I don't think so. My Raptor-loving cuz and I have had numerous debates about Carters place among the current greats in the league, and he strongly feels he is number #1. Sure, he's been on a roll the last month and is having a remarkable season, not to mention he is quickly becoming the NBA's most known and easily the most marketable player (he's even pushed Shaq out). But hype and substance are two entirely different things. Having the chance to watch most of his games, I certainly agree he is much more than dunks and highlight-reel plays, as he is proving he is a player who steps up in the clutch and lead his team to a contender status. But just because he's the hottest player right now, does that mean he is better than Duncan, Shaq, Payton, Hill, Mourning, Kidd, Garnett or Kobe or some of other greats? I don't think so. I think he just isn't as good as the first three mainly because he is less experienced and they are simply MVP-calibre players (so are the last four arguably) who have lead their teams to the top of the league - asides for Hill. While I can't believe anyone can say that Carter is clearly better than Kobe and KG. IMHO, they are arguabley at the same level. Kobe has to play with the most dominating player in the game, and therefore does not have the same opportunities as Carter to be the hero and have the ball in the dying seconds like Mr. "Invincible". On the other hand, Garnett is not surrounded by a handful of quality vets and a young, well-rounded sidekick like McGrady to guide him and take the pressure off (no disrespect intended to Terrell Brandon or any of the other 'Wolves)Plus, KG, Hill, Payton and Kidd have more well-rounded games. Carter, in my opinion, is very fortunate in that has a capable, experienced supporting cast to help take the pressure off, yet gets to be the man because he is easily the teams go-to-guy and only superstar. In a couple years, he could and should be the top player or top three players in the league (I don't think there will be one player heads and shoulders above the rest like Jordan was) , but I don't see how someone can label Vince the best player in the league when no one has seen him play in the play-offs, when the level of play elevates to a whole new level. I'm not necessarily saying Carter is overhyped and overrated - though I'm not denying it either - but he still has a lot to prove. Maybe I'm already sick of all this hee-ha living in the heart of Raptorland and Vinceamania or maybe I'm in denial to his level of greatness, but I just can't see how he is the best or even the top-3 at this point. I hope you guys can provide me with some input and reasoning to why he is or why he isn't that good, 'cause I'm pooped out arguing with all these Raptor-loving fans Azim da Dream ------------------ No guts, no glory, no brain, same story.
Keith Closs is #1 in the league, hands down!!! ... i don't think Carter is #1, but like you said, he might be in a couple of years. As of now, i'm gonna have to go with Shaq, Duncan, or Garnett
Vince is coming along nicely. Everyone is so quick to crown the "next jordan" instead of letting a player develop his own game. I think having Oakley, Antonio Davis and Willis on that team certainly helps Vince. They are teaching him that killer instinct. There is no substitute for experience. Vince will be good as long as he continues to work on his game, and doesn't become satisfied with what he has already accomplished.
