Tim Duncan

Welcome back to the “Greatest Ever” series as i continue with the rankings of the greatest power forwards in the NBA History. It’s a position which has many all time great players.

A power forward does so much for his team, as he can score inside the post, rebound well, protect the paint and additionally step out for a jump shot from mid range, or even behind the three point line.

They impact the game in so many ways, are very important and valuable. If you take a look at the teams that won a title in the past 20 years, all of them have had a power forward as their leader.

Example is the Spurs’ Duncan, Mavericks’ Nowitzki, Celtics Nowitzki and so on. Without further ado, here is my list about the best power forwards in NBA History.

10.Dave Debusschere

Height: 6’6

Weight: 220 lbs

Type Of A Player: Defensive Minded

A versatile power forward who was known for his terrific defense, rebounding abilities and soft touch, Dave Debusschere is one of the greatest power forwards in NBA History.

Although Dave standing at 6’6 was undersized for his position, he made it up his lack of height by relying on his tenacity, toughness and physical gifts.

Debusschere was one of the best defenders of all time. He wasn’t called Big D for nothing, as he could lock his man down and was among the most versatile stoppers too. He won six consecutive All-First Defensive Teams, a feat which is matched by few.

He was one of the finest rebounders to play the game. He was consistent and always elevated himself in this aspect in the post season and finals with higher averages.

Additionally, Dave had a nice range on his jumper. He was one of the top big men shooters that the game had seen and one of the elite ones back in the day.

He won two titles in the Knicks, as he was a big contributor in the two successful trips for the franchise.

Honors: Elected to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1983); NBA champion (1970, ’73); Six-time All-Defensive First Team (1969-74); All-Rookie team (1963); Eight-time NBA All-Star (1966-68, ’70-73); All-NBA Second Team (1969); One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996).

9.Dennis Rodman

Height: 6’7

Weight: 210 lbs

Type Of A Player: Defensive Minded

Dennis Rodman was a player who relied on skills, tenacity and intelligence to excel on the court. He was one of the best power forwards in NBA History.

He established himself as arguably the greatest rebounder of all time. He mastered the fundamentals, had a sense where the ball was going and nearly perfect position. To back this up, he won seven consecutive rebounding titles.

The Worm was the only man doing that and he had ridiculous stats. He finished with averages of 18.7, 18.3, 17.3 etc. Dennis also led twice in the post season and led few times in the finals too.

Additionally, Rodman was arguably the best defender to step on a basketball court. He could stop and defend anyone well, as he shut stars from both perimeter and paint with ease.

He won seven All-First Defensive Teams while winning two Defensive Player Of The Year awards. He excelled in all aspects of defense.

Although Dennis was a one dimensional player, nobody did better on the things he was focused than him. He was part of five title teams and he was a major contributor in each of them!

Honors: 5× NBA Champion (1989–1990, 1996–1998), 2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1990–1991), 2× NBA All-Star (1990, 1992), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1992, 1995), 7× All-Defensive First Team (1989–1993,1995–1996), All-Defensive Second Team (1994), 7× NBA rebounding champion (1992–1998)

8.Elvin Hayes

Height: 6’9

Weight: 235 lbs

Type Of A Player: All-Around

A talented and durable power forward who relied on his physical gifts and skill set to excel, Elvin Hayes was one of the greatest power forwards the game of basketball had ever seen.

He could score pretty well, had soft touch from mid range, was excellent presence on the glass, nice defender and shot blocker too. He was really complete.

The Big E was one of the most dominant big men of any time. He had a long and excellent prime, in which he elevated himself from the rest with his play.

Elvin was one of the most prolific rebounders in NBA History. He led twice in rebounding and ranks among the all time leaders in this category. Hayes led with averages like 18.1 and 16.9 boards respectably.

Few were quite as durable as he was. He sat out only nine games in his sixteen years of basketball, a feat that speaks a lot. Additionally, he saw the third highest playing time, as he ranks third in most minutes played.

Elvin was a remarkable offensive low post player, who could score in bunches well. He had a nearly unstoppable go to move in the turn around shot. He led once in this aspect too and was pretty consistent.

Unfortunately, he wasn’t an easy guy to play with and was the most disrespected star of his era. He was considered as a black hole on offense and was too much of an individualist which obviously hurt his teams to be ranked ahead further on this list.

Nonetheless, he’s a legend after all.

Honors: Elected to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1990); NBA champion (1978); All-NBA First Team (1975, ’77, ’79); All-NBA Second Team (1973, ’74, ’76); All-Defensive Second Team (1974, ’75); All-Rookie Team (1969); 12-time All-Star (1969-80); One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (’96).

7.Kevin McHale

Height: 6’10

Weight: 210 lbs

Type Of A Player: All-Around

Kevin McHale was a remarkable big man who was blessed with size, agility and skill set that made him great. He was one of the greatest power forwards to step on a NBA hardwood.

He was known for his ability to beat his defender inside in a variety of ways, thanks to that sweet low post game. In fact, no one played better with his back to the basket than Kevin. He excelled in this facet.

McHale’s post moves were truly devastating and he had a wide arsenal of moves to beat his defender. He was close to unstoppable in his peak, as he led the league twice in field goal percentage.

Kevin was also one of the best defenders of all time. He could shut his man, was versatile enough to guard three positions as he guarded many small forwards and was underrated shot blocker.

He’s ranked ninth in total blocks in playoffs history. Additionally, he has six All-Defensive Teams, including three All-First selections as well. He excelled in efficiency too. In fact, he was among the elite as he shot really well.

McHale was remembered for his toughness, as he was capable to play through injuries and often did. A fact says that he played a full post season with a broken foot in the peak of his abilities and yet remained effective.

He was everything what you’d want from your power forward. He had it all. Why above Hayes? Because of his post game, efficiency, defense, peak and the fact that he was a great team player who left a bigger impact in overall basketball history.

Honors: Three-time NBA Champion; All-NBA First Team (1987); All-Defensive First Team (1986-88); All-Defensive Second Team (1983, 89-90); Seven-time All-Star (1984, 86-91); NBA All-Rookie Team (1981); Two-time Sixth Man of the Year (1984-85); One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996).

6.Dirk Nowitzki

Height: 7’0

Weight: 220 lbs

Type Of A Player: Offensive Minded

An unique seven footer who used size, soft touch and agility to be a real threat for opposing defenses, Dirk Nowitzki is one of the best power forwards in NBA History.

Dirk’s arguably the greatest big man shooter of all time. He can find the bottom of the net easily and from anywhere. He has range on his jumper, it has a high arc and is really deadly with it. He’s on pair with the elite in this aspect of the game.

He’s relied on his shooting to be one of the biggest mismatches ever. Nowitzki is capable to draw the defender out with his lethal shot. If his man closes out, he drives to the basket. If you foul him, you sent him to the line where he’s nearly automatic.

Big Dirk is one of the top offensive players to step on a NBA Hardwood because of that. He’s extremely efficient for a player who’s been heavily defended and has elevated in the situations when it mattered most.

That also leads to the fact, that he’s remarkable in the clutch. Nowitzki has played on a higher standard in the playoffs and finals, where he averaged 25.9 points, 10.4 points, 2.6 assists on 46.3% field goal percentage (58.4% TS) and 89.2% FT.

Quite impressive, isn’t it? Additionally, another thing which stands out about Dirk is that he had one of the most impressive runs in the post season during his peak. He led his Mavericks to a title throughout a dramatic and tough run.

He beat a superstar team with two players who’re regarded as the best in the league by some. That sealed his legacy as an all time great and he should add to it. He’s got a respectable case for the top five too.

Honors: NBA Champion (2011), NBA Finals MVP (2011), NBA Most Valuable Player (2007), 10× NBA All-Star (2002–2011), 4× All-NBA First Team (2005–2007, 2009), 5× All-NBA Second Team (2002–2003, 2008,2010–2011), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2001, 2004), NBA Three-Point Shootout Champion (2006), FIBA World Championship MVP (2002), EuroBasket MVP (2005), 7x European Player of the Year: 5× Euroscar Award Winner (2002–2006), Mister Europa Player of the Year (2005), FIBA Europe Player of the Year (2005), Best NBA Player ESPY Award (2011), Best Male Athlete ESPY Award (2011), Basketball Bundesliga MVP (1999)

5.Kevin Garnett

Height: 6’11

Weight: 220 lbs

Type Of A Player: All-Around

A passionate, aggressive and versatile big man who could do everything well on the court, Kevin Garnett is without a doubt one of the greatest power forwards to step on a NBA Hardwood.

The Big Ticket relied on his great physical gifts. He possessed a rare combination of size, athleticism and speed which allowed him to be among the most dominant presences in the paint that the league has ever seen.

KG established himself as one of the best defenders in league history, with a respectable case for the first spot. He’s capable to shut his man on defense, is an intimating presence in the paint, good shot blocker and very versatile stopper.

To back that up, i’ll point out the record nine All-First Defensive Team he has in his resume. Kevin also won a Defensive Player Of The Year award and his defense was arguably the key to the Celtics championship in ’08.

Garnett’s additionally one of the most all-around players of any time. He recently became the fifth player to record 20 000 points, 10 000 boards and 4 000 assists. He’s recorded 17 triple doubles in his career so far.

He’s got ton of credit for excelling in the role of a point forward, where he ranks really high too. KG is by the way, the only player so far to have at least 20 points, 10 boards and five assists in average for six consecutive season.

Kevin is known for his vocal leadership and aggressiveness, with the latter maybe not having a peer at all. His work ethic and passion for basketball are admirable.

The Kid as they called him back in the day, is one of the top rebounders in NBA History. He’s one of the rares to win four consecutive rebound titles. His strength is clearing his own glass and recorded really high numbers.

Another thing that can’t be overlooked about the Big Ticket is passing. His ability to pass the ball is on top notch. He delivers the ball to his team mate with nicely and leads them to easy points.

His prime and peak are certainly great. He had two seasons in which he can be argued as the leagues’ top player. Why’s he ranked above McHale? Because of all-around game, defense, career, prime and peak.

His case will get better as time goes by.

Honors: NBA Champion (2008), NBA Most Valuable Player (2004), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2008), 14× NBA All-Star (1997–1998, 2000–2011), 4× All-NBA First Team (2000, 2003–2004, 2008), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2001–2002, 2005), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1999, 2007), 9× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2000–2005,2008–2009, 2011), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2006–2007), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1996), 4× NBA rebounding champion (2004–2007), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2003), J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (2006)

4.Charles Barkley

Height: 6’6

Weight: 252 lbs

Type Of A Player: All-Around

He was listed as 6’6, although he was much closer to 6’4. Nonetheless, he dominated the game because of his physical advantage. That made Charles Barkley truly an unique player and one of the greatest power forwards in NBA History.

Chuck was one of the most physical imposing forces of all time, if not the most of them all. He made up for his lack of size with his great physical gifts like strength, athleticism, power etc. He’d often dominate players nearly foot taller because of that.

He was also well rounded, as he was certainly among the most complete players to step on a basketball hardwood. Barkley is one of the five players ever to record at least 20 000 points, 10 000 boards and 4 000 assists.

Quite a feat. He also had 20 triple doubles as well during his career. Charles could do nearly everything well on the court and really excelled in it.

He could rebound pretty well, as he was one of the best presences on the glass of any time. He earned the nickname The Round Mound Of Rebound. He won a rebound title, despite being undersized and proved his superb skills.

Sir Charles was certainly outstanding in terms of offense. He had a wide arsenal of moves to score, a deadly fade away and was among the most efficient players ever, if not the most of them all.

He had a great prime, and even better peak, which unfortunately lasted way too short. He led the Suns to a Finals appearance in 93, but he lost to the Jordan led Bulls.

Additionally, Barkley established a reputation for himself as a clutch player who came through with many game winners and always elevated his game when it mattered most.

He wasn’t really committed to playing defense and was lazy. He even admitted these himself later on. He’s got a respectable case to go as high as second on this list.

Honors: Elected to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2006); NBA MVP (1993); All-NBA First Team(1988, ’89, ’90, ’91, ’93); All-NBA Second Team (1986, ’97, ’92, ’94, ’95); All-NBA Third Team (1996); 11-time All-Star; All-Star MVP (1991); One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996); Olympic gold medalist (1992, ’96).

3.Bob Pettit

Height: 6’9

Weight: 205 lbs

Type Of A Player: All-Around

An overlooked player who revolutionized the power forward position and was with his game years ahead of his time. Bob Pettit wasn’t just one of the top power forwards, he was one of the greatest players in NBA History.

He excelled on the offense. Bob was one of the finest offensive forces of any time. With his quickness, mobility, lethal shot and excellent post up game, he could score in variety of ways and in bunches. He won two scoring crowns.

Pettit was also one of the top shooters to play the game and quite possibly without a peer from 55-64. He got the line numerous times and made most of his attempts. In fact, his offense is certainly on a top level when all things are considered.

He was additionally one of the most elite presences on the glass of all time. He led once in total rebounds and was really consistent. He

finished with high averages and ranks high on the all time lists.

Additionally, he was known for his admirable consistency and one of the finest primes too. There wasn’t a year, in which he wasn’t an elite power forward.

Bob also had a reputation as the NBA’s premier clutch players. He led the St.Lois Hawks to a title in ’58 with a legendary performance of 50 points, 25 rebounds, as he poured in 19 of his team’s last 21 points in that game

He averaged at least 28.0 points in his Finals appearances. However, he sealed his legacy with a championship in a dramatic fashion over the greatest dynasty and perhaps player ever.

He’s got a solid case for the top 10 and arguably for the honor of top power forward. There wasn’t a thing he couldn’t do. Why above Charles? Because of his career, prime, hard work, hustle and achievements. In all the rest, it’s arguable.

Honors: Elected to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1970); NBA champion (1958); NBA MVP (1956, ’59); 10-time All-NBA First Team (1955-64); All-NBA second team (1965); Rookie of the Year (1955); One of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996).

2.Karl Malone

Height: 6’9

Weight: 250 lbs

Type Of A Player: All-Around

A legendary power forward who dominated based on his physicality, remained in top shape and rarely missed games. Karl Malone was one of the greatest players in NBA History.

He was one of the most physically imposing forces the game had ever seen. His rare combination of size, strength and power allowed him to dominate his opponents in a way like few had.

Karl was one of the top scorers of any time. He scored well thanks to his ability to finish inside, run the fast brake and get to the line. In fact, he’d add on a lethal jumper later on and be even more tougher to stop.

Malone retired as the second all time leader in points. Although he benefited from playing with a playmaker like Stockton, there was no doubt at all that he could score with the elite and he showed that numerous times.

Nobody could nor or got to the stripe more than the Mailman. He’s the game’s leader in free throws, both made and attempted which of course only helped his scoring.

He was known as one of the best presences on the glass ever. He grabbed dozens of boards and even led twice in defensive rebounds, another fact where he’s the all time leader.

A big reason why he remained great, even in the 40′s was his work ethic. That’s the reason why he developed a deadly shot in the other part of his career and went from a 50% FT shooter, to a 75% shooter at the charity.

He’s arguably second to none in terms of works out. Karl additionally became a strong and physical defender, who managed to earn three All-Defensive Teams and was a solid presence in the paint defensively.

Malone also had a really long prime, impressive peak and even more amazing career that only lacked one thing. A championship. Due to some bad luck and the Bulls, he never got one.

Nonetheless, he achieved a lot. He’s arguably a top 10 player when all things are taken in consideration and greatest power forward of them all.

Why above Pettit? Because he had a better prime, durability, work ethic, rebounding, defense and physicality.

Honors: NBA MVP (1997, ’99); 11-time All-NBA First Team (1988-1999); All-NBA Second Team (1988, 2000); All-Defensive First Team (1997-99); All-Defensive Second Team (1988); 14-time All-Star (1988-98, 2000-02); NBA All-Rookie Team (1985); One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996); Two-time Olympic gold medalist (1992, ’96); Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2010.

1.Tim Duncan

Height: 6’11

Weight: 248 lbs

Type Of A Player: All-Around

A quiet big man who developed his game based on his great skills and fundamentals, he’s dominated quietly. Tim Duncan isn’t only the finest power forward, he’s truly one of the greatest players in NBA History.

He’s the most fundamentally sound player of all time. He isn’t called the Big Fundamental for nothing. He understood the fundamentals quite well.

Timmy is one of the most all-around players to play the game. He’s got a complete package and hasn’t got a weakness in his game. He’s done everything on a top level.

Duncan’s also arguably the best defender to step on a NBA Hardwood. He’s the perfect fundamentally sound stopper, who uses his size, length, skill set combined with his high basketball IQ and instincts to excel on this side of the court.

He holds the record for most All-NBA Defensive Teams, with 13 selection, including eight All-First Teams. Tim is one of the most elite shot blockers as well and impressively so, considering he’s done most of his work on the ground.

The Big Fundamental is one of the top rebounders of any time. He led once in total boards and is known for elevating his rebounding in the playoffs and finals.

Another thing that sparks him is consistency, in which he’s second to none. He’s been consistently playing well and on terrific level, that earned him high praise.

He’s established himself as one of the premier clutch performers that the league has ever seen. Duncan has always elevated himself in the playoffs and finals. He’s one of the rares to win a title without a All-NBA team mate.

Additionally, Timmy’s prime and peak is comparable with anyone. He’s been really good, and is still much better. He achieved quite a lot in his illustrated career.

Why’s ranked at the top? That’s because of his dominance, excellence at both sides of the floor, winning, clutch, consistency, career and prime, peak that can rival anyone else’s. In other words, he’s what you’d want from a world class power forward.

Honors: 4× NBA Champion (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007), 3× NBA Finals MVP (1999, 2003, 2005), 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2002–2003), NBA Rookie of the Year (1998), 13× NBA All-Star (1998, 2000–2011), 9× All-NBA First Team (1998–2005, 2007), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2006, 2008–2009), All-NBA Third Team (2010), 8× All-Defensive First Team (1999–2003, 2005,2007–2008), 5× All-Defensive Second Team (1998, 2004, 2006,2009–2010), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1998), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2000), USBWA College Player of the Year (1997), Naismith College Player of the Year (1997), John Wooden Award (1997), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1996–1997)

Honorable Mention

Chris Webber, Dolph Schayes, Jerry Lucas, Larry Nance, Bob McAdoo (if he’s counted as one, not in my book though), Connie Hawkins, Spencer Haywood etc.
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Written by Darko Mihajlovksi, Columnist (Archive/Feed)