NBA Rank

I love the #NBArank project by ESPN. I disagree with some of the rankings (Blake Griffin too high, Zach Randolph too low). I think it points out something with the NBA. There is no overarching number one talent. Lets check out the contenders at each position.

1. Lebron James

Pros: You try to stop him  from dunking at will. Athletic Shot blocker
Cons: See NBA Finals, 2011

2. Dwight Howard

Pros: Best defender in the NBA period.
Cons: Foul prone. Especially of the technical variety. Also offensively limited

3. Derrick Rose

Pros: MVP
Cons: Statistically similar to Russell Westbrook with less assists. Questionable Clutch gene.

4. Pau Gasol. Carmelo Anthony

Pros: Offensive Virtuosos
Cons: Remember that time they played defense? Me, neither

5. Kobe Bryant

Pros: Comparisons to Jordan looked almost reasonable about '07, '08
Cons: This isn't '07, '08 and he's closer to Jordan on the Wizards, than Jordan on the Bulls.

6. Kevin Durant

Pros:  Probably the best scorer in the NBA
Cons:  Iffy 3 point shooter. Ever since Jeff Green left, also a questionable defender.

7. Joe Johnson

Pros: Best paid player on this list
Cons: Most overpaid player on the list. See Lewis, Rashard.

8. Bismack Biyombo

Pros: Potentially the greatest shot blocker of all time. Has yet to play an NBA game with less than 15 blocks.
Cons: None, other than the fact that he also has yet to play an NBA game. And the Jordan Curse.

Either way, no matter where you go, there is no unquestioned number one. There is no 90's Jordan, '06 Jordan, Early '00s Iverson or Shaq. The league has parity, and a bunch of players with clear flaws.