That is true, but I don't know if I'd include Duncan there. KG is getting close but probably wouldn't make it if his leg exploded tommorrow. Penny Hardaway is a great example of someone that fits that (looked to be a legend, then bang), as is Grant Hill and Brad Daugherty. Evan
Locks if their careers ended today: Tim Duncan Kobe Bryant Shaquille O'Neal When you've won numerous titles and proven yourself to be among the most dominant in the league for stretches of four or five years, you're a lock. All three of these guys meet that criteria. I also think Reggie Miller and Allen Iverson are automatics. Near-locks: Kevin Garnett Jason Kidd KG still has another 6-7 years of great play ahead of him, but I think he's already a pretty safe bet. It would be nice for Kidd to have a title, but he's still one of the all-time best. I'm sure I'm missing another few, but there aren't many NBA greats in the twilights of their careers right now. Most of the league's best players are just kids.
Yeah...No question that Duncan is in. Two titles, Two NBA Finals MVP's, two MVP's. Doesn't Hurt that two of those could increase by one in the next week or so. If KG keeps going at this pace, he's in, even if he never wins a title. Continuing to play at this level would put him in company of Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, Kevin McHale. Kidd...? Maybe, but I think there's a distinct possibility that he doesn't make it. We remember him for most recently reviving his career in New Jersey, but there may have been too much mediocrity in Phoenix and Dallas. KG will have to answer questions about mediocrity also, but I think he has a better case. Nash's chances are definitely worse than Kidd's, despite pulling off the MVP. Only his last 2-3 seasons have been hall-worthy, and, at 31, he may not have the chance to prove his worthiness.
I think it would also depend on how careers were cut short. If KG pulled some sort of Ricky Williams thing - then probably no. If he tragically suffered a career-ending injury or something - then you would have give him the benefit of the doubt. How about Alonzo Mourning? He lost several years of All-Star calibur play due to no fault of his own.
thats what I mean.. Will GHill make the HOF? probably not. even though he was well on his way. Same reason KJohnson probably wont make it.. not enough years playing. These guys would make my almost HOF list though. Grant Hill - injuries Penny Hardaway - injuries KJohnson - career too short A Mourning - medical SNash - a lil too late just because someone has a few good even great years doesnt make them a lock. J
