening right now. You are witnessing Pure Greatness in Kobe “Bean” Bryant that you may not see for many years to come.
He deserves this #1 spot hands down. Not to take anything from Lebron which is a Phenomenal player and will be for quite some time. However, nobody since Micheal Jordan has possessed the “Killer Instinct, determination to Succeed, the Will to Overcome any obstacle, the I don’t care what you are going to throw at me either way my team is going to WIN attitude!” It is insanely undeniable, it’s just a shame so many people will not give credit where credit is due.
I will be the first to tell you that I am the Biggest Laker fan out there since the Show Time Days. But I do recognize the players that enrich this game because I am a True Basketball fan before anything.
But not many can seem to get past the fact that right now, there is no one else in the league that i would rather have the ball in their hands than Kobe Bryant. It is his dedication, focus and drive that will not be denied. HE IS THE BEST IN THE GAME RIGHT NOW, and wait til he’s gone, you’re all gonna wish that you had appreciated the time he was here and the Spectacular things he did.
By the way, i never respond or even look at these chats or Q and A’s but i had to respond to this Absurdity.
Greg B Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 1:45 pm
Labron or Kobe? The debate continues.
Look, there is no other player today, who has the intangible quality of greatness that Kobe Bean Bryant has. Labron is great too and in a few years, might eclipse the Bryants and the Jordans, but not yet.
In some ways, because of this inherent abilities as a passer, some would suggest that Labron has a better all around game, one which appeals to stat stuffer lovers, but what makes Kobe a more feared player is that Kobe has an intangible quality that can’t quite be measured by a wall of stats (though his stats for the last 10 years are ridiculous too), or number of assists handed out.
Kobe Bryant’s greatness lies in the passion and genius of his ability to will difficult, nearly, impossible buckets, and key defensive stops, at the most critical and tension packed moments of games - the biggest of games. I’ve seen Kobe, over a 10 year period, hit turn around jumpers, and score off jumpers without a dribble, over the “Kobe Stopper”, with two other defenders all over him, from 35 feet against Portland, to give the Lakers a better, playoff position, I’ve seen Kobe, dismantle the Spurs and the Pacers, in the Championship series, when all others around him (with the exception of a fouled out Shaq), seemed hesitant and nervous. Time fails me to adequately describe floating tear drops, with no angle, and no seconds left on the clock, to put play off games into overtime, like against the Suns, followed by game winning jumpers over several defenders who know you’re getting the ball. I don’t have the time to go into the Olympic game this past summer, with a rededicated and reignited Dwayne Wade, and Labron and a host of others, who were in danger of being upset by Spain; Kobe’s heroics in those last 4 minutes, saved our team’s hide. I have not even discussed all the first team defensive player lists he’s been on. I have not mentioned all of the key stops, and steals Kobe has achieved over the years. Oh yeh, and the 81, the 62 in three quarters, the myriad 40, 50, and 60 point games he’s had - shooting an assortment of shots with his right and left hand, I didn’t even mention these. And Shaq? Shaq today, in Cleveland’s newspaper said that in comparing Lebron and Kobe, Kobe is a 10 - the best he’s ever played with, and Lebron is 9.7 - 9.8.
In all fairness to Lebron, I think he might eclipse Kobe one day. But stats alone, and greatness to the cup, won’t do it.
This year, Kobe’s main focus has been on instilling confidence in his bigs. This is why, until recently, his scoring stats, his rebounds, etc., have not been what they could be.
These are all events and experiences that have not been equaled by any other player on the planet yet.
billy Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 2:53 pm
You would have to be on massive amounts of crack to put Dwyane Wade anywhere below #3
unless youre just punishing him for being injured for a year and a half, which is okay i guess
Cant just jump back up to #1 when that spot has been taken by Lebron, gotta work your way back up, but he’s off to a helluva start by being the best player on the olympic team and along with lebron being the best player in the nba thru 50 games………..
D-Wade Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 2:57 pm
RE: Dirk has more game winning shots
Agreed but whats up with that website you posted? It says LeBron has the most gws but he has only 1 in his whole career that he got like 2 weeks ago. Kinda dumb posting LBJ as #1 if you ask me. True #1 candidates are D-Wade, Paul, Kobe, Duncan … LBJ is easily Top3 no offense to him but he’s still a mi-youth
Amare Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 3:27 pm
Why did you guys rank me so low!
Vlad K Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 3:40 pm
c money, first the claims were that all Dirk does is take jumpers, so how can you claim he is an offensive flopper on the level Wade is if most of his shots are outside the paint?(Wade is the biggest offensive flopper EVER imo)
You talk about Wade’s “body control” when driving but more often then not he resorts to unproductive jump passes that are turnovers, he will finish with the most jump pass turnovers EVER. Yes on most nights he drives and gets to the foul line while flopping, but he is the kind of player who relies heavily on what the refs determine to be a foul or not, he lives and dies on refs decisions.
When talking about role players, in years past Wade had always had the defensive oriented team of vets that carried the leadership roles, but starting last year when all the leadership was put on him he folded, first with a 10 win season and this year with a probable 1st or MAYBE 2nd round exit. I don’t think you understand what it means when a so called “superstar” can only get 10 wins on a team projected for much better(I believe they were projected for high 30’s by many). Yes this year Lebron has a good supprting cast, but they are not by any means legendary or all time great, and what does Lebron do with just a “good” supprting” cast? He is favored to win an NBA title with a potential 60 win season and a dominate D that he orchestrated. But in years past Lebron supporting cast was worse then what Wade has this year and last year, yet he still was succesful.(I mean when Eric Snow and Pavlovic are your running mates, your team stinks)
Dirk is an efficint player who has developed an unguardable mid range game along with a good drive to rebound, he is capable of deffering to teammates and still come up when called upon, I’ll take 7 foot effectiveness over 6′4 a jump pass, ref begging overrated “superstar” anyday. Dirk’s career is solid and consistant, Wade’s career is a roller coaster that people only want to remember his highest highs and forget about his lowest lows.
nikeballer32 Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 3:50 pm
IM SORRY KOBE DESERVES NUMBER 1…. NO BYNUM AND YOU STILL BEAT THE CAVS AND BOSTON??? AND FOR THAT 61 PTS 0 REB?? IM SORRY HES A GUARD DIDNT KNOW HE WAS SUPPOSE TO PULL DOWN 10REB A GAME… ITS JUST LIKE WHEN HE HAD HIS 81PT GAME AND PEOPLE RIPPED HIM FOR ONLY HAVING 2 OR 3 ASSISTS?? WHY PASS IF YOU CAN SINGLE HANDLY OUT SCORE YOUR OPPENENT… KOBE SHUT DOWN LEBRON AND HE WASNT 100PCT MAYBE NOT EVEN 50 HIT 3 STRAIGHT THREES TO BRING THE LAKERS BACK AGAINST BOSTON AND HE DID IT WITH EASE I JUST HOPE KOBE DOESNT GET STIFFED AN MVP AWARD THIS SEASON BECAUSE HE GETS NO REB. BUT IM SORRY I GUESS 28 5 5 A GAME IS HORRIBLE
nikeballer32 Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 3:54 pm
o ya p.s Eddie johnson was .02pct of the player kobe is
kingsblade Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 4:26 pm
Jay,
“The next time you post a column of such sort why don’t you at least do some research before posting some bullshit disguised as journalism.”
Who said anything about journalism? This is a blog. Do you really not know the difference? Maybe you could “at least do some research before spouting off. I really can’t decide if you are an a@#hole or just stupid.
This list is Eddies opinion. Feel free to disagree as much as you want, but to act as though he has no right to express it, especially in a blog, brilliantly displays your ignorance.
Vecch Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 5:01 pm
Lets be real on this right now. I am to lazy to make a list of 25 right now but there is no doubt that this is what the top 5 should look like.
1.Kobe
2.Chris Paul
3.Lebron
4.Dwade
5.Paul Pierce
If your top 5 doesn’t look like that then your not seein the big picture of what basketball really is.
Things that just pissed me off, for startes Yao at #8. Wow that has to be the dumbest thing ever. Two, Dwight Howard should not be #4 without a doubt. He is tall enough to just drop it in. No art to the game what so ever. Three, Ray Allen is #24. I think i just crapped myself. How do you put maybe the best shooter in the game, possibly one of the greatest shooters all-time in #24. He may be old but i would rather have him then lebron any day. Poor Gilbert Arenas if you where still alive you be in Lebrons spot on my list. I sort of put em in the top 5 to make the world happy. Lebron is an animal but he has a very flawed and ugly game.
Hoopla Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 5:47 pm
“McHale was the best post player of his time”…really???
I thought Kareem was pretty good.
Moses Malone wasn’t bad in the post either, but I suppose you could argue that they weren’t exactly “of his time”.
kingsblade Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 6:05 pm
Vecch,
I love how anyone who disagrees with you cannot see “the big picture of what basketball really is.”
I was wondering though…If you would rather have Ray Allen than LeBron James why is LeBron in your top 5 and not Allen? Odd.
Vlad K Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 6:39 pm
Vechh, “the big picture of what basketball really is”? Funny how all the guys on your list cannot win without a dominate big men on their team to do the work while they get the fame. How would we be viewing the Lakers differently without the Gasol trade? Or how would we glorify Wade if Shaq dident average 23 and 12 in that year for the Heat while locking down the paint? Pierce might have needed Garnett to win but IMO I think he actually did the heavy lifting in the Celtics playoff run and not KG, who missed WAY too many shots. Paul will only go so far as his bigs can help him, though what he is doing is truly unbelievable and puts Nash’s so called “MVP” years to shame. Lebron will be the only one of those who will win by doing the dirty work and the perminter work, and you discredit him because you find his game “ugly”, what a joke. Only REASON anyone puts Kobe first is because when Kobe hits a fadaway or does an up and under move the people with man crushes on him count those shots as being worth more then just 2 points as opposed to like Duncans simple shots which are worth just the same, get over your man crush, Kobe’s “sexy” shots are worth the same as anyone elses and shouldnt forgive his lack of efficincy and his negative sulky attitude when things are not going as he planned. Heres the big picture, the NBA is about who can put their childish attitude behind them the most and help a team succeed and not about whos shot is “sexiest”, it’s all worth the same amount, this isnot an ice skating events, their are no points for flash, just substance.
Oblock Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 6:51 pm
wb the nets not even harris?
samuel Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 8:38 pm
if lebron is number one based on carrying a team why is jason kid not here and he went three straight years to the connfrence finals kobe is number 1 stop being jealous eddie
Vecch Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
Vlad, believe me i am not in love with Kobe. I do have a man crush on Paul though that i will admit. With Lebron and Kobe, Kobe is still better then Lebron. When you need a big shot late in the game Kobe will always be there and Lebron won’t. Kobe dominates the last four minutes of games like no other in the NBA right now. I am not one of those idiotic people who think Kobe is better then Jordan and i am totally not on the Kobe band wagon. But when you compare Kobe to Lebron, Kobe is better. Lebron has never come up big in the clutch, the last few minutes of games. If he does its against a below .500 team. God forbid i assault Lebron James. I am just not convinced that Lebron james is a true clutch performer yet. He can put up numbers but can the so called best player alive put up the rings. Thats whats amazing he is only 24 so he still has time to change my mind. He has alot of work to do on his game and you can’t deny that. I am just not sold yet. My MVP vote would be Chris Paul. He may not be the best player but he is the MOST VALUEABLE TO HIS TEAM. Also in my post i don believe i used the word flashy or expressed that i made that list based on flash. I want to apologize to kingsblade, i should have put ray allen in lebrons spot. I would have been more true to myself.
fizzle Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 9:51 pm
devin harris?
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 10:44 pm
Unless LeBron starts making important free throws and converting end-game baskets at a consistent basis in the playoffs, then he’ll always stay 2nd to Kobe. But, since we’re only pertaining to just the first half of this regular season, it’s considerable to put LBJ at the top spot. But the real no. 1 among the top 25 active players since the LBJ era is definitely Bryant, with his more polished and complete game than the media’s favorite, James. There’s just such a huge disparity in leadership, in undertanding the game and in the willingness to take responsibility for his team’s fate between Kobe and LeBron, in favor of the former.
And I still believe that LeBron will never win a championship unless he gets his shaky free throw and perimeter shooting at crunch time (playoffs! when the pressure is at its highest) fixed.
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 10:55 pm
The fact that majority of the posts have something to say about LeBron’s flawed game pretty much sums it up. Clearly, he is not the King in today’s NBA.
eddie Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 1:25 am
nikeballer32 Said,
February 11, 2009 @ 3:54 pm
o ya p.s Eddie johnson was .02pct of the player kobe is
thats cool—– that means he will score 100,000 career points because i got 19,000. take off those Nikes and turn your tv on to nba classic. lol
Jon Raccah Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 2:15 am
1 Lebron
2 Kobe
3 Wade
Dont believe wades in the top 3? trying watching the olympic final 27pts on 9/12 from the field. oh yeah and 4stls he was the best player on the grandest stage and you put him at 7? cmon thats weak eddie.
not to mention the 2006 NBA finals: 42pts in game 3, 36pts in game 4, 43pts in game 5, and 36pts in game six (the 4 miami wins). hes doing more with less this season than anyone else in the NBA.
Poppy Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 2:19 am
Kobe(30) is older than LeBron(24), LeBron is breaking all the scoring marks he’s set. Wait until LeBron hits his prime. Kobe out of H.S. sat the bench for two years before finally avg. 15ppg in his 3RD! season….LBJ….oh wait that’s right he’s been dominating since day one. Yeah he has stuff to work on, he’s 24. Defensively Kobe is still a better lock down, but you should probably look at what Kobe does when LBJ is guarding him….not much. As for Al Harrington’s 40, not all of that was on LBJ. You can’t count what a player scores on the team towards a match-up that wasn’t for THE ENTIRE GAME. If you’re going to rank the two… Kobe WAS #1, the best player in the world UNTIL the Olympics. LBJ WAS #2, turned it up a notch there. THEY are the two best players in the world. Right now they are #1a. and #1b!!
Vlad K Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 2:47 am
Vecch, the only reason I refer to “flash” in your post is because the players you chose are all permiter oritented guys who have a lot of flash in there games and you dont really mention a guy like Duncan who is way more valauble then the rest of those guys and almost as valuable as LBJ. I still laugh when people say Kobe has more “skill” because all that means to me honostly is that he hits flashier jumpers because to say Lebron is not ultra skilled is a lie, he is an incredibly skilled ball handler and IMO the most SKILLED passer in the NBA, watch highlights of him with Carlos Boozer, he earned Boozer his Utah contract just on his passes, in the future Lebron with a skilled pick and roll big man is just flat out unstoppable, hes making Varejo look like Karl Malone! To say Lebron does not come in the clutch is another terrible lie, it’s just a classic example of people only remembering one negative moment and forgetting the countless positive moments in an athletes history only because the positives dont help their arguement. Lebron’s clutch is just more subtle then Kobe’s dramatic contested 3’s.
Omar, how dare you say Lebron is the “media” favorite? 90% of the so called “analyst” can’t stop saying KOBE KOBE, like hes paying them or something, when Lebron does something incredible they just brush it off like “man that guy’s got talent” but when Kobe does something they are like “OH MY GOD, KOBE BRYANT WILL AND SKILL IS THE GREATEST THING EVER, DID THAT COUNT FOR ONLY 2? THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN LIKE 10 POINTS JUST FOR HIS WILL TO WIN!” best closer in the game, thats why when Kobe had a huge lead againist the Celtics in a crucial must win they lost, I guess the regular season 60 point games against the Knicks shows better “closing” skills then a must win in the Finals with a 20 point lead. Lebron and Tim Duncan have been the best players in the NBA since Shaq was on LA, to say otherwise is due to putting too much of premium on “flash” and not a premium on substance. I love how we talk about “KOBE’S JUMPER, KOBE’S JUMPER” yet wasent the Celtics gameplan last year to make Kobe a “jump shooter”, worked pretty well.
Poppy Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 3:13 am
Kobe(30) is older than LeBron(24), LeBron is breaking all the scoring marks he’s set. Wait until LeBron hits his prime. Kobe out of H.S. sat the bench for two years before finally avg. 15ppg in his 3RD! season….LBJ….oh wait that’s right he’s been dominating since day one. Yeah he has stuff to work on, he’s 24. Defensively Kobe is still a better lock down, but you should probably look at what Kobe does when LBJ is guarding him….not much. As for Al Harrington’s 40, not all of that was on LBJ. You can’t count what a player scores on the team towards a match-up that wasn’t for THE ENTIRE GAME. If you’re going to rank the two… Kobe WAS #1, the best player in the world UNTIL the Olympics. LBJ WAS #2, turned it up a notch there. THEY are the two best players in the world. Right now they are #1a. and #1b!!
mike Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 3:21 am
No Derron williams? If he wasnt a true point guard in a system that doesnt require him to always get the ball to teamates he would easly be a 24 point a game guard. Hes averaged 31 points per game in his last 6 due to AK47 being out, boozers been out the whole season. Best cross over in the game, can score on any guard in the league when needed. Here in Utah we wish he would be more selfish like so many other players in the leauge. Just maybe the past 6 games changed that averaging 31 plus a game. Doubt it. Hes to much of a team player. But hes quickly taking the game over when needed. FINALLY. His totals and chris Pauls totals are almost identical. Even Koby Bryant stated in an interview after tonights game that he knew williams was a great player but now knows hes one of the best in the world. As far as the top 25 list. Most are good choices, but some are a joke. Shaq….please….your about 3 years off on that one.
SAL Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 8:42 am
NO DERON WILLIAMSS……………WHATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT????????
SHAQQQ ARE YOU SERIOUSSS… LET IT GO HE IS VERY BADDD>….
c money Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 10:44 am
Vlad, back to the DWade vs. Dirk debate. Remember the highs forget the lows huh? D Wade’s 10 win season? How many games did he play? Was he coming off surgery to both his shoulder and knee? How many games did he play Vlad? I guess that explains his roller coaster of a career huh…Vlad? If you don’t have a supporting cast you will not when, look at JAMISON/ BUTLER? Couple that with the best player not being there = 10 wins. Jump pass turnovers? Do you even watch MIA play? You a Dallas Fan!! Gotcha!! and yes Dirk flails and flops ON JUMPERS!? On a regular basis. If he gets tied up by or even touched by another player he falls like he was shot by a double barrel. Before you bring the issue of a player that relies heavily on free throws, or the refs? Answer this: “How can a jump shooter avg like 7 free throws per (he rarelyt scores in the paint)? Wade averages only 9 more than big FLOP NOWITZKI. Have you ever played B-Ball? Do you ever get to the rim? Naw…I bet you stand out by the three point line waving your hands, watching the PLAYER WITH TALENT SCORE IN THE PAINT.
Come here Vlad. I’m not finish w/u. You think CLV roster is avg at best? Even with all of the injuries there roster is still solid at worst. They are still missing WEST, SASHA, to very solid back court players which sets them back @ the 2/3. But come on look at the bigs. Z, Varejou (who Lebron DOES NOT MAKE LOOK LIKE K MALONE, He is a defensive player/Rebounder), Wallace (on the downside, but plays his role), Hickson (will be a fringe all-star and can barely get minutes with the depth on this team). Guards/SF MO, DELONTE, Gibson, Wally, Sasha.
Vlad. It is your pref. who you think could be the best player in the league. How can you loose if you choose one over the other? In my opinion, KOBE is and will be the best at least for the next 2 years. His offensive skillset is far superior to Lebrons at this point. Mainly because of Bron’s shot selection and lack of a consistent shot. Lebron’s jump shot makes him almost one dimensional on offense, and he still puts up the ridiculous numbers !! He has improved his jumper leaps and bounds from prior years, but if he becomes more consistent he will be unstoppable. On defense, i still would rather have KOBE guarding the best scorer on the other team with the game on the line.
David Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 10:59 am
Eddie,
Do your math — Kobe would score 10,000,000 points according to Nickballer. Could get close
chanman Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 12:18 pm
Vlad K u gotta be kiddin me, how u gonna hate on kobe like that fam. given that lebron is more talented kobe WORKED for his game. if lebron worked on his game like kobe does eversince he came outta high school he’ll be the best player right now. but he didnt. u argue bron’s team is not as talented as kobe’s and he carried them, SO WHAT?? remember when kobe carried the lakers to the playoffs IN THE WEST with Mihm, Smush parker, and other jokers? didnt think so. argue that he had odom and butler, caron was half the player he is now so he aint do nothin in that series. 2 yrs in a roll kobe carried the lakers to the playoffs his will to win and determination got him there. where was bron when they got swept in the finals against the spurs? if it was kobe he would’ve won atleast 2 games before fallin to the big 3 of the spurs. and u say duncan’s the best? yea given he got ginobli and parker to count on late in games when hes dbl teamed. he has a better resume right? yea i guess ppl like david robinson, bowen, ginobli, parker, and even avery johnson didnt help him get that resume.
nikeballer32 Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 1:46 pm
umm .02 not 2 pct or 20pct you dont get that much credit eddie J. O ya i turned on nba classic and watch it everynow and then and really dont recall seeing you….EVER….. LAKERS=CHAMPS
KOBE=MVP
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!
P.S kobe scored 19000 points when he was like what 27?? ouch eddie nice stat
nikeballer32 Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 1:54 pm
BTW you tell me how .02 is equivelent to 100,000 from what you scored??????????
Let’s Talk About Dirk, Baby » The Two Man Game Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 2:32 pm
[...] NBAer Eddie Johnson blogs for HoopsHype, and decided to rank the top 25 players in the league (via DMN Mavs Blog). Dirk pops in at 12. 12 isn’t so bad, but I’m not yet [...]
Michael Bennett Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 2:42 pm
Who’s a better team?
TEAM A
C - Zydrunas Ilgauskus
PF - Ben Wallace
SF - Wally Sczcerbiak
SG - Kobe Bryant
PG - Mo Williams
6 - Anderson Varejao
or
TEAM B
C - Andrew Bynum
PF - Pau Gasol
SF - LeBron James
SG - Sasha Vujacic
PG - Derek Fisher
6 - Lamar Odom
What are better stats?
STATS A - 27.7 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 5.0 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.4 bpg, .475 FG%
or
STATS B - 28.5 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 7.0 apg, 1.8 spg, 1.2 bpg, .491 FG%
These are two of the many ways to show who’s better and offer proof. But, why is everyone so polarized about LeBron vs. Kobe? The Kobe fans think LeBron is nowhere near as good as Kobe.
The fact is they are neck and neck.
And, LeBron is better. But, he’s better by a very slim margin. Kobe is fantastic. Second best SG of all-time. And, LeBron is amazing. Right now, second best SF of all-time.
Will Kobe be better than MJ? Probably not. Will LeBron be better than Larry Legend? He’s well on his way.
But, Kobe is still incredible on the court. LeBron is just this much better.
Vecch Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 2:49 pm
First off the best passer in the game is Steve Nash and i know you know that Vlad, you just got caught up in your hatred of Kobe.
When it comes to the Cavs Lebron makes that team better but you cannnot over look his teammates who are no longer scrubs. First Mo Williams was the best acquistion of any team in the off-season, the only better one may have been James Posey to the Hornets. Delonte West when he wasn’t injured was amazing and highly complimentary to Lebron. Gibson and Sczerbiak just make up for the lack of perimeter shooting that Lebron has. Varejo is Varejo, just plays intense defense to make up for Lebrons lacking defense, although i feel his D has gotten better this season but it still has alot of work. Also Varejo can never ever look like Karl Malone. Vlad you keep thinking everyone is making stupud statements, that had to be the dumbest statement on this entire board. Ilgauskas has really improved and made that offense much stronger, and his jump shot has improved greatly. I am tired of hearing that Lebron has no support, everyone just get over that.
Kobe was shutdown in the finals last year because of Paul Pierce and the intense pressure he put on Kobe game after game. Pierce had one of the best post-seasons i have seen in the NBA last year. He is a high level perimeter shooter and he can take it inside while playing intense defense. I also think he is the second best closer next to Kobe.
Now for Mike i agree Deron Williams is great i think he is the second best point guard in the game. He is heavily over looked currently because of his teams position. Paul i am sorry to tell is better then Williams. Paul has a perimeter shot and he can drive to the basket better then any other point guard beside the obvious Tony Parker. Steve Nash or Brandon Roy may also have a contention over Paul but it is very close. Williams has a nice shot but he is not an all around scorer like Paul is. When it comes to the playmaking thats tough but i give it to Paul just a little more then Williams. I do like Williams and i am saddened that he gets over looked frequently.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 3:16 pm
Vecch,
Do you really think LeBron’s defense is lacking? Are you serious?
The Cavs are the best defensive team in the NBA. Who do you attribute that to?
Did you know Mark Jackson thinks LeBron is the DPOY? Does that mean anything to you?
eddie Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 3:33 pm
nikeballer32 Said,
now here is a good question for you Nikeballer. How many have you scored? lol
Brett Baldwin Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 3:41 pm
Leaving Kevin Durant off the top 25 is absurd. Does he need to improve his defense? Definitely. But he’s been averaging 28.0 points the past two months and is only 20 years old. Some say he will be an MVP candidate in a couple of years. He’s already a top 25 player and soaring up the charts.
Brett Baldwin Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 3:43 pm
Durant should be in the top 25. Some say he will be an MVP candidate in a couple of years. He’s averaging 29.0 points the past two months. He needs to improve defensively but he’s only 20.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 3:53 pm
Eddie,
Are you heavily involved in this year’s All-Star weekend? Excited?
I heard LeBron is opening a public court there in Phoenix… Any news?
And, lastly…
Did you argue with Shaq about him saying Kobe is better than LeBron?
MB
Vecch Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 4:23 pm
Mike Bennett if you did read my post carefully and not get to overwhelmed in your absolute love of Lebron James you would have saw that i said he has improved on his defensive game from his previous seasons. But there is no way you can say that the reason the Cavs have allowed just 91.1 per this season is because of Lebron James. There is absolutely no way. You have Varejo, Big Ben, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas clogging up the paint. Mo Williams is not the best defender but he can do a decent job of disrupting his fellow guards. Delonte is not that bad of a D-man either, he gets a decent amout of picks. And whenever you catch those Lebron highlights on ESPN where he blocks some dudes dunk or layup in transistion, its against an absolute scrubtastic player. All you have to do is clog the paint in the NBA today (cause its all about driving through the paint in the NBA today) and your gonna have a good NBA defense. Stop looking at just Lebron and look at the bigger picture. His team is very good. If i where him i would just stay in Cleveland because they know how to build around him and cater to his needs. Plus he will most definitely get payed.
BuckDunn Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 4:46 pm
Geeze the fourth leading scorer in the NBA. Has led is team to 50+ wins every season this decade. Has led his team to a Finals. Has been named first team All-NBA on multiple occasions. He’s only a couple years removed from an MVP season. And he’s ranked 12th? Someone needs to rethink.
nikeballer32 Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 5:52 pm
well considering im only 19… ill leave that one up to you… as far as how many i will score in the NBA well when i get there ill say eddie johnson remember nikeballer and thats when we count down to 19,000 give me 2 years maybe three in college and look for my name in the draft maybe one day you can write another article about me lol never know….
nikeballer32 Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 5:55 pm
and to really compare pound for poiund best athlete is kobe… kobe gave up what 60lbs??? to lebron and still shut him down.. just look at this for a second if kobe was 6′8 maybe 6′9 265 270lbs like lebron tell me he wouldnt be as dominate as he is now….now i want lebron to be in kobes shoes 6′6 225… i dont think he would be as good as he is right now
Beaner Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 6:32 pm
Here is my two cents.
Kobe is #1.
Nick Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 6:52 pm
Dwight Howard is overrated. Sure he can rebound but so can Marcus Camby. If I was 7 foot and pure muscle I’d be putting up atleast thirthy points a night. I would also distribute more than him and get my teammates involved more than he does. so overall Dwight is overrated and I would say that to his face. I really don’t see how he has gotten the most votes in all-star history. I think Al Jefferson and Zach Randolph are better scorers than him. David Lee is up there also. Until he is putting up atleast 27 a night I won’t call him overrated
eddie no love Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 7:17 pm
man, this list is garbage, and eddie is borderline special ed if he has brandon roy #21 in the NBA
Scuz Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 7:18 pm
@Michael Bennett
Your so high on stats so ill give you the only stat that matters.
Kobe——3 rings.
Bron——0 rings.
The fact that Lebron doesn’t have a ring when compared to Kobe, makes Kobe the best player in the league.
Yeah there closely matched, lebron is very good, but Kobe’s 3 rings make him just a little better.
MIke K Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 7:46 pm
I agree with Al Jefferson being most dominant. Hes a young guy with a lot of versatility. Something that Howard just does not posses. What makes Howard good is his genetic traits, he is a big and long with excellent athleticism. He uses that to get his rebounds and his blocks. When it come down to offense..lets all be honest..he doesn’t do much other then dunks, his footwork is whatever, no jumpshot, horrible freethrow shooter..he is young but has been in the league for 4 years now, plenty of time to see strides in those things. For instance Andrew Bynum has relatively gotten better and in my opinion is he stays healthy(so far is injury prone) could develop into a beast..his basketball IQ looks better then Howard’s, footwork is better then Howard’s, better Jumpshooter, not to mention he gets trained by Kareem. As for Jefferson…hes a solid 20, and 10 guy for the next 10 years. Hes a Center in Power Forwards body, good overall skills..just plays on a shitty team and wont develop much in minnesota. KOBE IS #1…lebron lovers please go watch clips of how the two play..one plays with finesse and elegance…the other one is just BIG lol honestly..is he was a smaller..he wouldnt be all that good, the fact that he is so well built(he looked like that at 18) its his genetics, but he himself will tell you and the greatest of all time(Jordan) will tell you..the only #1 is and has been for the last few years is K.O.B.E. PEACE
Poppy Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 10:06 pm
Ok ok, scuz…. Kobe has titles cause of Shaq and the mere fact he’s been in the league longer. When LBJ is 30 we’ll come back and compare the two players. Compare them when they were the same age and/or years in the league….LBJ dominates Kobe every one. Sorry.
and… vecch… Zydrunus? Really? Have you watched any full game with him in the line-up? Is he 7′0, yeah. Can he shoot really well for a big man, yeah. Can he move well, NO. Does he move well enough to be brought into a defensive conversation, HELL NO!! Wally was voted by the players as the leagues worst one on one defender. I don’t think Z is far behind. Now injuries and age play into that, but still don’t tell me he’s a defensive presence.
kingsblade Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 10:14 pm
Right. Because pound for pound comparisons make so much sense in basketball.
Poppy Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 10:44 pm
If you’re going pound for pound Allen Iverson should be in this conversation. Pound for pound.
chanman Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 11:15 pm
bennett if the cavs are the best defensive team why did the lakers beat them? and u cant sub bron and kobe to each others teams cause they play diff. positions and each team is built around their current superstars. so if bron had 2 or 3 (when bynum is back) 7 footers getting rebounds we’ll see how many rebounds is lebron gonna have
nikeballer32 Said,
February 12, 2009 @ 11:19 pm
already tell a kobe hater the very 1st comment you read…. poppy and kingsblade
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 12:31 am
Hey Eddie, maybe you could pick some thoughts from current NBA players, and we’ll see who Kobe and LeBron’s peers think is the better baller between the them. I only know this much, Shaq (who’s known to have a rift with Kobe in the past) thinks Kobe’s got the upper hand and even LeBron himself has conceded to Kobe. I mean if you play against the guy and considering these cats have huge egos, then these NBA guys are the best source to settle arguments like these.
Dave Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 4:41 am
I don’t agree on #1, every coach in this world, including Mike Brown would choose Kobe Bryant over LeBron James for their team if they had a chance, as Kobe is a lot more complete than James, and his game is not just phisical like LeBron’s…
Janeiro Cathey Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 9:07 am
Sorry, but Kobe is number 1 until he retires. Lebron’s game is not as complete as Kobe’s. The Lakers proved that the other night when they made Lebron shoot the ball. Until he has a consitant jumper he will be number 2. Muscle can only get you so far. Remember when MJ’s career was winding down, he was able to compensate with a mean jump shot. What happens when Lebron can’t get to the basket as easily? Can’t depend on his jumper because he doesn’t have one. If you are on the blacktop with the number one pick and don’t pick Kobe, you have problems. He can start the game better than anyone, play defense better than anyone, and finish better than anyone. As a matter of fact he should only be compared to MJ. Actually, take Kobe off this list, because these other guys don’t compare. Nice try though. It
SeanW Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 9:53 am
This list is pretty respectable. On the topic of Lebron v.s Kobe…..
It is so stupid to compare these two players. I watch every Lakers game and every Cavs game so I believe I have a true understanding of each of them and an unbiased point of view.
Kobe: He is the best scorer in the game. He reminds me of MJ in almost everything he does on the court. Kobe is such a dynamic player he is impossible for anyone to stop. In the games that LBJ and Kobe have played this year neither of them have played well. They both guard each other very well. Kobe thrives on denying Lerbon the ball. He is up in Lebrons chest every single time and it is very effective in frusterating Lebron. Kobe is an excellent passer as well and would average more assists if it were not for the system he plays in. Kobe has 3 rings but he was also very fortunate to be playing on the type of teams he did while he was collecting those rings. Kobe has a killer instinct like no one else in the leauge right now and is an assassin when it comes to the fourth and putting games away.
Lebron: He is the most dynamic all around player I have seen since the Big O while playing against a lot better players. People forget Lebron is still very young. He has made enormous chnages and strides in his game since coming into the leauge. People who don’t watch Lebron play every game do not understand how good he really is. His most impressive plays are never replayed on Sportscenter and his vision and passing just astonish me how he sees what he does. Lebron playes every position on the court. His defense this year has improved so much I would def consider him as atleast all NBA 2nd team defense if not 1st. Lebron is lacking Kobe’s killer instinct. He does not want to force up the last shot of the game. If he has a look fine, but he will make the right play every single time. He has trust in his team mates that maybe he shouldnt have all the time.
Conclusion: As I said before, instead of arguing over who is better lets just enjoy the fact that we get to watch these two play. I would rather watch nothing more than these two guys play basketball. Lebron gets a lot of hate that is completely undeserved. He is a great guy and if you ask players around the leauge everyone likes him.
Other Thoughts: I have to laugh at Miami fans a little bit. D Wade is having a great year. He is probably the second best scorer in the leauge behind Kobe. He has more of a killer instinct than Lebron. But lets be honest he is not a better player than either of them. I respect his game and he is a phenominal talent but he is at best the third best player in the leauge. For all you who say he averages more points than LBJ and thats why he is better thats so off. He plays more minutes and has a less capable team. Lebron could average 32 a game as could Kobe, but they both know their team is more dynamic when they play within the game.
Steve From Area 51 Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 11:48 am
LeBron’s a hell of a player, no doubt. But lately when I see him, I’m thinking “steroids”….. His body is just a teeny bit over the top.
But then again, who cares? Oh yea, the kids! What was I thinking??
Michael Bennett Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 12:14 pm
@Scuz
And, Robert Horry has more rings than Kobe. Does that make him better? No. Your simplistic theory of championships paint the whole picture doesn’t make sense. It’s one part of it.
Brant Lavery Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 12:27 pm
To junjun ,
It was not me who put vince in the top ten but i think he deserves top 25, and you say the people who would put him in there are just his fans but what is everyone else doing. He deserves it he put devin harris ahead of him to allow him to shine, his stats are just as good with the nets maybe the problem is that you were a fan of him a lot until he left toronto and wasnt dunking alot. He is an all around player and if the nets would surround the team they have right now just the three player lopez,harris,carter say with a pick up of amare for some draft picks and good contracts think of that team.
Vecch Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 12:37 pm
Poppy i agree with you that Ilgauskas can’t move at all, we all know that. But i said in my post clogging up the paint. Most centers can’t move but just Zydrunas physically being in the paint set like a wall causes disruption and shuts down the drive. Centers are not ment to be one on one defenders. I also don believe i mentioned Szczerbiak as a defensive prescence. He isn’t there for his defense, he is there to be a basketball turret because he has to make up for the mid and long range shot that Lebron doesn’t have. He is also a bench player for the most part, give Wally a break. He is a role player and his role isn’t defense.
Jaye Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 2:29 pm
EJ, you were a very good NBA basketball player. You, however, are also an abysmal judge of talent.
Dwyane Wade at #7? Only if the new saying is “seven is the new three”. Because outside of Kobe and LBJ, there is NOBODY ahead of Wade, and he pushes those two HARD. Did you watch the Olympics? Have you even watched one Heat game this year? Have you seen Wade’s stat line?! Have you seen the team he plays with??
Michael Bennett Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 3:23 pm
@Vecch
Now LeBron doesn’t have a mid and long range shot? Are you serious?
You really look at the NBA through a warped prism. LeBron is shooting over 30% from threes and 49% from the field.
nikeballer32 Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 3:49 pm
bennett…. and how much does lebron get to the basketball for easy dunks??? quite often… that boosts his 34% mid range shooting
Michael Bennett Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 4:01 pm
The argument is if he HAS a mid and long range jumper. It’s obvious that he does. And, it’s improving year after year.
Man… I love how LeBron’s weaknesses are being erased as his career progresses, making him better and better. But, he’s already a 28, 7 and player.
Most other players peak. LeBron won’t be into his athletic prime for another 4 or 5 years.
He’s already better than everyone. But, he’ll be WAAAAAY better than anyone pretty soon.
Vecch Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 4:23 pm
Bennett, i look through a warped prism? last time i checked a .302 3p% is not really that great. It is very average for a so called way beyond average player. Have you watched the Cavs?! He throws up brick after brick. Maybe he will get lucky and drop a jumper on occasion, because the amount of shots he takes your just bound to make one eventually. His mid to long range is subpar at best. And don’t give me 49% from the field! Its so high because after he misses some jumpers he will just convert to his outstanding penetration game and make dunk after dunk and layup after layup. Your blind if you don’t think Lebrons J need some work in order to be the so called “Best player in the game”. Honestly stop being stupid and get off Lebron’s dick for once. As of right now he is not the best player this game has to offer. Get over it. There are many things he has yet to prove in order to earn that title.
Beaner Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 5:00 pm
I know one thing that Kobe has on everybody:
killer instinct - desire to win
and I’m not talkin’ just about the present
I respect that.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 5:01 pm
Michael Jordan is the best player ever. I think we can all agree on that one.
His career 3PT% is .327.
LeBron James’ career 3PT% is .321.
Hmm… similar. Almost identical.
Way to go, Vecch. You know nothing.
Beaner Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 5:14 pm
Pound for pound, AI is not that good of a defender. If you are only considering the offensive half of the game, then AI is pound for pound high on the list. If your talking a complete game, no way is AI consider as being the best.
Robert Horry was only a role player in all of his championship teams. Kobe and Lebron have neither been role players. Remember, the Lakers were not just winning championships, but destroying opponents. Kobe was a kid, and a HUGE part of that run.
Vecch Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 5:34 pm
You know whats stupid? Comparing Lebron James to Michael Jordan. Thats stupid. Honestly you didn’t prove anything. Jordan at 24 was dramatically better at every aspect of the game then Lebron is at 24. Don give me that. You broke rule no.1 never mention Jordan with anyone. You just proved your a little dumber then i had originally thought. You have any other percentages or numbers you wanna throw?
Chris Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 9:39 pm
my top 30 (counting inactive players)
1.LeBron James
2.Kobe Bryant
3.Dwight Howard
4.Dwayne Wade
5.Chris Paul
6.Tim Duncan
7.Yao Ming
8.Kevin Garnett
9.Chris Bosh
10.Dirk Nowitski
11.Tony Parker
12.Pau Gasol
13.Chauncey Billups
14 Andrew Bynum
15.Paul Pierce
16.Carmelo Anthony
17.Amare Stoudemire
18.Joe Johnson
19.Steve Nash
20.Allen Iverson
21.Danny Granger
22.Manu Ginobili
23.Mo Williams
24.Ray Allen
25.Al Jefferson
26.Kevin Durant
27.Jameer Nelson
28.Devin Harris
29.Rajon Rondo
30.Lamar Odom
todd Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 9:48 pm
first off i am a laker fan so yes i may be byest but to be the best you have to beat the best and this year kobe vs lbj kobe is hands down the best game 1 with a dislocated finger game 2 the flu. now im no skip bayless from espns first take i got love for lbj he has the capeabality of being the most dominant ever. but im sick and tired of people saying kobe is going to turn into the old kobe, witck kobe is that the kobe that when shaq fulled out in the finals against indy and he would put the team on his young back and win the game or the kobe that hade a line up of smush parker(not in league now) luke walton(so so) Lamarr Odom( the most inconsistent player in nba history) kwamy brown, i think i made my point
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 11:13 pm
Michael Bennett,
Forget about numbers for a moment. The difference is that the great Michael Jordan makes his threes when he has to. With LeBron, he either gets lucky or he bricks it (endgame, i mean). MJ gives you that impression that he’ll always make it especially in clutch situations. While with LBJ, you close your eyes and hope for the best.
I’m swaying towards Deshawn Stevenson’s statement in last season’s playoffs. As good as LeBron is, he’s still far from being the great player that the media and some fans are trying to portray him as. He’s no different than what Penny Hardaway and Grant Hill was back in the day (no shame in that). The only difference is we were obsessed with LeBron and the hype machine on him began rolling since he was a kid. That’s why we think he’s so great.
Honestly, he wasn’t even one of the main protagonists in USA basketball’s tight important wins in Beijing. Yeah, he got involved early in games, but when the going got tough, that’s when the real great players like Kobe and Dwyane Wade took over. Why? Cause he doesn’t have a reliable jump shot. Yet. Therefore, he’s not the best player in the NBA. Yet.
chanman Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 12:11 am
michael bennett just hates kobe plain and simple. the only reason lebron is so great is cause of his natural attributes. 6′8 260 com on now, he over powers ppl wen he drives to the hoop, late in game or when the defense gets tighter on him he dont have the midrange game that kobe has…thats why kobe is the best in the league right now!!!
Gregg Ostertag Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 2:06 am
Eddie, just because you were in the NBA and the rest of us are hacks doesn’t mean we know less than you…with that said, here are my top picks.
1. sasha vujacic
2. Vlad Rad
3. Luke Walton
4. Derick Fisher
5. DJ M’Benga
signed
myopic Laker fan
PS. LEBRON IS KING!
shannon Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 4:50 am
I’d say the best 4 players in the NBA today are Kobe, Lebron, Wade and CP. Kobe and Lebron have the supporting cast to go for the ring but Wade and CP don’t, they make average teams so much better. And remember the Olympic, maybe Wade played the best out of the four.
darin Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 4:52 am
what a joke. its kobe 1 and thats all. nothing else matters. jordan with range is all you need to know.
Ninob Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 6:18 am
TD is the best player in the NBA period. Hes passing the ball like a guard recently and cant be defended in the post one on one! How does he block shots without even jumping ( he has no lift). If only he was as good a FT shooter as Yao and it would be clear that he is still the best!
Ninob Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 6:23 am
and if the spurs are healthy in the playoffs they will in it all!
Go spurs!
DB Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 7:39 am
Roy way too low. He’s too clutch to be below 15. Guy can straight get to the bucket anytime he wants, and he runs the point half the time so I don’t buy your statement that he doesn’t distribute enough. Did you notice Roy is averaging 5.1 dimes so far? That’s better than most teams point guards.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 10:41 am
It’s funny that people bring up the Olympics. LeBron was the best player on both sides of the floor. The coaches and players knew it. And, the stats prove it.
He was second on the team in PPG (15.5 - DWade was first with 16 ppg), third in RPG (behind Bosh and DHoward), second in APG (behind CP3), first in blocks and first in steals.
And, he shot .602 from FG. Compare that to Kobe’s .462. Huh? Which one is unbelievably better? Does someone want to bring up the long ball? LeBron can’t shoot threes? His 3PT% was .464 in the Olympics, compared to Kobe’s .321.
LeBron’s 3PT% was better than Kobe’s FG%!!!!!
People say “forget about the numbers for a moment.” Which is basically saying “Forget about logic for a moment.” First, that’s the reason to keep stats. It’s a tool to compare greats from era to era. And, there are records and numbers to tell the story on the court. Great numbers equal great players.
But, the numbers are used with the play on the court and a million other variables. And, with that information, the conclusion I’ve come to is that Dwyane Wade is amazing. Kobe Bryant is fantastic. But, LeBron James is the best player in the world. Fact.
Vecch Said,
February 14, 2009 @ 1:58 pm
Bennett you forget that Kobe played with an injured finger. D-wade was still recovering from surgery but i guess when you focus your entire life on numbers that doesn’t come into the mix. I wouldn’t use the olympics to compare who is the best player in the world. Its a completely different mind set and playing field. Its an entirely different experience. Lebron put up those numbers because no one played defense on him, especially the intense NBA style defense that we have come to love. Down at the end of those games Wade made the big shots, Wade was the best player in the olypmics, not Lebron. Stop using numbers that don’t back up your argument at all. Lebron can put up the numbers. So what! He is missing most of the intangibles that make someone great. Lebron is not the greatest player in the world.
J Smooth Said,
February 15, 2009 @ 12:02 am
First off Top three is Kobe, then Wade, then Lebron.
Lebron is a more athletic dwight howard. And yes the Lakers will win it this year with or without Bynum.
Kobe is more clutch than Lebron.
Wade has a better shot and can make freethrows, which is better than lebron.
Chris Said,
February 15, 2009 @ 1:37 am
first of all who won the last game fr olympics kobe or lebron?
how many times has lebron made a last second shot compared to kobe?
how much more does times does lebron go to the lane then shoot?
Poppy Said,
February 15, 2009 @ 10:19 am
Vecch you can say Kobe hater all you want. I enjoy watching the man play, he’s great. I’m just telling you that right now they’re in a dead heat for #1 it’s down to a. and b. In six years we’ll come back to this and see where LBJ is with his career and compare the two at 30. Like I said before Kobe out of High School sat the bench for two years avg. 7.6 pts. in 15.5 min. and 15.4 in 26 min. those two years. LeBron no matter what the LBJ haters say came in from High School playing significant minutes avg. 20.9pts. in 39.5 min. and 27.2pts. in 42.4min. If you look at the past two years both of their min. are down while scoring is up. Oh and career 3pt. percentages hmm…. .321% LBJ(without a jumper) and .341% Kobe(proclaimed “MJ with range”). I’m just saying wait and see….wait and see.
Quote from a CELTICS supporter on another board:
Tig3reye77 said “Celtics repeat champions…Kobe and James very good, but still no match for Celts defense. Kobe joined the best franchise in history, with the best fans, best coach and great supporting cast. While James joined a train wreck. Kobe has not done much to improve his team, while LeBron skyrocketed his team. Can you really say Kobe is better?”.
Poppy Said,
February 15, 2009 @ 10:28 am
Sorry Vecch that was NikeBaller saying Kobe hater.
Poppy Said,
February 15, 2009 @ 10:39 am
Next year at All-Star weekend the horse competition should be Kobe, LBJ, and MJ(you know he’s still in good enough shape to shoot)…only rule - no dunks.
Oh and it’s about time that LBJ has FINALLY declared he wants in the dunk contest next season so we can see what he can do.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 15, 2009 @ 11:33 am
Everyone should read this Bill Simmons article:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?id=3896242
markied Said,
February 15, 2009 @ 12:09 pm
SeanW, miami fans dont argue that wade scores more, but that he blocks more shots and has more steals and assists than both kobe and lebron. Thats pretty incredible when everyone talks about lebron physical athletic ability and kobes great scoring and defense. Wheres is Wades credit for outdoing both on offense and defense. yea lebron has the best athletic build and quickness, so why isnt he avgin more blocks or steals? You also state Lebron is on a more dynamic team, so why isnt he avg. more assists than wade? Kobe has always been about scoring, and is the best scorer in the league, but thats not the game of basketball. to me, my facts show the d wade is def honorable of being the best in the nba, but none are close to what MJ did anyway.
the NBA is a business nontheless, so it has to market the hype that lebron came with and compare him to who was the best(kobe) until the draft of ‘03
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 16, 2009 @ 12:56 am
Michael Bennett,
You’re funny, man. Mitch Richmond was one othe best stat guys in his prime, but he wasn’t revered much was he? It’s about winning, and performing when your team needs you the most. Yeah, the stats matter, but I’m all for a stat guy who knows how to win as opposed to somebody who looks good in record books, but can’t elevate himself, his team and his teammates when it counts. I’m not sure LeBron is ready for that, the winning part, yet. And please, don’t come up with a rebuttal that I’m comparing the Rock to the “King,” if you know what I mean. Of course, LBJ is the better player. Kobe and Wade are winners and clutch performers. LeBron is overrated until he wins one. By then, we’ll call him the best player in the world. Fact.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 16, 2009 @ 8:41 am
You bring up Mitch Richmond? Way to go. Then, you state two lines later that you’re not comparing the two? YOU JUST DID!
I guess what your brain can’t compute is that LeBron is both a stat guy AND a winner. He took his scrub team to the Finals as a 22 year old, for goodness sake. A winner? How about an Eastern Conference Championship? That’s not winning? 40 wins at All-Star break this year? That’s not winning?
And, he doesn’t just look good in stats. It’s a little more than that. He’s #1 in career PPG for active players. #3 all-time behind Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain. Those aren’t throw away stats. That’s amazing company to be in.
You people that stress championships ONLY have major problems. So, KG wasn’t great until he won a championship? Pierce? Before last year, these guys weren’t HOFers and in the discussion for best ever at their position?
Was John Stockton less of a great player because he didn’t win a ring? Karl Malone? Charles Barkley? You have to be kidding. Sometimes it doesn’t line up. Sometimes you spend your career playing against Michael Jordan… or Tim Duncan.
Your problem, Omar, like so many others, is that you see the game in black and white. When, in actuality, it’s very nuanced.
And, by your rationale, the moment LeBron wins a championship, he’s the best player in the world. Not now. But, that moment, he is. Wow. Well done. Did you come up with that theory all by yourself? Er…?
eddie Said,
February 16, 2009 @ 10:07 pm
Jaye Said,
February 13, 2009 @ 2:29 pm
EJ, you were a very good NBA basketball player. You, however, are also an abysmal judge of talent.
Dwyane Wade at #7? Only if the new saying is “seven is the new three”. Because outside of Kobe and LBJ, there is NOBODY ahead of Wade, and he pushes those two HARD. Did you watch the Olympics? Have you even watched one Heat game this year? Have you seen Wade’s stat line?! Have you seen the team he plays with??
—Yea i have watched all those things and i still put him at 7. You want me to get a web cam and point it at my television too prove my point more.
i respect your opinion, but coming at me hard will not force me to change my mind—you better go ask somebody
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 17, 2009 @ 3:58 am
Michael Bennett,
Now, you really are funny. I brought up The Rock just to prove my point that stats don’t mean much if you ain’t winning. And by that, I mean the championship. Dont’ be silly, c’mon now. Nobody remembers the runners-up. Yup, the guys you mention are among the greatest players to ever play the game, but there’s also a reason why Malone, Stockton and Barkley are NOT mentioned with the same admiration and invincibility as say a Michael Jordan or a Tim Duncan. And yes, I came up with that theory all by myself with a little help from the epitome of winning himself, the GREAT Bill Russell who said, “the most important statistic in basketball is the final score”. Life is black and white, you either have it or you don’t. You either have a ring or you don’t. You’re either a winner or you’re not. And yes, people doubted KG until he had won one. That’s just the reality of it.
LeBron is not the best, because I’ll say it again for your sake: questionable jumper and free throw shooting, making him unreliable in the clutch. Since when has a player with a flawed game considered the best?
Michael Bennett Said,
February 17, 2009 @ 10:05 am
Ah… Kobe.
Some of Kobe’s flaws: poor shot selection, shoots instead of passing out of double teams, takes defensive plays off… to name a few. And, he’s considered the best by many.
Also, many people thought Michael Jordan didn’t have a long ball (which is absurd, but that’s what people thought). And, he’s considered the best of all-time.
LeBron’s ONLY weakness is his free throw shooting PERCENTAGE. But, if you watch his games, he always hits them in the clutch. Take the last Indiana game for example.
Those who think he has a “questionable jumper” or that he’s “unreliable in the clutch” simply do not watch him nightly. LeBron is the most clutch player in the League. Saying that admits that you only read about him or repeat what someone else (who read and repeated) said.
Omar - You’re 100% guilty of just regurgitating the old and tired lines that LeBron has a questionable jumper. His jumper has improved and keeps on improving, and he’s relying on it more than ever while shooting his career high from the field. It’s that simple.
As for your Bill Russell quote:
REGULAR SEASON WINS FROM 2004-05 SEASON TO PRESENT:
Kobe Bryant/Lakers: 220
LeBron James/Cavs: 227
Michael Bennett Said,
February 17, 2009 @ 10:08 am
And, as a reminder, Kobe Bryant hasn’t won a championship in seven years. Since 2001-02 season. What’s he been waiting for? Is that why he gave up in Game 6 Finals last year?
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 17, 2009 @ 11:14 pm
I’m impressed with your stat research. I’ll give that to you. Still, you can’t accuse me of using someone else’s quote on LeBron’s weakness. I’m a real fan just like you, i suppose. And I play the game too. Of course, I watch him a lot. Probably not every game, but you know what I mean. But, I’d still cringe at his shot and the results especially at endgames. You see there’s a reason, this guy bites on his nails.:) I’m telling you, that Indiana game has nothing to do with the pressure that surrounds a playoff game, and especially a finals game. He’s still got to prove that his superb playoff series against the Pistons a few years ago was no fluke. You believe what you wish to believe, but I’m telling you unless he becomes a confident late-game finisher, LBJ will never win a championship. He’ll probably get his share of MVP’s, just by the hype alone. But the best? Kobe fills that void perfectly since MJ left. Please don’t hate.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 17, 2009 @ 11:42 pm
Very sad response, Omar. Your argument is resting on the idea that because LeBron bites his nails, he’s not a great finisher?
Confident late-game finisher? The numbers don’t lie. He’s the best clutch player in the game. For those who need some help, “clutch” means late in the game… as in, last 5 minutes.
http://www.82games.com/0809/CSORT11.HTM
LeBron is better than Kobe in all important areas, therefore he’s the best in the game.
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 19, 2009 @ 3:13 am
That’s silly, you know very well that was said in jest, the nail thing. C’mon man you’re relying on your childish antics now. Taking things out of context. Yeah, I know clutch like I would know that LeBron ain’t the NBA’s best. Again for the nth time, I meant clutch in important games. How many times do I have to say it? Clutch in playoffs and finals. Again, in crunch time situations of the real season. Most of his endgame heroics have come in the regular season, where there’s not much at stake. I’d like to see him carry his team, and be responsible for its rise and fall. Currently, he doesn’t possess that willingness and that confidence. We’ve seen great players perform in tight games and you could see that they are a cut above the rest. With LeBron, his magnitude regresses as the pressure progresses. And you don’t need stats to prove that. Instead, you turn off your TV and you say to yourself, “LeBron could have won that or he should have made that free throw, or he shouldn’t have passed off to somebody at the three line when he had a higher percentage look.”
I’ll go back to the Olympic Games. I just have to. Being the face of that team along with Bryant, the NBA’s best, I don’t remember him making his mark in the clutch. Yes that’s right, as in, last 5 mins.
You can get back at me when the playoffs arrive. Then we can agree.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 19, 2009 @ 9:58 am
In your statements, you just simply disregard LeBron’s game 5 vs. the Pistons in the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals, arguably the single greatest clutch performance in NBA history.
And, even though they lost, game 7 last year in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals was another unbelievably clutch performance. Boston was just destined for a championship and the Big Three (most notably Paul Pierce) could not be stopped. So, for every unbelievably clutch LeBron shot, Boston and Pierce made two.
That’s two big time cases supporting my claim that LeBron is Mr. Clutch. Yet, the Lakers rolled through teams in last year’s Playoffs because they were stacked (sure, Kobe was a huge part of it, obviously, but his supporting cast was fantastic in the Western Playoffs), and Kobe giving up in the clinching Game 6 of the Finals.
The last time Kobe was really clutch in the Playoffs was when LeBron was still in High School.
Face it, Omar, your argument was weak, and now it’s just plain off.
Janet Jackson said it best… “What have you done for me lately?”
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 20, 2009 @ 2:49 am
See you in the playoffs then, Mr. Bennett, then you could get back at me. With LeBron there’s always an upset waiting to happen. Upset, because now, the Cavs are burdened with high expectations from everybody. Now (this season’s playoffs) is the right time for the world to see if James deserves his monicker, or it’s simply just word play for a player who has yet to earn the throne from Kobe.:)
But like I said in my previous post, Mr. Johnson was referring to the early half of the season, which somehow makes sense. Still, in my personal opinion, Kobe deserves top spot regardless whether it is based on the pre-all star, this season or since the year 2000. And remember, I’m a D-Wade fanatic. I just pay respect where it’s due.
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 20, 2009 @ 2:55 am
And one last thing, what has Kobe done for us, the fans who appreciate greatness, lately? He’s done more than what LeBron has achieved in his rather young career. And by that, Kobe has the advantage. Championships? Late-game performance? Clean slate in the Olympics? The guy has it better than LeBron. Now, tell me how weak is that argument? I understand you’re a LBJ fan, good for you. But for once drop your bias and give Kobe what his game deserves.
Omar Aberilla Said,
February 20, 2009 @ 3:04 am
The Olympics was the latest important game Kobe’s played huge, but you want the most recent thing Kobe will do for us? Again, see you in the playoffs. You won’t have any excuses for the Cavs this time, they have a team similarly built like the Lakers, depth and scorers. And please, the difference maker in last year’s Lakers and until now is Kobe. In the same way Michael makes it seem like the Bulls are a better constructed team than their counterparts.
Michael Bennett Said,
February 20, 2009 @ 10:30 am
Three posts in a row, huh? Couldn’t get it out in one? I know it’s tough to argue against a player as great as LeBron. You’re excused.
Your most telling line was this: “Kobe deserves top spot regardless whether it is based on the pre-all star, this season or since the year 2000.”
THAT’s bias. So, no matter how anyone performs, Kobe is the best? He could play horribly, but since it’s engrained in your head that he’s the best, no one can take his top spot?
I have no bias. I’m from Chicago, live in Chicago, and I lived in Los Angeles with the Lakers as my home team for almost eight years. Michael Jordan is my favorite player of all-time. He’s the best ever. And, when I see LeBron, I see that same greatness. Before Jordan won his 6 rings, people would say Magic and Bird were better. But, I knew MJ just needed a couple more things lined up.
Now, LeBron might not have rings (yet). But, he came into the League’s worst team. Literally, the Cavs had the worst record in the League. Since he’s been there, he’s turned the team into a contender year after year. And, it all goes back to him. Z is a good center. Big Ben has amazing intangibles. Mo Williams is a really good scoring PG. But, that team rides on LeBron’s back more than any other team in the NBA.
My guess is that this year’s Finals will be Cavs vs. Lakers. And, yes, we’ll see. Let’s see who’s the best player in the world…
Michael Bennett Said,
February 21, 2009 @ 10:23 am
For those of you who thought LeBron can’t shoot threes…
8-11 3PT last night in route to a DOUBLE NICKEL!!! 55 points!
Brizzle Said,
March 1, 2009 @ 7:35 pm
This is just in response to some of the responses i have seen in regards to Jefferson, Howard and Lebron, Kobe.. First off Jefferson is damn near impossible to guard as far as a low post scorer..Now you can make the same argument for Kobe in regards to their skill level and there is really no one near them in sheer scoring ability.. Having said that Howard is a physical monster and cannot be stopped by anyone even though his low post abilities lack great touch..Hence why he is by far a better player then Jefferson.. now i would say that Lebron falls in the same argument in that, no other player has physical attributes along with athletic ability like Lebron.. He is the most dominant wing in the game and if it came down to it, wouldnt you rather have Lebron driving to the hoop for a dunk and possible and one or Kobe taking a turnaround jumper from the elbow.. Kobe is a lot closer to Lebron then AJ is to Howard but its a very similar argument.. Kobe has achieved more in his career but as far as who is the best player right now.. No one can dethrone King James