Sorry, I had to start this because some Spurs fans in the Top 10 Players are saying Duncan is a better defender than Hakeem. The NBA 1. Hakeem 2. Russell 3. Mutombo 4. Rodman (back when he cared and was guarding Bird) 5. Artest/Pippen Honorable Mention to the guards who don't have as much influence on defense given their role: Payton MJ As for the Spurs: 1. Robinson 2. Bowen 3. Duncan
How could you leave off Pippen and the Glove?? In no particular order... -Hakeem Olajuwon -Scottie Pippen -Gary Payton -Bill Russell -Can't decide between Michael Jordan/Ben Wallace/Dennis Rodman/David Robinson
I like the rest but disagree here. Robinson and Duncan are the top 2, CLEARLY, in whatever order you want. Bowen was nothing more than a dirty piece of **** who's "defense" was just trying to hurt or injure the opponent. One of the most pathetic players I've ever watched
right on! I was just dissing Duncan, by placing him 3rd...to get the Spurs fans mad. Duncan is 2nd to Robinson. However, I bet if you go to Spurtalk bbs, Bowen will get 2nd some how. Can you tell I hate Spurs Fans.
How is Duncan a better defender than Olajuwon? Olajuwon got more blocks, and way more steals! Olajuwon is top 10 in steals!
After the top 3, I'm sure Shaq had more influence on a good team defense than the other 2 guys listed. If you wanted a good defense, I'm sure you'd rather have Shaq over Rodman, Artest, and Pippen. Or do we just care about being able to limit the guy you're guarding?
The theory is that Duncan is a better "positional defender" and Hakeem gambled and was "flashy." smdh. You can go read the comments in the Top 10 Player thread.
I will never forget that play when Mobley was a rookie. About 7 seconds on the clock, and freaking Rudy called a play for Mobley instead of Hakeem, Barkley or Pippen for the win. Playoffs vs the Lakers It was awesomely executed as a surprise tactic and Cat had a left hand side drive to the rim...but Shaq caught up with the cat and blocked it right before it hit glass for a layup Remember that?
There were seasons that Olajuwon averaged 4 blocks with 2 steals! I know stats aren't anything, but damn!
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This is very accurate, but I agree with Durvasa about KG and Wallace. KG was a monster, and like people said Hakeem was a big guy that could successfully guard guards, KG could do the same. Such an important part of being a good defender.
well, to answer you question...yes a Center is always more influential. But I place Rodman, Artest and Pippen in there because the could actually guard 3 positions, each. So, yes, when it comes to defense I will pick those three over Shaq for the versatility they provide. Make sense. I'm not trying to win an argument, just would like to hear your take, too.
