Ranking each NBA Team's Top Trio

At least the Dallas Mavericks were able to prove to us that team efforts are sometimes what's needed to win a championship rather than this new popular fad of teams developing a core of three elite players to heavily rely on.

It takes more than three players to win championships. You still need reliability off the bench and from the majority of your roster since this is a team game after all. The Miami Heat made it all the way to the finals with three players, but it turned out to be their downfall as well since one key component faltered late.

This addition of power rankings are dedicated to those three-man teams that have caused even a wider gap between the elite and bottom teams. With the Boston Celtics leading the forefront after their signings of Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, teams like the Miami Heat and New York Knicks have followed in suit with a big three team of their own. The only problem with those teams is the risk of having a member of the big three not play up to expectations or the rest of the roster not providing any support.

There are big risks when tying up most of your money in three players, but it could prove to be more risk than reward. After all, the Celtics did win a championship with their big three in only their first season together and are still reigning as one of the league's top teams.

If you expect your team abnormally low, don't be surprised. Your teams top three players just aren't as good as another teams trio, but it doesn't mean anything since this is a team game that shouldn't be reliant on three players and a dismal bench that seldom helps.

Let's get these rankings started, shall we?

30. Charlotte Bobcats: Kemba Walker, Corey Maggette and Boris Diaw

Kemba Walker: Entering rookie season

Corey Maggette: 12 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.3 apg

Boris Diaw: 11.3 ppg, 5 rpg and 4.1 apg 

This trio could use some serious work. However, they might not need too much work if their draft pick in Kemba Walker can live up to the high expectations that have been bestowed upon him since receiving national attention at the University of Connecticut.

The Bobcats can only hope for the best from their possible offensive juggernaut in Walker as Corey Maggette and Boris Diaw aren't going to be enough to deter any of the other trios in the league.

Maggette is a solid scorer and defender, and Diaw is an underrated swing man that can basically do it all, but it's still not enough considering these are the three best players on the team.

Charlotte took a step in the right direction by drafting Walker, but they're going to need far more than just Boris Diaw and Corey Maggette if they want a postseason appearance in their future.

29. Detroit Pistons: Rodney Stuckey, Richard Hamilton and Greg Monroe

Brandon Knight: Entering rookie season

Richard Hamilton: 14.1 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.3 rpg

Greg Monroe: 9.4 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 1.3 apg

This could use some work.

The Detroit Pistons formerly possessed one of the top all-around teams when they brought out Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince, Rasheed Wallace and Ben Wallace on a nightly basis and have now gone down a deep, dark path since those glory days.

Not all is lost though for the Pistons as they possess two young, up-and-comers in Brandon Knight and Greg Monroe at point guard and center. Knight is coming off a solid year playing for the University of Kentucky while Monroe is coming off of an unheralded rookie season where he showed that he's set to be the center of the future.

Richard Hamilton has seen better days, but he's still a reliable mid-range shooter that still puts defenses in a frenzy because of his style of play which has him running around the entire offensive possession.

28. Cleveland Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving, Antawn Jamison and Anderson Varejao

Kyrie Irving: Entering rookie season

Antwan Jamison: 18 ppg, 6.7 rpg, and 1.7 apg

Anderson Varejao: 9.1 ppg, 9.7 rpg, and 1.5 apg 

If it wasn't for the Charlotte Bobcats, the Cleveland Cavaliers newly-formed trio could very well find themselves in dead last when it comes to their top three.

Or they could be a lot higher on this list depending on how well No. 1 pick Kyrie Irving performs in his rookie season. Irving was highly regarded as the top player in the draft but is basically a mystery since he was limited in his short time at Duke University due to injuries.

The Cavaliers have a lot riding on Irving after winning only 19 games the previous season and now looking for a team leader to fill the huge shoes that LeBron James left behind.

He joins Antawn Jamison and Anderson Varejao, both who are solid role players. Jamison is getting up there in years and will be 35 at the start of next season, but it doesn't mean he can't perform as he's been consistently posting up the same numbers since his introduction in the league.

His teammate in Anderson Varejao represents the team as its top defender as he can hold his own in the post while also frustrating opponents into offensive fouls.

27. Toronto Raptors: Jose Calderon, DeMar DeRozan and Andrea Bargnani

Jose Calderon: 9.8 ppg, 8.9 apg, and 3 rpg

DeMar DeRozan: 17.2 ppg, 3.8 rpg, and 1.8 apg

Andrea Bargnani: 21.4 ppg, 5.2 rpg, and 1.8 apg

A solid offensive core with a youthful shooting guard in DeMar DeRozan, the Toronto Raptors could still use some help especially when it comes to defense.

Bargnani heads up the team on offense, for now, with his ability to shoot from the outside. The majority of the league's centers find themselves between a rock and a hard place when it comes to defending Bargnani as he's able to clear the lane for rebounders due to the opposing center having to come out to deter his shot.

However, it cancels out once opposing centers realize that Bargs can't play a lick of defense and couldn't defend in the post if his life depended on it.

The future of Raptors basketball is in DeRozan's hands, not their former No. 1 pick in Bargnani. DeRozan is coming off a solid second season and has already shown flashes of brilliance thanks to his unheralded athleticism and his height advantage. He stands at 6'7", at shooting guard.

26. Denver Nuggets: Arron Afflalo, Danilo Gallinari and Nene Hilario

Arron Afflalo: 12.6 ppg, 3.6 rpg, and 2.4 apg

Danilo Gallinari: 14.7 ppg, 5.4 rpg, and 1.6 apg

Nene Hilario: 14.5 ppg, 7.6 rpg, and 2 apg 

A difficult big three to put together due to the team not possessing a true leader ever since the departure of Chauncey Billups and Carmelo Anthony.

In return of those two key players, the Denver Nuggets received a plethora of role players that included Wilson Chandler and Danilo Gallinari. 'Gallo' was solid in his short time with the Nuggets as he transitioned his multi-dimensional game from New York to Denver. He's a deadly three-point shooter when in a good flow and is also quick enough off the dribble to drive when given the open lane.

Arron Afflalo is one of the league's most underrated players and is considered one of the top perimeter defenders thanks to his length and speed. He also contains an ability to shoot from the land of three which only adds to the versatility of the young shooting guard.

Currently, the team is led by Brazilian center Nene Hilario who assumed the role once Anthony and Billups were traded. He's a quality presence in the post on offense and defense and will be highly coveted once the free-agency period begins.

25. Milwaukee Bucks: Brandon Jennings, Stephen Jackson and Andrew Bogut

Brandon Jennings: 16.2 ppg, 4.8 apg 3.7 rpg, and 1.5 spg

Stephen Jackson: 18.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 3.6 apg

Andrew Bogut: 12.8 ppg, 11.1 rpg, 2 apg and 2.6 bpg 

Get ready Eastern Conference teams contending for the postseason because the Milwaukee Bucks are new and improved after a disappointing follow-up on one of their best seasons in a decade.

The Bucks disappointed last year after failing to make the postseason, but can now see themselves right back to where they were at the end of the 2010 season thanks to the acquisition of former Charlotte Bobcat Stephen Jackson.

The shooting guard/small forward is one of the league's top pure scorers—and not much else—and adds a burst of offense that the Bucks were desperately missing last season.

He joins a dangerous tandem of Brandon Jennings and Andrew Bogut in the starting lineup. Jennings is still attempting to live up to the hype that he received during his time before being drafted, while Bogut is also putting it all on the line to rid himself of that possible bust label.

Bogut is capable of being regarded as one of the league's top defensive centers; he did just lead the league in blocks, but he has constantly suffered from injuries over his career that have impeded his progress.

24. Sacramento Kings: Tyreke Evans, Marcus Thornton and DeMarcus Cousins

Tyreke Evans: 17.8 ppg, 5.6 apg and 4.8 rpg

Marcus Thornton: 21.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 3.4 apg

DeMarcus Cousins: 14.1 ppg, 8.6 rpg and 2.5 apg 

A raw core that could use some work, the Sacramento Kings possess three players that could make a splash in the postseason in the near future if the organization can surround them with support off the bench.

Coming back from an injury-plagued sophomore campaign, Tyreke Evans could be moved to shooting guard for the first time in his NBA career and is also looking to build off one of the top rookie seasons in NBA history after averaging 20 points, six assists and five rebounds per. Evans will have a tough season ahead of him as the Kings look to possibly transition him to the 2-spot.

Marcus Thornton went unnoticed last season despite having a 42-point game and emerging as a possible candidate for one of the league's top pure scorers.

The Kings can only hope that DeMarcus Cousins improves his overall outlook on the game as they attempt to refine his attitude from here on out. He has plenty of potential after impressing with a solid rookie campaign as he attempts to prove that the Kings didn't make a mistake when drafting him.

23. New Jersey Nets: Deron Williams, Kris Humphries and Brook Lopez

Deron Williams: 15 ppg, 12.8 apg and 4.6 rpg

Kris Humphries: 10 ppg, 10.4 rpg and 1.1 apg

Brook Lopez: 20.4 ppg, 6 rpg and 1.6 apg 

When Kris Humphries is a member of your big three, serious changes need to be made.

It's not all bad for the New Jersey Nets, however, even with Humphries and the smallest seven-footer in the world in Brook Lopez, considering that they now possess arguably the top point guard in the league in Deron Williams.

Williams struggled with his shot in the few games he played with the Nets, but he was astoundingly efficient when it came to running a struggling Nets squad that was limited on offense. Williams will only continue to get adjusted to his new surrounding as he settles down with his deadly all-around offensive game and strong defense.

He may be the top all-around point guard in the NBA, and it's exactly what the Nets could use at this point.

Lopez and Humphries form a solid frontcourt duo with Kris coming off the best season of his career after averaging a double-double for the first time. Lopez was the team's leader when it came to scoring but was absolutely abysmal when it came to rebounding and defense.

He'll need to seriously work on both aspects if he wants to improve along with the rest of this squad.

22. Minnesota Timberwolves: Ricky Rubio, Michael Beasley and Kevin Love

Ricky Rubio: Entering rookie season

Michael Beasley: 19.2 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 2.2 apg

Kevin Love: 20.2 ppg, 15.2 rpg and 2.5 apg

The Minnesota Timberwolves can only pray that this little experiment of theirs works out.

Judging Ricky Rubio's performance in the FIBA's this past summer, it doesn't really seem as if this is all going to pan out the way they envisioned.

It's tough to judge Rubio on a tournament overseas without giving him a chance to play in the States first. He does have unlimited potential and is efficient at running an offense, even at a young age and could very well be the floor general that this team has needed for too long now.

He shouldn't have trouble finding assists either, now that his two top teammates are the athletic Michael Beasley and the current rebounding champion in Kevin Love.

Beasley had a strong first season with the Wolves as he proved to be a viable first-scoring option rather than a No. 2 option as he was with the Miami Heat. Love overshadowed Beasley's solid first year thanks to the absurd amount of rebounds that he grabbed through the duration of the season and his ability to finish around the rim and from the outside.

21. Indiana Pacers: Darren Collison, Danny Granger and Roy Hibbert

Darren Collison: 13.2 ppg, 5.1 apg and 2.8 rpg

Danny Granger: 20.5 ppg, 5.4 rpg and 2.6 apg

Roy Hibbert: 12.7 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 2 apg and 1.8 bpg 

A big three that could be on the verge of making some noise in the postseason barring the progression of Darren Collison and Roy Hibbert, the Indiana Pacers feature a solid three-man core that includes one of the league's top future centers.

That center being Hibbert, who has greatly improved with his overall body control while also limiting the constant foul trouble that limited him in his first years. At 7'2", Hibbert uses an unstoppable 10-foot jumper and hook shot to gain an advantage over his opponents on the offensive end. He also utilizes that frame to his advantage on defense by being one of the league's top shot-blockers.

Danny Granger continues to be the team's leading three-point shooter while Collison is coming off of a solid first year with the Pacers after impressing the team in New Orleans when filling in for the injured Chris Paul. Collison proved he could legitimately run the point in the long term and will be expected to do so for this athletic Pacers squad.

20. Phoenix Suns: Steve Nash, Grant Hill and Marcin Gortat

Steve Nash: 14.7 ppg, 11.4 apg and 3.5 rpg

Grant Hill: 13.2 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 2.5 apg

Marcin Gortat: 15.8 ppg, 11.3 rpg, 1.2 apg and 1.5 bpg

It pains me to place Steve Nash this low, but because of this trio's age and inexperience, it would be a tough decision putting them any higher.

Nevertheless, it doesn't take anything away from Nash's game. He's still the league's top offensive facilitator and is the sole reason as to why the Phoenix Suns are still a relevant team in the NBA. Even with teammates that aren't anything near All-Star caliber, he has still made numerous players appear a lot more impressive than they appear to be.

One of those players being Marcin Gortat, who suddenly became Amar'e Stoudemire overnight once he got on the Suns. Gortat was excellent at running the pick-and-roll with Nash and even has the defense to provide the squad with some resistance for once.

Hill rounds out this trio as he's still able to perform at an impressive rate on both ends of the floor despite nearly pushing 40 years old.

19. Houston Rockets: Kyle Lowry, Kevin Martin and Luis Scola

Kyle Lowry: 13.5 ppg, 6.7 apg and 4.1 rpg

Kevin Martin: 23.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.5 apg

Luis Scola: 18.3 ppg, 8.2 rpg and 2.5 apg 

An underrated trio with no true leader, the Houston Rockets feature three players that are currently attempting to lead this franchise back from a devastating blow by losing Yao Ming.

Kyle Lowry emerged as a member of this big three after a solid second half of last season while proving that he's completely capable of leading this dangerously volatile offensive team. He joins sharpshooter Kevin Martin and underrated post presence in Luis Scola in the starting lineup.

These three have a lot on their hands as they attempt to lead this Rockets team back from obscurity while also attempting to fill in the large shoes that Yao left behind. Don't underestimate these three players as each player has a particular niche that they command with Lowry and Martin taking charge from beyond the arc and Scola working well in the post.

Now if only they could play some defense.

18. Philadelphia 76ers: Jrue Holiday, Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand

Jrue Holiday: 14 ppg, 6.5 apg and 4 rpg

Andre Iguodala: 14.1 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 5.8 rpg

Elton Brand: 15 ppg, 8.3 rpg and 1.5 apg 

A solid core but a core that isn't going to get any further than the first round of the postseason unless significant changes are made.

Andre Iguodala is the star of this core and deservedly so after proving to be one of the league's top athletes as well as one of its top wing defenders. Iguodala doesn't get nearly the credit he deserves on the defensive end of the floor despite being one of the league's most multi-dimensional defenders next to Gerald Wallace.

Elton Brand actually showed some resilience after a number of injury-plagued seasons since joining the Philadelphia 76ers. He wasn't the same player that was averaging prolific numbers with the Los Angeles Clippers, but it was an improvement from years past as he proved that he could still hit from the mid-range and in the post as well as rebound and play some solid defense.

They join young Jrue Holiday, who is destined for a breakout season after being given the reins of the offense last year. Holiday is a solid guard that can shoot from anywhere while also running an efficient offense from the point.

17. Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry, Monta Ellis and David Lee

Stephen Curry: 18.6 ppg, 5.8 apg and 3.9 rpg

Monta Ellis: 24.1 ppg, 5.6 apg and 3.5 rpg

David Lee: 16.5 ppg, 9.8 rpg and 3.2 apg

Easily one of the most volatile offensive trios in the league, the Golden State Warriors feature two of the league's top young athletes and a double-double machine running at power forward.

Don't expect too much defense though as these players seem to be allergic to it, and it's not even the Warriors' fault.

Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis form a dangerous combination in the back court with each player displaying unbelievable displays of athleticism on offense. Curry has already emerged as one of the league's top three-point shooters, hitting over 40 percent in his first two seasons, while Ellis is already well-known as a pure scorer with a prolific ability to drive and hit from the mid-range.

Lee is coming off a less than stellar first season with the Warriors after establishing himself as a solid 20-10 player during his time with the New York Knicks. You can't blame Lee too much considering that there are three other players in the starting lineup that take just as many shot attempts, but you want to at least expect some higher rebounding numbers.

16. Utah Jazz: Devin Harris, Paul Millsap and Al Jefferson

Devin Harris: 15.8 ppg, 5.4 apg and 2.4 rpg

Paul Millsap: 17.3 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 2.5 apg

Al Jefferson: 18.6 ppg, 9.7 rpg, 1.8 apg and 1.9 bpg

Put Deron Williams back in this lineup and the Utah Jazz suddenly find themselves possibly in the top five.

The Jazz lost their point guard, however, after Williams voiced his displeasure within the organization. We're not exactly sure why considering that he was surrounded by possibly the league's top frontcourt that featured the likes of upstart forward Paul Millsap and a center who possibly possesses the best foot work in the league in Al Jefferson.

Jefferson is coming off a solid first year with the Jazz even with the sudden departures of point guard Deron Williams and coach Jerry Sloan. He adjusted to the changes and still managed to nearly average the 20 points and 10 rebounds he was posting up with the Minnesota Timberwolves in years prior.

Williams replacement was the quick Devin Harris who doesn't exactly match up to what Deron contributed in the years he spent with Utah. Harris isn't Williams, but he is a quality point guard that could cause some damage with his ability to get to the rim.

15. Washington Wizards: John Wall, Nick Young and JaVale McGee

John Wall: 16.4 ppg, 7.9 apg, 4.4 rpg and 1.7 spg

Nick Young: 17.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 1.2 apg

JaVale McGee: 10.1 ppg, 8 rpg, 0.5 apg and 2.4 bpg 

The league's top young trio, the Washington Wizards have a bright future ahead of them with these three leading the way.

John Wall leads the way after an impressive rookie campaign where he led the team, and all rookies, in assists and steals. He struggled with turnovers at nearly four per game, but he still came up huge when it came to facilitating the offense as his speed allowed him to keep up with this young, upstart roster.

He heads up a lineup that includes the likes of shot-blocking specialist JaVale McGee and pure scorer Nick Young. Both players could use some work. McGee needs to learn some offense, and Young needs to learn other aspects of the game that doesn't have to do with scoring. That will come over time once this team gains some experience playing together.

14. Portland Trail Blazers: Wesley Matthews, Gerald Wallace and LaMarcus Aldridge

Wesley Matthews: 15.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 2 apg

Gerald Wallace: 15.8 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 2.5 apg and 2 spg

LaMarcus Aldridge: 21.8 ppg, 8.8 rpg and 2.1 apg 

Substitute a prime Brandon Roy with Wesley Matthews, and suddenly, the Portland Trail Blazers have possibly the best core in the NBA outside of Miami.

Alas, not all can be perfect and the Trail Blazers will now have to rely on Matthews to take over at shooting guard. It's not all bad for the franchise as Matthews actually proved to be a viable replacement thanks to his shooters touch from the perimeter. The Blazers should continue to invest in the soon to be third-year guard as he could be a potential 20-point per game type of player.

The Blazers were fortunate to also have LaMarcus Aldridge on their side as he saved the squad from falling apart with the loss of Roy. Aldridge had a breakout season last year as the team's offensive leader and is now regarded as an elite power forward thanks to his ability to finish around the rim, hit from the mid-range and play defense against most opposing power forwards.

Gerald Wallace joined the team near the end of last year and fit in nicely as he does with every team that he has been a part of. He's one of the league's most multi-dimensional defenders in the interior and on the perimeter. He's also an unbelievable athlete who he utilizes on both ends of the floor.

13. Orlando Magic: Jameer Nelson, Hedo Turkoglu and Dwight Howard

Jameer Nelson: 13.1 ppg, 6 apg and 3 rpg

Hedo Turkoglu: 11.4 ppg, 5.1 apg and 4.6 rpg

Dwight Howard: 22.9 ppg, 14.1 rpg, 1.4 apg and 2.4 bpg

This big three better get some support or else Dwight Howard could become a member of another teams top trio.

The Orlando Magic are coming off of a disappointing ending to their season where they lost in six games in the first round to the division rival Atlanta Hawks. Howard was huge for the Magic, but received little support outside of point guard Jameer Nelson who attempted to keep up on offense with his All-Star center.

Nelson and Howard have formed one of the league's top duos and have even led the Magic to their second finals appearance in franchise history.

Hedo Turkoglu rounds out this big three with his impressive three-point shooting and not much more.

12. Dallas Mavericks: Jason Kidd, Shawn Marion and Dirk Nowitzki

Jason Kidd: 7.9 ppg, 8.2 apg and 4.4 rpg

Shawn Marion: 12.5 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 1.4 apg

Dirk Nowitzki: 23 ppg, 7 rpg and 2.6 apg 

The Dallas Mavericks didn't use a big three to win their first championship; it was a complete team effort as you can tell from the lack of production from the team's big three compared to those of teams that rely heavily on their tree top players.

The Mavs feature three solid players as their top players, I'll get to why Jason Terry isn't a member, with Dirk Nowitzki leading the way as the team leader on offense. It was his ability to hit shots in pressure situations, and throughout the series, that led the Mavericks to their first title over a team that relied too heavily on their three top players.

Jason Kidd is the overall team leader as he utilizes his veteran leadership and ability to run one of the league' most efficient offenses to perfection.

Shawn Marion was chosen over Jason Terry because of his overall game. Rather than selecting a player like Terry who can hit three-pointers and drive, the Mavericks could rely on Marion for defensive purposes on the perimeter and interior and work in the post on offense.

He's an extremely important player, and it was his defense on James that helped throw him off his game.

11. Los Angeles Clippers: Mo Williams, Eric Gordon and Blake Griffin

Mo Williams: 15.2 ppg, 5.6 apg and 2.5 rpg

Eric Gordon: 22.3 ppg, 4.4 apg and 2.9 rpg

Blake Griffin: 22.5 ppg, 12.1 rpg and 3.8 apg

I understand Baron Davis isn't a member of this team anymore, so just replace him with a point guard that doesn't shoot his team out of games.

The Los Angeles Clippers big three doesn't get nearly enough credit as they should since all of the attention last year was focused on rookie Blake Griffin. It's not as if he didn't deserve it though as Griffin steamrolled every team that entered his path by using his unbelievable athleticism to charge into lanes and finish no matter what type of resistance.

His teammate Eric Gordon didn't get nearly enough attention as he deserved, however, as he nearly led the team in scoring thanks to his athleticism and unlimited range. He's an extremely dangerous player that has the ability to take over games and could be a top caliber player as soon as the Clippers get some support for him and Griffin.

10. Memphis Grizzlies: Rudy Gay, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol

Rudy Gay: 19.8 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 2.8 apg

Zach Randolph: 20.1 ppg, 12.2 rpg and 2.2 apg

Marc Gasol: 11.7 ppg, 7 rpg, 2.5 apg and 1.7 bpg

Imagine if the Memphis Grizzlies ran with this frontcourt during their surprising postseason run. They could have even given the Dallas Mavericks a run for their money in the Western Conference finals.

Nevertheless, the Grizzlies had to persevere without Gay for the later portion of the regular season and for the entirety of the postseason. It was a tough loss considering how well Gay was playing and progressing that season. He was the team's star athlete and one of its top mid-range shooters as he led the team to one of their most successful seasons in franchise history.

Luckily for Gay and the Grizzlies, the frontcourt duo of Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol were there to pick up the pieces. Thanks to their ability to command the boards and score at a prolific rate near the rim as well, the Grizzlies were able to ride on the coattails of Randolph and Gasol all the way to game seven of the semifinals.

9. New Orleans Hornets: Chris Paul, David West and Emeka Okafor

Chris Paul: 15.9 ppg, 9.8 apg, 4.1 rpg and 2.4 spg

David West: 18.9 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 2.3 apg

Emeka Okafor: 10.3 ppg, 9.5 rpg, 0.6 apg and 1.8 bpg 

A strong big three, thanks in part to Chris Paul, the New Orleans Hornets might be short of their top point guard if they're not careful with their signings this free-agency period.

Paul heads up this trio as one of the league's top offensive facilitators and for the sole reason behind the New Orleans Hornets success since 2006. After an injury-plagued 2010 season and a less-than-stellar 2010 campaign, Paul bounced back with an impressive postseason where he finished with two triple-doubles and a near upset over the back-to-back defending champions.

He and David West have formed one of the league's more formidable duos with Paul facilitating the offense and drawing the attention and West finishing off the plays with his consistent mid-range game.

West continues to fly under the radar as one of the league's most consistent shooters and defenders and has been the only reliable source of offense on this Hornets team aside from Paul.

Emeka Okafor provides the team with an anchor down low as he continues to assert himself as one of the games top defensive centers.

8. Atlanta Hawks: Joe Johnson, Josh Smith and Al Horford

Joe Johnson: 18.2 ppg, 4.7 apg and 4 rpg

Josh Smith: 16.5 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 3.3 apg and 1.6 bpg

Al Horford: 15.3 ppg, 9.3 rpg and 3.5 apg

One of the most volatile big threes on both sides of the ball, the Atlanta Hawks' featured trio comes complete with perimeter shooters and interior presences.

The $120 million man Joe Johnson takes the role of perimeter shooter and seldom driver, Josh Smith is the team's most athletic player and spends the majority of his time on offense either driving or taking ill-advised jump shots that he has no business taking and Al Horford represents the teams anchor in the post on both sides of the ball.

It's one of the most complete big threes with Horford and Smith manning the middle and Johnson hitting shots from deep and using his 6'7" frame to gain an advantage over opposing shooting guards.

7. Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose, Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer

Derrick Rose: 25 ppg, 7.7 apg and 4.1 rpg

Luol Deng: 17.4 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 2.8 apg

Carlos Boozer: 17.5 ppg, 9.6 rpg and 2.5 apg 

A newly-developed big three that has already emerged as one of the top trios, the Chicago Bulls trio features the reigning MVP, one of the top swing men and a terrific post player when he feels like being one.

In only three years, Rose has led the Chicago Bulls to heights they haven't seen since the Jordan era with a 62-win season which was good enough for the top record in the NBA and a No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. His ability to prolifically attack the rim with speed and power led the Bulls to become one of the most dangerous teams on the offensive side of the ball.

Deng and Boozer were solid complements for the time being. The Sudanese-born small forward is one of the league's top swing men as he can knock down shots from anywhere on the court while still being able to drive thanks to his length.

Power forward Carlos Boozer features a solid mid-range and post game but was detrimental to the team during their recent playoff run as he disappeared at key moments.

6. San Antonio Spurs: Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan

Tony Parker: 17.5 ppg, 6.6 apg and 3.1 rpg

Manu Ginobili: 17.4 ppg, 4.9 apg and 3.7 rpg

Tim Duncan: 13.4 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 2.7 apg and 1.9 bpg

It pains me to put this big three out of the top five. Honest, and for true, it really does.

The problem with the San Antonio Spurs trio, however, is that it's aging fast, especially with Tim Duncan's knees on the verge of becoming non-existent and Manu Ginobili recovering from a wrist injury that limited him in the postseason.

Duncan was solid on both sides of the ball for the 14th consecutive season but failed to average a double-double for the first time in his career. It showed a clear indication of just how quickly the "Big Fundamental" has aged over the past few years. It became even more obvious in the postseason when he was pushed around in the post by the youthful Marc Gasol and the stockier Zach Randolph.

Ginobili's presence was missed during the teams postseason run as a wrist injury greatly limited him from performing up to his usual standards. Even at 33 years old, the Argentinean is still considered as one of the top shooting guards and for good reason. He has unlimited range, can defend with the best and is one of the craftiest drivers next to Dwyane Wade.

Coupled with point guard Tony Parker, this team still relies heavily on its chemistry and overall cohesion. These three players know each other's tendencies better than any other teammates in the league, and it's shown with three championships over the past decade.

5. Oklahoma City Thunder: Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant and Serge Ibaka

Russell Westbrook: 21.9 ppg, 8.5 apg, 4.8 rpg and 2 spg

Kevin Durant: 27.7 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 2.7 apg

Serge Ibaka: 9.9 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 0.3 apg and 2.4 bpg 

What the Oklahoma City Thunder lost in offense when trading away Jeff Green, they made up for and then some in defense with Serge Ibaka.

Ibaka was one of the league's top stories this past year thanks to the solid individual defense he played in his second year with the team as he also finished near the top in shot-blocks per game. He still has to work on his offense, but for now, his defense and athleticism will keep him afloat as a starter.

Oh yeah, there are these two other guys named Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook in the starting lineup. Despite the possible skewed balance of power between the two, they still combine to form one of the top offensive duos with both players combining for nearly 50 points.

Westbrook had a breakthrough third year with the Thunder as he averaged career highs in points and assists while showing a great deal of athleticism when it came to driving and an excellent shooters touch when it came to performing from the perimeter.

Durant is coming off his second consecutive scoring championship as he only continues to improve at all aspects of the game. His shooting touch continues to extend further out, he's still working on his defense and he's even found ways to drive at a more prolific rate. Set to be only 23 years old at the start of next season, Durant could be on his towards his first MVP award and a possible championship appearance.

4. New York Knicks: Chauncey Billups, Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire

Chauncey Billups: 17.5 ppg, 5.5 apg and 3.1 rpg

Carmelo Anthony: 26.3 ppg, 6.7 rpg and 3 apg

Amare Stoudemire: 25.3 ppg, 8.2 rpg and 2.6 apg 

If we were speaking solely offensive big threes, the New York Knicks trio would give the Miami Heat's a run for their money.

Unfortunately for the Knicks franchise, it's not and it's also going to be the reason why they won't see any success until they play on the other side of the ball. The coach and the players on the floor are currently too centered on offense and will need some drastic changes on defense if they want to legitimately contend for a title.

Either way, this big three is a solid core and could be even more dangerous if Chris Paul or Dwight Howard decides to join the fray. For now though, they have veteran Chauncey Billups running the point which is still nothing to laugh at. Billups is still producing at a steady rate and can still hit from the perimeter at an efficient rate as well.

Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony form one of the league's top frontcourt duos with each player being pure scorers. The two combined to average over 51 points per in the short time they spent together and exhibited why they are going to make this Knicks team one of the most volatile offenses in the NBA.

Those two will need to learn how to co-exist first as it didn't appear that they had a great understanding of each other in the little time they played together.

3. Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum

Kobe Bryant: 25.3 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 4.7 apg

Pau Gasol: 18.8 ppg, 10.2 rpg and 3.3 apg

Andrew Bynum: 11.3 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 1.4 apg and 2 bpg 

It was tough omitting Ron Artest from this big three, but Los Angeles Laker fans need to look into the future and admit that center Andrew Bynum is a legitimate member of the team's trio.

Bynum may still have some work to do, but he's easily one of the league's top centers thanks to the power that he possesses as a 7'. He could use some work on offense as he still doesn't have a true understanding of working in the post. His defense is his strongest point as he uses his wide frame to deter shots from anyone that decides to test the lengthy center.

Gasol and Bryant have already proved to be one of the league's top duos after winning two consecutive championships in their first three seasons together. Gasol is a perfect complement to Bryant who spent a number of years with Shaquille O'Neal as his running mate for the late-1990s and early 2000s.

Both players provide veteran leadership, terrific postwork and solid defense with Bryant being the obvious team leader thanks to his uncanny ability to perform well in the clutch.

2. Boston Celtics: Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett

Ray Allen: 16.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.7 apg

Paul Pierce: 18.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg and 3.3 apg

Kevin Garnett: 14.9 ppg, 8.9 rpg and 2.3 apg

Setting the standard for modern day big threes with the amount of success they have already achieved since 2007, the Boston Three Party are easily one of the league's most successful big threes since winning a championship in their first season together in 2008.

This trio has the greatest chemistry and cohesion between each other not only because of the veteran experience between all three, but also because of how each player found their niche immediately.

Ray Allen fit in as the teams top three-point shooter, Paul Pierce plays the role of everyman as he can shoot from anywhere and also drive, while Kevin Garnett spends the majority of his time in the post and in the mid-range.

They're complete on offense, and they're still formidable on offense despite all three being near retirement. Garnett is only three years removed from a Defensive Player of the Year award and is still considered as one of the best all-around defenders today.

1. Miami Heat: Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh

Dwyane Wade: 25.5 ppg, 6.4 rpg, and 4.6 apg

LeBron James: 26.7 ppg, 7.5 rpg, and 7 apg

Chris Bosh: 18.7 ppg, 8.3 rpg, and 1.9 apg 

The league's top trio and it's really not even close.

Complete with the games two top slashers and closers as well as an elite power forward, the Miami Heat heavily relied on their newly formed big three for the majority of the season and post season.

Dwyane Wade and LeBron James lead the way for the Heat as the teams scoring leaders thanks to their unmatched ability to get to the rim and finish better than any other tandem in the league. They had a solid first season together after struggling out of the gate and appeared to be more cohesive by the end of their first year as teammates.

Bosh also had some trouble during the season, but came up huge in a number of games. Bosh is one of the league's top driving big men and it wasn't until late in the season that he developed a niche in the team and had the confidence to drive against opposing defenders.

Those two combined with Bosh caused a great deal of damage in the Eastern Conference, needing only 15 games to beat the number seven, three, and one seed before reaching the NBA Finals.

You can follow John Friel on twitter @JohnFtheheatgod. You won't regret it.