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NBA Draft: Power Ranking All-Draft Starting 5 for Each NBA Team in Last 25 Years

Adam FromalJun 13, 2011

WIth the 2011 NBA draft quickly approaching, let's take a unique look back through how each team has drafted during the past 25 years. 

Imagine if right after the 1984 season (Michael Jordan's rookie year), the NBA owners and players agreed on a new collective bargaining agreement that had one massive rule change: When a player is drafted, they must remain with that team for the duration of their NBA career. No trades are allowed, even on draft day. Free agency no longer exists. 

This rule change would have had huge implications. Kobe Bryant would have been on the Charlotte/New Orleans Hornets for his entire career while Dirk Nowitzki would be a member of the Milwaukee Bucks. 

So with that in mind, let's take a look through each team's starting five with those hypothetical rules in place. Each starting five is comprised of the best point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward and center drafted by the team in the 1985 NBA draft or afterwards. Keep in mind that all players on these teams are thought of as in their primes. 

A lot of the decisions about both who to include in the starting five and how to rank the imaginary teams are sure to be controversial, so be sure to leave your opinions in the comment section. 

Each team's slide will include the following: the starting five (complete with when they were drafted), the "apologies to" section for those players that were snubbed, a quick description of the team and the five players' career stats. 

Enjoy!

Tier 7: Why Exactly Is This Team in the League?

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CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 16:  Raymond Felton #20 of the Charlotte Bobcats reacts during a game against the Toronto Raptors at Time Warner Cable Arena on March 16, 2009 in Charlotte, North Carolina.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that,
CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 16: Raymond Felton #20 of the Charlotte Bobcats reacts during a game against the Toronto Raptors at Time Warner Cable Arena on March 16, 2009 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that,

Our worst tier of the bunch contains just one team.

Amazingly, even with this type of team construction, this squad couldn't put together a team that would even beat their current roster. 

So, that begs the question: Why exactly is this team in the league?

30. Charlotte Bobcats

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BOSTON - NOVEMBER 08:  Emeka Okafor #50 of the Charlotte Bobcats walks on the court during the game against the Boston Celtics defends on November 8, 2006 at the TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and a
BOSTON - NOVEMBER 08: Emeka Okafor #50 of the Charlotte Bobcats walks on the court during the game against the Boston Celtics defends on November 8, 2006 at the TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and a

Point Guard: Raymond Felton (No. 5 in 2005)

Shooting Guard: Gerald Henderson (No. 12 in 2009)

Small Forward: Jared Dudley (No. 22. in 2007)

Power Forward: Sean May (No. 13 in 2005)

Center: Emeka Okafor (No. 2 in 2004)

Apologies To: D.J. Augustin, Adam Morrison

Oh the curse of being an expansion team. Only dating back to 2004, this franchise doesn't have many players to choose from and quite frankly, none are great options. In this super-league, the Bobcats might be hard-pressed to win a single game. 

Felton

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.2 blocks

Henderson

Career Per-Game Averages: 6.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.4 blocks

Dudley

Career Per-Game Averages: 7.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.2 blocks

May

Career Per-Game Averages: 6.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.4 steals, 0.4 blocks

Okafor

Career Per-Game Averages: 12.9 points, 10.2 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.7 steals, 1.8 blocks

Tier 6: The Incomplete Teams

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Center Vlade Divac of the Los Angeles Lakers passes the ball during a game.
Center Vlade Divac of the Los Angeles Lakers passes the ball during a game.

Our second tier contains a lot of quality players and a few decent teams, but each and every starting five is incomplete. 

While there may even be a superstar on each of these six teams, the franchise completely neglected at least one position while drafting and thus there is too big of a weakness to just cover up. 

Players like Ruben Patterson, Travis Best, Nazr Mohammed, Joe Smith, Elliott Perry and Aaron McKie really don't belong on any starting five in a league this talented. 

TOP NEWS

Los Angeles Lakers v Oklahoma City Thunder - Game One
Los Angeles Lakers v Houston Rockets - Game Three
Los Angeles Lakers v Houston Rockets - Game Six

29. Los Angeles Lakers

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3 Dec 1996:  Guard Nick Van Exel of the Los Angeles Lakers stands on the court during a game against the Seattle Supersonics at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California.  The Lakers won the game 110-106. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Dunn  /Allsport
3 Dec 1996: Guard Nick Van Exel of the Los Angeles Lakers stands on the court during a game against the Seattle Supersonics at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California. The Lakers won the game 110-106. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Dunn /Allsport

Point Guard: Nick Van Exel (No. 37 in 1993)

Shooting Guard: Eddie Jones (No. 10 in 1994)

Small Forward: Ruben Patterson (No. 31 in 1998)

Power Forward: A.C. Green (No. 23 in 1985)

Center: Vlade Divac (No. 26 in 1989)

Apologies To: Derek Fisher, Marc Gasol, Elden Campbell, Andrew Bynum

Clearly the Lakers have excelled (Exel-ed?) in free agency and the trading market because they've been able to put together contenders year after year despite not drafting any real superstars. Van Exel and Divac make a good one-two punch, but there is no greatness here. 

Van Exel

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.1 blocks

Jones

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.6 blocks

Patterson

Career Per-Game Averages: 10.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.4 blocks

Green

Career Per-Game Averages: 9.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.4 blocks

Divac

Career Per-Game Averages: 11.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.4 blocks

28. Indiana Pacers

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BOSTON - APRIL 25:  Reggie Miller #31 of the Indiana Pacers rests against the Boston Celtics in Game two of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2005 NBA Playoffs at the the FleetCenter on April 25, 2005 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Pacers def
BOSTON - APRIL 25: Reggie Miller #31 of the Indiana Pacers rests against the Boston Celtics in Game two of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2005 NBA Playoffs at the the FleetCenter on April 25, 2005 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Pacers def

Point Guard: Travis Best (No. 23 in 1995)

Shooting Guard: Reggie Miller (No. 11 in 1987)

Small Forward: Danny Granger (No. 17 in 2005)

Power Forward: Al Harrington (No. 25 in 1998)

Center: Wayman Tisdale (No. 2 in 1985)

Apologies To: Rik Smits, Chuck Person

At least these Pacers have Miller and Granger to jack up a lot of shots, because chances are they'll be down quite a bit with this team. Somehow Travis was the Best point guard that the franchise has drafted since 1985, but that's really not saying much. 

Best

Career Per-Game Averages: 7.6 points, 1.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.1 blocks

Miller

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.2 blocks

Granger

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.9 blocks

Harrington

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.3 blocks

Tisdale

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.6 blocks

27. Utah Jazz

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28 Nov 2001:  This is a portrait of Utah Jazz forward Karl Malone #32. It was taken during the NBA game against the Seattle SuperSonics at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City Utah.  The SuperSonics defeated the Jazz 112-88.Mandatory Credit:  Matthew Stockm
28 Nov 2001: This is a portrait of Utah Jazz forward Karl Malone #32. It was taken during the NBA game against the Seattle SuperSonics at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City Utah. The SuperSonics defeated the Jazz 112-88.Mandatory Credit: Matthew Stockm

Point Guard: Deron Williams (No. 3 in 2005)

Shooting Guard: Dell Curry (No. 15 in 1986)

Small Forward: Andrei Kirilenko (No. 24 in 1999)

Power Forward: Karl Malone (No. 13 in 1985)

Center: Nazr Mohammed (No. 29 in 1998)

Apologies To: Mo Williams, Paul Millsap

Leave it to Mohammed to ruin an otherwise decent lineup. Williams and Malone may form a dynamic duo much like Stockton and the Mailman did back in the day, but there are no proven winners on this team. 

Williams

Career Per-Game Stats: 17.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 9.2 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.2 blocks

Curry

Career Per-Game Stats: 11.7 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.2 blocks

Kirilenko

Career Per-Game Stats: 12.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.4 steals, 2.0 blocks

Malone

Career Per-Game Stats: 25.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.8 blocks

Mohammed

Career Per-Game Stats: 6.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.7 blocks

26. Golden State Warriors

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15 Jan 2001:  A close up of Chris Mullin #17 of the Golden State Warriors as he gets ready to shoot a free throw during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Arena in Oakland in Oakland, California. The Cavaliers defeated the Warriors 107-101.
15 Jan 2001: A close up of Chris Mullin #17 of the Golden State Warriors as he gets ready to shoot a free throw during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Arena in Oakland in Oakland, California. The Cavaliers defeated the Warriors 107-101.

Point Guard: Tim Hardaway (No. 14 in 1989)

Shooting Guard: Vince Carter (No. 5 in 1998)

Small Forward: Chris Mullin (No. 7 in 1985)

Power Forward: Joe Smith (No. 1 in 1995)

Center: Troy Murphy (No. 14 in 2001)

Apologies To: Mitch Richmond, Latrell Sprewell, Anfernee Hardaway, Gilbert Arenas, Monta Ellis, Stephen Curry, Andris Biedrins

At point guard, shooting guard and small forward, this team is actually stacked. How many other teams would love to have even one of Richmond, Sprewell, Penny Hardaway, Arenas, Elllis or Curry? Amazingly, those players would all be forced to bench roles on this squad. It's too bad they can't help out a rather pitiful frontcourt. 

Hardaway

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.1 blocks

Carter

Career Per-Game Averages: 22.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.7 blocks

Mullin

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.6 blocks

Smith

Career Per-Game Averages: 10.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.8 blocks

Murphy

Career Per-Game Averages: 11.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.4 blocks

25. Los Angeles Clippers

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DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 25:  Forward Blake Griffin #32 of the Los Angeles Clippers takes a shot against Brendan Haywood #33 of the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 25, 2011 in Dallas, Texas.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges a
DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 25: Forward Blake Griffin #32 of the Los Angeles Clippers takes a shot against Brendan Haywood #33 of the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 25, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges a

Point Guard: Elliot Perry (No. 37 in 1991)

Shooting Guard: Eric Gordon (No. 7 in 2008)

Small Forward: Lamar Odom (No. 4 in 1999)

Power Forward: Blake Griffin (No. 1 in 2009)

Center: Benoit Benjamin (No. 3 in 1985)

Apologies To: Danny Manning, Hersey Hawkins, Antonio McDyess

Perry and Benjamin really pushed this team down in the rankings, but in the future they could rise higher up if Gordon and Griffin continue to develop. Don't forget just how good Odom was during his prime either. This team has lots of potential. 

Perry

Career Per-Game Averages: 6.3 points, 1.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.1 blocks

Gordon

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.3 blocks

Odom

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.0 blocks

Griffin

Career Per-Game Averages: 21.3 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.5 blocks

Benjamin

Career Per-Game Averages: 11.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.6 steals, 2.0 blocks

24. Portland Trail Blazers

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26 Feb 1997:  Forward Jermaine O''Neal of the Portland Trailblazers stands on the court during a game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.  The Bulls won the game 116-89.   Mandatory Credit: Matthew Stockman  /Allsport
26 Feb 1997: Forward Jermaine O''Neal of the Portland Trailblazers stands on the court during a game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls won the game 116-89. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Stockman /Allsport

Point Guard: Terry Porter (No. 24 in 1985)

Shooting Guard: Drazen Petrovic (No. 60 in 1986)

Small Forward: Aaron McKie (No. 17 in 1994)

Power Forward: Zach Randolph (No. 19 in 2001)

Center: Jermaine O'Neal (No. 17 in 1996)

Apologies To: Anthony Mason, Cliff Robinson, Arvydas Sabonis, Walter Perry

A team lacking of a really big name, Portland still has managed to assemble a pretty good roster here. Petrovic can absolutely light up the scoreboard on any given night, but the big worry here has to be a significant lack of athleticism. 

Porter

Career Per-Game Stats: 12.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.1 blocks

Petrovic

Career Per-Game Stats: 15.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.1 blocks

McKie

Career Per-Game Stats: 7.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.2 blocks

Randolph

Career Per-Game Stats: 17.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.3 blocks

O'Neal

Career Per-Game Stats: 14.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.5 steals, 1.9 blocks

Tier 5: Middle of the Pack

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LOS ANGELES - 1988:  Dennis Rodman #10 of the Detroit Pistons walks on the court during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Great Western Forum in Los Angeles, California in the 1988-1989 NBA season.  (Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES - 1988: Dennis Rodman #10 of the Detroit Pistons walks on the court during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Great Western Forum in Los Angeles, California in the 1988-1989 NBA season. (Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images)

The next six teams are all good enough to win a game on any given night, but they don't have enough star power to really compete with the elite teams on a consistent basis. 

Every one of the teams in this tier has a few great players, but the complementing ones still aren't quite good enough. As opposed to the previous tier though, the good players make up for the holes in this one. 

Any team here could make the playoffs, but you probably wouldn't feel confident putting any money down on them. 

23. Sacramento Kings

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LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 13:  Tyreke Evans #13 of the Sacramento Kings stands on the court during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Thomas & Mack Center October 13, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers won 98-95. NOTE TO USER: User expres
LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 13: Tyreke Evans #13 of the Sacramento Kings stands on the court during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Thomas & Mack Center October 13, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers won 98-95. NOTE TO USER: User expres

Point Guard: Tyreke Evans (No. 4 in 2009)

Shooting Guard: Kevin Martin (No. 26 in 2004)

Small Forward: Peja Stojakovic (No. 14 in 1996)

Power Forward: Hedo Turkoglu (No. 16 in 2000)

Center: DeMarcus Cousins (No. 5 in 2010)

Apologies To: Michael Adams, Kenny Smith, Billy Owens, Brian Grant, Gerald Wallace

This team will have absolutely no trouble scoring the ball at all, but they may become this league's version of the real Golden State Warriors. Cousins is the only true threat to assault the double-digit barrier in the rebounding column on a nightly basis and no one wants to step up to block shots. 

Evans

Career Per-Game Averages: 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.4 blocks

Martin

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.1 blocks

Stojakovic

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.1 blocks

Turkoglu

Career Per-Game Averages: 12.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.3 blocks

Cousins

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.8 blocks

22. Memphis Grizzlies

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30 Jan 1999: Mike Bibby #10 of the Vancover Grizzlies dribbles during the game against the Seattle Supersonics at the Key Arena in Seattle, Washington. The Sonics defeated the Grizzlies 80-68.
30 Jan 1999: Mike Bibby #10 of the Vancover Grizzlies dribbles during the game against the Seattle Supersonics at the Key Arena in Seattle, Washington. The Sonics defeated the Grizzlies 80-68.

Point Guard: Mike Bibby (No. 2 in 1998)

Shooting Guard: Steve Francis (No. 2 in 1999)

Small Forward: Shane Battier (No. 6 in 2001)

Power Forward: Shareef Abdur-Rahim (No. 3 in 1996)

Center: Kevin Love (No. 5 in 2008)

Apologies To: Bryant Reeves, Drew Gooden, Jamaal Tinsley

None of these players, with the possible exception of Francis, are really thought of as superstars, but all of them are great players in their own rights. With Battier serving as a glue guy, this team could make some noise. 

Bibby

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.2 blocks

Francis

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.4 blocks

Battier

Career Per-Game Averages: 9.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.0 blocks

Abdur-Rahim

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.8 blocks

Love

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.5 blocks

21. Houston Rockets

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3 Jan 1996:  Sam Cassell of the Houston Rockets looks on during a game against the Chicago Bulls played at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.  The Bulls won the game, 100-86. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel/Allsport
3 Jan 1996: Sam Cassell of the Houston Rockets looks on during a game against the Chicago Bulls played at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls won the game, 100-86. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel/Allsport

Point Guard: Sam Cassell (No. 24 in 1993)

Shooting Guard: Rudy Gay (No. 8 in 2006)

Small Forward: Richard Jefferson (No. 13 in 2001)

Power Forward: Robert Horry (No. 11 in 1992)

Center: Yao Ming (No. 1 in 2002)

Apologies To: Sam Mitchell, Cuttino Mobley

With a healthy Ming prowling the paint and Cassell, Gay and Jefferson doing the rest, all this team needs to do is keep the game to one possession when the final buzzer is about to sound. Then Big Shot Bob can do the rest. 

Cassell

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.2 blocks

Gay

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.9 blocks

Jefferson

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.4 blocks

Horry

Career Per-Game Averages: 7.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.9 blocks

Ming

Career Per-Game Averages: 19.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.4 steals, 1.9 blocks

20. Atlanta Hawks

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CHICAGO, IL - MAY 02: Josh Smith #5 of the Atlanta Hawks celebrates a win over the Chicago Bulls in Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Hawks defeated the Bul
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 02: Josh Smith #5 of the Atlanta Hawks celebrates a win over the Chicago Bulls in Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Hawks defeated the Bul

Point Guard: Jason Terry (No. 10 in 1999)

Shooting Guard: Josh Childress (No. 6 in 2004)

Small Forward: Josh Smith (No. 17 in 2004)

Power Forward: Al Horford (No. 3 in 2007) 

Center: Pau Gasol (No. 3 in 2001)

Apologies To: Boris Diaw, Alan Henderson, Stacey Augmon, Haywoode Workman

It's amazing that the Atlanta Hawks never drafted a single shooting guard better than Josh Childress. If it wasn't for him, this team would be a lot higher in the rankings. The other four members of the squad are all great, versatile players and the frontcourt is especially good. 

Terry

Career per-game averages: 16.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.2 blocks

Childress

Career per-game averages: 10.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.5 blocks

Smith

Career per-game averages: 14.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.3 steals, 2.2 blocks

Horford

Career per-game averages: 12.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.1 blocks

Gasol

Career per-game averages: 18.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.5 steals, 1.7 blocks

19. Washington Wizards

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WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 05:  John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Verizon Center on March 5, 2011 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Pho
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 05: John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Verizon Center on March 5, 2011 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Pho

Point Guard: John Wall (No. 1 in 2010)

Shooting Guard: Devin Harris (No. 5 in 2004)

Small Forward: Rip Hamilton (No. 7 in 1999)

Power Forward: Rasheed Wallace (No. 4 in 1995)

Center: Juwan Howard (No. 5 in 1994)

Apologies To: Muggsy Bogues, Harvey Grant, Tom Gugliotta

Another very solid team, Washington borders on great but has to settle for good. Although Wall is still developing and has a chance to propel this team higher, the Wizards lack an established superstar on this team that will contribute all-around minutes on a nightly basis. That would have been Wallace's role, but come on, what are the chances that Sheed can avoid enough technicals for that to happen?

Wall

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 8.3 assists, 1.8 steals, 0.5 blocks

Harris

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.2 blocks

Hamilton

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.1 blocks

Wallace

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.3 blocks

Howard

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.3 blocks

18. Detroit Pistons

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10 Mar 1999:  Joe Dumars #4 of the Detroit Pistons heading down the court during the game against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. The Wizards defeated the Pistons 97-87.   Mandatory Credit: Doug Pensinger  /Allsport
10 Mar 1999: Joe Dumars #4 of the Detroit Pistons heading down the court during the game against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. The Wizards defeated the Pistons 97-87. Mandatory Credit: Doug Pensinger /Allsport

Point Guard: Rodney Stuckey (No. 15 in 2007)

Shooting Guard: Joe Dumars (No. 18 in 1985)

Small Forward: Grant Hill (No. 3 in 1994)

Power Forward: Dennis Rodman (No. 27 in 1986)

Center: Mehmet Okur (No. 37 in 2001)

Apologies To: Allan Houston, Tayshaun Prince, Greg Monroe

When Stuckey is the weak link on the team, you know you're in pretty good shape. Dumars, Hill and Rodman would make a very formidable threesome in their primes. And good luck getting a rebound against this squad. 

Stuckey

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.1 blocks

Dumars

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.1 blocks

Hill

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.6 blocks

Rodman

Career Per-Game Averages: 7.3 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.6 blocks

Okur

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.7 blocks

Tier 4: Now We're Getting Somewhere

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1991-1992:  Center Dikembe Mutombo of the Denver Nuggets goes after a loose ball during a game versus the Golden State Warriors at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado. Mandatory Credit: Tim DeFrisco  /Allsport Mandatory Credit: Tim DeFrisco  /A
1991-1992: Center Dikembe Mutombo of the Denver Nuggets goes after a loose ball during a game versus the Golden State Warriors at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado. Mandatory Credit: Tim DeFrisco /Allsport Mandatory Credit: Tim DeFrisco /A

While the previous tier was filled with teams that you could feel good, but not great, about, this one is different. 

Each of the teams here is going to make you stop and think to yourself, "Wow! That would be a really good team in today's league."

What these ones won't do though is make you question whether they could beat the all-time greatest teams in NBA history.  

17. Denver Nuggets

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DENVER, CO - JANUARY 13:  Carmelo Anthony #15 of the Denver Nuggets takes a free throw against the Miami Heat at the Pepsi Center on January 13, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. The Nuggets defeated the Heat 130-102. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and
DENVER, CO - JANUARY 13: Carmelo Anthony #15 of the Denver Nuggets takes a free throw against the Miami Heat at the Pepsi Center on January 13, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. The Nuggets defeated the Heat 130-102. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and

Point Guard: Jameer Nelson (No. 20 in 2004)

Shooting Guard: Jalen Rose (No. 13 in 1994)

Small Forward: Carmelo Anthony (No. 3 in 2003)

Power Forward: Rodney Rogers (No. 9 in 1993)

Center: Dikembe Mutombo (No. 4 in 1991)

Apologies To: Vernon Maxwell, Brent Barry, Raef LaFrentz, LaPhonso Ellis

Rogers is by no means great while Nelson and Rose are borderline great players, but make no mistake about it: 'Melo and Mutombo can carry this team. Anthony is more than capable of handling the scoring load while Mt. Mutombo is perfectly content to be a premier defensive stopper. 

Nelson

Career Per-Game Averages: 12.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.1 blocks

Rose

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.3 blocks

Anthony

Career Per-Game Averages: 24.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.5 blocks

Rogers

Career Per-Game Averages: 10.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.5 blocks

Mutombo

Career Per-Game Averages: 9.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.4 steals, 2.8 blocks

16. Dallas Mavericks

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DALLAS, TX - JUNE 05:  Jason Kidd #2 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on while taking on the Miami Heat in Game Three of the 2011 NBA Finals at American Airlines Center on June 5, 2011 in Dallas, Texas.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees t
DALLAS, TX - JUNE 05: Jason Kidd #2 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on while taking on the Miami Heat in Game Three of the 2011 NBA Finals at American Airlines Center on June 5, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees t

Point Guard: Jason Kidd (No. 2 in 1994)

Shooting Guard: Jim Jackson (No. 4 in 1992)

Small Forward: Jamal Mashburn (No. 4 in 1993)

Power Forward: Detlef Schrempf (No. 8 in 1985)

Center: Roy Tarpley (No. 7 in 1986)

Apologies To: Mark Price, Josh Howard

You may as well refer to these Dallas Mavericks as the all-underrated team. Now that Kidd has a title he deserves to be in any conversation about the greatest point guards of all time. Meanwhile, Jackson, Mashburn, Schrempf and Tarpley all deserve more credit than they get. 

Kidd

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 9.1 assists, 2.0 steals, 0.3 blocks

Jackson

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.2 blocks

Mashburn

Career Per-Game Averages: 19.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.2 blocks

Schrempf

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.3 blocks

Tarpley

Career Per-Game Averages: 12.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.2 blocks

15. New York Knicks

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24 OCT 1993:  PATRICK EWING OF THE NEW YORK KNICKS ON THE COURT AGAINST THE HOUSTON ROCKETS DURING A PRE-SEASON GAME IN MEXICO CITY. Mandatory Credit: ALLSPORT USA/ALLSPORT
24 OCT 1993: PATRICK EWING OF THE NEW YORK KNICKS ON THE COURT AGAINST THE HOUSTON ROCKETS DURING A PRE-SEASON GAME IN MEXICO CITY. Mandatory Credit: ALLSPORT USA/ALLSPORT

Point Guard: Mark Jackson (No. 18 in 1987)

Shooting Guard: Gerald Wilkins (No. 47 in 1985)

Small Forward: Wilson Chandler (No. 23 in 2007)

Power Forward: David Lee (No. 30 in 2005)

Center: Patrick Ewing (No. 1 in 1985)

Apologies To: Rod Strickland, Nene Hilario

Wilkins and Chandler are both solid players, but neither one of them is great by any stretch of the imagination. On the other hand, Jackson is a fantastic accumulator of assists and his job will only be made easier with Lee and Ewing in the frontcourt. 

Jackson

Career Per-Game Averages: 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 8.0 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.1 blocks

Wilkins

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.2 blocks

Chandler

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.9 blocks

Lee

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.4 blocks

Ewing

Career Per-Game Averages: 21.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.0 steals, 2.4 blocks

14. New Jersey Nets

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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 07:   Brook Lopez #11 of the New Jersey Nets reacts after being called for a foul against the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena on December 7, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by dow
ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 07: Brook Lopez #11 of the New Jersey Nets reacts after being called for a foul against the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena on December 7, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by dow

Point Guard: Mookie Blaylock (No. 12 in 1989)

Shooting Guard: Kerry Kittles (No. 8 in 1996)

Small Forward: Derrick Coleman (No. 1 in 1990)

Power Forward: Kenyon Martin (No. 1 in 2000)

Center: Brook Lopez (No. 10 in 2008)

Apologies To: Kenny Anderson, P.J. Brown, Tim Thomas

An absolutely fantastic rebounding and defensive team, New Jersey may struggle to score at times, but that won't matter often. Good luck crashing either the offensive or defensive boards as every player is capable of pulling down a rebound. And if you wander into the lane, watch out for the shot-blockers. 

Blaylock

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 2.3 steals, 0.3 blocks

Kittles

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.4 blocks

Coleman

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.3 blocks

Martin

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.2 blocks

Lopez

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.7 steals, 1.7 blocks

13. Minnesota Timberwolves

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NEW YORK - DECEMBER 29:  Kevin Garnett #21 of the Minnesota Timberwolves pumps his fist after a teammate scores against the New York Knicks on December 29, 2004 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.  NOTE TO USER:  User expressly acknowledges and agr
NEW YORK - DECEMBER 29: Kevin Garnett #21 of the Minnesota Timberwolves pumps his fist after a teammate scores against the New York Knicks on December 29, 2004 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agr

Point Guard: Pooh Richardson (No. 10 in 1989)

Shooting Guard: Ray Allen (No. 5 in 1996)

Small Forward: Isaiah Rider (No. 5 in 1993)

Power Forward: Kevin Garnett (No. 5 in 1995)

Center: Christian Laettner (No. 3 in 1992)

Apologies To: Brandon Roy, Donyell Marshall, Wally Szczerbiak, O.J. Mayo

To some extent, Laettner and Rider were both quite disappointing and Richardson was never great, but all three of them are still solid contributors. Add in Allen and Garnett and you've got a very good team on your hands. 

Richardson

Career Per-Game Averages: 11.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.2 blocks

Allen

Career Per-Game Averages: 20.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.2 blocks

Rider

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.2 blocks

Garnett

Career Per-Game Averages: 19.5 points, 10.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.5 blocks

Laettner

Career Per-Game Averages: 12.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.8 blocks

12. Philadelphia 76ers

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 10:  Allen Iverson #3 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on against the New Jersey Nets during their game at Continental Airlines Arena on December 10, 2005 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.The Sixers defeated the Nets 107-95. NO
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 10: Allen Iverson #3 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on against the New Jersey Nets during their game at Continental Airlines Arena on December 10, 2005 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.The Sixers defeated the Nets 107-95. NO

Point Guard: Allen Iverson (No. 1 in 1996)

Shooting Guard: Jerry Stackhouse (No. 3 in 1995)

Small Forward: Andre Iguodala (No. 9 in 2004)

Power Forward: Keith Van Horn (No. 2 in 1997)

Center: Samuel Dalembert (No. 26 in 2001)

Apologies To: Charles Smith, Clarence Weatherspoon, Larry Hughes

No team that deploys The Answer is ever going to have much trouble scoring, but the question here is who makes up the rest of the team that surrounds Iverson? Stackhouse, Iguodala and Van Horn are all great offensive options and it doesn't hurt to have a defensive presence like Dalembert in the lane.

Iverson

Career Per-Game Averages: 26.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 2.2 steals, 0.2 blocks

Stackhouse

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.5 blocks

Iguodala

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.5 blocks

Van Horn

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.5 blocks

Dalembert

Career Per-Game Averages: 8.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.5 steals, 1.9 blocks 

11. Orlando Magic

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13 Feb 1996: Center Shaquille O'Neal of the Orlando Magic looks on during a game against the Denver Nuggets played at the Orlando Arena in Orlando, Florida. The Magic won the game, 121-93.
13 Feb 1996: Center Shaquille O'Neal of the Orlando Magic looks on during a game against the Denver Nuggets played at the Orlando Arena in Orlando, Florida. The Magic won the game, 121-93.

Point Guard: Travis Diener (No. 38 in 2005)

Shooting Guard: Mike Miller (No. 5 in 2000)

Small Forward: Nick Anderson (No. 11 in 1989) 

Power Forward: Chris Webber (No. 1 in 1993)

Center: Shaquille O'Neal (No. 1 in 1992)

Apologies To: Dwight Howard, Matt Harpring

Compared to the rest of the teams in this hypothetical league, sending out Diener, Miller and Anderson does not exactly help your cause. But then, when your frontcourt consists of Webber and O'Neal, all is forgiven. Amazingly, the Magic will still be able to use Howard off the bench as well. 

Diener

Career Per-Game Averages: 4.8 points, 1.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.4 steals, 0.1 blocks

Miller

Career Per-Game Averages: 13.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.3 blocks

Anderson

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.5 blocks

Webber

Career Per-Game Averages: 20.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, 1.4 blocks

O'Neal

Career Per-Game Averages: 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 0.6 steals, 2.3 blocks

Tier 3: The Pretenders

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21 Apr 1999: Tracy McGrady #1 of the Toronto Raptors points as he's ready to pass the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. The Raptors defeated the Wizards 107-91.
21 Apr 1999: Tracy McGrady #1 of the Toronto Raptors points as he's ready to pass the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. The Raptors defeated the Wizards 107-91.

The next five teams are all extremely good units, but don't let them fool you into thinking that they can be contenders. 

Deep playoff runs would be common for this group, but it would still be devoid of championships. 

Once you get through this tier, just remember the famous words of Bachman Turner Overdrive: "You ain't seen nothing yet."

10. Miami Heat

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DALLAS, TX - JUNE 05:  Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat reacts against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Three of the 2011 NBA Finals at American Airlines Center on June 5, 2011 in Dallas, Texas.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by d
DALLAS, TX - JUNE 05: Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat reacts against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Three of the 2011 NBA Finals at American Airlines Center on June 5, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by d

Point Guard: Dwyane Wade (No. 5 in 2003)

Shooting Guard: Steve Smith (No. 5 in 1991)

Small Forward: Glen Rice (No. 4 in 1989)

Power Forward: Michael Beasley (No. 2 in 2008)

Center: Rony Seikaly (No. 9 in 1988)

Apologies To: Caron Butler, Kurt Thomas

A very good all-around team, the Heat lead off our newest tier in the league. Wade is an absolute stud who is fully capable of carrying this team, but he just doesn't have enough help here to move even further up the rankings. 

Wade

Career Per-Game Averages: 25.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 1.8 steals, 1.0 blocks

Smith

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.3 blocks

Rice

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.3 blocks

Beasley

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.6 blocks

Seikaly

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.7 steals, 1.3 blocks

9. Phoenix Suns

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PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL 13:  Steve Nash #13 of the Phoenix Suns during the NBA game against the San Antonio Spurs at US Airways Center on April 13, 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or usi
PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL 13: Steve Nash #13 of the Phoenix Suns during the NBA game against the San Antonio Spurs at US Airways Center on April 13, 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or usi

Point Guard: Steve Nash (No. 15 in 1996)

Shooting Guard: Michael Finley (No. 21 in 1995)

Small Forward: Luol Deng (No. 7 in 2004)

Power Forward: Shawn Marion (No. 9 in 1999)

Center: Amar'e Stoudemire (No. 9 in 2002)

Apologies To: Jeff Hornacek, Armen Gilliam, Dan Majerle, Cedric Ceballos, Stephen Jackson, Rajon Rondo

So basically, let's take the run-and-gun spurs of old (Nash, Marion and Stoudemire) and then add in Finley and Deng to the mix. The result of this recipe is an extremely potent offensive unit that doesn't always manage to get stops on the defensive end of the floor. 

Nash

Career Per-Game Stats: 14.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, 8.5 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.1 blocks

Finley

Career Per-Game Stats: 15.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.3 blocks

Deng

Career Per-Game Stats: 16.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.6 blocks

Marion

Career Per-Game Stats: 16.9 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.7 steals, 1.2 blocks

Stoudemire

Career Per-Game Stats: 21.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.5 blocks

8. Boston Celtics

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NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 24: Paul Pierce #34 of the Boston Celtics drives against the New York Knicks  in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2011 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER:
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 24: Paul Pierce #34 of the Boston Celtics drives against the New York Knicks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2011 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER:

Point Guard: Chauncey Billups (No. 3 in 1997)

Shooting Guard: Joe Johnson (No. 10 in 2001)

Small Forward: Paul Pierce (No. 10 in 1998)

Power Forward: Antoine Walker (No. 6 in 1996)

Center: Al Jefferson (No. 15 in 2004)

Apologies To: Ron Mercer, Rick Fox, Dee Brown, Dino Radja, Reggie Lewis

Good luck finding a weak link on this team. Pierce is clearly the star and leader of the starting five, but it's not like Billups, Johnson, Walker or Jefferson can be considered scrubs. Just hope that Walker doesn't mess up the chemistry too much. 

Billups

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.2 blocks

Johnson

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.2 blocks

Pierce

Career Per-Game Averages: 22.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.6 blocks

Walker

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.5 blocks

Jefferson

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.7 steals, 1.3 blocks

7. Toronto Raptors

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TORONTO,ON - APRIL 24:  Chris Bosh #4 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates another basket against the Orlando Magic in game 3 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals on April 24, 2008 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Get
TORONTO,ON - APRIL 24: Chris Bosh #4 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates another basket against the Orlando Magic in game 3 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals on April 24, 2008 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Get

Point Guard: Damon Stoudamire (No. 7 in 1995)

Shooting Guard: Tracy McGrady (No. 9 in 1997)

Small Forward: Antawn Jamison (No. 4 in 1998)

Power Forward: Chris Bosh (No. 4 in 2003)

Center: Marcus Camby (No. 2 in 1996)

Apologies To: Andrea Bargnani, Charlie Villanueva

Once again, this team is filled with solid players, but I'm not really sure whether Raptors fans are going to be happy or sad to see Bosh back in his old uniform. The combination of the velociraptor look-alike, McGrady and Jamison will be an incredible scoring group. 

Stoudamire

Career Per-Game Stats: 13.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.1 blocks

McGrady

Career Per-Game Stats: 20.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.9 blocks

Jamison

Career Per-Game Stats: 19.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.4 blocks

Bosh

Career Per-Game Stats: 20.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.1 blocks

Camby

Career Per-Game Stats: 10.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.0 steals, 2.5 blocks

6. Chicago Bulls

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CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls reacts against the Miami Heat in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly ac
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls reacts against the Miami Heat in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly ac

Point Guard: Derrick Rose (No. 1 in 2008)

Shooting Guard: Ben Gordon (No. 3 in 2004)

Small Forward: Ron Artest (No. 16 in 1999)

Power Forward: Elton Brand (No. 1 in 1999)

Center: Horace Grant (No. 10 in 1987)

Apologies To: Toni Kukoc, LaMarcus Aldridge, Joakim Noah

I originally had this team a lot lower in the rankings, but moved them up each time I took another look at the squad. I just can't quite justify moving them up into the next tier. These Bulls have the league's reigning MVP, who will fill up the scoreboard along with free-shooting Gordon and Brand in the post. Everyone on the team can pass proficiently while Grant and Artest will provide great defense night in and night out. 

Rose

Career Per-Game Averages: 20.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.4 blocks

Gordon

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.2 blocks

Artest

Career Per-Game Averages: 14.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.9 steals, 0.6 blocks

Brand

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.9 blocks

Grant

Career Per-Game Averages: 11.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.0 blocks

Tier 2: The Contenders

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9 Feb 1997:  Seattle Supersonics forward Shawn Kemp (right) and guard Gary Payton confer during the NBA All-Star game in Cleveland, Ohio.  Mandatory Credit: Brian Bahr/Allsport
9 Feb 1997: Seattle Supersonics forward Shawn Kemp (right) and guard Gary Payton confer during the NBA All-Star game in Cleveland, Ohio. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bahr/Allsport

The next two teams are good enough that I would consider them contenders for the title year in and year out. They're just not quite strong enough for me to consider them prohibitive favorites. 

That said, arguments could be made for each of the two that they are the preeminent team in this hypothetical league. 

Get ready to see some stars. 

5. Milwaukee Bucks

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7 Feb 1995: Forward Glenn Robinson of the Milwaukee Bucks stands on the court during a game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York. The Knicks won the game 95-87.
7 Feb 1995: Forward Glenn Robinson of the Milwaukee Bucks stands on the court during a game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York. The Knicks won the game 95-87.

Point Guard: Stephon Marbury (No. 4 in 1996)

Shooting Guard: Michael Redd (No. 43 in 2000)

Small Forward: Glenn Robinson (No. 1 in 1994)

Power Forward: Dirk Nowitzki (No. 9 in 1998)

Center: Andrew Bogut (No. 1 in 2005)

Apologies To: Vin Baker, T.J. Ford, Brandon Jennings, Scott Skiles

Even though Nowitzki, the reigning NBA Finals MVP, has spent every single minute of his impressive career with the Dallas Mavericks, he was still drafted onto this team. He, along with Marbury, Redd and Robinson can all go for 20 points each and every night. Bogut, when healthy, is a great defensive presence in the post. 

Marbury

Career Per-Game Averages: 19.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 7.6 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.1 blocks

Redd

Career Per-Game Averages: 20.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.1 blocks

Robinson

Career Per-Game Averages: 20.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.6 blocks

Nowitzki

Career Per-Game Averages: 23.0 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.0 blocks

Bogut

Career Per-Game Averages: 12.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.7 steals, 2.6 blocks

4. Oklahoma City Thunder

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DALLAS, TX - MAY 25:  Kevin Durant #35 of the Oklahoma City Thunder runs back down court while taking on the Dallas Mavericks in the first quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Center on Ma
DALLAS, TX - MAY 25: Kevin Durant #35 of the Oklahoma City Thunder runs back down court while taking on the Dallas Mavericks in the first quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Center on Ma

Point Guard: Gary Payton (No. 2 in 1990)

Shooting Guard: Kevin Durant (No. 2 in 2007)

Small Forward: Scottie Pippen (No. 5 in 1987)

Power Forward: Shawn Kemp (No. 17 in 1989)

Center: Serge Ibaka (No. 24 in 2008)

Apologies To: Xavier McDaniel, Gary Grant, Rashard Lewis, Russell Westbrook, Cory Maggette

Fortunately for the Thunder, we're allowed to go back in time and take the SuperSonics draft picks as well. Otherwise, this roster would look an awful lot like Oklahoma City's current starting five. With Payton shutting down opposing guards, Durant lighting it up on offense, Pippen doing everything well, Kemp throwing down monstrous dunks and Ibaka blocking shots left and right, this is a potent unit. 

Payton

Career Per-Game Stats: 16.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 1.8 steals, 0.2 blocks

Durant

Career Per-Game Stats: 25.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.9 blocks

Pippen

Career Per-Game Stats: 16.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 2.0 steals, 0.8 blocks

Kemp

Career Per-Game Stats: 14.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.2 blocks

Ibaka

Career Per-Game Stats: 8.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 0.2 assists, 0.4 steals, 1.9 blocks

Tier 1: The Favorites

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DALLAS, TX - MAY 08:  Kobe Bryant #25 of the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Four of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 8, 2011 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agre
DALLAS, TX - MAY 08: Kobe Bryant #25 of the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Four of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 8, 2011 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agre

Congratulations on making it to the final tier. 

The next three teams are indisputably great. Each one could easily become a dynasty.

There is not a single weak spot on any of the rosters and superstars abound. 

But remember that only one can come out on top. 

3. New Orleans Hornets

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NEW ORLEANS, LA - APRIL 24:  Chris Paul #3 of the New Orleans Hornets reacts to a call during a game with the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at New Orleans Arena on April 24, 2011 in New Or
NEW ORLEANS, LA - APRIL 24: Chris Paul #3 of the New Orleans Hornets reacts to a call during a game with the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at New Orleans Arena on April 24, 2011 in New Or

Point Guard: Chris Paul (No. 4 in 2005)

Shooting Guard: Kobe Bryant (No. 13 in 1996)

Small Forward: Larry Johnson (No. 1 in 1991)

Power Forward: David West (No. 18 in 2003)

Center: Alonzo Mourning (No. 2 in 1992)

Apologies To: Rex Chapman, Ricky Davis, Baron Davis

Chris Paul passing to Kobe Bryant? Enough said. Well, I guess the rest of the team is quite good too. 

Paul

Career Per-Game Averages: 18.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 9.9 assists, 2.4 steals, 0.1 blocks

Bryant

Career Per-Game Averages: 25.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.5 blocks

Johnson

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.4 blocks

West

Career Per-Game Averages: 16.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.8 blocks

Mourning

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.5 steals, 2.5 blocks

2. Cleveland Cavaliers

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CLEVELAND - MAY 11: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on while playing the Boston Celtics in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena on May 11, 2010 in Cleveland, Ohio. Boston won
CLEVELAND - MAY 11: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on while playing the Boston Celtics in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena on May 11, 2010 in Cleveland, Ohio. Boston won

Point Guard: Kevin Johnson (No. 7 in 1987)

Shooting Guard: Jamal Crawford (No. 8 in 2000)

Small Forward: LeBron James (No. 1 in 2003)

Power Forward: Carlos Boozer (No. 34 in 2002)

Center: Brad Daugherty (No. 1 in 1986)

Apologies To: Charles Oakley, Johnny Newman, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Andre Miller

When high-scoring Jamal Crawford is the team's lowest scorer, things are looking good. As much as it will kill Cleveland fans to see No. 23 back in his old colors, he is undoubtedly the best player on this incredible team. There is no weakness here except for the fact that LeBron hasn't proven he can win a championship yet. Too soon?

Johnson

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 9.1 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.2 blocks

Crawford

Career Per-Game Averages: 15.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.2 blocks

James

Career Per-Game Averages: 27.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.8 blocks

Boozer

Career Per-Game Averages: 17.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.5 blocks

Daugherty

Career Per-Game Averages: 19.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.7 blocks

1. San Antonio Spurs

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5 Dec 1997:  Centers Tim Duncan and David Robinson of the San Antonio Spurs (right) stand together during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California.  The Lakers won the game 98-88. Mandatory Credit: Todd War
5 Dec 1997: Centers Tim Duncan and David Robinson of the San Antonio Spurs (right) stand together during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California. The Lakers won the game 98-88. Mandatory Credit: Todd War

Point Guard: Tony Parker (No. 28 in 2001)

Shooting Guard: Manu Ginobili (No. 57 in 1999)

Small Forward: Sean Elliott (No. 3 in 1989)

Power Forward: Tim Duncan (No. 1 in 1997)

Center: David Robinson (No. 1 in 1987)

Apologies To: Johnny Dawkins, Luis Scola, Kevin Duckworth

These five players have spent a combined 60 seasons in the NBA and 59 of them have been with the San Antonio Spurs. The only exception was the 1993-94 season, which Elliott spent with the Detroit Pistons. That speaks volumes about just how great the Spurs management really is. 

Various combinations of these five men have managed to win three titles and with the exception of Parker and Elliott, they've all played together at some point in time. Chemistry is important in the NBA and we know these guys have that. Additionally, these Spurs have two of the all-time greats composing their frontcourts. 

Parker, Ginobili, Elliott, Duncan and Robinson playing together while all in their primes would be truly terrifying for every other team. 

Parker

Career Per-Game Stats: 16.7 points, 3.1 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.1 blocks

Ginobili

Career Per-Game Stats: 15.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.3 blocks

Elliott

Career Per-Game Stats: 14.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.4 blocks

Duncan

Career Per-Game Stats: 20.6 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 0.7 steals, 2.3 blocks

Robinson

Career Per-Game Stats: 21.1 points, 10.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.4 steals, 3.0 blocks

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