- The ‘90s stars scored the ball consistently through skill and aggression
- The top players in the 2010s were all-in on the offensive side of the floor
- The winner in a best-of-7 series will come down to the finest of margins
The landscape of the NBA has seen dramatic shifts and transformations over the years, as different eras have ushered in new waves of talent, playing styles, and superstars. Two standout decades in the league’s history, the 1990s, and the 2010s, witnessed the rise of some of the most prolific scorers and iconic figures the sport has ever known.
In this article, we delve into a fascinating hypothetical matchup between two scoring superteams to see which team would win a 7-game series between the best scorers in the ‘90s and the best scorers of the 2010s.
It’s a clash of eras, a showcase of basketball excellence, and a thrilling thought experiment that will have fans of all ages engaged in spirited debates about the past and present of the NBA. Here are the players of each superteam that will constitute the all-time great showdown.
1990s Scoring Superteam: Penny Hardaway, Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, Karl Malone, Shaquille O’Neal
2010s Scoring Superteam: Stephen Curry, James Harden, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Joel Embiid
Here is the breakdown of each player matchup along with the advantages of each before diving into which team will come out on top in the end.
Penny Hardaway vs. Stephen Curry
The matchup between Penny Hardaway and Stephen Curry represents a fascinating clash of basketball eras and playing styles. Penny Hardaway, a product of the 1990s, was a 6’7″ point guard with exceptional size, court vision, and versatility. He was known for his incredible ball-handling skills, which allowed him to create scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates. Defensively, Hardaway’s length and athleticism made him a formidable presence.
In contrast, Stephen Curry, from the 2010s, revolutionized the game with his three-point shooting prowess and unmatched long-range accuracy. His ability to pull up from anywhere on the court and drain shots with consistency has changed the way the game is played today. Curry’s speed, agility, and handles make him a nightmare for defenders, particularly in one-on-one situations.
In a head-to-head matchup, Penny Hardaway’s size and defensive capabilities could pose a challenge for Curry. Hardaway’s ability to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots could make it difficult for Curry to get into a rhythm.
However, Curry’s superior shooting range and quick release give him an edge in the scoring department. His ability to stretch the defense and make threes from almost anywhere on the floor makes him a constant threat, and his off-ball movement could force Hardaway into challenging defensive situations.
Michael Jordan vs. James Harden
The showdown between Michael Jordan and James Harden is a captivating duel between two elite shooting guards from different eras of NBA basketball. Michael Jordan, the iconic figure of the 1990s, is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time and easily the most dominant offensive player of his era. His scoring ability, athleticism, work ethic, and clutch performances are legendary. Jordan was known for his mid-range jump shot, tenacious defense, and his ability to take over games when it mattered most. His competitiveness and leadership were unmatched.
On the other hand, James Harden, a standout of the 2010s, has redefined the shooting guard position with his unique scoring style. Harden is a scoring machine with a remarkable offensive repertoire, including a deadly step-back three-pointer and an uncanny ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line. He’s also an exceptional playmaker, known for his court vision and passing skills.
In a one-on-one matchup, Jordan’s tenacious defense and incredible athleticism would present a significant challenge for Harden. Jordan’s relentless pursuit of the ball and his ability to disrupt passing lanes could make it difficult for Harden to get into a rhythm.
However, Harden’s crafty ball-handling and scoring ability might pose problems for Jordan on the offensive end. His step-back three-pointer is nearly impossible to defend, and his ability to draw fouls could frustrate even the most formidable defenders.
Dominique Wilkins vs. LeBron James
The hypothetical matchup between Dominique Wilkins and LeBron James represents a compelling clash of two incredibly talented small forwards from different NBA eras. Dominique Wilkins, known as the “Human Highlight Film,” was a high-flying, scoring machine during the 1980s and early 1990s. He was celebrated for his athleticism, acrobatic dunks, and versatile scoring ability that included a potent mid-range game.
On the other hand, LeBron James, often regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, has been a dominant force in the 2000s and 2010s. LeBron is known for his exceptional combination of size, speed, basketball IQ, and versatility. He’s a triple-threat player who excels in scoring, playmaking, and rebounding, making him one of the most complete players the game has ever seen.
In a head-to-head matchup, LeBron’s physical attributes and basketball IQ would likely give him the edge. His size and strength could make it challenging for Wilkins to defend him effectively in the post or when driving to the basket. LeBron’s ability to pass, create for teammates, and score from various spots on the floor gives him an advantage in terms of versatility.
However, Wilkins was an elite scorer in his own right, with the ability to put up points in a variety of ways. His athleticism and mid-range shooting could potentially trouble LeBron’s defense. Wilkins was also a tenacious defender, known for his shot-blocking ability, which could pose a challenge for LeBron.
Karl Malone vs. Kevin Durant
The hypothetical matchup between Karl Malone and Kevin Durant presents an intriguing contrast between two dominant power forwards of different eras. Karl Malone, often referred to as “The Mailman,” was a defining force of the 1990s.
He was a physical specimen known for his relentless work ethic, remarkable durability, and proficiency in scoring in the post and mid-range. Malone was a two-time MVP and one of the all-time greats in terms of points scored and rebounds.
Kevin Durant, on the other hand, has been a standout in the 2010s and beyond. He’s known for his unique combination of size, athleticism, and remarkable scoring ability. Durant is a versatile scorer with the capacity to shoot from deep, pull up off the dribble, and finish at the rim. His agility and ball-handling skills for a player of his height are unmatched.
In a head-to-head matchup, Durant’s scoring versatility and range would be a considerable advantage. His ability to stretch the floor and shoot from beyond the arc would potentially draw Malone away from the basket, where Durant could exploit his superior ball-handling skills and speed to drive to the rim.
However, Malone’s physicality and toughness would be his strong suit. He was an excellent rebounder and a powerful presence in the paint, and he could use these attributes to challenge Durant defensively. Malone’s ability to play a physical brand of basketball and his proficiency in the post could make Durant’s defensive assignment a demanding one.
Shaquille O’Neal vs. Joel Embiid
A hypothetical showdown between Shaquille O’Neal and Joel Embiid pits two dominant and physically imposing centers from different eras against each other. Shaquille O’Neal, a dominant force during the late 1990s and early 2000s, is widely regarded as one of the most dominant big men in NBA history.
Standing at 7’1″ and weighing over 300 pounds, he combined size, strength, agility, and sheer power in a way that the league had rarely seen. Shaq was a force in the post, known for his powerful dunks and rim-protecting ability.
Joel Embiid, on the other hand, is a standout of the modern era, known for his unique blend of size, skill, and athleticism. Standing at 7 feet and possessing a refined post game, the ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, and strong shot-blocking skills, he represents the evolution of the center position in the NBA.
In a head-to-head matchup, Shaq’s size and strength advantage would be significant. He had a knack for overpowering opponents in the post and was virtually unstoppable once he established a deep post position. On the defensive end, his shot-blocking ability and imposing presence in the paint would pose a considerable challenge for Embiid.
Conversely, Embiid’s versatility and ability to stretch the floor could make Shaq work on the defensive end. His agility and mid-range game might force Shaq out of his comfort zone. Embiid’s shot-blocking skills and rim protection would be his key assets defensively against Shaq’s powerful inside game.
1990s Scoring Superteam Advantages
The 1990s Scoring Superteam boasts a formidable array of advantages that would make them a force to be reckoned with in any basketball matchup. Led by iconic figures like Michael Jordan and Karl Malone, this team is distinguished by its extraordinary scoring prowess.
Jordan, known for his clutch performances, and Malone, one of the highest all-time scorers, provide a one-two scoring punch that’s virtually unmatched. Dominique Wilkins, a scoring machine in his own right, further bolsters the team’s offensive capabilities. Their scoring versatility, along with Penny Hardaway’s playmaking skills and Shaquille O’Neal’s inside dominance, means that this team can put points on the board in a multitude of ways.
Defensively, their commitment and tenacity are significant advantages, led by Jordan’s legendary defensive abilities. Furthermore, their experience, leadership, and rebounding dominance round out a comprehensive set of assets that would make the 1990s Scoring Superteam a challenging adversary in any hypothetical basketball matchup.
2010s Scoring Superteam Advantages
The 2010s Scoring Superteam, featuring Stephen Curry, James Harden, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid, presents a formidable lineup that enjoys a wealth of advantages in a hypothetical basketball matchup. Their greatest strength lies in their extraordinary scoring versatility.
With Curry’s unprecedented three-point shooting, Harden’s isolation scoring ability, LeBron James’ all-around offensive brilliance, Kevin Durant’s scoring prowess from virtually any spot on the court, and Joel Embiid’s inside-out game, this team boasts an array of scoring options that are second to none.
Playmaking is another key asset, with LeBron James and Stephen Curry both being exceptional in creating opportunities for their teammates. The team’s combination of athleticism and speed would enable them to exploit transition plays and capitalize on opposing mismatches. Defensively, their versatility and shot-blocking capabilities, led by Joel Embiid, would make it challenging for any opponent.
Additionally, their clutch performers like Curry and Durant, coupled with LeBron James’ renowned leadership, make this superteam a formidable force, exemplifying the modern style of play that would present a significant challenge to any hypothetical basketball adversary.
Who Wins In A Best-Of-7 Series?
In the opening game of this epic showdown, the 1990s Scoring Superteam comes out with a vengeance. Michael Jordan’s scoring outburst, combined with Karl Malone’s relentless inside presence, proved too much for the 2010s team to handle. The 1990s squad also capitalizes on their physicality and defensive intensity, holding the 2010s team to a lower shooting percentage.
The experience and clutch play of the ’90s legends shine through in the final minutes, giving them the edge in a closely contested match with Jordan acting as the highest scorer with 35 points.
The 2010s Scoring Superteam strikes back in a high-scoring affair. Stephen Curry’s three-point barrage is nearly unstoppable (6-10 3-PT FG), while LeBron James’ all-around performance (25 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists) and Joel Embiid’s dominant inside play (27 points, 14 rebounds) provides an answer to the ’90s team’s challenges.
Kevin Durant’s scoring versatility plays a pivotal role, and James Harden’s ability to get to the free-throw line consistently becomes a significant factor. The 2010s team evened the series with their efficient offensive execution and resilience in a game that showcased the modern era’s style of play.
The third game becomes a defensive battle. The ’90s team leaned on Michael Jordan’s tenacious perimeter defense (4 steals), while Karl Malone and Shaquille O’Neal control the paint with their shot-blocking and rebounding.
The physicality and experience of the ’90s legends disrupts the rhythm of the 2010s team, leading to a lower-scoring game. Dominique Wilkins’ timely scoring provided the offensive spark (10 points in the fourth quarter), as the ’90s team takes a crucial series lead with their hard-nosed, old-school brand of basketball.
In a high-stakes matchup, the 2010s Scoring Superteam rallied in a must-win situation. Stephen Curry’s dazzling long-range shooting and LeBron James’ leadership came to the forefront.
The 2010s team adjusts to the ’90s team’s physical play by spreading the floor, and Joel Embiid’s inside presence and shot-blocking created defensive challenges. James Harden’s ability to draw fouls and convert from the free-throw line sealed the victory (10-11 FT), leveling the series and setting the stage for an intense showdown.
The fifth game is a closely fought battle, featuring numerous lead changes. Michael Jordan and Karl Malone’s scoring for the ’90s team was met by Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry’s sharpshooting for the 2010s team. However, the ’90s team’s rebounding advantage, led by Shaquille O’Neal, gives them extra possessions.
The game comes down to the wire, with Penny Hardaway making a clutch steal and assist to Dominique Wilkins for the game-winning dunk, giving the ’90s team a critical 3-2 series lead. However, facing elimination, the 2010s Scoring Superteam responds with a dominant performance.
Kevin Durant erupts for a spectacular scoring display, exploiting his size advantage against Dominique Wilkins. Stephen Curry’s three-point shooting and LeBron James’ playmaking orchestrate the offense effectively, while Joel Embiid’s defensive presence proves to be the difference-maker. The 2010s team forces a decisive Game 7, setting up a thrilling conclusion to the series.
In a winner-takes-all showdown, both teams leave it all on the court. The ’90s legends showcase their championship pedigree and rely on their physicality, while the 2010s stars exhibit their modern style of play. The game goes into overtime, but in the end, Michael Jordan’s clutch scoring and Karl Malone’s timely rebounding secures a narrow victory for the 1990s Scoring Superteam.
The 1990s team’s experience and grit prevailed in this classic series, winning in a thrilling fashion and showcasing the enduring greatness of their era. Due to a 40-point closeout performance by Jordan, the 1990s Scoring Superteam comes out on top.
Final Result: 1990s Scoring Superteam vs 2010s Scoring Superteam 4-3
Finals MVP: Michael Jordan
