Former NBA swingman Caron Butler played alongside and against some of the best basketball players that have ever lived as he playing career spanned about 15 years atop the highest level. As a result, Butler definitely knows a thing or two about the game and was recently asked about the greatest NBA player of all time. However, Butler ultimately gave a well-rounded, though very diplomatic answer.
“It depends,” Butler responded to a question asking who he thinks the best player in NBA history is, via Bleacher Report. “Just based off stats, Kareem. His longevity is impressive. After that, you shift to LeBron, Kobe, MJ, guys of that stature.”
Even though Butler somewhat dodged the frequently asked question, it is hard to argue with the former NBA swingman as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan and LeBron James are no doubt at the very top — or very close to it — for just about any list that can be compiled in regards to the best player ever. Like Butler said, if stats are involved, perhaps the conversation changes as the eye-test surely favors players like the trio of James, Jordan and Bryant. These three played more versatile roles than a center like Abdul-Jabbar, which certainly plays into the optics.
With the league currently on hiatus due to the “coronavirus” outbreak, the tragic death of Bryant still hitting home and the recently aired “The Last Dance” documentary on ESPN, the NBA's “G.O.A.T.” discussion remains at the forefront of sports — and specifically basketball — debates.
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