(07-08-2022, 08:00 AM)dirkfansince1998 Wrote: Pistons front court looked really good. Stewart was 3/4 from 3. If he developed a consistent 3-ball they can play Stewart and Duren next to each other. Easily the most athletic PF/C duo in the league.
With Cunningham, Ivey and Bey playing 1-3. Probably my favorit young team right now.

(07-08-2022, 04:17 AM)Dundalis Wrote: Hakeem doesn't cut it IMO, you literally would need a Shaq who can literally get layups/dunks on almost every possession because he can just go through literally every players in the league.

(07-07-2022, 09:48 PM)Mavsfan12 Wrote: You don't think that at some point, some dominant dude could come along and shoot a crazy high percentage in the paint destroying all these smallball C's and finesse players who are in the league now?  Do you think that prime Shaq would have a place in this era?  Or just unable to cope with the way the game has evolved.  

(07-08-2022, 09:06 AM)Berknip Wrote: Out of simple curiosity, did you ever watch Hakeem play when he was in the league? I don't mean YouTube highlights. Actual in-season games during his career?

(07-08-2022, 09:22 AM)HoosierDaddyKid Wrote: He probably wasn't even born...Dream was one of the most skilled centers ever to play.

(07-08-2022, 08:57 AM)hakeemfaan Wrote: Giannis is not just survivable on defense. He is one of the best. Giannis also handles the ball like a guard. Shaq could do neither.  At least that iteration of Shaq. However that’s why I said it’s difficult to engage in hypotheticals because the Shaq growing up later would probably be a totally different type of player. 

It was not just Shaq. Even Barkley, Aguire, or a PG like Mark Jackson used to back folks down methodically and the NBA put a stop to all that. They didn’t want the game going in that direction.  It was a great move. Look at all the point forwards with size now.  My other fav sport is tennis. Garfia might be the closest to a stud on the horizon but it is not like the ATP has many next gen stars that folks are clamoring to watch. Meanwhile the NBA looks set for another 10-12 years easily and never seem to run out of must watch type of talent.

 
BTW for someone who wrote that Hakeem would not cut it now as opposed to Shaq, Hakeem is one of those who would absolutely dominate. He had the foot speed on defense, great offensive footwork, and a terrific fadeaway.  He was a skilled player who could kill you with skill or power, and skill is king now.