I got into a heated discussion about who has had the better career, Ray Allen or Allen Iverson. We agreed that both players were future hall of famers and their credentials were undeniably stellar. There is no right or wrong answer to this question (no pun intended), but lets take it the the court of public opinion.
In Allen Iverson's defense:
Allen Iverson is the greatest player 6'0 or under the NBA has ever seen. His toughness is unquestioned and his body of work speaks for itself. Since being drafted #1 by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1996 Allen Iverson has been a 10 time all star, led the league in scoring four times, made the all NBA team seven times (first team three times), has the 2nd highest playoff scoring average in history behind Michael Jordan, and was the 2001 league MVP. With his killer crossover and urban swagger Allen Iverson revolutionized basketball as we know it. He has left an indelible impression on the NBA landscape.
In Ray Allen's Defense:
Ray Allen is undoubtedly the best shooter of his generation. He was the #5 pick in the 1996 draft (the same draft as Allen Iverson) and has been a model of consistency ever since. Jesus Shuttlesworth is the NBA's all time leading three point shooter and a member of the 2008 NBA champion Boston Celtics. Throughout his career Ray Allen has been the consummate professional and someone you can count on to make big shots in the clutch. Ray Allen is also a 10 time all star and averaged over 26 points per game four times in his career.
Ray Allen has had a consistently good career, but not as spectacular as Allen Iverson's best seasons. Allen Iverson has put up remarkable numbers (especially for his size), but has never hoisted the Larry O' Brien trophy. Allen Iverson is the superior one on one player, but has never made his team mates better. Ray Allen has never carried a franchise on his back the way Allen Iverson has, but he's also never been a malcontent and a problem for management. No one has ever accused him of missing practice if you know what I'm saying.
If you had to start a franchise with one of these players knowing what you know now who would you pick? My pick is Ray Allen. You lose something in overall ability, but you don't take on the excess baggage associated with Allen Iverson. In the end you get a more consistent player who provides leadership and durability over time. Ray Allen has led his team to a championship (albeit with two other future hall of famers) where Allen Iverson was unable to achieve that accomplishment. You can't go wrong with either player, but in my estimation Ray Allen would be less risk for virtually the same production level. Your thoughts.
Most Def agree 150% with everything you said
ReplyDeleteRay allen isnt just the best shooter of his generation, he is the best shooter the NBA and the world has ever seen. Hes 35 and still shooting lights out. Allen Iverson is a phenomonal player dont get me wrong, but as far as the most dominant 6'0 or under the league has ever seen, that title will soon be if it already isnt held by Chris Paul. They are both top 10 all time in there respectful positions, but if i had to start a franchise with one of these players in there prime, i would most def. take Ray allen. lets not forget how complete a player he was in Mailwaukee and Seattle before he was brought to Boston to just be a 3-point threat.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the read. Chris Paul is an outstanding point guard, but I'd like to see him get a league MVP or at least a finals appearance before we put him in the conversation with AI. People do tend to forget Ray has an outstanding all around game.
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