While Allen Iverson doesn’t get the same level of praise as the NBA’s other All-Time greats, make no mistake about it: he’s one of the greatest scorers in basketball history.
At 6-0, 165 pounds, Iverson was small but quick, agile, and very, very gifted at putting the ball in the hoop. He averaged 26.7 points for his career and had many seasons where he averaged over 30+ points per game.
Considering his offensive repertoire, how many points could he have put up in today’s fast-paced style of play?
Some experts predict it could be near 40 points per game. According to Mr. Shaquille O’Neal, that number might be even higher.
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Of course, the former Lakers big man also happens to be a huge fan of Iverson’s game.
“There were guys that when we played them, I was such a fan I let them do what they wanted on me,” O’Neal told Adam Lefkoe earlier this month. “White Chocolate (Jason Williams), I want him to go to work. Vince Carter, A.I. (Allen Iverson) and Tracy McGrady.”
Iverson excelled at creating space off the dribble. His speed and ball-handling abilities are what really set him apart from his competition. Today, the only player to come close to A.I.’s projected scoring output is James Harden, who is coming off his third straight season averaging over 30 points per game.
Interestingly enough, Harden is actually the more efficient player, making an average of 44% of his shots compared to A.I., who shot 42% for his career.
So, there’s a case to be made for both sides.
Unfortunately, we’ll never have the chance to test it.
