Michael Jordan often headlines the GOAT debates but one name that has been thrown into the mix recently due to an incredible list of achievements is John Havlicek. While Havlicek probably won’t earn a vote in any GOAT debate, his resume and achievements stack up well with Jordan and any other legend in NBA history. After running into multiple trending posts on social media about how elite Havlicek’s resume is, it is time to compare his resume to the iconic Michael Jordan.
Each possessing a distinct style and leaving an indelible mark on the game, a career analysis delves into the intricacies of their illustrious careers, unraveling the contrasts in playing styles, individual and team achievements, and the enduring legacies that have cemented their places in the pantheon of basketball greatness. In other words, it is time to uncover which legend had the better resume on a team and individual level based on the most important accolades a player can win.
Championships
Michael Jordan: 6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
John Havlicek: 8 (1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976)
Michael Jordan won 6 NBA titles through two different 3-peats with the Chicago Bulls. That is enough to end the comparison there because capturing 6 titles as the best player on the team is rare and very hard to achieve. Jordan was lucky to play under Phil Jackson and also with other all-time great players including Scottie Pippen, but the shooting guard was the undisputed main reason why the Bulls were so dominant. Defeating the likes of the Los Angeles Lakers, Utah Jazz, and Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA Finals, Jordan’s greatest argument for being the GOAT is the number of his championship rings.
On the other hand, John Havlicek, a cornerstone of the Boston Celtics’ dynasty in the 1960s and 1970s, boasts an even more remarkable championship tally, capturing a total of eight NBA titles (1963-1966, 1968-1969, 1974, and 1976). Havlicek’s championships span two distinct eras, showcasing his enduring excellence and versatility as a player. His impact on the Celtics’ success is deeply ingrained in the franchise’s history, with Havlicek’s remarkable ability to score, defend, and contribute in crucial moments earning him a revered status among basketball enthusiasts.
While Jordan’s six championships reflect a remarkable era of dominance in the ’90s, Havlicek’s eight titles across two decades underline his sustained excellence and crucial role in shaping the narrative of the Boston Celtics as an indomitable force in the league. The championship count serves as a testament to the unique circumstances and challenges each player faced during their respective careers, further enriching the comparison between these two basketball luminaries.
Advantage: John Havlicek
Finals MVP Awards
Michael Jordan: 6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
John Havlicek: 1 (1974)
Every time the Chicago Bulls played a game, Michael Jordan stole the show. The superstar shooting guard was the best player on each of the championship Bulls teams that took down the opposition during the two separate three-peats. His greatest performance in the Finals came in 1993 against Charles Barkley and the Phoenix Suns when Michael averaged 41.0 PPG, 8.5 RPG, and 6.3 APG to take down the MVP of the league. Jordan was spectacular all series long, shooting 50% from the floor. All of Jordan’s performances in the Finals were extraordinary, but that one stands out the most.
In contrast, John Havlicek earned one NBA Finals MVP award in 1974. Although the quantity of his Finals MVPs falls short of Jordan’s impressive count, it doesn’t diminish the significance of Havlicek’s contributions during the 1974 NBA Finals as he posted 26.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. Havlicek’s impact during that championship series, both as a scorer and a versatile player, played a pivotal role in securing the title for the Boston Celtics.
While Jordan’s six Finals MVP awards underscore his unparalleled dominance in the championship rounds, Havlicek’s lone award serves as a testament to his ability to shine brightly when it mattered most, contributing to the overall narrative of his storied career and the success of the Celtics during the 1970s.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
MVP Awards
Michael Jordan: 5 (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998)
John Havlicek: 0
The greatest guard to have ever lived, Jordan was a beast on both ends of the floor and deserved all his MVP accolades. Being the greatest scorer in the NBA and winning 10 scoring titles certainly helped his MVP votes every year, because no player could effortlessly get buckets like MJ. His rise to become the NBA champion in 1991 also gave him more boost to win the MVP trophy. At his retirement, Jordan finished his career with 5 MVP awards and he probably should have had more.
On the other hand, John Havlicek, despite his significant contributions to the game and the success of the Boston Celtics, did not receive the MVP honor throughout his distinguished career. This absence of an MVP award for Havlicek does not diminish his legacy, as he was a crucial part of eight championship-winning Celtics teams and showcased remarkable skills as a scorer, playmaker, and defender.
The difference in MVP awards further highlights the distinct eras in which these players competed and the various factors that influence individual accolades. While Jordan’s five MVPs solidify his status as a player of extraordinary individual excellence, Havlicek’s impact is reflected more in his team’s success and his versatile contributions on the court.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
Defensive Player Of The Year Awards
Michael Jordan: 1 (1988)
John Havlicek: 0
Michael Jordan’s Defensive Player of the Year Award in 1988 adds an intriguing dimension to his legacy, emphasizing not only his offensive prowess but also his exceptional defensive contributions. Jordan’s ability to disrupt opponents is exemplified by his impressive averages of 3.2 steals per game and 1.6 blocks per game during the season he earned the award. This well-rounded defensive performance showcases Jordan’s versatility and impact on both ends of the court, solidifying his status as one of the most complete players in NBA history.
On the other hand, John Havlicek did not secure a Defensive Player of the Year Award throughout his illustrious career. However, his defensive capabilities were certainly notable, contributing to the Boston Celtics’ success. While individual awards provide a specific acknowledgment, Havlicek’s overall impact on the defensive end is reflected in his multiple All-Defensive Team selections and the integral role he played in the Celtics’ formidable defense during his tenure.
In summary, the Defensive Player of the Year Award serves as a testament to Jordan’s extraordinary defensive abilities, complementing his offensive excellence. While Havlicek may not have received this specific accolade, his contributions to team defense and overall versatility are evident in his career achievements and the success of the Boston Celtics during his era.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
Scoring Titles
Michael Jordan: 10 (1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
John Havlicek: 0
The stark contrast in scoring titles between Michael Jordan and John Havlicek underscores their distinct playing styles and offensive impact on the game. Michael Jordan, widely celebrated as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, secured an impressive 10 scoring titles throughout his illustrious career. Jordan averaged at least 30 points per game eight times and had 12 seasons posting at least 25 points per game.
In contrast, John Havlicek, while not obtaining a scoring title, showcased a different facet of excellence during his time with the Boston Celtics. Havlicek’s contributions extended beyond scoring, encompassing playmaking, defense, and leadership. His best scoring season came in 1970-71 when he averaged 28.9 points per game and he had two seasons posting over 25 points per game.
The scoring title count highlights the different roles these two legends played on the court, with Jordan’s scoring prowess standing out as a defining aspect of his career, while Havlicek’s all-around game contributed to team success in ways that went beyond individual accolades.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
All-Star Selections
Michael Jordan: 14
John Havlicek: 13
The All-Star selections for Michael Jordan and John Havlicek offer a glimpse into their perennial status as elite players and fan favorites throughout their illustrious careers. Jordan, widely recognized as a basketball icon, earned an impressive 14 All-Star selections. His All-Star appearances not only reflect his individual brilliance but also his enduring popularity and impact on the league, with fans consistently acknowledging him as one of the game’s greatest.
In a parallel vein, John Havlicek’s 13 All-Star selections attest to his remarkable contributions to the sport. A cornerstone of the Boston Celtics dynasty, Havlicek’s versatility and skill set made him a perennial All-Star presence. His 13 selections stand as a testament to his consistency, longevity, and the admiration he garnered from both fans and peers alike.
The juxtaposition of Jordan’s 14 selections and Havlicek’s 13 highlights the sustained excellence of both players across different eras. While Jordan’s All-Star appearances affirm his status as a transcendent figure in the game, Havlicek’s consistent recognition underscores his enduring impact and contributions to the success of the Boston Celtics during a period of remarkable basketball achievement.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
All-NBA Teams
Michael Jordan: 11 (10 First Team, 1 Second Team)
John Havlicek: 11 (4 First Team, 7 Second Team)
The All-NBA Team selections for Michael Jordan and John Havlicek provide a fascinating lens through which to examine the sustained excellence of these basketball legends. Michael Jordan’s 11 selections, with an overwhelming 10 First Team nods and one Second Team appearance, underscore his unparalleled dominance during his era. Jordan’s ability to consistently perform at an elite level, earning the league’s top honors in the majority of his seasons, solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest players to grace the basketball court.
In a parallel narrative, John Havlicek’s 11 All-NBA Team selections, comprising 4 First Team honors and 7 Second Team recognitions, paint a portrait of his enduring impact on the game. Havlicek’s versatility, showcased through his scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess, is evident in the range of positions he held within the All-NBA Teams. His consistent presence on these prestigious rosters for over a decade speaks not only to his individual brilliance but also to his instrumental role in the success of the Boston Celtics dynasty.
Ultimately, the comparison in All-NBA Team selections between Jordan and Havlicek highlights the remarkable consistency and excellence that defined their careers. While Jordan’s dominance is encapsulated in his overwhelming number of First Team selections, Havlicek’s ability to maintain a high level of performance over a prolonged period, earning both First and Second Team honors, cements his legacy as one of the most well-rounded and impactful players in NBA history.
Advantage: Even
All-Defensive NBA Teams
Michael Jordan: 9 (9 First Team)
John Havlicek: 8 (5 First Team, 3 Second Team)
The All-Defensive NBA Team selections for Michael Jordan and John Havlicek shed light on their prowess on the defensive end of the court, showcasing their commitment to excellence on both sides of the ball. Michael Jordan’s remarkable defensive acumen is evident in his nine All-Defensive Team selections, all of which were First-Team honors. This impressive feat not only emphasizes Jordan’s individual defensive prowess but also his consistent impact as a defensive stalwart throughout his illustrious career.
Similarly, John Havlicek’s eight All-Defensive Team selections, including five First Team and three Second Team nods, underscore his versatility and defensive contributions. Havlicek’s ability to excel on both ends of the court played a pivotal role in the success of the Boston Celtics, with his defensive prowess complementing his scoring and playmaking abilities. His presence on both First and Second Teams speaks to the well-rounded nature of his defensive skills.
In comparing these defensive accolades, it becomes evident that both Jordan and Havlicek left an indelible mark on the defensive aspects of the game. Jordan’s consistent recognition as a First Team All-Defensive player highlights his dominance, while Havlicek’s combination of First and Second Team selections reflects his adaptability and impact on the defensive end throughout different phases of his career.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
Total Win Shares
Michael Jordan: 214.0
John Havlicek: 131.7
The total win shares statistic provides a comprehensive metric to evaluate the overall impact and contributions of players on both ends of the court. Michael Jordan’s impressive career is encapsulated in his remarkable 214.0 win shares, showcasing not only his scoring prowess but also his significant influence on team success through his defensive abilities, leadership, and all-around excellence. Jordan’s win shares stand as a testament to his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history, making a profound impact on the outcome of games and the success of his teams.
In comparison, John Havlicek’s total win shares of 131.7 underscore his substantial contributions to the Boston Celtics’ success during his tenure. While trailing Jordan in this statistical measure, Havlicek’s win shares highlight his versatility, durability, and the well-rounded nature of his game. His impact on both ends of the court is evident in these numbers, reflecting not just his scoring proficiency but also his defensive skills and overall team-oriented approach.
In essence, the comparison of total win shares between Jordan and Havlicek provides a numerical representation of their respective impacts on the court. Jordan’s higher win share total aligns with his status as a transcendent player, while Havlicek’s substantial contribution to team success is evident in his own impressive win share figure.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
Career Player Efficiency Rating
Michael Jordan: 27.9
John Havlicek: 17.5
The career Player Efficiency Rating (PER) offers a statistical glimpse into the overall efficiency and effectiveness of players on the basketball court. Michael Jordan’s extraordinary career is encapsulated in his remarkable PER of 27.9, a testament to his unparalleled scoring ability, playmaking skills, and impact on both ends of the court. Jordan’s PER places him among the most efficient and dominant players in the history of the NBA, highlighting his ability to consistently contribute to team success at an elite level.
In contrast, John Havlicek’s career PER of 17.5, while lower than Jordan’s, still reflects his significant contributions to the game. Havlicek’s versatility, durability, and well-rounded game are captured in this metric, showcasing his ability to impact various facets of the game over the course of his career. While not reaching the same level of efficiency as Jordan, Havlicek’s PER underscores his effectiveness and enduring impact on the success of the Boston Celtics.
In essence, the comparison of career PER between Jordan and Havlicek provides a statistical lens through which to appreciate the distinct playing styles and contributions of these basketball legends. Jordan’s higher PER aligns with his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history, while Havlicek’s solid PER underscores his own impressive career and impact on the game.
Advantage: Michael Jordan
Final Score
Michael Jordan vs. John Havlicek 8-1
Michael Jordan, often heralded as the greatest player of all time, boasts an impressive array of accolades, from six NBA championships to five MVP awards, not to mention his 14 All-Star selections and ten scoring titles. His ability to transcend the game with a combination of athleticism, scoring prowess, and defensive acumen is unmatched. The 8-1 score in favor of Jordan in various statistical categories, including Finals MVPs, further solidifies his legacy as a basketball icon.
However, nestled in the midst of this statistical showdown is John Havlicek, a player whose impact on the court reverberates through the championships he secured with the Boston Celtics. Havlicek’s eight NBA titles underscore his remarkable ability to contribute to winning teams consistently. His versatility as a scorer, defender, and playmaker made him a linchpin for the Celtics during an era marked by formidable competition. Havlicek’s durability and longevity also shine through, as he ranks among the all-time leaders in games played, showcasing a career marked by sustained excellence.
In the end, it is clear that Jordan was a better individual star than Havlicek and the legendary Celtics star was a part of an all-time great dynasty that featured the late and great Bill Russell. The players from the iconic Celtics dynasty deserve their flowers for helping to form a nearly unbeatable side, and Havlicek was certainly one of the best players in the 1960s and 1970s.
However, Jordan is considered the greatest player ever and was the driving force of the Chicago Bulls dynasty and the undisputed most dominant individual player ever. Even when Havlicek won more rings, Jordan managed to win more accolades on an individual and team level which indicates he is the better player with a better resume.
