- Phil Jackson is widely regarded as the greatest coach in history due to his success
- Phil Jackson has coached some of the greatest players of all time including the GOAT
- Doc Rivers is a future Hall of Famer having coached multiple Hall of Famers
As the annals of basketball history continue to grow richer with legendary players and coaches, debates about the greatest teams and matchups are bound to ignite the passion of fans and experts alike. Among the revered names in coaching, two stand tall as monumental figures who have left an indelible mark on the NBA – Phil Jackson and Doc Rivers. Each with their unique coaching philosophies and leadership styles, these iconic coaches have achieved remarkable success in their respective careers, guiding some of the most talented players to multiple championships.
Imagine, for a moment, a mythical basketball showdown where time and space fold, allowing these two coaching giants to assemble their all-time dream teams. Picture Michael Jordan soaring through the air in the red and black of Jackson’s lineup, while Larry Bird smoothly delivers jumpers in the green and white of Rivers’ squad. Such a tantalizing prospect sets the stage for a thrilling hypothetical scenario – a seven-game series between Phil Jackson’s All-Time Team and Doc Rivers’ All-Time Team.
We have already seen how Phil Jackson’s All-Time Team came out on top against Steve Kerr’s All-Time Team, but how would the legendary Bulls and Lakers coach’s players come out against Doc Rivers’ All-Time Team featuring legends from the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers? Let’s find out.
Kobe Bryant vs. Chris Paul
In the matchup between Kobe Bryant and Chris Paul, there would be an intriguing contrast in playing styles. Kobe’s scoring prowess and ability to create shots for himself would be a significant challenge for Paul to defend. On the other end of the court, Kobe’s defensive tenacity would test Chris Paul’s ability to navigate through tight defense and make accurate passes. Kobe’s length and anticipation could potentially lead to turnovers and fast-break opportunities for players alongside him like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.
However, Paul’s defensive skills and basketball IQ would make him a formidable opponent in trying to slow down Kobe’s offensive onslaught. Paul is a crafty defensive player who can poke the ball away to try to limit what Bryant can do although the “Point God” will be undersized. Luckily, Paul’s natural ability to play point guard means he will make the likes of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden better because he will be the best floor general in the series.
Michael Jordan vs. James Harden
Both players are elite scorers, but Michael Jordan’s ability to score from anywhere on the court, coupled with his mid-range game and finishing ability, gives him a slight edge over James Harden in terms of scoring variety. Jordan’s tenacious defense would likely pose significant challenges for Harden. Jordan’s ability to lock down his opponents, especially during crucial moments in a 7-game series, could potentially limit Harden’s scoring output and disrupt the flow of Doc Rivers’ offense.
Meanwhile, James Harden’s passing and playmaking skills are exceptional, and he has the ability to involve his teammates effectively. While Jordan was a good playmaker in his own right, Harden’s court vision and passing prowess could potentially lead to more open looks for his teammates. The Beard will share ball-handling duties with Chris Paul as much as possible, to try to put a different type of pressure on Jordan and his team.
Scottie Pippen vs. Kawhi Leonard
This series would be a showcase of two of the most tenacious and skilled defenders the NBA has seen. Both Scottie Pippen and Kawhi Leonard have the tools to make life difficult for each other on the offensive end. It could turn into a thrilling battle of defense, with each player trying to disrupt the other’s offensive rhythm.
Pippen was a better playmaker than Leonard, possessing the court vision and passing skills to set up his teammates effectively. Leonard is a solid passer but doesn’t quite match Pippen’s level in this area. Pippen’s experience playing alongside Michael Jordan and leading the Bulls when Jordan briefly retired would give him an edge in terms of leadership and composure in high-pressure situations.
While Pippen was a capable scorer, Leonard’s scoring abilities have been more prolific. Kawhi’s offensive game has evolved over the years, and his ability to create shots and score efficiently from various areas on the court might give him an advantage in this aspect of the matchup. Leonard, however, has shown tremendous poise and leadership during his championship runs and is considered the better all-around player in terms of being a scorer, rebounder, and leader for a team.
Dennis Rodman vs. Kevin Garnett
Rebounding would be one of the most crucial aspects of this iconic matchup. Dennis Rodman’s unparalleled rebounding prowess and knack for getting second-chance opportunities could be a significant factor in the games. Kevin Garnett, though a good rebounder himself, might have a tough time keeping Rodman off the boards. Rodman’s physicality and ability to disrupt opponents could pose challenges for Garnett’s offensive game.
While both players were elite defenders, their defensive styles were different. On the other hand, Garnett’s shot-blocking and defensive versatility might give him an advantage in guarding Rodman on the perimeter. Garnett’s scoring versatility would likely be a crucial offensive weapon for his team. He could stretch the floor with his shooting and take advantage of his size and skill in the post. Rodman’s offensive contributions would be more limited, but he could create extra possessions for his team through offensive rebounding.
Shaquille O’Neal vs. Joel Embiid
In the post, both players are formidable, but Shaquille O’Neal’s sheer strength and physicality would likely give him an edge over Joel Embiid in terms of scoring around the basket. Shaq was a dominant rebounder, consistently leading the league in rebounds during his prime. While Embiid is a strong rebounder in his own right, Shaq’s sheer size and strength might give him an advantage on the boards.
However, Embiid’s offensive versatility, including his ability to shoot from mid-range and beyond, could force Shaq to defend outside the paint, potentially opening up driving lanes for his teammates. Both players are excellent shot-blockers, but Shaq’s prime was before the era of advanced analytics, and Embiid has shown to be a more advanced rim protector, deterring shots effectively without fouling.
Phil Jackson’s All-Time Team Advantages
With both Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan in the backcourt, this team would possess two of the most prolific scorers in basketball history. Kobe was known for his scoring versatility, footwork, and ability to create shots from anywhere on the court, while Michael Jordan was renowned for his mid-range game, finishing at the rim, and clutch performances. Their scoring abilities would make them virtually unstoppable together, giving the team multiple options for late-game situations.
Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan were two of the best perimeter defenders of all time. Their tenacity, anticipation, and quickness would make it incredibly difficult for opponents to score on the wings. Pippen’s versatility and ability to guard multiple positions, combined with Jordan’s lockdown defense, would create a stifling defensive presence on the perimeter.
While this lineup is filled with exceptional scorers and defenders, it also features players with high basketball IQ and playmaking abilities. Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Scottie Pippen were all capable playmakers, able to create opportunities for their teammates and set the tone for the team’s offense. Their decision-making and court vision would ensure excellent ball movement and efficient scoring opportunities.
Doc Rivers’ All-Time Team Advantages
Chris Paul and James Harden are both exceptional playmakers and ball handlers. Paul is known for his precise passing, court vision, and ability to control the pace of the game. Harden, on the other hand, is a prolific scorer and playmaker, capable of creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Having both of them in the backcourt would give the team excellent ball handling and decision-making, setting up the offense efficiently.
The scoring potential of this lineup would be off the charts. James Harden is one of the most prolific scorers in the league, with his isolation skills, three-point shooting, and ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line. Kawhi Leonard is a versatile scorer with a deadly mid-range game and the ability to score in isolation or catch-and-shoot situations. With these two players, the team would have multiple scoring options from the perimeter and a better shooting team than that of Phil Jackson’s side.
Finally, Kevin Garnett and Joel Embiid would provide a dominant presence in the frontcourt. Garnett was an elite defender and shot-blocker during his career, while Embiid has quickly established himself as one of the best defensive centers in the league. Their shot-blocking and rim protection would be crucial in deterring opponents from attacking the basket.
Who Would Win This Matchup In A 7-Game Series?
In the first game of the series, Phil Jackson’s All-Time Team’s combination of scoring, defense, and dominant inside presence proves too much for the opposing team. Kobe and MJ lead the way with their scoring, while Pippen and Rodman lock down the perimeter and control the boards. Shaq dominates the paint, leading the team to a solid 25-point victory. There isn’t a player who does not perform as the game ends 123-91 and was never close to start the series. No doubt, Doc Rivers’ side must find a better defensive strategy.
Doc River’s All-Time Team responds in Game 2. In a closely contested battle, CP3’s playmaking and leadership, combined with Harden’s scoring, Kawhi’s lockdown defense, and Embiid’s inside dominance, lead to a hard-fought victory for the opposing team. Paul leads all players with 12 assists, Harden scores 33 points, and Leonard leads all players with 6 steals and 3 blocks. Joel Embiid finds his range from beyond, going 4-9 from the three-point line and extending Shaq to guard the perimeter. Despite 33 points from Michael Jordan, no other player performs to his best as the game ends 112-104.
Phil Jackson’s All-Time Team responds. With the series tied at 1-1, the team bounces back with a dominant performance. Kobe and MJ’s scoring touch is on full display, as they combine for 75 points. Jordan scores 40 and Kobe chips in 30, completely dominating their matchups. Phil Jackson does a great job forcing Paul and Harden to defend the two stars, and there is no answer. The duo shoot a combined 45% from the field and take over the second half as the game becomes out of reach. Rodman’s relentless rebounding and Shaq’s inside dominance prove to be the difference-makers as well because the duo combine for 24 rebounds.
In a thrilling back-and-forth contest, Kawh Leonard’s two-way brilliance and Kevin Garnett’s defensive intensity give the team the edge. Leonard has a clutch fourth quarter with the game tied 100-100. Leonard strips Scottie Pippen in the pick-n-roll, and attacks the basket for an And-one. The following possession, Leonard comes from behind to block a shot at the basket and drains a step-back jumper. A missed three-pointer from Bryant means the series is now tied at 2-2.
In a pivotal game that could decide the outcome of the series, the team’s championship experience shines through. Kobe and MJ once again display their scoring prowess with 25 points apiece, and Pippen’s defensive effort frustrates the opposing team’s stars. Shaq is the star of the show, however, scoring 35 points to go along with 17 rebounds. Embiid cannot stop The Diesel who just puts his head down and goes to work in the post. O’Neal ensures Phil Jackson’s Team doesn’t lose a lead after the first five minutes of the first quarter, winning the game 119-103.
In a do-or-die game for the opposing team, CP3’s leadership and playmaking, combined with Harden’s scoring, Kawhi’s lockdown defense, Garnett’s intensity, and Embiid’s dominant inside play, lead to a series-tying victory. All the stars show up, with Paul finishing with 19 points and 10 assists. Garnett once again sets the tone defensively, not allowing Shaq to dominate the post again. Leonard goes 4-8 from the three-point line and Embiid has a solid 20-point outing. Doc Rivers’ All-Time Team overcome a 30-point performance from Jordan and force a Game 7.
In an epic and highly anticipated Game 7, the team’s championship pedigree and veteran leadership prove decisive. Kobe and MJ put on a scoring clinic, Pippen’s defense is relentless, Rodman’s rebounding is crucial, and Shaq dominates the paint. The opposing team fights hard, but in the end, the legendary lineup’s experience and skill lead them to victory, securing the series. Jordan leads all scorers once again with 30 points, Bryant has a 10-point fourth quarter, and Shaq leads all players with 15 rebounds and 5 blocks. Due to his scoring prowess throughout the series, Michael Jordan wins the Finals MVP.
Phil Jackson’s All-Time Team vs. Doc Rivers’ All-Time Team 4-1
Finals MVP: Michael Jordan
