Kendrick Perkins was asked to name his five most dominant players in NBA history on ESPN’s NBA Today. He started out by naming Stephen Curry at fifth, Michael Jordan controversially at fourth, LeBron James as third, Giannis Antetokounmpo at second, and then Shaquille O’Neal at first.
1. Shaquille O’Neal
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo
3. LeBron James
4. Michael Jordan
5. Stephen Curry
🚨 BIG PERK'S BIG LIST 🚨 @KendrickPerkins selects the five most DOMINANT players in NBA history 👀 pic.twitter.com/XbkeD2x9Yn
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 21, 2024
There is no debating over the top spot, as many have often called Shaquille O’Neal the most dominant player in NBA history. But the rest of his list, at least from a rankings standpoint, is going to generate controversy. Especially when it comes to Michael Jordan’s placement on the list.
Putting Jordan fourth, when he is credited by many as being so mercurial that he not only changed the sport of basketball but also brought the NBA to a level of popularity never before seen, is an odd choice. Jordan was so dominant not just on the court, but as a winner, dominating the 1990s with 6 NBA championship wins.
Furthermore, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s placement on this list could be considered too high. There is an easy argument to be made for Giannis being in the top 5. But taking the second spot, when he doesn’t have nearly as many accolades as other stars on this list, is definitely controversial.
Perhaps Perkins made this list solely considering their play on the court. But even then, considering the incredible talents on the list, a restructuring based on their performance on the court would be warranted, especially for players like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and even Stephen Curry.
Some might argue older players like Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, or even Oscar Robertson, who put up video game-esque numbers during their careers, deserve a spot on this list. One could say that Perkins is exhibiting a degree of recency bias with his list.
Did Kendrick Perkins Get His List Wrong?
Kendrick Perkins is known for his controversial and hot takes. But this one might get a lot of fans to disagree with him. The placement of a lot of players on this list is sure to spark some debate.
While Stephen Curry is undoubtedly one of the greatest players of all time, it is hard to see how he can be considered dominant. The word ‘dominant’ is usually associated with players who rely greatly on their physicality and athleticism. Whereas, Stephen Curry is a player who has found success thanks to his skill and technique.
One can claim that LeBron James belongs higher on the list because of the longevity he has exhibited in his career. Despite being past what many consider the prime age for an NBA player, James hasn’t shown any sign of slowing down. Even now, at 40 years old, many consider James the best driver on the basketball court.
This is definitely a provocative list, which is to be expected from Kendrick Perkins. And a lot of players that Perkins didn’t even mention should have at least gotten some considerations or honorable mentions on this list.
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