- Eastern Conference was stacked with dominant teams, including the Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics
- The West has been ran by the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs
- The NBA has had its balance of Hall of Famers compete for both conferences throughout history
The history of basketball is filled with legendary players, iconic teams, and unforgettable moments that have shaped the sport into what it is today. While fans often debate the greatest players or the most dominant teams, one hypothetical matchup has long intrigued basketball enthusiasts: a showdown between an All-Time Eastern Conference team and an All-Time Western Conference team in a 7-game series.
In this thought-provoking exploration, we delve into the realm of conjecture, pitting the finest players from the Eastern and Western Conferences against each other to determine which conference would emerge victorious. Assembling rosters comprised of legends from different eras, we imagine a fantasy matchup that ignites passions, sparks debates and fuels the eternal rivalry between the two conferences.
From the formidable frontcourt forces to the virtuosos orchestrating plays in the backcourt, we analyze the strengths, weaknesses, and distinct playing styles that define each All-Time team. It is time to find out whether the Eastern Conference or Western Conference had better superstars as the winner of an iconic 7-game series is crowned. The players chosen for each conference will be chosen based on how long they played in respective conferences, even if some played in both.
Isiah Thomas vs. Magic Johnson
A 7-game series featuring Isiah Thomas and Magic Johnson as the starting point guards would undoubtedly be a captivating clash of basketball brilliance. Isiah Thomas, the gritty and fearless leader of the “Bad Boys” Detroit Pistons, will bring tenacity, court vision, and scoring ability. Standing at 6’1″, he might be slightly smaller than the 6’9″ Magic Johnson, but what he lacks in height, he will compensate with unmatched competitiveness and clutch performances. Thomas’ defensive prowess, quickness, and ability to get into the paint could challenge Johnson’s playmaking and force him into difficult decisions.
On the other hand, Magic Johnson will have a massive size advantage. His extraordinary court vision, passing ability, and basketball IQ revolutionized the position. At 6’9″, Magic’s size advantage allowed him to see passing lanes that other point guards could only dream of, and his ability to play multiple positions gives him a unique edge. Thomas will have big moments throughout the series, but Johnson will outplay him over seven games because there isn’t a point guard better.
Michael Jordan vs. Kobe Bryant
A 7-game series featuring Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant as the starting shooting guards would be the ultimate dream matchup for basketball fans around the world. These two legends are often compared and regarded as two of the greatest players to ever grace the hardwood, each leaving an enduring legacy that has shaped the game for generations.
Michael will lead his team in scoring, unsurprisingly, and also take on the challenge of defending the opposing team’s best player. Jordan’s ability to take over games in crucial moments will also make him an unstoppable force on the court, even if he will face countless coverages from Bryant and even Kevin Durant at times.
On the other side, Kobe Bryant will try to match the GOAT toe-to-toe when it comes to scoring the ball and playing perimeter defense. He emulated many aspects of Jordan’s game and developed his own unique style. Kobe’s footwork, scoring ability from anywhere on the court, and the infamous “Mamba Mentality” makes him a formidable adversary in any situation.
In this series, the head-to-head battle between Jordan and Bryant would be a showcase of offensive brilliance and defensive tenacity. Their one-on-one duels will be a highlight of the series at times, as any game could see moments of Jordan’s mid-range jumpers and acrobatic finishes, counterbalanced by Kobe’s fadeaways and clutch shot-making.
Larry Bird vs. Kevin Durant
Larry Bird, the “Hick from French Lick,” is a basketball genius renowned for his exceptional shooting, basketball IQ, and uncanny ability to make clutch plays. No doubt, the legendary Boston Celtics star will show why he is a master of all facets of the game, excelling in scoring, rebounding, passing, and defense. Even when being defended by an athletic forward that is almost 7 feet tall, Bird will manage to get his high-arcing shots up and also play dirty on defense as required.
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant will show why he is a modern-day scoring phenomenon. Standing at 6’10” with a lethal combination of height, shooting touch, and athleticism, Durant has revolutionized the forward position and will give Larry Bird some trouble. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, including deep three-pointers and mid-range jumpers, makes him an offensive juggernaut. Even if Durant has more tools in his offensive bag, Bird will gain a slight advantage over the series because he plays with a physicality and toughness that is hard to ignore.
LeBron James vs. Tim Duncan
LeBron James has played for the Los Angeles Lakers, but most of his career was spent in the Eastern Conference as he was known as the “Beast of the East” at one point. A 7-game series featuring LeBron James and Tim Duncan as the starting power forwards would be a fascinating duel between two of the most dominant and versatile players in NBA history with different playing styles.
LeBron James’ athleticism, court vision, and ability to initiate fast breaks would challenge Duncan’s defensive rotations and shot-blocking prowess. His exceptional passing and playmaking ability could create scoring opportunities for his teammates, and Duncan will be forced to leave his post to defend The King from the perimeter as required, which gives a massive edge to the Eastern Conference.
On the other side, Tim Duncan is the epitome of consistency and excellence. Standing at 6’11”, Duncan was a master of fundamentals, relying on footwork, positioning, and basketball IQ to dominate the post and anchor the defense. Duncan’s quiet leadership and unyielding demeanor will make him a driving force for his team, which will need a go-to paint scorer and a player who will create offense from the post as well.
Bill Russell vs. Shaquille O’Neal
A 7-game series featuring Bill Russell and Shaquille O’Neal as the starting centers would be a clash of two dominant big men from different eras, each leaving an indelible mark on the game of basketball. Bill Russell, the epitome of defensive excellence and an 11-time NBA champion, is a 6’10” shot-blocking specialist who revolutionized the role of the center position. His exceptional basketball IQ, leadership, and defensive tenacity will make him the stalwart for the Eastern Conference All-Stars.
On the other hand, Shaquille O’Neal is a larger-than-life force on the court, standing at 7’1″ and weighing over 300 pounds. Shaq’s combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him virtually unstoppable in the paint, even for a player of Russell’s caliber. However, for fairness’ sake, Russell has the brain to truly bother O’Neal in the post and force him to shoot under 50% from the field. Russell’s defensive acumen and shot-blocking skills will challenge Shaq’s inside scoring, forcing him to rely a bit more on his passing ability.
All-Time East Advantages
With Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and LeBron James, this lineup would possess an incredible array of scoring options on the perimeter. Jordan’s mid-range game and relentless scoring ability, Bird’s deadly shooting from beyond the arc, and LeBron’s combination of driving, finishing, and long-range shooting would make it challenging for opponents to defend against such versatile offensive threats.
Of course, floor leadership is another advantage. Isiah Thomas, one of the greatest playmakers in NBA history, and LeBron James, an elite facilitator, would provide excellent ball-handling and passing skills. Their ability to set up teammates and find open shooters would ensure the offense operates smoothly and efficiently, generating high-quality scoring opportunities.
Finally, Bill Russell’s inclusion as the starting center would significantly bolster the team’s defense. Russell was a defensive anchor known for his shot-blocking, rim protection, and defensive instincts. His presence in the paint would discourage opponents from attacking the basket, making it easier for the perimeter players to play aggressive defense on the perimeter.
Overall, the All-Time East can play with mental fortitude and physical toughness that will make it very hard for the All-Time West to handle.
All-Time West Advantages
With Magic Johnson as the starting point guard, this lineup would boast exceptional playmaking abilities. Magic’s court vision and passing skills were unparalleled, enabling him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates at will. That means Magic will make his teammates better on offense. Kevin Durant’s lethal shooting, Magic Johnson’s mid-range game, Tim Duncan’s post moves, and Shaquille O’Neal’s dominant presence in the paint would create a formidable offensive force that could overpower any defense.
Of course, having Kobe Bryant is a major advantage because he is the only player in history who can go toe-to-toe with Michael Jordan in terms of scoring, a killer will, and setting the tone for a game or matchup. Not to mention, with both Tim Duncan and Shaquille O’Neal in the frontcourt, this team would control the paint on both ends of the floor. Duncan’s fundamental footwork and shot-blocking combined with Shaq’s overwhelming size and strength, would make scoring in the paint a daunting task for opponents.
This lineup would also be versatile on the defensive end, capable of switching and covering multiple positions. Tim Duncan’s ability to defend both big men and perimeter players, combined with Kevin Durant’s length and athleticism, would provide excellent defensive coverage. Kobe Bryant’s tenacity and Magic Johnson’s size and anticipation would make this team difficult to score against.
Who Wins A Best-Of-7 Series?
The series begins with a spectacular showdown, featuring LeBron James and Kevin Durant engaging in a scoring duel for the ages. The All-Time East edges out the All-Time West in a thrilling, high-scoring affair in the end, with the game finishing 104-103. James leads the East with a 35-point performance while Durant adds 34 of his own. Skipping to the fourth quarter with two minutes left and the game tied 100-100, James assists and scores the final four points while Durant’s three-pointer cuts the lead to one. A clever steal from Kobe Bryant leads to a last-second heave from nearly half-court that rims out.
In Game 2, Magic Johnson orchestrates a masterful performance, dishing out assists left and right, while Tim Duncan and Shaquille O’Neal control the paint. The All-Time West responds emphatically, leveling the series with a dominant victory, 119-102. Other than Jordan who scores 40 points, none of the players in the East show up. Russell also cannot handle defending O’Neal and Duncan alone, as the West bigs combine for 43 points and 20 rebounds in a dominant performance.
In a game marked by clutch performances, Larry Bird shines for the All-Time East, hitting crucial shots in the closing moments. Meanwhile, Michael Jordan showcases his defensive prowess, limiting Kobe Bryant’s scoring impact. The Black Mamba only scores 19 points as he struggles from the field and the All-Time East takes a 2-1 series lead. Bird nails the go-ahead three-pointer with 30 seconds left before hitting a fadeaway mid-range shot to seal the deal.
In an iconic Game 4, Kobe Bryant, known for his Mamba Mentality, refuses to let his team fall behind. He explodes for a jaw-dropping scoring display, aided by Kevin Durant’s long-range accuracy. Bryant explodes for a series-high 41 points, 20 coming in the fourth quarter alone as the All-Time West evens the series at 2-2. Jordan is hounded by Bryant and Magic, which forces him to be a playmaker and he ends up with 10 assists. But nobody else shows up as Bryant forces a Game 5 with the series tied 2-2.
With the series tied, both teams lock in defensively, and Isiah Thomas takes center stage with his leadership and clutch playmaking. LeBron James showcases his all-around brilliance, and Jordan leads all scorers with 29 points in a relatively low-scoring game. The game ends 90-86, as an ugly encounter with plenty of physicality means the All-Time West lose a battle on the boards and on the fast break. In the end, the toughness of the East leads to a Game 5 victory.
Facing elimination, the All-Time West unleashes a relentless offensive assault led by Shaquille O’Neal’s dominant inside presence. Magic Johnson’s court vision leads to timely assists (14 of them to be exact), and the All-Time West forces a Game 7 with a commanding victory. O’Neal finishes as the star of the show, dropping 31 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 blocks as Kobe Bryant also adds 29 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter. Michael begins heating up in the fourth, but the West survives the onslaught and forces a Game 7 with the score 105-101.
The stage is set for an epic winner-takes-all showdown. Michael Jordan, the ultimate competitor, delivers a legendary performance, leaving a lasting impact on the game’s history. James also has a triple-double and Larry Bird goes 4-6 from the three-point line. On the other end, Tim Duncan’s stoic leadership and Kevin Durant’s scoring prowess push the All-Time West to the brink. But in the final seconds, with the game on the line, Michael Jordan comes through with a game-winning shot to secure the series for the All-Time East. Russell’s presence defensively limits Shaq to a poor shooting night and that means Duncan and Durant won’t have enough in the end. Due to his countless clutch performances, Jordan wins the Finals MVP.
Final Result: All-Time East vs. All-Time West 4-3
Finals MVP: Michael Jordan
