Elgin Baylor - Most Underrated Player in NBA History

[@ChardicusFinch]

Sadly, fans nowadays do not know Mr. Baylor anymore. For me, he will always remain as one of the top 10 NBA players of all time. Without him, the evolution of the game would not escalate rapidly. His excellent skills on the court was way ahead of his time. A player from the late '50s, '60s, and early '70s with the skills of 2000s basketball. A true legend: Mr. Elgin Baylor.

[@erics9754]

The skills of the 60s and 80s the skills are non-existent now!!! Today's NBA is pathetic they can't even dribble now!!!!!!

[@BeerAndJointsAllDay]

Most younger fans haven't even heard of Wilt, let alone Baylor...damn it man, time is flying fast..

[@TheGamerDiZ]

Elgin Baylor is a champion. Don't let anyone tell you different. The story is Baylor suffered a career ending knee injury 9 games in a Championship season for the Lakers. Rules were different then, although he was part of the teams roster technically, he did not participate in the Finals therefore negated his status as a champion. And to this day the NBA has never acknowledged him as part of that championship team. He made his contributions and did his dues to the team to the best of his ability, he should be acknowledged for what he's contributed to that team and for the organization. Heck, even for the league and sport itself. Elgin Baylor is without a doubt a champion. Don't let anyone tell you different.

[@dshelton1100]

DiZ interesting. Now the story that comes down is that he RETIRED before that championship season. Hmm...very knowledgeable tidbit. Didn't know.

[@davearmock1466]

Elgin wasn't underrated while he was playing or even by great players that played after him. That narrows it down to a few sportswriters that came much later and the marketers promoting the modern game and players. Great tribute to a great player that played in a great era.

[@Amick44]

@@dshelton1100 The (achilles, I believe) injury, forced into retiring.

[@Amick44]

@@davearmock1466 True. Just that TODAY, he is often overlooked or not even mentioned. Of course that goes for MANY greats of the past.

[@hearoisrael2814]

Well said. He played on that team officially an the NBA played him, period. Elgin Baylor is easily a top 10 All time great he was simply as complete as they'll ever come. 27/13/4 career numbers are scary for a SF idc what era it is a great player is exactly that. If he didn't play with Jerry West who also has a 27 PPG career average Elgin might have a 35 PPG career average. He was breathtaking an it's sad he's not talked about more, he is firmly in the conversation with anyone in the public's top 10 Jordan Magic LeBron etc

[@poddunk7647]

I am 68, I have watched basketball all my life, been an NBA fan all my life! Elgin Baylor is the most underrated player in any sport, by far!! The guy invented glide, hang time floater, and turn around jump shot!! My number one player of all time!!!

[@Amick44]

PODdunk ! Elgin in B ball. Stan Musial in baseball.

[@hearoisrael2814]

My Dad favorite player too. It wasn't until my adult years I truly understand what he meant now.

[@acewilliams7917]

@@hearoisrael2814 That's the problem with younger generations, they don't care to do their history or know anything of the past. I never saw Baylor play, he was of my father's time. But after learning about Baylor, he's hands down the best all round player I've ever hear of.

[@anansi1641]

@@acewilliams7917 Oscar always picked him as the best, esp his Dribbling skills.

[@daniellack3559]

I am one year younger than you, thanks for explaiining to the newbies how spectacular he was

[@Oldskoolbball]

Mike before The Mike , Doc before The Doc, Elgin Baylor.

[@1990758]

Oldskoolbball three totally different basketball players

[@bunzglazing6979]

exactly, he could do what they both were famous for

[@johnvitale542]

Elgin's style copied by Dr J., and Mike copied Dr J.. Elgin created so many moves that others emulated.

[@pistolpete6796]

Oldskoolbball lebron plays pretty similar

[@1990758]

Oldskoolbball his moves are nothing like drj

[@Amick44]

I recall Dr J saying something very similar once. He said "a lot of guys in practice do incredible things. But when the game starts, they play so not to get taken out of the game. They don't want to take chances, look bad to the coach. I dared to be great." Elgin said the same early in this video.

[@NotJohnSwartzwelder]

RIP, Mr. Baylor. We can't ever thank you enough for what you brought to our favorite sport.

[@getmoneygang8639]

Who here after the Terrible news😥RIP Elgin Baylor Laker legend 🙏🏾Another laker Legend Gone

[@georgejohnson5789]

Mr. Baylor has earned his Promotion! It's normal to be selfish & want people to always be present...Many have stated the price of freedom is (so called ) death...I choose to. CELEBRATE the time he SHARED with US!

[@joebuck7495]

@@georgejohnson5789 death isn’t the end of us anyway...onto the next chapter of our existence...

[@flutoporter6971]

When did he pass

[@HawkingRegime13]

I never watched Elgin Baylor when he played, but seeing these highlights makes him look so in control it is ridiculous how great his decision making is and finishing at all points of the court.

[@NBA75th]

Jordan, LeBron, Kareem, Wilt, Russell, Baylor, Olajuwon, and Shaq: Check out the 2013-14 book NBA's 50 Greatest Basketball Players of All-time is one of the most extensive "factual and statistical" references available. www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00INWRXWK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_twi_2?qid=1421293982&sr=8-1

[@iess2006]

Massive props for making this video! Elgin, Oscar, Wilt, Russ, West....all of these guys were so much more mentally and physically tougher than today's candy ass NBA.

[@adnanhamka1261]

Rip Legend 😔🙏🏼 One of the most underrated players ever.

[@Unbndnik]

For real rip I remember watching this vid and learning so much about him then going off in 2k all star team up with him

[@WaltNari]

Elgin Baylor = the template for modern basketball. Much respect to the originator.

[@erics9754]

Elgin Baylor would school todays weak ass players!!!

[@jameslein9411]

Elgin is my favorite player ever. There is one play I've never seen on replay. In a Feb. 1967 game in LA against Wilt and the 76ers. Somehow it was a total one on one. Wilt was coming up the court late, alone, and Elgin stole the ball from someone, and it was just the two of them, Wilt like a hockey goalie out of the net back down cutting off Elg's way to the basket. After several fake moves, he couldn't get around Wilt, who kept cutting off the angle. Finally, he leaped up, went horizontal, faked a shot directly up and over and flicked the ball high and away ever so slightly toward the right top corner of glass. Too quick for any thinking, I leaped up, right arm extended and let go a roar that seemed a full second before anyone else did. The ball touched high on the backboard and then flicked off downward, angling right through. Swish. Then the crowd erupted. I'd seen enough of Elgin in person in Minneapolis to sense the only move he could make. And I'd seen Wilt and Gene Shue in a similar situation of TV, with Wilt humil.

[@karl24-75]

Still hard to comprehend how great Elgin Baylor was. Growing up in Washington, D.C. , him and Dave Bing were 2 of the alltime D,C. legends, and years later , after watching these highlights I am still amazed at how special a talent Baylor truly displayed as he was a transcendent forerunner to generations afterward, and became the prototype for all small forwards that came later. Maybe the best all around superstar ever. No weakness!

[@darnellbush2408]

BRAVO you got that right, Baylor & Bing were awesome. I was fortunate to grow up in the sixties to witness greatness💪

[@BasketballJones48021]

Tremendous footage, thanks for this. Elgin was amazing.

[@Amick44]

EVERY star after him owes him a debt of gratitude. Dr J, Rick Barry and Connie Hawkins all acknowledge he is the original innovator.

[@tyronenathan8209]

Pause

[@SoggySlopster]

He played against 5’4 gardners and plumbers

[@moeball740]

@@SoggySlopster He played against the best competition available at the time and dominated. Of course future generations of players have been better than what Elgin went up against but that's evolution. Twenty years from now there will be players capable of doing things we can barely imagine right now. It is, like Thanos, inevitable.

[@isaiahstrong7237]

R.I.P Elgin, here because his death was just announced😞

[@mmsoulmm]

me to

[@robertdonnell1542]

@@mmsoulmm Me three...

[@noahfisher7343]

Me 69

[@robertdonnell1542]

@@noahfisher7343 GOD bless U my enlightened brother!

[@Mr.Frog_frogo]

wait hes dead?

[@kimballchatfield5347]

Saw Elg many times in person at the Forum when I was in high school/college. He was the greatest, most exiting player I have ever seen. No one has his incredible hang time shots. His defense is often ignored but he could steal the ball so easily, especially inbound passes. Yes, if he were playing today he would receive greater attention.

[@tunanorth]

+Kimball Chatfield We probably sat near each other at "the Fabulous Forum". As late as 1975, I was attending an Eric Clapton concert there, and a few sad balloons were still stuck way up in the rafters from the balloon drop that never happened after game 7 in 1969 [I was there then, too].

[@brianarbenz1329]

I’m glad to see the internet introducing today’s fans to Elgin Baylor. He is the best all around basketball player ever.

[@johnvitale542]

Have been watching hoops since 1958 and Baylor is the greatest all around player I have ever seen. Did all facets of the game at an elite level ball handling, defense, scoring, assists, rebounding. In the top 6 or so every year in all those categories. There is no other player who played at that level. all have a weakness in one of those categories, Also the only player aside from Wilt who is in the top nine all time in both scoring and rebounding.

[@JohnLick96]

LeBron James is better in most of those categories. Elgin Baylor was only a better scorer and he shot a lower percentage while LeBron is the youngest to score 25,000+ points ever.

[@johnvitale542]

Baylor played most of his career injured. In his first 4 years he averaged 34 ppg and 16 rb. Far quicker and more explosive than Lebron. Lebron is a bit bigger thats it.

[@vb14086]

John, I have been watching basketball for a few years less, started when moving to L.A. as a kid in 1963. You are dead on - Baylor is the best all round basketball player I have seen. Chick Hearn said so, and he saw more basketball than any of us. Oscar Roberston, when asked 'who the best basketball player he ever saw was', replied. 'This may surprise you, since he doesn't get talked about, but it's Elgin Baylor'. Enough said.

[@lucacosta3366]

John Vitale not even close to being as explosive as Lebron James, dude are you blind?

[@johnvitale542]

@@lucacosta3366 Lebron is a great all around player, but he is Bayor in slow motion! You are an insulting jerk besides grow up!!

[@johnvitale542]

Would be interesting to see what Elgin would do with the ability to turn the ball over and change directions like they can today. When Baylor played it was called palming the equal to traveling!

[@roberta-ls9lr]

You are so right! Players were not allowed to carry the ball in that era. Can you imagine what Baylor, West, Robertson and the other would have done?

[@markwittrock8076]

@@roberta-ls9lr yes high school palming. Double dribble like running.. now.

[@michaelhaggerty6126]

Baylor was a great ball handler but the rules were very strict. You couldn't touch the ball with tha palm of your hand and you couldn't touch the bottom hallf of the ball either. That's what makes today's players look so slick out there. Ball handling rules were loosened up after the '70s. It would have been great to see Baylor playing with today's rules.

[@ferneld]

@@roberta-ls9lr Qqii

[@jimmybrice6360]

@@michaelhaggerty6126 it would be even nicer to see the players of today forced to actually dribble the ball, instead of running with it !!

[@chanpyokim2774]

Basketball illiterates likes to say that people like Wilt Chamberlain was only dominant because of his size and strength. And yet a man from the same exact era that was 8 inches shorter than him was 3rd in all time scoring and 4th in all time rebounds when he retired. It show how ignorant and disrespectful so called basketball "fans" are, especially in today's era.

[@lilripstaSSF4]

I totally agree with you if baylor and chamberlain played in today's NBA it wouldn't be fair

[@mickee06]

lilripstaSSF4 if Shaq,jordan,kobe,iverson,dirk, Hakeem and a few others played in that era it really wouldn't be fair. Elgin I think would do ok in today's league but not Wilt because he didn't have to many moves, he would get double teamed a lot and he wouldn't avg 48 shot attempts in a season. Wilt advantage wasn't he skill set but size

[@defaultdot6633]

Another idiot who never really saw Wilt play. Of course he wouldn't average 48 shot attempts in today's slower era but saying he relied on his size is ridiculous, his go to moves was the finger roll and FADEAWAY JUMPER and in the 60's he was double teamed before EVEN GETTING THE BALL. He even set the field goal percentage record in the NBA and the 90's is easily the most overrated era of centers, every knowledgable basletball fan knows that the 70's and not the 90's is the best era of centers.

[@Amick44]

Chanpyo Kim Those are the (hopefully) young fools who only saw or believe, only Kobe or Lebron are any good. Those who do not know of Michael or anyone before his time.

[@Amick44]

rukan tan While many of todays' players are faster, the pace of the game (different) was often quicker then. Teams passed the ball up the floor after made baskets, passed from back court to front court, to get into the offense more quickly.

[@bowsershark]

The film shows the quality of Elgin as a versitile skilled strong swift shooter, defender, passer and rebounder. Additionally, he made teammates better or could be a outstanding match up player. He is co signed by the doctor as the architect of a modern player. You can see the forerunning moves of many past/current stars in his game. Elgin was truly one of the NBA's most gifted players. 👍 A 6'5" 230 dynamic beast of skills.

[@mikejulz87]

I never know who Baylor is until I played 2k13. He got the 3rd best rating for a SF, behind only LeBron and Bird. He was great to play against in CPU. He put up points, rebounding and dunking. So I gotta come here and see for myself if it's true and see who he is. And damn he is the real deal. We all heard of the great players of the 60s and 70s, but this guy's name never came up. Truly an underrated player.

[@aarondigby9859]

The most underrated player ever in the NBA, if the Lakers had a center to match Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain they'd have won a couple of 'chips in the sixties.

[@tylerkasuboski3366]

Elgin Baylor and Oscar Robertson are probably my two picks for the two most often "unknown" or "overlooked" mega-great legends by many NBA fans under the age of 50 today. Two absolute monsters who changed the game forever.

[@aarondigby9859]

Elgin Baylor and the Big O are on many a top five All NBA lists, I'd be satisfied if I had to take these two on my first team.

[@kingofnewyork7765]

@@aarondigby9859 no kids today call them plumbers sadly.

[@morrisparrish76]

Just think if wilt or Russell’s were not born Oscar=Elgin who would have been called the greatest?

[@manny4552]

​@@aarondigby9859and John havlicek

[@flintfleming3935]

I hear u . MJ is great. Oscar beats him by miles..

[@Aarontank24]

Rest In Peace. Elgin Baylor😭😢

[@jingqi9106]

Before his knee injury, Elgin was as athletic a player as the NBA has ever seen. After the knee injury he was still a great player because he was so skilled.

[@Madvillainy48]

Just think, he's basically the prototype of Lebron James and magic with the ability to play all positions and do anything needed. And without him, THERE WOULDN'T BE LA LAKERS!!

[@1990758]

S0 Friday lot of Laker fans don't know who he is and don't care as far as their concern it all started in the 80s with Magic Johnson

[@lucacosta3366]

S0 Friday how can he be a prototype of them when he’s not better than either of those guys lmao

[@Amick44]

@@1990758 Sure. And with some younger ones, it all started with Kobe. But Elgin and Jerry really started it all.

[@ihavepigeonnut6874]

Goerge Mikan put the LA lakers on the map. But I understand what you mean, the lakers' history in the 60's would've been different w/o elgin

[@bakgammon]

@@lucacosta3366 so grant hill wasn't a prototype for Lebron??

[@johnthrasher8146]

Truth that Elgin is underrated today. He was the best from 1959 through 1965 he was the Michael Jordan of his era. Wilt was Wilt and Russell was Russell but for sheer amazement and game it was Elgin Baylor! Thanks for the great clips!

[@RJR1956]

Youngster's today don't know who Elgin Baylor. Pound for pound the greatest basketball player of all time....

[@robertjenkins8812]

elg22jerry44 I agree!

[@fromonelegendtoanother6404]

GOAT conversation is between MJ, Wilt, Magic, Dr. J , LeBron, Elgin and Oscar. IMO.

[@1990758]

elg22jerry44 I would agree with that

[@Ratchet413]

elg22jerry44 even better than Jordan and Oscar Roberson ?

[@premiumchannel6244]

elg22jerry44 i think so that he is underrated but wilt is man the guy has 90 something records still

[@danielclark1247]

He was the original LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Dr. j, Kobe, Larry Bird, and Michael Jordan....could do it all...easily most underrated player of all time

[@Amick44]

+Daniel Clark High praise, but true.

[@vb14086]

Yep, all true.

[@johndailey2323]

@THE Rattler he was also on reserve duty for the military and couldn't practice throughout his career

[@floyd9727]

I totally understand and have an extreme respect for Elgin Baylor. But as for UNDERRATED I say John Stockton. NO DISRESPECT. But John is leader in 2 statistical categories and shot over .515 % fg (peaking at .574% in 1988 17 ppg 13.6 asp) and had a true shooting percentage of .608% and and his stats (both simple and advanced) are simply amazing. No disrespect. Love Elgin, probably one of my favorite Lakers of all time, but the all time underrated player (in my opinion) is John Stockton. Amazing video.

[@broadstreet21]

Only reason he was underrated was because he never won a championship. These days, championships are considered to be at least a prerequisite for greatness - without one, players can put together an otherworldly career and be disqualified from a top-ten all-time list. Baylor probably might be considered a top-ten player of all time had he at least won a ring. Instead, he's the greatest player of all time never to win one.

[@tw69hands2]

To describe Elgin Baylor's game in one word: Beautiful.

[@Amick44]

+Terrill Wyche And powerful, creative, effective, versatile. Ok, I'll stop.

[@tw69hands2]

Mick A: You're right. There wasn't anything he couldn't do plus he was also super tough.

[@tw69hands2]

rex waller: When you average 27 mpg and 14 rbg at small forward, you're not erratic. When Bob Pettite says you're the best forward and all the other small forwards of the next 20 years place you in their all-time top 5, then you're not erratic. Try again.

[@Amick44]

+Terrill Wyche True. For those who want to downgrade and Elgin and sometimes Havlicek, for their FG%, they need to remember that one reason scores were a bit higher back then was teams (and players) were encouraged to take the 1st available shot, often regardless of the shot clock. The past several yrs or so, teams work the shot clock down, thus shooting % are generally higher than the 60's and scoring is lower as well. Obviously this affects rebounding totals well, so you don't see anyone rebounding like Wilt, Russell, Thurmond, Pettit and Lucas anymore either.

[@tw69hands2]

rex waller: Elgin Baylor was a lot of things but undisciplined wasn't one of them. Jerry West, his longtime teammate never referred to Elgin Baylor in that context at all and Jerry West is the logo for the NBA. Think that over.

[@PHreshlySnipez13]

His creativity was Incredible u can clearly see his influence in his ability to drive and change the angle and direction of the ball mid air that's been emulated over the years extremely well rounded player

[@iMacxXuserXx485]

I knew Baylor was an all time great scorer and rebounder, but look at some of those passes!! Dude was a complete player.

[@danalawton2986]

Just looking at these highlights.... definitely was a superstar and yes, ahead of his time massively. Do not forget this man!

[@Plmncvb]

Baylor, like so very many (all?) of his peers, did it ALL without thumping his chest, playing to the cameras, or acting like he'd just won the NBA title when he made a sensational shot...and his terrific scoring before the 3-point rule yet. I "discovered" Elgin Baylor about the time I hit 8th grade in the late 50s, became an instant Baylor fan, and Lakers too because of him. 60 years later I still consider him my favorite all-time NBA player.

[@mikjord]

What people fail to realize is that without Elgin Baylor there wouldn't have been the LA Lakers. Baylor is the most important LA Laker of all-time.

[@jfitzbanks60]

One of, if not the Greatest, Highlight Reels i've ever seen. I've had to watch it a couple of times just to take it all in. Even with the knee injury, the type of surgeries we have in the 21'st Century, he still would have been unstoppable from the 80's to the 2010's. For sure.

[@fatdan_95]

Same here. One of the few highlight reels that literally makes your jaw drop. If there's one player in history I wish I could have seen live, it would have to be Elgin Baylor

[@Amick44]

Me too. I saw Kareem, Pistol, Barry, Erving, Havlicek, Walton, Tiny. I too would have loved to have seen Elgin live.

[@johnvitale542]

I saw him play if I had one word to describe him -"Explosive".

[@Amick44]

Multi-talented, too.

[@1990758]

John Fitzgerald wrong it's dr. j

[@russelljackson5625]

I never seen Baylor played before but looking at these highlights he had major game smooth and always in control

[@dondudley8366]

Wore his number 22, patterned my game after his style. Was able to get four year scholarship watching him. Where I live, he is not underrated , ; everybody wanted to be like him. He is one of the greatest. Just awesome!!

[@xart23x]

Wow. His footwork and fundamentals were so great. He could drive and dribble both left and right and had great touch. No wonder he's top 50 player.

[@francismuiruri9064]

there is so much i do not know.

[@acewilliams7917]

This is why a do ya homework and listen to elders who lived. Always be learning.

[@airlebron7467]

@@acewilliams7917 well said

[@bonniejohnson1518]

in an era of huge dominating centers, Elgin, a forward averaged 20 rebounds a game in 1961, and 19 rebounds a game in 62 before his knee injuries.

[@GoCrazy69]

The one to start it all respect

[@choward5430]

All great players imbue uniqueness. Just watching this clip, I saw Baylor make shots that no one can make...IN A GAME! I met Mr. Baylor once and shook his hand. May I say that my hand disappeared in his hand and I was also surprised at how big a man he is.

[@Amick44]

C Howard Good for you. I would feel the same if I were ever so privileged. Mike, Elgin ...... and the others.

[@michaelwilliams4616]

C Howard good for you bro

[@vb14086]

I met him, too when I was a young kid at a Sears in L.A. along with Gail Goodrich. Jerry West always said that Elgin's hands were huge, that he could so easily palm the ball and with his great strength and huge hands could do so many shots that others could only dream about. Also, people in those days didn't dunk as they do now - it was usually only done when the circumstances required it. Baylor's vertical reach was measured at 11' 11 inches and that's why in one video you have the fellow player talking about how in college they saw Baylor cut his arm on the rim grabbing a rebound and the cut was from near his armpit, he was that high up over the rim. He is the best I have ever seen and the humblest player as well. Jerry West said that there were 2 players that when he saw them on the court looked jut regal. One was the great Bill Russell. The other was Elgin Baylor.

[@robotnik77]

Elg was my favorite basketball player of all time. I wanted to wear his number, but the Center on my HS team got it first. I settled for number 9 and got to like it. Best wishes, Elg - you were my basketball hero. I worked on that hang shot and scoop of ice cream, and it worked out fine for me. Thanks, Captain (Chickie Babe, too - the greatest sports announcer, ever). Oh, and Elg may be underrated, but not by me - I've watched him since he was a rookie in '58. He's the reason BB is my favorite sport. I tried not to miss any Lakers games back then, but I had to miss some. When I was in the Navy I only caught one Lakers game on AFRS (Armed Forces Radio Service). When I got home after 4 years I was so happy that Elgin was still active. Unfortunately, he missed a lot of games those last two years, but when he did play, he still had that desire and flair. He just loved to play. You know what else? he didn't have a big head; he was very humble, even though he'd kid around a lot. One thing they never mention about Elgin - he missed 2 NBA season because of his Army service.

[@yom0mma214]

Rip Mr Baylor, thanks for everything

[@jjwet35apc]

It's really a shame that most of us today did not get to experience these greats during their prime. I suppose a highlight reel is as close is it gets. Between Baylor, Oscar Robertson or Connie Hawkins, it's really a shame these guys are forgotten but their highlight reels are such beautiful basketball. These are some great forgotten players that deserve way more recognition in history.

[@Amick44]

The player who most missed the media coverage of past 20 yrs. Everyone would know of his greatness today if he had been in the recent era.

[@darnellbush2408]

I'll never forget watching Elgin back in the day what a STUD💪👍😃

[@Red4350]

Came here to pay my respects! Definitely underrated and does not get his due credit! Trend Setter!

[@tsrig1027]

This man is the inspiration behind "hang time" stars like Julius Erving and MJ. Jordan himself said that there would be no Michael Jordan without Elgin and Dr. J.

[@lloydkline6946]

Connie Hawkins too

[@lloydkline6946]

@ThreeCreators connie Hawkins was the original 6 feet 8 inches point guard; close to the basketball he was unstoppable because he could hold the basketball like a cantaloupe ; they say he came in the nba too late past his prime

[@lloydkline6946]

@ThreeCreators wilt said connie Hawkins could do anything with a basketball but he could not play defense ; super hugh hands handle the basketball like a 6 feet 8 inches point guard;; make the basketball disappear ; long past his prime in the nba

[@timolau7390]

Didn't know Baylor's defense was that good. I always learn something new from watching your videos... good job!

[@AE0323]

Baylor was his time’s Lebron; a do it all, freak athlete (for his time), small forward that dominated the game with the combination of strength, incredible finishing ability and next level court vision.

[@1990758]

You can't be serious Elgin Baylor was a thousand times better than LeBron James

[@drdre4397]

@@1990758 Comparisons like that are mute. Leaving gameplay style out of it. Thats 60+ years of medical and scientific advancement at LeBron's disposal. You could just say they were both greats of their respective era's but I guess people like to argue.

[@1990758]

@@drdre4397 I could just say what I want to say and I'm saying Elgin Baylor is better than LeBron James that's what I could say

[@drdre4397]

@@1990758 so could you say it or are you saying it? You contradicted yourself in your petty attempt at a witty remark. Maybe next time you'll hit the ball slugger.

[@1990758]

@@drdre4397 that's for you to figure out

[@blade5201]

Rip Legend, one of the best nba players of all time!!!

[@johnvitale542]

GOAT Period! Baylor is the only player in NBA history who could run and dribble with guards, shoot with anyone, change direction in midair but most significantly rebound with centers. He is the 9th leading rpg player of all time and the 4th leading scorer ppg of all time in a time when there was no 3 pt shot!. He played half his career with calcium deposits in his knees. His first few healthy years he averaged 34 ppg and 16 rebounds-ridiculous numbers. No on else even comes close. When asked about Baylor Bill Russell said "the only way to stop Baylor is with an axe". No one could touch Elgin one on one! Amazing to watch the most exciting player I have ever seen!

[@Amick44]

John Vitale When you put it in that perspective, wow. Larry couldn't dribble like Elgin, Barry, Erving, Jordan couldn't rebound with him, Magic couldn't score with him. Enough said.

[@lucacosta3366]

John Vitale You’re so fucking drunk. He’s not even a top 20 player of all time. How delusional and biased are you? List of players that are better: Jordan Lebron Kareem Magic Kobe Wilt Bird Shaq Duncan Hakeem Russell Oscar Durant Dr. J K Malone M Malone Wade Dirk Garnett Steph Curry

[@sheisqueen6321]

garnett???? nooooooooo

[@lucacosta3366]

Dope Gold okay that ones a toss up. Are you just going to ignore other players listed? Specifically the first 11-12 on the list? Elgin Baylor is not the best basketball player of all time and it’s not even a debate. Hakeem Olajuwon is hardly one of the 10 greatest players ever and he’s significantly better than Elgin Baylor

[@sheisqueen6321]

L L no i just think baylor better that garnett end of discussion

[@weiqi8956]

Gotta love those running one handers off the dribble. Elgin was truly a GREAT one.

[@jonnyarnett]

God, I love this channel. I don't know if you plan on uploading ever again, but I hope you do. These videos give me such an appreciation for these guys.

[@Amick44]

Thank you for watching? Thank you for bringing us this video of one of the VERY greatest to ever play.

[@jorgemartinbg]

I’m still amazed he didn’t win one. He was so influential.

[@deeonesauce]

Man I've always heard of him.. This video is great to see. I love how he spins the ball, and uses it for the reverse lay-up. Very similar to my own game! Unorthodox, but smooth.

[@johnvitale542]

Have been watching hoops since 1958 and Baylor is the greatest all around player I have ever seen. Did all facets of the game at an elite level ball handling, defense, scoring, assists, rebounding. In the top 6 or so every year in all those categories. There is no other player in NBA history who played at that level. all have a weakness in one of those categories, Also the only player aside from Wilt who is in the top nine all time in both scoring and rebounding. Most exciting player I have ever seen.

[@insaneonion86]

Lol, and that time have only 9 teams with scarce talents. And the league had not much good shooters but attempted shots is far more than modern NBA. He is ahead of his time though, doing different training from normal NBA players that time.

[@waynejohanson1083]

Better then Oscar Robertson would you say who is a all around player

[@johnvitale542]

@@waynejohanson1083 At an annual NBA awards dinner Bill Russell was named the greatest player of all time. Oscar disagreed, he said no it was Baylor!

[@ronclarke8546]

Thanks for posting this. My NBA experience started with Dr J as a child. I only had fleeting exposure to Elgin Baylor. About time I got schooled.

[@thebuzzz320]

It's sad this is the first highlight I've seen of him. His touch around the basket is the best I've ever seen in my life tbh. His lay up game is insane

[@cab6466]

Elgin is godfather of Lebron and Dr. J. Best all around player of his time. Legend.

[@1990758]

LeBron James is not in the same conversation with Elgin Baylor Elgin Baylor was a thousand times better than LeBron James there's no comparison

[@Guide1089]

Elgin Baylor would be a superstar today. One of the best, all time, PERIOD! Now he's gone. Never got the respect he deserved. Very sad. And he was a very humble man. One of the GREATS!!!!

[@minji-yah8333]

If he had rings people would put him in the Top 5 greatest player of all time

[@JayZoop]

Great players like should never be forgotten.

[@simeoncoleman6713]

Rip hopefully now people wit acknowledge ur greatness💔🙏🏾

[@jodifultz1221]

Thank you for posting this! Elgin Baylor never seemed to pop in my mind when I think of the greats, but now I will!

[@DonGiovanni]

Simply put: Lord Elgin is the greatest to ever touch a basketball!

[@johnvitale542]

Agreed. Few realize he was the ONLY player who could handle the ball like a guard play great defense and the only player in NBA history other than Chamberlain to be in the top ten all time in both scoring and rebounding. Most top scorers are not top rebounders and vice versa. Baylor was the only one! He also created most of the exciting styles of play copied by Dr J, Michael etc.

[@acewilliams7917]

Indeed, to do everything on a basketball court? Only the best player ever can do that.

[@Amick44]

@@acewilliams7917 he was certainly the first to do everything well.

[@bonniejohnson1518]

Baylor and West were probably the greatest 2 player combination ever..Willie

[@morrisparrish76]

@@bonniejohnson1518 WTF do you mean probably?

[@timgutierrez2211]

I grew up in LA and Elgin Baylor was tied with Jerry West as my favorite players. You coulldn't talk about one without mentioning the other. They complimented each other so well. I recall going to the games, Chic Hearn, the after game interviews. It was so exciting. Elgin is skipped over so often for no treason. My brother and I listened to Chic Hearns radio broadcast of that famous Celtics game.

[@vishyvikranth]

Thanks a lot WCA.....all those guys in the video who said Elgin reminded them (or the other way) of the grace of Dr. J, Jordan, Kobe etc. well I don't see much of Jordan or Kobe tbh. I see Dr. J in the way Elgin changes directions, contorts his body for those reverse layups, up and unders etc. but the one modern player Elgin reminds of is an older version (i.e. current) of Manu Ginobili. The flair, creativity, contortion and body control, the hesitation, the craftiness, the sneaky athleticism, the super quick first step,the crazy circus shots, the passing, the steals/ blocks just the all around game reminds me of Manu.

[@johnvitale542]

DR J has acknowledged copying Elgin's style and Michael has admitted to patterning his game after Dr. J. He was the originator of the airborne style and many other moves that are so prevalent today. The most exciting player I have ever seen!

[@georgejohnson5789]

All time CLASS HUMAN! I followed him while he attended Seattle University & as a Laker! Rarely saw any NBA games on TV in the 60's ...I remember Lakers always losing to Boston & the hated Celtics & Bill Russell & Co. And Elgin setting records...unstoppable...Truly IRONIC Lakers finally won a championship after he was unable to play...

[@piedpiped3267]

I know why you’re here. And it’s why I’m here too. Rip Elgin. The player most similar to Michael Jordan of his era

[@WarrenByrdSpeak]

I’m glad somebody did this. My big brothers used to regale us with stories of his stellar feats as my years of eyeing b-ball began a couple years after his retirement. For me, this feast of footage is long overdue-BigPhatThanks👊🏾

[@leandrobarra332]

Kobe Bryant stole the moves of Michael Jordan that stole Dr. J's moves which had been stolen from Elgin Baylor

[@Amick44]

And Doc would agree with you.

[@1990758]

Leandro Barra let's get it straight dr. J has never stolen anyone's move which movie are you referring to

[@michaelwilliams4616]

Mick A yep :-D

[@superfetus7755]

Leandro Barra don't say stolen say adopted

[@cinemaster9012]

MJ copied his brother what are you talking about

[@goinggorillas]

Thank you for this! I have never seen him play until now. Simply amazing, he is doing things I've never seen anyone do! Wow!

[@MrGG1959]

The best non-centre to ever play in the NBA. Simply awesome.

[@garrison6863]

The guy had the rebounding stats of a power forward, and could play inside like a PF. But he also could shoot and was an excellent passer. And this guy was one of the best drivers to the basket of his time period. When you add in his moves and hang time, he was simply sensational. In one game he scored 71 points and got 25 rebounds. In 1961-62, while in the service playing part time, he still averaged 38 PPG. In a game in the playoffs that year he scored 61 pts.

[@mostwantedjames]

Rest in peace Mr. Inside!

[@lukecash3500]

Pretty electrifying watching Baylor get a defensive rebound and torch everyone down the court. Those guys aren't running slow Baylor's just sprinter harder even than an nfl wr today.

[@EL1TEPT]

REST IN PEACE 🙏

[@latkalu60]

I grew up in So Cal in the '60's and Elgin was The Man. He and Jerry West were an incredible duo. But, somehow we would lose seemingly every year to the Celtics in The Finals. I would try to imitate Elgin's moves on the playground with little success. If Elgin could have used the "Euro step", palmed the ball like they do now and not have the hand checking on D used in his era, he could have averaged 50. He was a tremendous player and it's a shame that so many people did not see him play. Thanks for this video.

[@narutosage7801]

RIP LEGEND 💪🏾🔥🙏🏾

[@chrisgabler9507]

Elgin Baylor is a spectacular player at the SF position, but, like the video shows, could play like a PF, and could play both guard positions. The video shows not only his one-of-kind offensive moves, but his passing ability (reminds me of Magic Johnson) and tremendous rebounding ability, and shot-blocking on defense. His 60-61 season numbers were 34.8 ppg, 5.1 apg and 19.8 rpg. The 61-62 season was 38.3 ppg, 4.6 apg, and 18.6 rpg, this is before his knee injury in the 63-64 season. Baylor's career averages: 27.4 ppg, 4.3 apg, and 13.5 rpg. Tremendous player, and highly underrated. Thank you for the great video!

[@offtop5784]

without elgin baylor there is no showtime, no shaq and kobe, and no bron and ad RIP to the legend

[@bricefleckenstein9666]

1:50 61 points - by Elgin - is STILL the all-time Finals scoring record. Jordan and Rick Barry tied for second at 55. Jerry West at 53. Lebron James at 51 is the highest by a currently-active player.

[@bigtoballer3649]

Today all basketball is teaching young people is how to flop, and that the sport is all about business and not about the game. Elgin Baylor is one of my favorite players of all time. I wish I was born in that era, to watch actual competitive basketball. The only reason I am happy to be born in this era is that I got to watch Kobe Bryant. After Kobe retires I am done watching basketball. Will always support my Toronto Raptors!

[@ineverlikedyou45]

Then next year will be your last

[@AZNboi10921]

+BigTOBaller I won't think we should stop watching because Kobe retires. There will always be someone great popping up.

[@SuperGuitarDude7]

Thanks for doing this video! Very well done. I hope it gets in the feeds of a lot of people who have never heard of him. If they could see all this footage of him playing they’d know how great he was.

[@1perfectstrangerr]

It's funny that his dad named him after a wrist watch and then he one day be known for his "hang time" on a basketball court...My all time favorite player....

[@g7721]

Elgin needs to be in everyone's top 10. He is a fringe top 5 player in my opinion. Amazing.

[@ErnestPorter-wl1cx]

I believe that Elgin Baylor would be more effective in today's game.

[@zinecktv475]

U so dumb if u think that stick to hockey

[@jymirsmith5282]

To be honest he will

[@jymirsmith5282]

ZiNeck TV shut the fuck up nigga your racist ass dude will dominate in this era

[@czy3622]

LMAOOOP FUCKING OLD HEADS DONT KNOW SHIT ABOUT THE GAMR

[@vernpascal1531]

Thanx a lot for putting this together. My dad saw Elgin play at College of Idaho in about 1954-55 & all these years as a diehard Laker fan & Chick Hearn saying that" Elgin was doing the kind of things Dr. J did way before him". You can see some of it here, like Wilt they were doing things way ahead of their time.Notice Elgin didn't have as big a hands, or was a spectacular leaper like DR J, but he was more consistent for his time.. He did something look easy that was so hard, jump in the air palming the ball and change the shot depending on a defender's position.

[@vernpascal1531]

A couple other things on Baylor. he was only 6'5 but he was the best rebounder on the team for many years! That's the thing is all those years The Lakers lost to The Celtics they had Leroy Ellis,Imhoff, and Ray Felix who were mediocre against most teams,but disappear against Russell!

[@darthbandonkit]

If Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell both say you are a top 5 player of all time, then you are without a doubt a top 5 player of all time.

[@ronbonora7872]

you got that right!

[@simbacaspsun4998]

Elgin had the record for most points in a single game until Wilt broke it.

[@broadstreet21]

Did they say that before Bird or Johnson came along? Or before the world saw MJ or LBJ?

[@darthbandonkit]

@@broadstreet21 All except Lebron. Though I might add I'm not sure what that has to do with my comment.

[@broadstreet21]

@@darthbandonkit It means that their ranking cannot include players who have yet to begin playing. That Baylor is top five with Chamberlain, Russell, Johnson, and Jordan (or Bird). That once James joins the NBA, he might have a shot at knocking Baylor off the stage.

[@FailSlam]

RIP Mr.Baylor, basketball would not be as amazing as it is today without you.

[@jsthlrd]

Chic Hearn always called Baylor the greatest Laker of all time. That's saying a lot considering all the greats he saw play the game. He passed away before Kobe reached the top of his game, but I doubt if he would have changed his mind.

[@Amick44]

+Joel A Joel, if many younger fans had seen Elgin play, he would have changed many of their minds.

[@LazlosPlane]

+Mick A No doubt. Elgin could do it all: shoot, dribble, pass, rebound -- and was strong as a bull. Would eat up the league today.

[@LazlosPlane]

+Rudy C CONGRATULATIONS! You have just won the "Dumbest Fuck in the World," Award! What a colossal jerk. How old are you?

[@LazlosPlane]

+Rudy C No, stupid people are called jerks. That you think these skills are the measure of a basketball player proves the depth of your stupidity. Besides, he could do ALL of those things and more. But you're too stupid to be able to handle the concept that the game was VERY different and those things you point to were considered the sign of a poor, undisciplined player. That you value the dunk is another. Colossal, overwhelming jerk. What are you, twelve?

[@jsthlrd]

Rudy C You do know dunking was banned for a time, right? Also, if anybody from the '80's onward played in the '60's they would get called for travelling every second because stricter rules. dribbling. So, should I conclude that Jordan, Magic, Kobe and Lebron couldn't hang in the '60's because of this? That is your reasoning.

[@mikegillins4992]

Thanks for the upload archive...always knew how great of a scorer and rebounder baylor was but this video highlights his passing ability as well very impressed...unfortunately baylor gets forgotten about cause he never played on a championship team and to make matters worst the 72 laker team went on that 33 game win steak and title after he retired...bird and lebron both had great all around games for small forward but elgin all around game may be the best for that position (61 points scored in Boston garden in finals in 1962 may never be broken in the finals again!

[@MakaveliWillReturn]

How many people can you name that saved a franchise? There will never be another. #22

[@waynemccabe2307]

Great player. Best i ever saw. Saw him score 61 in game 5 of 1962 finals in Boston. LA won game but lost series in 7. Baylor did this without the 3 pt shot in game yet. Best forward i ever saw play. Great player.

[@jbond9637]

Elgin paved the way for Dr. J who paved the way for Jordan who paved the way for Kobe. It all started here. #Respek

[@bobjames5264]

Thank you SO VERY MUCH!! I knew of Elgin’s numbers, but it’s different to actually SEE him play!