CBS Sports' 50 greatest NBA players of all time: 20 Year Update

Fond memories of generations long since gone are certainly a memorable treasure - but should be evaluated strictly on the basis of the level of play that existed during that era. Since this article is about the 50 greatest of all time it is important that the level of play for each generation be fully understood. There is no doubt in my mind that the caliber of basketball that was played in the 50's-60's was far inferior to the game that has existed since the 80's forward. While the players of those early years were a credit to the game their talent level has been far exceeded by the the nba player of the last 35 years. If anyone should desire a much more detailed analysis of the generational divide between generations - please speak up.

swish

Back in the day players cast the MVP votes. They knew. They really knew. In 1962 Oscar had the season long triple double. He finished 3d. Wilt averaged 50+/25+. He finished 2nd. Who won?

Bill Russell.

'Nuff said.

http://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/awards_1962.html

There are lots of ways to rate players and you can debate this type of list all day. There is also the impossibility of comparing players across eras.

But, regardless of that, Big O at 12 and Russ at 6??????

I'm with Matty. Total sh*t!

NYCelt wrote:There are lots of ways to rate players and you can debate this type of list all day.  There is also the impossibility of comparing players across eras.

But, regardless of that, Big O at 12 and Russ at 6??????

I'm with Matty.  Total sh*t!

NYCelt

"There is also the impossibility of comparing players across eras."

Its been 47 years since the Russell era ended and I find it very easy to compare those early years with this current generation. I don't find it much different than doing a technological comparison of the advancements of the last 47 years. But of course,the fewer the years - the greater the difficulty to measure major changes.

swish