He’s averaged 23 ppg and 8.4 rpg for his career. He’s shot 47.6% from the field, 38.1% from three and 87.7% from the line for his career. He’s led the Mavericks to eleven consecutive playoff appearances, he’s a ten time NBA All Star, a 4 time NBA first teamer, a 5 time NBA second teamer and he was the MVP in 2007. Staggering right? Surely he goes down as the greatest european player to play the game? But where does he rank in all time greats?
Well, he’s a shoe-in to become a first ballot hall of famer as soon as he retires. He has carried the Mavericks on his back since the 2003-2004 season (following the trade of Steve Nash) and recently, he has grown into a vocal leader too. He is regarded by most as the best big man shooter of all time – his fadeaway jumper goes down as the second most unguardable shot in the history of the game for me (after Kareem’s skyhook).
Many are hesistant to place him in the top 20 ever conversation because of his lack of athleticism and his inability to dominate on both ends. But his offensive armoury makes up for it. I mean, is there any tougher guard in the NBA right now? Place a small guy on him, he shoots over him. Place a medium sized guy on him, he shoots over him with his fadeaway off one leg. Place a big guy on him and he starts spinning and pump faking his way to the hoop and free throw line (where he is automatic).
So to all those doubters and haters, I have this to say to you. Just look at his stats. Look at his skillset. Look at his accomplishments. Yes he hasn’t won a championship yet, but neither did the brilliant Charles Barkley. Plus that could change in a week or so. Personally, I’d place him in the top 20 of all time. That’s my humble opinion.
Feel free to comment if you disagree with me. But first, just watch this and tell me this isn’t the play of a legend. This was just a few weeks ago. And trust me, it isn’t a one off.
