We discover the best historical counterparts of the best NBA players today in an ever-changing world like the NBA.
Basketball is constantly evolving, especially at the NBA level. We have witnessed a constant technological and physical evolution over the years. We've transitioned from an NBA dominated by post play and big centers to a more fluid and perimeter-oriented game.
Despite these significant changes, we can still see echoes of past eras in current NBA stars. It is always hard to make comparisons between different generations. We attempt to compare the league's best players to some of the game's greatest legends.
The careers and contributions of the various players to the game are highlighted in the foreground. Second, there's position and technical characteristics.
7. Giannis Antetokounmpo as Kevin Garnett
Giannis Antetokounmpo's career is taking off. Former coach Jason Kidd compared him to a cross between Magic Johnson and Kevin Garnett. The comparison to the former T'Wolves and Celtics star is spot on. Both have unrivaled size, strength, and defensive abilities. All opponents' nightmare is their presence in the center of the field.
Furthermore, both are super competitive, going to any length to win, even if it means destroying relationships with coworkers. Garnett's career has included MVP and Defender of the Year awards, as well as 15 All-Star Game appearances. Last season, Giannis won his first MVP award. In addition, he was named the best defensive quintet. The effect on Giannis' attack is already greater than Garnett's. A high point production combined with excellent efficiency and the ability to set up good shots for teammates. Then, on the parquet, it tends to be a little faster.
6. Stephen Curry as Jerry West
There is no real comparison for Stephen Curry. No one has revolutionized the concept of archery like the Warriors' star. Among the many comparisons made in recent years, the one with Jerry West is the most intriguing. "Mr. Logo" played in an NBA without a three-point line. Despite their vast differences, both are capable of scoring, shooting, and creating for teammates at the highest level. Both are extremely confident in their abilities.
West was frequently surprised when the ball did not go in, and he wondered how that was possible. Curry believes in his shot so much that he tries to score as soon as he crosses the half-court line. They are widely regarded as the best point guards of their generation. As a loser, West was the only player to win the Finals MVP award. Curry is the only player to receive unanimous MVP honors.
5. Anthony Davis as David Robinson
Anthony Davis and David Robinson began high school as guards before developing into two dominant longs. They were able to combine long-distance fundamentals with the ability to attack in front of the basket. Any defense would be frightened by this combination. Physically, they are two colossi with tremendous athleticism and a ferocious first step.
Both can score in a variety of ways and an elite defense. After six seasons, the numbers are very similar. Both travel with an average of more than 25 points and 10 rebounds. Davis is still a long way from matching Robinson's success. The "Admiral" finished his career with two championships, both with the Spurs. The "unibrow" has yet to even come close to claiming the title. The Lakers' move could help him in this regard.
4. Kevin Durant as Larry Bird
In both cases, the scouting report on the defensive indications reads, "Good luck." If Larry Bird is lacking in athleticism, Kevin Durant is lacking in muscle. Despite physical differences, the ability to score in any situation is a common feature.
This is evidenced by their presence at the well-known club "50-40-90 ′′. They're both creative little wings. Capable of combining above-average size with almost sublime elegance in movement. They were both MVPs. They have five NBA championships and four Finals MVPs to their credit. Their games aren't identical, but their impact on the league and elite offensive skills make them more similar than different.
3. Joel Embiid as Hakeem Olaajuwon
Joel Embiid is the player who most closely resembles Hakeem Olajuwon. The common origin is in the foreground. Both were born in Africa's heartland, the first in Cameroon and the second in Nigeria. They represent elegance and fluidity made at the center of the pitch. Capability to attack the basket from both the front and the shoulders using a deft use of the feet.
Embiid also has an effective 3-point shot, but this is a sign of the times. In both, the jump shot is at home. Olajuwon was a role model for young Joel, who studied his DVDs as he attempted to break into the NBA.
2. James Harden as Allen Iverson
Two of the most prominent proponents of the one-on-one attack. Allen Iverson with his cross-over, James Harden with his step-back. Their movements are graceful, and their ball-handling is capable of annihilating any defense. This season, Harden averaged 36 points per game while breaking records for the most triples attempted. He also has the most isolation of any team on his own. Because of his unstoppable isolation, Iverson pushed Philadelphia to the NBA Finals.
Their offensive abilities not only allow them to create for themselves, but they are also excellent passers-by and assist dispensers (more than 6 career average). Their defense is undeniably their weak point. This hasn't stopped them from winning the MVP award and being named to various All-NBA teams.
LeBron James is currently the best player in the NBA. The most common comparison is with Jordan because the "King" is the first challenger to the GOAT title. However, there are far too many distinctions between the two. As a player, LeBron is much more akin to the great Magic Johnson: both have a powerful, athletic physique and an incredible ability to dish out assists.
They use their incredible combination of physicality and basketball IQ to get their teammates in sync. They also transformed the idea of the total player. Because of their exceptional technique and unusual body, they can effectively cover all five basketball positions.
1. Kawhi Leonard as Kobe Bryant
Michael Jordan's son is Kobe Bryant, and his grandson is Kawhi Leonard, according to the basketball family tree. The Clippers player is arguably the NBA's closest Jordan-like star right now. The Mamba represents the link between the two.
Both have the most difficult fadeaway out there. They are excellent shooters, especially from the average distance. Their body has become much stronger over time, and they are extremely athletic. Their one-on-one defense can suffocate anyone, even if Leonard showed more consistency in this element.
Kobe's hunger for victories is unrivaled. Leonard, like Mamba, is a highly incisive player who can exalt himself in difficult situations. Their first steps in the NBA were shaky, but with dedication and hard work, they achieved success. Leonard trained with Kobe, from whom he learned many moves. One of the first people Kawhi called after winning the previous title and the Finals MVP award was his mentor.
