Omissions from the NBA’s All-Time Top-75 List
When the NBA unveiled its all-time top-75 players list in 2021, two significant exclusions stood out prominently.
Notable Missing Players
The most glaring omission, which increasingly seems absurd over time, was Nikola Jokić. The second was Dwight Howard, whose career is often undervalued even as he is set to be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame this Saturday. While comparing players from various eras can be complex, Howard’s career achievements — such as five consecutive first-team All-NBA selections, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and four top-five MVP finishes — are impressive even by the list’s standards.
Contrasting Howard and Anthony
This Hall of Fame induction week also sees Howard’s contemporary, Carmelo Anthony, being recognized. It’s striking to realize that Anthony made the top-75 list without question, despite having no first-team All-NBA appearances, only one top-five MVP finish, and zero NBA Finals appearances, which pales in comparison to Howard’s accomplishments. This isn’t just a critique of Melo; a review shows many players on that list facing similar scrutiny.
Howard’s Unique Achievements
For those who prioritize championship success, consider this: Howard was the standout player and the sole superstar on an NBA Finals team during his peak. Examining the top 75 again reveals how many famous players do not meet this criterion.
Overlooked Dominance
Howard’s half-decade of excellence from 2006-07 to 2010-11 often goes unnoticed. This is partly due to the perception shaped by the latter part of his career, characterized by injuries and distractions that detracted from his initial prowess. His prime years unfolded in a smaller market like Orlando, with the 2009 Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers being his most significant but disappointing stage appearance.
Impact and Legacy
Not only was Howard instrumental on a competitive team, but his prime occurred during a time when the Eastern Conference was notably strong. His 2009 Orlando Magic defeated a defending 62-win Boston Celtics team and a 66-win Cleveland Cavaliers team featuring LeBron James, making Howard’s contributions pivotal in denying James an NBA Finals appearance during that era.
Conclusion: An Underappreciated Career
As we reflect on Howard’s career this weekend, it’s essential to focus on how underrated his early years are. His dominant span in Orlando deserves greater recognition in the broader narrative of NBA history, especially considering how rare such performances are in the league.
