There are 10 legends of the NBA who would have been greater if they played today.

he NBA, a league known for its ever-evolving nature, has undergone transformative changes in recent years. Rule modifications, shifts in playing styles, and the emphasis on s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 and versatility have reshaped the game into a game that greatly favors star players offensively and also their box scores.

Shannon Sharpe Reveals He Was “Really, Realy Hurt” DuringInfamous Spat With Skip BaylessRead More

It is only natural to predict 10 NBA legends who would be even greater in the modern NBA if they played today. What if those superstars stepped onto the court today, armed with their extraordinary s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, basketball IQ, and the advantages of contemporary training and technology?

It is time to delve into this intriguing thought experiment, exploring the legends who not only would adapt to the fast-paced, three-point-centric landscape of the modern National Basketball Association but potentially thrive in it. From iconic centers to dynamic guards, these legendary players would undoubtedly seize the opportunities provided by the rule and playing style changes of the modern NBA, redefining the very essence of greatness. Here are the legends of the past that would see a boost in their resumes, stats, and all-time rankings if they played today.

10. John Stockton

Credit: Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports

Career Statistics: 13.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 10.5 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Accolades: 10x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, 9x Assist Champion, 2x Steals Champion, Hall of Fame

John Stockton is widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in the history of the NBA. His illustrious career with the Utah Jazz, spanned from 1985 to 2003, making him one of the league’s most enduring and iconic figures. Stockton’s style of play and basketball IQ were ahead of his time, but in the modern NBA, he would undoubtedly be even more extraordinary.

One of the most significant rule changes that would benefit Stockton in today’s NBA is the “hand-checking” rule. In his era, defenders could use their hands to impede the progress of offensive players, making it more challenging for point guards to penetrate defenses. In the modern game, hand-checking is heavily restricted, and this change would play right into Stockton’s hands, as his exceptional ball-handling s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and ability to create opportunities for his teammates would flourish without the constant physical contact from defenders.

Additionally, Stockton’s exceptional three-point shooting ability would be even more valuable in the current three-point-centric era of the NBA. He was ahead of his time as a deep-range shooter, and his proficiency from beyond the arc would fit seamlessly into the modern style of play, where three-point shooting is a prized s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁. Averaging 38.4% from three over his career, the point guard would have probably shot an even higher percentage if he was forced to space the floor in the modern NBA, as that is a prioritized form of offense.

The emphasis on high pick-and-roll plays in today’s NBA would perfectly suit Stockton’s game. His pick-and-roll partnership with Karl Malone was legendary, and in the current era, where spacing and pick-and-roll actions are prevalent, Stockton’s decision-making and passing s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s would make him a devastating force on the court.

Stockton won a whopping nine assist titles despite playing in an aggressive era of basketball and if he had not been impeded, the point guard might have won even more assist titles while accumulating even more than his all-time leading total of 15,805 career assists.

9. Oscar Robertson

Credit: Malcolm Emmons – USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Accolades: 1970-71 NBA Champion, 1963-64 MVP, 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 6x Assist Champion, 1960-61 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame

Russell Westbrook has found a way to make the Hall of Fame someday because of his elite triple-double exploits, but there was a player before him who mastered this style of play: Oscar Robertson. In many ways, Robertson was exactly like Westbrook, although he was a far more controlled point guard with elite basketball IQ.

One of the most significant changes in the NBA’s evolution that would favor Oscar Robertson is the increased emphasis on versatility and positionless basketball. In his era, Robertson was a true anomaly, standing at 6’5″ and possessing the ball-handling and playmaking abilities of a point guard while also having the scoring prowess and rebounding s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s of a forward.

In today’s NBA, where multi-dimensional players who can handle the ball, shoot from long range, and create for their teammates are highly prized, Robertson would be a transcendent force. Another aspect of the modern game that would elevate Robertson’s impact is the emphasis on three-point shooting. Although the three-point line wasn’t introduced in the NBA until after Robertson’s prime, he demonstrated the ability to score from long range throughout his career.

The pace and style of play in the modern NBA, characterized by fast breaks and high-tempo offenses, would suit Robertson’s playing style perfectly. His combination of speed, basketball IQ, and court vision would enable him to excel in the open court, creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates in transition.

The fact that the athlete could not be touched when attacking the rim would also greatly benefit Robertson’s career. The point guard made 12 All-Star Teams and averaged 25.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists per game in an era that was not conducive to offensive play most of the time. Had he played today, Robertson might have averaged a triple-double for his entire career.

8. Hakeem Olajuwon

Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 21.8 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 2.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, 3.1 BPG

Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 1993-1994 MVP, 12x All-Star, 12x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2x Defensive Player of the Year, 2x Rebounding Champion, 3x Blocks Champion, Hall of Fame

Hakeem Olajuwon, often hailed as one of the most dominant centers in the history of the NBA, possesses a s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set and versatility that would undoubtedly make him an even greater force in the modern NBA landscape. From the 1980s to the late 1990s, Olajuwon showcased his extraordinary talents with the Houston Rockets, winning back-to-back titles with them.

First and foremost, Hakeem Olajuwon’s defensive prowess and shot-blocking abilities would make him an invaluable asset in the modern NBA. In today’s game, rim protection and the ability to defend in the paint remain crucial, even with the shift toward perimeter-oriented play. Olajuwon averaged 11.1 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game over his career, and since we have seen Rudy Gobert win three Defensive Player of the Year awards, is there any doubt Olajuwon would win the award every season during his prime in the modern NBA?

Another aspect of Olajuwon’s game that would translate seamlessly into the modern NBA is his offensive versatility. In the current era, where big men are expected to stretch the floor and contribute to ball movement, Olajuwon’s diverse offensive s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set would allow him to excel in various offensive schemes. The center was adept from mid-range (career 51.4% 2-PT FG) and also shot 71.2% from the ᵴtriƥe, so he would be a points generator in every sense.

The pace and spacing of the modern NBA would suit Olajuwon’s game. His ability to run the floor and finish in transition would add a dynamic dimension to any team’s offense. Additionally, the pick-and-roll, a staple of the contemporary game, would be highly effective with Olajuwon setting screens and rolling to the basket, given his agility and ability to finish at the rim. In the modern NBA, with stricter defensive rules, Olajuwon’s offensive repertoire would be even more difficult for opponents to defend.

Very few players could stop “The Dream Shake” during the 1980s and 1990s, and based on what we see from centers today, none of them could handle the Nigerian superstar when he gets the ball in the post. Double or triple-teaming him would also result in open three-point looks and Hakeem would literally be a top-five player in the world every season.

7. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Credit: MPS-USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 24.6 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 2.6 BPG

Accolades: 6x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 6x MVP, 19x All-Star, 15x All-NBA Team Selection, 11x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 4x Blocks Champion, 1969-70 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, a towering figure in the history of the NBA, boasts a resume filled with records, accolades, and a scoring title that still stands as one of the most unbreakable records in the league. His skyhook, a virtually unstoppable shot, would continue to be a devastating weapon in the era of analytics-driven basketball. Imagine if players could not touch him and still can’t block the shot because of its high release.

Abdul-Jabbar’s rim-protecting abilities would be highly valuable in the contemporary NBA. As teams increasingly rely on pick-and-roll actions and drives to the basket, having a shot-blocker and interior presence like Abdul-Jabbar would greatly bolster a team’s defense.

Kareem led the league in blocks four times and made 11 All-Defensive Team selections, so he would be in the running for Defensive Player of the Year every season as he shatters the record for most award wins in NBA history (currently four by Dikembe Mutombo and Ben Wallace).

No doubt, the rule changes that have reduced physicality in the post and favor offensive players would also work in Abdul-Jabbar’s favor. In his era, post-players had to contend with significant contact and physical play, which often led to lower-scoring games. In the modern NBA, where defensive rules are more lenient in the post, Abdul-Jabbar’s scoring efficiency would likely improve.

Kareem shot 55.9% from the floor while posting 24.6 points per game over 20 seasons, and had he benefitted from modern medicine and technology, could it be possible that the big man could have played until his mid-40s? Even if he could not shoot the three, his presence as a mobile big man with elite basketball IQ would have boosted his stats even more.

6. Shaquille O’Neal

Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 23.7 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.6 SPG, 2.3 BPG

Honors: 4x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 1999-00 MVP, 15x All-Star, 14x All-NBA Team Selection, 3x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 1992-93 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame

Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most dominant and iconic figures in the history of the NBA, standing at 7’1” and possessing a combination of size, strength, and athleticism that is rarely seen in the sport. Forget about the fact that O’Neal could not shoot a lick (career 52.7% from the ᵴtriƥe), he would be even more dominant today.

One of Shaq’s defining attributes was his sheer physical dominance, and this would still be a significant advantage in the modern NBA. While the league has evolved to emphasize perimeter play and three-point shooting, the importance of a dominant presence in the paint remains crucial, especially if players cannot stop him. Can you imagine a “small-ball” center defending prime Shaq?

Even at 325 lbs, Shaq’s ability to run the floor and finish in transition would provide a unique dimension to his team’s offense. His combination of size and agility would enable him to excel in fast-break situations, whether he finishes or backs up and asks for the ball. Not to mention, defending against the Shaq-led pick-and-roll would be a daunting task for any opponent. Can you imagine the modern players running to a Shaq screen?

Modern NBA centers are not used to handling go-to post players and even the two best big men in the game right now are not primarily post-scorers (Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid). O’Neal’s basketball IQ is on the level of these two players and his mentality to absolutely destroy defenses would work tremendously well against the modern center.

O’Neal only won two scoring titles in his career, but had he played today, the most dominant force in the world would have won at least five of them and could do what Dwight Howard did with the Orlando Magic in 2009…. absolutely more than once.

5. Wilt Chamberlain

Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 30.1 PPG, 22.9 RPG, 4.4 APG

Honors: 2x NBA Champion, 1971-72 Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 13x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x All-Defensive Team Selection, 7x Scoring Champion, 1967-68 Assist Champion, 1959-60 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame

Wilt Chamberlain, often mentioned in conversations about the greatest basketball players of all time, was an absolute giant in the history of the NBA. Based on the stats he put up, Wilt remains one of the most dominant and prolific players in the league’s history. When we consider how Chamberlain would perform in the modern NBA, several aspects of his game stand out.

First and foremost, Chamberlain’s size and athleticism would still make him a formidable presence in today’s game. Standing at 7’1” inch and 275 lbs, he possessed a rare combination of size, strength, and agility that allowed him to dominate in multiple facets of the game. In the modern NBA, where versatility and athleticism are highly prized, Chamberlain’s physical attributes would make him a unique force.

His scoring ability would also translate seamlessly into the modern era. He was not only an exceptional scorer in the post but also a capable mid-range shooter. Remember, he was called “The Stilt” not only because of his height but because of his length and athleticism because he literally could see over defenders and score easily.

Rebounding is an aspect that was also legendary, and the big man holds numerous rebounding records, including the most rebounds in a single game with 55. In the modern NBA, where teams emphasize second-chance opportunities and controlling the boards, Chamberlain’s ability to dominate the glass would be invaluable. There is no doubt he would win every rebounding title during his career in the modern NBA.

Chamberlain’s shot-blocking and rim protection would also be highly sought after in the contemporary game. Interestingly, Chamberlain’s free-throw shooting was a known weakness in his game, but the big man would still cause a ton of foul trouble on the court, which could mean opposing coaches would have to go deeper in the bench more than they would like.

Wilt only won two NBA titles during his career and while the big man would not have scored 100 points in the modern game, his dominance inside would have led the player to be a part of far more championship teams and as the best in his position, he would have won more than two championships.

4. Larry Bird

Credit: RVR Photos/USA Today Sports

Players Stats: 24.3 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Honors: 3x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 3x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1979-80 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame

When looking at Luka Doncic, many have likened him to Larry Bird in terms of all-around impact and leadership. Now, imagine if Bird played today with more spacing and the ability to use his all-around game and basketball IQ. As great as Luka has been, he is nowhere near on the level of Bird when it comes to winning intangibles, shooting, and rebounding.

The most defining attribute that has to be considered is Bird’s exceptional shooting ability, both from beyond the arc and mid-range. In today’s NBA, where three-point shooting is emphasized to an unprecedented degree, Bird’s long-range accuracy would be even more highly valued. The superstar small forward shot 37.6% from three over his career while attempting only 1.9 threes per game, meaning if he averaged seven or eight threes per game, his scoring average would be far higher than 24.3 points per game.

Bird’s basketball IQ and playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s were ahead of his time. He was not only a prolific scorer but also an outstanding passer and playmaker. In the current era, where versatility and ball movement are paramount, Bird’s ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates would be an invaluable asset. The forward posted 6.3 assists per game, and that number would also be higher in the modern NBA. The same goes for rebounding, as Bird posted 10.0 over his career and would be a walking triple-double today.

Bird’s competitiveness and clutch performances made him a transcendent figure in the NBA. In today’s game, where the pressure of late-game situations and playoffs is a constant, Bird’s mental toughness and ability to deliver in clutch moments would still set him apart as one of the league’s elite players. Similarly, while he may not have possessed the athleticism of some modern players, his ability to read the game and make timely steals and defensive plays would enable him to hold his own on the defensive end.

The modern NBA’s emphasis on positional versatility would also favor Bird’s game. He often played multiple positions during his career, and in today’s league, where players are expected to switch on defense and fill various roles, Bird’s versatility would make him a sought-after player as a point-forward, small-forward, and stretch power forward.

3. Magic Johnson

Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Honors: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 4x Assist Champion, 2x Steals Champion, Hall of Fame

We don’t see pass-first point guards anymore. The best point guards in the world right now are Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard, two high-octane scorers who take a ton of shots on the floor. In the past, Russell Westbrook and James Harden were two MVP point guards who focused more on scoring first rather than setting up teammates. What would happen if a 6’9” point guard with massive shoulders and elite basketball IQ played today?

Magic Johnson was a revolutionary point guard known for his extraordinary passing ability and basketball IQ. He could play multiple positions, including point guard, shooting guard, forward, and center, depending on the situation. In the modern NBA, which places a premium on positionless basketball and versatile players, Johnson’s ability to seamlessly shift between any role would be a significant advantage for his team.

Additionally, Johnson’s size and athleticism for a point guard were remarkable during his era, and they would still be assets in the current NBA. His capacity to defend multiple positions, rebound effectively, and initiate fast breaks would fit perfectly into the fast-paced, transition-oriented style of play that is prevalent today.

Johnson finished his career with four assist titles, but with shooters around him and freedom to use his “Showtime” speed, he would average 15 assists per game and still dangle five rings or possibly even more. Magic Johnson’s leadership and charisma were also key components of his success.

As an inspirational figure on and off the court, he possessed the intangible qualities that can galvanize a team and elevate its performance. We don’t see many elite leaders in the modern game anymore, especially among the younger stars, and Magic would make a major impact in the league if he played today.

2. Kobe Bryant

Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Honors: 5x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 2007-08 MVP, 18x All-Star, 15x All-NBA Team Selection, 12x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, Hall of Fame

It would be very scary to imagine a prime Kobe Bryant in today’s game. Bryant’s scoring ability was legendary, and it would remain a significant asset in the current NBA landscape that has encouraged offensive players to literally score anytime they want. Bryant was a proud scorer who had no worry about taking any shot, and in today’s game, there is always a good shot to be found.

His remarkable footwork, mid-range jump shot, and ability to score in isolation situations would fit well in today’s game. Bryant once scored 81 points in a game, there is no doubt he would have scored 100 today. Assuming Kobe deals with smart defenses by opposing coaches, the shooting guard would still average over 35 points per game, without a doubt.

At the same time, his clutch performances and ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure moments would be highly valued by any team. Kobe’s leadership, both on and off the court, would also make him a respected and influential figure in the contemporary league. We don’t see players fear anybody today as much as before, so Kobe would be one of those who frighten defenders and opposing fans.

Kobe Bryant’s defensive s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s should not be overlooked. He was a tenacious on-ball defender known for his ability to disrupt passing lanes and pressure opponents. In today’s NBA, where versatile two-way players are highly coveted, Kobe’s defensive prowess would be a valuable asset to any team as he made 12 All-Defensive Teams and could shut down most guards.

While the emphasis on three-point shooting has increased in the modern NBA, Kobe’s own three-point shooting might have evolved to meet the demands of the game. Given his work ethic and commitment to improvement, it’s plausible to envision him developing a more consistent three-point shot in today’s era rather than keeping his career average at 32.9%.

1. Michael Jordan

Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Players Stats: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Honors: 6x NBA Champion, 6x Finals MVP, 5x MVP, 14x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1987-88 Defensive Player of the Year, 10x Scoring Champion, 3x Steals Champion, 1984-85 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame

Kobe Bryant would go ballistic on the offensive end in the modern game but ramp that up a little more for the greatest player of all time, Michael Jordan. Jordan is considered the GOAT even if he played in the 1980s and 1990s, but his resume and stats (along with bank account) would take a massive boost had he played today and it would be frightening to consider.

Jordan won 10 scoring titles, and that number would remain the same if he played today. The shooting guard is a far more talented and explosive scorer than anybody in the game today because he knew the spots to generate points and never once backed down from any defender. Double or triple-teamed? Jordan would still post unbelievable scoring numbers. Defensively, Jordan would still be dominant.

Michael would still win a Defensive Player of the Year trophy today because he could pick up any offensive player the length of the court and would be a pest, unlike we haven’t seen in a long time. Marcus Smart was a well-deserved Defensive Player of the Year winner in 2022, but he is not on the level of Jordan. In terms of clutch performances, Jordan would blow everyone away as well.

Michael finished his career with a 30.1 points per game average, which ranks first all-time, but that number would be boosted today. MJ would have had an average of over 35.0 points per game at least and might have even had games scoring 80 points, although he was not quite the gunner that Kobe Bryant was.

Jordan could not be defended in the 1980s and 1990s with far more aggressive defenses, not being able to touch him would have meant the player would have single-handedly decided the outcomes of games. There would be no way to prepare for Jordan at all, even with technology, because his basketball IQ and scoring ability were truly off the charts.