Should Steph Be In The Conversation For Best Player Ever? | NBA on TNT

Watch highlights from Inside the NBA with Shaq, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson and more! Subscribe now to be updated on the latest videos: kzbin.info?sub_...
Connect with NBA on TNT:
Follow NBA on TNT on Twitter: / nbaontnt
Like NBA on TNT on Facebook: / nbaontnt
Follow NBA on TNT on Instagram: nbaontnt?h...

[@michaelhilvert6425]

I love that as petty as Shaq is, he is able to step back with humility and admit when another player is truly great

[@kokits]

Yeah.. he’s a bit unpredictable

[@Cynsham]

giv da bal to da big man an let him dominate

[@euro51116]

I have shaq over steph, he should give himself more credit.

[@gregl9175]

For now , next show he wouldn’t admit he said it, until they show him the video 😅😅

[@SuperRobertoClemente]

@@kokits I'd call it inconsistent. And doesn't always get it. Steph's D disqualifies him from any convo about "most complete player ever." Most clutch player ever? He's in that conversation. But he's certainly superhuman...

[@Ish4MyIggans]

He changed the way the game is currently being played for the past decade.

[@erictinsley2823]

He made it soft

[@InsaneTrickShots]

He owns your phony goat bronnie James senior

[@undee6299]

nope Lebron changed the game by recruiting super star players, Joining super teams, firing coaches, flopping, complaining and most of all all time great on turnovers, LBJ still the goat.... 😅😅😅

[@crowowlraven9971]

@@undee6299u mean by starting the small ball era

[@nicolasm.3708]

He changed it in a positive way unlike LBJ…

[@soryapum7932]

Shaq humbled by a PG, this shows how much respect he has for Steph.

[@cloudunderweather9554]

being humble and being humbled are 2 different things...

[@stephensurry3416]

Shaq is using a hybrid criteria (exceeding /failing to meet expectations) to evaluate Curry, which in turn reduces his case. Shaq is routinely labeled "most dominant" but he should have won 7 rings and scored 40k points. He did not. Curry, with his ankle injuries, doubts about his effectiveness as a pro...he surpassed expectations for HIS potential, whereas Shaq came up very very short. Wise for Shaq to be this transparent in his shift of analysis, something a journeyman like Kenny Smith will not comprehend Personally, I've been using Shaq's career underachieving against his case. The same will go for any great player in this league

[@joshuafult84]

@@stephensurry3416 Shaq came up very short with 4 Championships and 3 Finals MVP'S? You're crazy bro lol

[@andydufresnejr]

You know what? When Ernie was asking why you wouldnt put the best shooter of all time as a good criteria for GOAT but Kenny made a great point about he wouldn't also take the best rebounder of all time in consideration either which is fair. Hes saying after MJ Kobe Lebron there arent many others that come close to being able to impact the game in a variety of ways. Thats HIS criteria for GOAT and I would support that. Excellent debate by Kenny

[@RaijinSeme]

Although Kenny said MJ, Lebron and Kareem not Kobe

[@donnieldelim]

To play Devil's advocate, perhaps that's just a difference of opinion. Different people value different things and it's no secret that rebounding isn't seen as important as scoring probably because at the end of the day the score determines who wins. So while I am one of the biggest Steph Curry fans in the world, and I would argue that besides being the greatest shooter in NBA history he does more things to help facilitate the team such as being playing unselfishly, off-ball movement, his gravity and ability to draw multiple defenders, I still wouldn't say he's in the GOAT debate, which may or may not change. I personally would put him Top 10 all time, but again agree to disagree. Good points from both of them though, loved seeing the discussion.

[@andydufresnejr]

I think my head was thinking Kobe cause those are my 3 lol @@RaijinSeme

[@andrewpierce1588]

Curry is GOAT level at being able to impact a game.

[@Wafinoodle]

kenny is a busrider and is not worthy enough to be debating steph's greatness. Shaq as one of the top 10 players of all-time is absolutely deserving of being able to debate this and he's absolutely right. Being able to dominate the glass isn't the same with how steph terrorizes the opposition's defense and changes how they gameplan against you. Heck even Ty Lue admitted the years KD was on the team, they planned for Curry, KD was an afterthought, one of the greatest scorers of all-time an afterthought, just goes to show the realm steph occupies. One of if not the GOATs of basketball

[@MT-cz3rd]

where's chuck when you need him😂

[@ProdByBashP]

Where was he? Lol. Chuck has some type of hate for Golden State. He said Isiah Thomas was better than Steph.

[@someshsaharan5813]

@@ProdByBashP Love Chuck but his top 10 is older than him, he has like Big O over Steph smh.

[@melvinhhcp3615]

@@ProdByBashP Isiah Thomas was better overall than Steph.

[@Drummajortsu]

@@ProdByBashPChuck has had an issue with GSW since 2013 when he said, “No jump shooting team Will ever win the championship.”

[@Aries0098]

Getting them Krispy Kreme donuts....

[@yb3604]

I love Kenny's take, and I love Shaq showing love to Steph. Ernie could just sit back and enjoy this one, which was probably nice for him, too. Great discussion.

[@robbbietheim2096]

I'm with Kenny , love Steph. but best player ever, LET"S NOT GET KRAZY

[@vmurda415]

Wow this is crazy! Steve Kerr actually saw the play this time. Can't believe more people aren't talking about this monumental moment.

[@MrVLC1972]

He’s a 6’2 fearless shorting guard. I feel like he’s just as amazing as anyone who is playing and have played in past 20 years.

[@justinmadison513]

He single handedly changed the entire game of basketball. You can't say the same about LeBron.

[@Tinkatchi]

@@justinmadison513that doesn’t make him greater.

[@HomerunsamSOSA]

@@justinmadison513 name another player like lebron

[@Clericq3]

@@justinmadison513How did he change the game?

[@justinmadison513]

@@Clericq3 You can literally look at graphs that show that when Steph entered the league, the average three point attempts per game exploded. Much of that increase can be attributed to how ground-breaking Stephen Curry was by putting immense pressure on teams to keep up with his ability to score in ridiculously quick bursts.

[@ikiwheese]

Good to see Shaq still sticking up for Kobe. I really hate how everyone just overlooks Kobe.

[@Hala_Madrid_7911]

Love Kobe but he's nowhere close to the GOAT. The fact that MJ played the same position and beats him in rings, MVPs (5-1), finals MVPs (6-2), scoring titles (10-2) pretty much disqualifies Kobe. Top 10 though for sure.

[@kingexclusivo]

Facts before he retired the talk was him and MJ as a the best ever. But then after it seems like people forgot how good he was.

[@jtluns9]

Steph averages more points, more rebounds and more assists than Kobe in playoffs

[@kingexclusivo]

@@Hala_Madrid_7911It’s all situational, MJ had Pippen alongside him whole career, perfect sidekick. Shaq is more dominant than Pippen so of course Kobe’s numbers won’t be as good to win MVP, and then once Shaq left, Lakers roster was his awful, the fact that Kobe kept willing then to the playoffs is impressive enough

[@Stixinator1]

I'm a big Kobe Fan but I think if Kobe had his career at a different franchise he wouldn't be in the debate. The Lakers fans are just the most dominant fans in the NBA except maybe in the recent years the GSW-Fans. If he had this same career for the spurs nobody would mention Kobe in the GOAT-Debate.

[@jcana306]

Love this show! Creates an atmosphere where you feel like you’re their arguing with them! Love it!

[@Lee-ic8ln]

I am drafting Steph over Lebron 100 times out of 100. Kenny doesn't know what he is talking about. He is Kobe is reaching? Lebron isn't even better than Kobe.

[@Jsatt8]

right you're wrong there lol

[@philwilson609]

Best NBA talent pool ever coincides with Steph's career. Shaq is understating the argument - Steph is the GOAT!

[@erik2Konasis]

+there

[@Mafiota10]

@@Lee-ic8ln If my life depends on a game winning shot or clutch moment i'd take Steph 10/10 times , guy is COLD BLOODED

[@reptileking6767]

I feel like people forget that defense is just as critical as offense. Kobe gets so much disrespect I believe due to his defensive prowess.

[@csuszi11]

THANK YOU!!!!!! mj 1, kobe 2 why? because of their def accomplishments. people ALWAYS kindly forget about the def side. lebron, when was the last time he had a selection? 10 yrs ago? steph? ever?

[@Chris.McNichols]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@csuszi11​​⁠Well if you care about defense, isn’t there another player that should be in the conversation that you’re not giving respect to? 15 all-defensive team selections (13 straight), 5 rings, 3 fmvps, 2 mvps, 15x all star, 15x all-nba, and had a winning record against Kobe’s lakers. It’s absurd to argue all that matters is defense and championships if you’re gonna leave out Tim Duncan. Or even other players like Hakeem Olajuwon, David Robinson, or Kawhi Leonard. All of these player have won multiple rings and multiple defensive selections, while all being significantly more efficient on offense than Kobe. It’s tougher to make a case against MJ, but the point is that the conversation is silly and there’s hypocrisy no matter where your argument is. Whether you choose to argue that scoring matters, defense matters, longevity matters, rings matter, or mvps matter, there’s always different players leading each stat who could have a fair conversation in the goat debate. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with your opinion and selections, I’m just saying it’s unfair to say there’s no argument for these players because it’s all an opinion at the end of the day.

[@jdankerdake]

@@csuszi11 Kobe at 2 is way too high. He's in the 8-10 range with Duncan and Shaq. I agree with Kenny - MJ, LBJ, Kareem at 1-3, and then the discussion starts.

[@jtaco4101]

​@@jdankerdakeI agree Kobe might even fall out of the top 10

[@jacobd8165]

Kobe disrespect is crazy

[@nellyville69]

That pass by Chris Paul was insane his self awareness is truly remarkable

[@HOMMI2Elite]

he was a great addition if they can make a move its gon look spooky again plus Draymond return

[@rockysalvatore435]

​@@HOMMI2Elitelol

[@noahx.classic]

Never seen anybody like steph before. He is in the greatness category EASILY. I really don't think people understand the mental toughness he has. Not to mention dealing with doubt his entire career and living in the gym to fix it. He is a stud!

[@CarbiesChronicles]

never seen a guy who can just shoot 3 point shots when nobody is guarding him? today's nba and the last 15-20 years has been soft... cant guard a guy like youre suppose too...

[@BlackKen_M]

@@CarbiesChronicles so why can’t everyone else do it?

[@bloodline_NZL]

He is an amazing player but he has not been a great defender. I think you need to be a great 2 way player to be the greatest player ever. Just my opinion.

[@icydaddy]

​@@BlackKen_M steph is the best shooter of all time yes, but in the 80s 90/s he wouldnt be able to get half the shots or the seperation he gets just cuz of hand checking alone, let alone the physicality. his game would deteriorate badly but his talent is undeniable he'd still be maybe scratch the top 25, that era was for the big men.

[@Michael-kh1bq]

If it weren’t for Kd he would of folded against Bron he not greater than Bron or Kobe

[@KadeForever]

Greatest PG ever is a conversation, but greatest player ever isn’t.

[@andrewsadikin5226]

Agree. Only MJ, bron , Russel and Kareem for GOAT conversations

[@cam0x195]

​@@andrewsadikin5226 Hmmmm

[@tebohomakopo1200]

Steph is definitely top 5 all time. You mention all those players and no one has ever been able to do what they do… guess what, no one is able to do what Steph does. And he change the whole game of basketball.

[@xengarcia1217]

Your a joke time lol....

[@KadeForever]

@@tebohomakopo1200 I’m a curry fan and your a casual, he’s not top 5 all time. He doesn’t even have a second finals mvp or more than 3 NBA MVPs.

[@kennethevans4555]

It’s genuinely astonishing how this network has been short changing us on content, it’s 2 weeks for 4 videos at the moment 😂 like I love the personalities, I love all 4 guys and y’all genuinely raised me and given me most of my knowledge on basketball but how can I continue to love if ESPN is pumping out content like it’s hotcakes

[@dennydent669]

Shaq saidi ''like that hair cut '' Mr white had me rolling lol

[@scottichniowski3106]

The Tim Duncan slander is insane

[@erictate04]

It’s honestly disgusting! But blame Kobe fans.

[@imhotepnixon]

His performance in game 7 2013 is so underrated if they won that game no one would dare question him

[@RajR96]

​@@erictate04 Why is it fault of Kobe fans when Tim Duncan doesn't have a personality/play style that always has you bringing his name up in top players of all time discussions?

[@jyates1973]

Duncan.. won his rings and he was a great asset on defense and in rebounds but he was not a person who could put a team on his back and just take over anytime he wanted to. A master of the bank shot though..but not in the same category as these guys.

[@XxChromeRavenxX]

@@jyates1973 Looks at the history of spurs winning and not winning, not just championships but games. The sole factor is TD. He literally puts the team on his back and the team is objectively worse without him on it (this isnt even mentioning his leadership skills and mentoring). Sure it aint some flashy stuff like the other stars to make a clutch basket that we all remember but the mans presence was felt and the dynasty was created to make him a top 10. Look at how other legends talk about playing against TD.

[@mattk9708]

With the training he's been doing, he can have a 20 year career. We always mention work-ethic and Curry has an all-time great work-ethic that has produced massive results for him in recent years. The potential to win again and get a second finals MVP is possible over the next four or five years. He'd definitely be in that conversation if that happens.

[@melvinhhcp3615]

No. Lol

[@mattk9708]

@@melvinhhcp3615 Yes.

[@onlyfacts3178]

??LONGEVITY doesnt make you better...and what if he misses the play-offs 10 times in 20 seasons? Because so far he missed 6 times in 13 seasons

[@mattk9708]

@@onlyfacts3178 No but if he plays longer he has more chances to win. I'm just saying if he happens to win again he will be in the conversation.

[@mattk9708]

@@onlyfacts3178 It's all speculative, but he's clearly not regressing. He's arguably better than he's ever been.

[@renzisraelnoble4587]

Even if Steph have off night games, his gravitational effect are so impactful. Is there any team in the history of the NBA that their opposing team have to guard someone like Steph from the opposing court and every game? Just like in the late 1990s and early 2000s where they need to have extra center for Shaq, talk about force of nature in different way🤷

[@divinemattress]

MJ, Bron, Kareem, Kobe, Timmy all better, but he’s in that top 6-10 range all time imo. Really solid player with a great impact on the game. Everyone above him has more accolades than he does, but he’s been able to change the game and that’s something that can’t be said for people like Kobe or Tim or most players actually. He’s been amazing to witness

[@MrTreezyFBaby]

Changing the game has no actual merit in this conversation that’s just emotional talk

[@Carlos-wy4on]

I like your list and where you place Steph. I really think he's the greatest shooter of all time. There are aspects defensively of MJ, Bron (when he wants to), and Kobe that are far superior.

[@brooksorlando4881]

​@@MrTreezyFBabyyeah I hear ya. It plays a part in overall impact, but it boils down to on-court execution and accolades. Steph is still pretty high in that regard too. Imo he's about 8-11 best player all time. After MJ, LeBron, Kareem, etc

[@MrTreezyFBaby]

@@brooksorlando4881 yea he’s probably top 10 or close to it but he can never be the goat because he can only play 1 side of the ball

[@brooksorlando4881]

@@MrTreezyFBaby I agree overall. I don't think Steph is a garbage defender. He's a little better than Kyrie, Dame, and some others imo. But he's def not that impactful. He's just undersized. So yeah, he's not gonna have the same 2 way impact some of the other guys I had. I think it's fair to say he's the best player ever under 6'5 though. I'd lean Magic as a PG, but he was 6'9

[@TrippyMoak]

To ME Magic is still the beat PG ever and Magic is ABSOLUTELY in the GOAT convo. If Steph is creeping as the best PG ever then by default he is now in the convo. Truth be told I need a tiny bit more to put him with Kareem, Jordan, Duncan, Shaq, Lebron, etc.

[@kingdaymon6433]

See I put Magic just outside the GOAT convo so in my opinion Curry needs to fully surpass Magic before I can really seriously consider him in that conversation. Like I love Shaq, Kobe, and Duncan but even they aren't seriously in the GOAT discussion in my opinon. Only 3 players really are.

[@kingwilliams4220]

Crazy how the actual man himself says Steph is better than him yet you casual fans refuse to accept it, lol, that is absolutely the definition of insane. You won't even take the word of a four time NBA champion and Hall of Famer because your own opinion is so much better than his own, lol. And he is actually the player you are speaking of, lol. Sooooooooo you know him better than he knows himself, lol

[@jeremylaysbad6908]

If Steph retires with 5 or more rings he definitely surpassed LeBron and Kobe as a player that carries their team for over 10 years, LeBron had dwade, kyrie irving, and now Anthony davis. Kobe had Shaq throughout his rookie years. Steph JUST had klay Thompson and Draymond green

[@kingdaymon6433]

@@kingwilliams4220 If you want to be a sheep and base your opinions on the BS that Shaq be saying from time to time then go ahead🤣 I got my own eyes and my own brain to tell me who I think is better.

[@kingdaymon6433]

@@jeremylaysbad6908 ....You're forgetting the finals MVP for 2 of those rings bro

[@elroz1675]

He can finish very well around the hoop, not only the great shooter, but he finishes well...handles well, passes well, moves without the ball well. Top 10 very likely for Steph. Clutch? Yes.

[@melvinhhcp3615]

Not Top 10

[@jugogaming3614]

⁠@@melvinhhcp3615bro people put shaq in the top 10 conversation and even he said curry is better than him and curry is better than magic

[@SDesWriter]

Top 10 in the league today? Probably. All time lists? Not even close.

[@ishaankulkarni9387]

​@@SDesWriter steph is the 9th best all time imo

[@TJ-tb2ky]

@@SDesWriteru silly

[@riccardodepieri4582]

As far as people who changed the game the man is in a category of his own

[@tdmainevent]

If the conversation is about best point guard, that’s one thing. I wouldn’t even think about putting him in GOAT conversations

[@penkima4923]

I think Ernie's point was, if you're the best in your position, you're automatically in the GoaT-convo.

[@jaredhendricks8541]

With Kenny on this one. After MJ (6-0 in finals), Lebron (Most points in NBA history), Kareem (Previous most points and 6 rings) - adding others to this pool might be a reach. Steph has 4 rings but only 1 Finals MVP, Similar to Kobe, who has 5 rings but only 2 FMVPs. While MJ and Lebron have always been the best player on their championship winning teams, plus both have been great defensive players throughout their careers. So Steph is one of the GREATEST, just not in that tight, close circle of GOATS.

[@F1nalB0zz]

Lebron had way to much help and losses to be considered in that GOAT debate, it inexcusable if you wanna make the list that thin, especially if you consider the fact that he took 3 L's from Steph. bow also add the fact that hes played in the weakest era and hes not even in the top 10

[@jaredhendricks8541]

@@F1nalB0zz 2 of those 3Ls he “took against Steph” - KD was finals MVP. You can say LBJs teams were stacked - but there was never a question who the best player on the team was.

[@thakidgaming6435]

​@@jaredhendricks8541that Cavs team wasn't even stacked, Kyrie was in his prime, Kevin Love went from a triple double machine in Minnesota to a catch and shoot player. Everyone else were good to decent role players, same as GS, three good players with the big three and the rest were good at their roles. Adding KD just gave them 4 good players with the same to slightly worst role players.

[@kingwilliams4220]

the way I know you all aren't serious basketball fans is because that's your wall, Jordan, Kareem, Lebron............adding Bill Russell to the greatest player ever is a reach, adding Wilt to that conversation is a reach, smh, yall just be talking to be talking, its like you have to take the adversarial role just for the sake of it. No player in the history of the game of basketball has changed the game more than SC30 has. Not one. But you all don't even think he should be "talked" about in the conversation as one of greatest ever, lol, that's how we know the whole GOAT conversation is nonsense.

[@jaredhendricks8541]

@@kingwilliams4220 cool he changed the game but the game still involves defence (which SC plays a little of). Also seeing that you watched Bill Russel play live, you’d also know he played in a league with 9 total teams! And Wilt while he was great - only won twice for all his personal stats

[@midnightlumina7]

Steph is there because he changes how you play defense on a team. With Steph, you are forced to adjust to his gravity, so the defense gets rearranged and contorted.

[@jon401]

you have to change the way you defend a lot of players. even ones who dont shoot as well as steph b/c of other aspects of their game. he's not singularly alone in that aspect.

[@hub3rty]

Every great player did this

[@themetalpig7613]

Steph changed the game to the point that every single team tries to play that way now. Many players have changed the game, forced rule tweaks etc, maybe forced teams to have lots of centres to foul Shaq, or a Jordan stopper, but those teams still had their own style. With Curry, every team now plays that way.

[@midnightlumina7]

@@jon401 Steph's Gravity alone distorts the defensive alignment . It's why Golden State was successful. In all honesty, what the Warriors need is a retool and quite frankly, they put too much value on Draymond instead of replenishing shooters.

[@dreday1969]

2 sides of a basketball court so this was long for no reason

[@shotsfired2188]

Ernie with the steffortless killed me 😂

[@5at5una]

the fact that they and the comment having argument/conversation... so its a big yes for Shaq's question.. i get what kenny want to convey but that enough to answer the question

[@azharuzzaman59]

Y’all seen jb hit the “2 small” on curry😂 knew it was over right there😂 Steph also bodied him in ot but kept it humble. Inspirational stuff right there

[@andrewpierce1588]

Ya’ll see Curry win the game? Inspirational, again.

[@xanxus8272]

Don't forget what Kobe said about Curry

[@SimplyComplicated1]

Don’t forgot about Kobe

[@derrickwillis171]

Don’t forget about forgetting.

[@JunelaJefe]

Don't forget

[@howulikemenow3011]

🤣🤣 u guys are hilarious

[@wizz177]

Don’t

[@DMNDSbyDaylight]

Thank you Shaq!! People been calling me crazy including him into the conversation

[@LowHonorScizor]

To me, Steph is up there. He's arguably the best offensive player ever imo considering his efficiency, volume and degree of difficulty shots that he makes. His movement without the basketball warrants defensive attention like none other, which opens up his teammates. I'm willing to overlook his mid defensive capabilities due to the unprecedented offense that he brings to the table.

[@ShadowKonL]

Steph is the only person in the Top. That you have to guard as soon as he steps on the court.

[@emjay1249]

Shots kobe took were ridiculously more difficult. Cmon

[@LowHonorScizor]

Doesn't matter how tough a shot is if it doesn't hit it. Steph takes tough shots and makes them. Not a knock to Kobe tho, he's an all-time great, but Steph is more efficient on tough shots.

[@emjay1249]

@@LowHonorScizor steph takes more efficient shots overall and he's more efficient partly because he's the greatest shooter. But to claim he hits tougher shots or even a larger volume of them is just plain wrong

[@LowHonorScizor]

@@emjay1249 Steph pulls up from anywhere, with multiple defenders on his face, with a lightning release and even off balanced and shoots more efficiently. In no way in my post did I mention that Steph takes more difficult shots. But when he takes them, he makes them. It is unprecedented for a guy to be guarded the second he crosses half court, that tells you a lot about Steph's capabilities. Again, this is not a knock on Kobe. This is a praise to Steph's generational offense, that includes shot-making.

[@OlAgony]

The unquantifiable part of Steph's game is his gravity, that he just makes everyone else on his team better just by being on the court, and that value is really underrated.

[@melanatedgod5337]

That's not true at all.

[@rdot8658]

⁠@@melanatedgod5337 you have to know where he is at all time and that’s not even good enough. You’re playing 4v4 anytime he’s on the court

[@BlackHowl1]

@@melanatedgod5337 what part of it isn't true?

[@Shylohe]

Saying Kobe is a reach is CRAAAAAZY!!!. Shout out to Shaq for being one of the only people who consistently reminds the public of how great Kobe actually was...

[@thefakeslimshady6969]

Yeah. I'm glad even Allen Iverson needs to reminds them how can they forgot who Kobe was.

[@thsu8]

It’s hilarious listening to a random NBA journeyman like Kenny Smith consistently ignore and diss Kobe while NBA legend Shaq, who actually played with Kobe, educates him.

[@digigodYT]

and thats why kobe needed to be carried in first years in the league

[@melvinhhcp3615]

@@digigodYT Wrong. It's because the Lakers already had a starting SG that was an all star, Eddie Jones. Please put some respect on his name. His game was nice. He was 3 & D, was exciting to watch. High school players don't come before All Stars.

[@thesublimeparadigm8863]

It's because he's was so similar to Jordan but not quite as good. It's easy to "disqualify" him when you have a direct comparison that is superior. There is an argument to be made for someone like Lebron being better than Jordan, but there isn't one (imo) for Kobe, so it doesn't really make sense to include Kobe in the debate, even if you think he's better than Lebron if that makes any sense.

[@ApolloVIIIYouAreGoForTLI]

Shaq out here "just asking questions"

[@nonotyet7590]

Hands down! Steph is in the conversation. It's not a matter of is he the best? It's that he's an obstacle to becoming the best. He's someone that you absolutely have to measure up to and surpass on the road to the best ever.

[@TheRaytarded]

I'm not hating on Steph but his team has 4 titles and he's fMVP only once. He also lacks in defense big time. You just can't objectively put him in that convo. He's not even a better player than KD. He's just had a much better team throughout his career. When they played together, both in their prime, KD was the best player on the floor almost every single night. Y'all need to relax!

[@penkima4923]

Steph wasn't the best player in the Warriors dynasty. It was KD.

[@Chris-qh5tz]

Jordan Kobe Bron are all built like Greek Gods and Steph looks like a college kid so I think mentally, we block him out from being a superhero type basketball player and the greatest player ever. The thing is, he totally changed the game of basketball. He's so good at basketball that he literally broke the game and forced teams to play like him and is breeding a younger generation who wants to be like him. He is definitely in the conversation for greatest ever.

[@73rd42]

Being built like greek gods is important to be an all time great defender

[@sportstalkonly1442]

He's absolutely not in that conversation. Also the Phoenix suns ushered in that era and had kd not joined golden state the nba wouldn't have took that turn. Maybe yall just love to hear yourselves talk

[@Chris-qh5tz]

@@73rd42 Except when your offense is so great that defense doesn't work against you and the other team pretty much has to hope they can match your firepower. Steph makes the greatest wing defenders look silly and being a great interior shot blocker like Rudy Gobert doesn't really matter when Steph can launch it from anywhere inside the half court line to 3-point line and you're forced to play way past the 3-point line giving your whole team much more space to work with. Only Steph can do that on a game-to-game basis.

[@Chris-qh5tz]

@@sportstalkonly1442 Huh? The Mike Dantonio Phoenix Suns offense is way different than how the Warriors play...Also the Warriors won a chip before KD got there and after KD left so that argument doesn't really work. Oh yeah they also had the greatest regular season in NBA history without him so...

[@aris_mendez]

@@sportstalkonly1442suns didn’t usher in that era. They just made it popular, Don Nelson says hi 👋🏽

[@jcp2017]

He’s definitely top 10

[@Qdawwg]

Top 5 imo

[@davd1986]

@@Qdawwg You're tripping

[@julianclanton1204]

​@@davd1986debatable

[@noahx.classic]

@@julianclanton1204 Not a single person in the history of ball or in the current roster that is even remotely like Steph.

[@melvinhhcp3615]

No. Recency bias. Lol

[@Chescas]

A player can be included on the conversation if it has a big impact on how the basketball world has evolved because of them.

[@macmac4657]

You have to impact the game significantly on both sides of the court and consistently play on a higher level than your peers. A complete dominance in overall play.

[@penkima4923]

That's not an absolute have to. It's possible to be so good offensively, that good defense isn't required. It's hard, but possible.

[@BeyondDrawings]

I think people are too rigid on what they consider greatness. To me you could say Kobe, Shaq, Magic, Kareem, or Steph are all equally great because they dominated in their respective strengths with 4+ rings, and in different ways completely change the game they play. Now while I still think Jordan is the goat, I don't think its wrong to say that BY FAR the greatest shooter ever changes the game in ways Jordan never could. They have the same IT factor, clutch time, gimme the ball and I'll win you the game.

[@mr.joshua6818]

Fair enough. I was always a Shaq fan, he probably should have had another MVP, sorry Steve Nash lol

[@user-nv1gm2zj7y]

@@mr.joshua6818 im a nash phs fan... he should just have 1...

[@user-nv1gm2zj7y]

hes really in that conversation now.... he changed the game. he won championships with his game.

[@TWINTOWERS4123]

Clutch time give me the ball discussion he definitely isn't a part of with Jordan! Shooting the ball 100%

[@DanielIsraelite]

But steph has no finals mvps. Maybe 1 at the most and he wasn't as versatile as Jordan and lebron showed in there playoffs championships etc. Nah steph had too many limitations in his championships with bad defence, no finals mvps etc. You can't be in the conversation just because you the best shooter on a stacked team alongside klay Thompson who was top 5 greatest shooter himself. Steph curry is top ten though

[@lexis4490]

Greatest player is more then one player and someone did change the game to fit his game. That’s why he should be considered. But obviously he’s not the only one.

[@supernotnatural]

They banned dunk because of Kareem and he came up with sky hook that is still never done by any other player. That's the definition of GOAT

[@LeSteeler]

Greatest player is one player and that’s LeBron…Steph isn’t near the conversation with Bron, MJ, Kareem

[@fobinc]

@@LeSteeler LOL the super team hopper with 4/6 record is not even close to GOAT. Quit propping up Lebron.

[@shawnmajicwand]

@@fobinc4-6 doesn’t reflect his individual play tho 07 young team 11 he played bad 14 team didn’t step up 15 the second and 3rd best player was hurt 17 the team they had to come back from 3-1 added the second best player in the league and 18 was a continuation of that

[@supernotnatural]

@@LeSteeler LeBron you mean 4 rings? Tim Duncan has 5 rings and he didnt jump on super teams to get 5 rings. Duncan > LeBron

[@user-lt4my6zu3u]

We all gotta remember one thing each era was played very differently this convo will never end its a small pool of GREATS but i do believe steph is half way there his talent and influence in the nba speaks voulmes

[@user-jp1em9op7v]

Shaq - I like your haircut Mr. White 😂

[@edwardwong654]

We all love these debates. I would say yes because he has changed the game making the 3-pointer a deadly weapon. His stats are great, his team has won, and in his era the competition was stacked. The problem is that the NBA has had a LOT of great players!

[@MrTevens]

Nothing better than having a debate if we can start having a debate lol.

[@dontbanmebrodontbanme5403]

I would say no. Top 10 all time? Yes, I have him at #10. Best ever? Guys, there's two sides to basketball: offense and defense. Defensively, Steph is, if we're being generous, average. He's really a below average defender. Here's all you need to know: he doesn't have a single all defensive team honor. I didn't say a single 1st team all defensive team honor. I said all defensive period. Not 1st, 2nd nor 3rd team all defensive team honor.

[@lt.aldoraine9405]

Great point^

[@mmmmmmmmmmm10]

​@@dontbanmebrodontbanme5403he said "one of the best" and Steph is one of the best. But yeh Steph was never going to be a good defender, he's 6'3 on paper, smaller in real world. He does try on defense but it's David vs goliath with him, he can't compete against a 6'6 Jordan or a 6'9 green or 7-7'3 Chet or wemby.

[@djpandaphresh6354]

​@@dontbanmebrodontbanme5403which is weird he didn't make all defensive team in 16 when he won the steals title.

[@benagon]

Currently the conversation is putting Steph in the conversation

[@marvin6119]

put him in conversation, lets just talk a lil bit.

[@penkima4923]

@@marvin6119 Steph's not inside top-100 all time. There.

[@HansDavidian]

"I like that haircut Mr. White" 💀

[@chowdog2022]

Shaq on something w that take

[@samuelchoi7309]

YES... ONE OF THE BEST EVER. PERIOD. CHANGED THE GAME.

[@mdp_-vn4bo]

Pound for pound Steph is up there with the greatest. His skillset is something that hasn’t been seen

[@jimmywalker8354]

No player in NBA history bends defenses out of shape the way Steph Curry does.

[@jonathanwilliams0824]

Pound for pound? That title belongs to A.I.(Allen Iverson). Stephen Curry is the greatest shooter ever, but the greatest pound-for-pound player ever? That's unquestionably Allen Iverson because of what he did or what he was able to do in a league that was dominated by dudes who were at least 6'3" or taller, plus Allen is tough as nails due to his football background. He can take any hit and keep on going. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm in no way, shape, or form calling Steph soft or whathaveyou, but it's a huge stretch, in my opinion, to put Steph Curry in the pound for pound category, respectfully.

[@luischerena7804]

@@jonathanwilliams0824Faaaaacts

[@melvinhhcp3615]

@@jonathanwilliams0824 It could be Isiah Thomas or John Stockton also.

[@melvinhhcp3615]

@@jonathanwilliams0824 Jerry West

[@qfrizell816]

In the conversation... Absolutely.

[@corey2232]

Shaq's a real one, correcting Kenny on forgetting Kobe's name

[@lamarbrown438]

Kenny tripping Kobe definitely in the conversation

[@harrysummers758]

Love Kob but he just isn't because theres no argument for him over Jordan

[@aloziechibueze337]

If Steph gets a 5th Ring man, it will steer up alot of convo

[@wilt3051]

1 fmvp lol

[@naturalprinciples8520]

nah, 2 are a wash bc of KD and that team should have never happened, not even sure how it worked under a salary cap..

[@dan.m.8614]

@@naturalprinciples8520 So lebron ring with Prime wade and bosch shouldnt be considered? mf had a very stacked heat team

[@mionatsume5071]

​@@naturalprinciples8520 by your logic, Lebron should've zero rings.

[@harrysummers758]

Steph was the second best player on the team for those 2 years@@dan.m.8614

[@MontyFranklyn]

Shaq wasn't letting Kenny disrespect his lil brother Kobe

[@ckeller7441]

Did u catch Shaq's new rap? Yo its goated

[@PapaYogito]

I have been ready to put Steph in that Convo

[@ReedJacobs]

The fact that Shaq said curry is better than him, proves that Steph is in the top 10 greats of all time

[@hayden2329]

Dude Shaq be changing he's take on all tune player all the time. The man lives purely in the moment. And also, Shaq has 3 finals mvps while steph only has one, Shaq has made it into all defensive teams and was all-time in scorring, rebounding and blocking shots in both playoffs and the R. Season. For step, it's just the threes that are all time Bro and one more R.Season mvp than shaq

[@jugogaming3614]

@@hayden2329what do you mean just the threes lol steph almost always converts around the rim barely misses layups he has good floaters and not to mention his passing he makes really good assists

[@DocYAYAYA]

prime Shaq would eat Curry alive... hes just saying it to start a discussion

[@callums3172]

Shaq also said Bol Bol is as good as wemby

[@hayden2329]

@@jugogaming3614 your absolutely right, but I'm talking abilities that are in the All time level of legendary effeciency and effectiveness. Steph is not a better rim scorer then Shaq, NO ONE IS OR WAS. Stephs passing is great, but not great enough to be on the list of legendary all-time abilities. I love he's floaters btw, they really helped me improve my game when I was younger

[@famoussquad5154]

I’d revisit this if he gets one more

[@jpsito9779]

I love Shaqs point

[@nina.michelle]

Why don't people ever mention Tim Duncan when they start talking about the best????

[@XxChromeRavenxX]

Cause he aint flashy enough for the general public, but the dude is clearly top 10

[@bjarkemadsboll]

Are we all just glossing over the fact that Shaq can count?? 😂 🎼 “4 something something, 2 something something, 3 something something” 🎼

[@noahcohen3806]

For now, I’m satisfied enough that Shaq posed this question. Again, for now that’s good enough enough for me.

[@Loqque]

"mf stands for most frequently" is my quote of the day

[@hellowatsupo]

Probably not goat but I think Steph is underrated in the top 10 conversation. He’s firmly in it no doubt in terms of winning, longevity, and impact on the game. All the negatives on his defense are overblown: nobody else in the top 15 is as small as him so he’s just naturally at a disadvantage. Not saying his defense is great but he has done better in recent seasons with his extra bulk but every match up is gonna be a loss for him just based on size alone

[@melvinhhcp3615]

He's not Top 10. Top 15 is pushing it.

[@onlyfacts3178]

TOP 30...cant put a player that misses the play.offs half the times in his career

[@KhalylSteward]

​@@melvinhhcp3615that is a wild thing to say

[@KhalylSteward]

​@@onlyfacts3178he doesn't??? And he has 4 chips top 30 is outrageous

[@gazzgaspay4841]

@@KhalylSteward 4 chips and only 1 finals mvp. He is top 10 for me but lets say, in no order MJ, Bron, Kareem, Russel, Magic, Wilt, Bird, Shaq, Duncan, Kobe. Thats 10 names of hall of famers, who do you think youll remove and put Stepch Curry in?

[@justinleokennedy]

By Kenny’s own logic, Kobe has to at least be in the conversation. Kenny said if Bron, MJ, or Kareem had off shooting nights, they’d still have a huge impact on the game. Kobe was a nightmare on the defensive end and a fierce competitor that wouldn’t accept poor effort from his teammates. Also, it really shows how far Shaq has come as a broadcaster that he so quickly puts Steph over himself and defends Kobe just as quickly. Really great discussion here. Love the Inside guys.

[@LondonRagasa]

Shaq, we appreciate you for always speaking facts. The constant disrespect for Kobe is wild. 10 years ago you had the same people/ media, covering Kobe, saying he is literally, the best player in the NBA.

[@joshuafult84]

100% I remember in 2003 after the Lakers 3 peated some people in the media were claiming Kobe would end his career better than Jordan. Recency Bias is crazy with these people.

[@M-Cherian]

"I like that haircut Mr White" ---Shaq😂

[@juqeboxmedia]

Shaq always makes sure not to forget Kobe. 🙏🏽 🏀

[@brumfeldo]

A very ESPN-ish kind of cold take.

[@Dj-tc3ok]

Shaq said you better put bean in that list

[@NelluxonR]

Havent seen anyone answer a yes or no question with this level of difficulty 😂

[@quechyancummings8070]

The only legitimate reason Steph is not in the conversation is because of his defense, which he does show the effort but in a game like a basketball mostly everyone is bigger and stronger than him. He is getting there in that convo especially is he keep doing what he is doing.

[@SDesWriter]

Actually literally EVERYTHING in his game is why he's not in the conversation. 24.5ppg for his career? 5 rebounds? 6.5 assists? Which statistic is superior to everyone else who played the game? Luka Doncic's career AVERAGE is better than Curry's best year (and they're both bad on defense). KD is a better scorer. Jordan was better than him. Magic is literally twice as good a passer. Stockton is even better than that. LeBron is better at everything (by a lot) and has been a PG with better numbers at everything. Joker is better in every statistical category, plus more than twice as good at rebounding AND better at assists. If 3 pt shooting is your holy grail, Joker has a higher 3 pt shooting average and last year outshot Steph 55% to 36% from 3. Not saying he's not the best long distance jump shooter in history (for now), but with all this Steph-love out there I'm trying to figure out what exactly he's the best at in any single catgory, let alone best in several making him the best ever.

[@Leuel48Fan]

That's fair, but defense is a good bit genetics too. Offense, small guys can skill their way to the top, but D is all physical and taking up space, which not everyone can do.

[@borbeamsmorrisinghs1973]

​@@SDesWriter okay lang yan brad, itulog mo na lang 'yan hahahaha

[@dempletv]

people always talk about steph’s defense and it’s gotten much better over the years and still does his job, most steals in the league multiple times. the team helps him defensively but in this league iso is almost impossible guard no matter the player, it’s always great defense better offense, he could be playing great defense but when you’re going up against a player like kyrie or shai you’re only making it harder to score

[@joshuaanderson4090]

This still doesnt make him a great defender but . . .his offense was so game changing and so overpowering it made defense overall worse. Like teams actively has to win offense for defense more in order to keep up. Gone are the days of defensive giants and defense first wings except in small roles. I do agree with Shaq that this is worth something. But overall I'm in Kenny's side, except is add tim Duncan because his defense was so amazing and his sustained excellence.

[@tkr1408]

He’s definitely knocking on the door of top 10 if not already there. The people saying shaq has lost his mind?! Shaq has played against MJ, Hakeem, Duncan, with and against Kobe, and is regarded as one of the most dominant forces in league history. So, I would say shaq’s opinion carries a little weight.

[@surgical_tyavery535]

I love that shaq never let them forget that KOBE is definitely one of the greatest players

[@jesuscage]

In the 60's it was Bill Russell, 70's Kareem, 80's Bird/Magic, 90's Jordan, 2000's Kobe, 2010's LeBron/Steph 2020's hard to say, maybe still LBJ and Steph

[@shak9558]

Stop it... 2020 is giannis and jokic

[@bedoof5]

gotta put tim duncan in 2000’s too

[@chrisjenkins6606]

Wilt Chamberlain's ghost has entered the chat...

[@SpardaDante]

Best pg in history and greatest shooter of all time, so he is in the conversation imo

[@melvinhhcp3615]

Nonsense

[@GeronimoPlaz]

He's objectively a better PG than Magic. It's not even a discussion anymore.

[@DocYAYAYA]

better shooter, nothing else @@GeronimoPlaz

[@sportjames23]

Best pg in history is Magic Johnson, period.

[@onlyfacts3178]

1st of all he isnt even a PG. 2nd he is not a Top 3 SG

[@danseydel3213]

Love the beard Kenny

[@animeguitarguy]

You have to be an elite 2 way to be in that conversation

[@GODMC87]

Curry is between 6-10 for me and is the second greatest PG ever.

[@melvinhhcp3615]

Recency bias

[@numarkTT2]

I love Steph. Absolutely changed the entire game. However anyone regarded as the the best ever (Jordan, Bron, Kobe, Big O, Wilt, Russell, etc.) were all forces on both ends of the court. I can't say that about Steph. He is not a defensive liability but his defense has never been what I would consider strong.

[@douglasmeis7482]

How can they talk about greatest ever without talking about Wilt & Russell - especially when they talk about "changing the game" (Wilt) or rings (Russell 10!!). & the Big O averaging the triple double.

[@finalfantasy111111]

His gravity is akin to a black hole however... That makes up for his physical disadvantages in defence imo. Thats why his plus minus is off the charts

[@bmanbusee3812]

And this. Steph is the greatest shooter of all time along with top 3 at his position. He falters when it comes to defense and leadership which dictates the goats amongst others. All aspects of the game

[@gunguru7020]

Kenny got that "Just for Men" thing going

[@akiespady5176]

Shaq the only man on tv standing up for Kobe and I love it because everybody else act like he never played

[@theone-jm3gl]

I'm getting sick of this .. greatest shooter yes. He is a one way player.. low to no defense

[@melvinhhcp3615]

Correct

[@jtluns9]

The thing Steph has on every other player is his black hole effect. Entire defenses gravitate towards him and combined with his willingness to constantly cut and set screens has an immense impact on making his teammates better like no one else ever has

[@jon401]

entire defenses had to hack shaq, you needed 3 centers just for fouls. you can't double and triple team lebron or magic because their IQ they would just slice and dice you with passing. Steph isn't alone when it comes to having to scheme specifically for him. A lot of players have the same effect.

[@thenerdupstairs5705]

You just described Michael Jordan except Curry can't rebound,pass or defend like Mike or LeBron or Magic or Kobe or Shaq or Kareem or Bird

[@prettyboredvids]

Great point, jt!

[@onlyfacts3178]

Strange that without Kerr system he wasnt doing anything you just Said 🤣

[@jtluns9]

@@thenerdupstairs5705 curry averages more points, rebounds, and assists than Kobe in the playoffs

[@hypokritis]

Kerr got writer's now for post game interviews? "What he can do is just MAGICal!" ???😂😂😂

[@deemyers6817]

Who’s da lil one on on the end pretty Kenny lol 😭

[@facetiouslyinsolent8313]

I'm 49 and I was lucky enough to watch most of those players live. The only one in that conversation I have ever seen give up or be a bad teammate was LeBron. It's Jordan #1 and everyone else and yes Curry deserves to be in the conversation.

[@Wyndamn]

So Steph Curry giving up a 3-1 lead in the NBA Finals doesn't work against him in that argument???

[@penkima4923]

@@Wyndamn Dray took the blame for himself from that.

[@TheOrthodoxMoor]

My respect for Shaq grew like the Grinche's heart when he took his glasses off to say "Mr. Kobe Bean"...

[@adnankazim88]

If you guys notice, its always Kenny praising the bigs and Shaq praising the guards lol

[@passion4cars283]

My personal Top 5 Ever...You can put them in any order you want, with MJ at the 1 spot. Jordan, Lebron, Kareem, Kobe, Wilt

[@icydaddy]

He's a guy who's won 1/4 Finals MVP's, ranks #34 in points all time, not top 50 in assists, rebounds, or steals, has had 2 hall of famers by his side for 2 rings (Dray & Klay are both locks IMO) and the other 2 rings being with 3 HOFers to help him, is a liability on defense, and is also a guy who's fell short on almost every clutch possession in his career. Not top 10 lol best shooter of all time for sure though

[@melvinhhcp3615]

Truth

[@BusyWatchingYouTube]

He also won 2 rings without a Top 75 player on his team. How many can say that?

[@NotFromHere.]

@@BusyWatchingKZbinand he has only 1 finals mvp 😂

[@shawnseagraves1070]

Jordan had pippen and Rodman with him for his rings. Does this suddenly make Jordan’s rings stop counting? No. Superstars very rarely win on their own, they can only do so much in a team game, so Curry having good teammates and winning shouldn’t matter to you. What SHOULD matter is 2015 when he apparently didn’t have a top 75 player on the team…

[@joshb.1118]

Exhibit A of someone stuck in old ways of thinking

[@georgemuerte3223]

I’m with Kenny on this one

[@Blackenedpickle]

Only players who dominate offensively and defensively should be in the conversation. Still top 10-15 all time

[@kohort1]

I mean, they're having that exact conversation right there!

[@penkima4923]

No, they didn't. Nor did they compare Steph to, say, the players on the 50th anniversary list. They only gave the same adjectives associated with Steph, as always.

[@crazeegrlproductions]

I think I see Shaq's point here. Steph has fundamentally changed the game. He may not affect every game he plays in when he is having an off-shooting night. But his overall impact on the sport is insane.

[@a-a-rondavis9438]

Then Wilt should be up there plain as day. The league changed it to where it was harder for Wilt. There are still fundamental rules that are in place because Wilt was smacking dudes silly 60 years ago. Not for Bill, not for Kareem, for Wilt.

[@HomerunsamSOSA]

@@a-a-rondavis9438ppl give wilt his credit he just didn’t beat Kareem enough lol

[@simonjung848]

shaq has my vote

[@jeremeyrogers9088]

Kenny’s dyed beard looks crazy, go grey Jet, it’s fine

[@GeekShhh]

kenny has extra beijing on that beard.