#20-16

#20. Julius Erving

   Julius Erving, also known as "Dr. J," is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players ever, and his impact on the game and style of play is still felt today. He played in the NBA during the 70s and 80s, after spending most of his early career in the ABA. He was known for his high-flying acrobatic maneuvers and powerful dunks, which earned him a reputation as one of the league's most exciting players. He had a great all-around game, and he was always a threat to take over a game with his scoring, passing and defense. He was also a great leader and he helped his teams to win on the court and in the locker room.

   Erving's style of play was a combination of power, finesse and creativity, which made him a fan favorite. His acrobatic moves, such as the dunk from the free-throw line, are still considered one of the most iconic moments in the history of the NBA. He was also an innovator, introducing new moves and styles that changed the game forever. Erving's professional career in the NBA was marked by numerous accolades and accomplishments. He was an MVP, and a champion with the Philadelphia 76ers in ’83. He was also a member of the All-NBA 1st Team 5 times, and his influence on the game of basketball has been undeniable for generations.

Notable Playoff Series

Rings:

Other notable series:

#19. Moses Malone

   Moses Malone is considered one of the greatest centers ever, and he played for 6 teams over the course of his 21-year career, from ‘76 to ‘95. During that time, he was a 3x MVP, a 12x All-Star, and a 8x All-NBA guy. Malone's dominance on the boards was one of the hallmarks of his game. He was a fierce rebounder, finishing his career with the 5th-highest total rebounds in NBA history. He led the league in rebounds 6 times and was known for his ability to control the glass on both ends of the court. Malone's scoring ability was also impressive. He was a 20 ppg scorer for 12 consecutive seasons, and he finished his career with the 8th-highest total points in NBA history. He had a unique blend of size, strength, and skill that made him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.

   Off the court, Malone was known for his quiet and reserved nature, but he was also a fierce competitor. He was a leader in the locker room and a role model for young players. One of Malone's most notable accomplishments was leading the Philadelphia 76ers to the ‘83 championship. That year, he gave the famous "Fo, Fo, Fo" prediction before the playoffs started. They did, however, lose 1 game in the playoffs to the Bucks, but he averaged 26 and 16 the whole postseason, and 26 and 18 in a finals sweep against Kareem and Magic, for which he was named FMVP. This championship was the highlight of Malone's career and solidified his place among the all-time greats.

Notable Playoff Series

Rings:

Other notable series:

#18. Oscar Robertson

   Oscar Robertson, also known as "The Big O," was drafted by the Cincinnati Royals in ‘60 where he played the majority of his prime. Later he joined Kareem and the Milwaukee Bucks in the 70s towards the end of his career. During that time, he was a 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, and an MVP. One of Robertson's most notable accomplishments is his triple double average for the ‘62 season, where he averaged about 31, 12, and 11 a game, becoming the first player to ever average a triple double for an entire season. In fact, for the first 5 seasons of his career, Oscar averaged a triple double, over 30, 10, and 10.

   Robertson's versatility as a player was one of the hallmarks of his game. He was a dominant scorer and an excellent passer, and his leadership and competitiveness also set him apart from other players in the league. In his first year joining Kareem on the Bucks in ‘71 they won a title together, and Oscar did it as the sidekick to Kareem. So not a crazy valuable ring, but it's pretty solid for sure.

Notable Playoff Series

Rings:

Other notable series:

#17. Dirk Nowitzki

   Dirk Nowitzki played for the Dallas Mavericks for his entire 21 year career from ‘98 to ‘19, and was a 14x All-Star, 12x All-NBA, and the ‘07 MVP. Dirk's skill as a shooter and his unique style of play set him apart from other PFs in the league. He was one of the first big men to develop a reliable 3-point shot, which made him a difficult matchup for opposing teams. He had a signature one-legged fadeaway jumper, which he used to great effect throughout his career. He is also 1 of only 7 players in NBA history to score over 30,000 career points.

   The most impressive achievement of Dirk’s legacy is when he won the 2011 championship and FMVP in a herculean effort through a gauntlet of a Western Conference ending against the Big 3 ‘Heatles’ in Miami. In fact, in terms of Legacy Points, this ring for Dirk is the 3rd most valuable ring of all-time, and the entire 2011 playoff run is the 2nd best run ever.  If there is any part of Dirk’s legacy that is holding him back in these rankings, it's the fact that he was only recognized for 6 Legendary seasons, which is tied for the fewest of any player in the top-20. Because of this, the upward ceiling of Dirk’s Talent⛹️‍♂️Score was relatively limited compared to other players near him in the rankings.

Notable Playoff Series

Rings:

Other notable series:

#16. Kevin Garnett

   Kevin Garnett is known for his intense competitive spirit, his fierce defense, and his ability to lead his teams to success. Throughout his career, Garnett established himself as one of the most dominant and versatile players of his era. He was known for his intense and fiery demeanor on the court, and his relentless drive to win. He was always one of the most vocal and passionate players on his team, and his energy and intensity were contagious. This competitive drive helped him to lead his teams to success, and it was an integral part of his greatness.

   Garnett's defense is one of the most notable aspects of his legacy. He was an elite defender throughout his career, and he was able to guard multiple positions, including centers, and he was known for his ability to make game changing defensive plays. He was an excellent passer, a solid shooter, and a great rebounder. Garnett's playoff performance is another key aspect of his legacy, as he always raised his game in the playoffs. In Minnesota, his best year by far was in ‘04 when he won MVP and led the Wolves for their first and only time past the first round, and he took them to the WCF. In his first year in Boston, he led them to their first title in 22 years, and another finals appearance in ‘10.

Notable Playoff Series

Rings:

Other notable series:

Back: #25-#21

Next: #15-#11