What is PER exactly and what does it measure?

According to John Hollinger, The player efficiency rating (PER) is a rating of a player's per-minute productivity. However, many basketball analysts use it as the best singular measure of a player's overall quality of play. PER is much more advanced than the simple Efficiency rating, and takes many more things into account than simple box score stats. PER tries to capture the effectiveness of what a certain player is doing while he's on the floor. PER has many pros and cons of being a one-all/be-all stat, but first I want to dive into what exactly PER's calculations are. John Hollinger's database only goes back to the 1988-89 season, but it can be easily calculated all the way back to when the league started through the tactics used by http://www.basketball-reference.com/about/per.html. I used all statistics dated from December 19th, 2015 (I know it's a little later than that), and for simplicity, I rounded the calculations to 4 decimal places.

So, without further ado, I want to break down PER on a step by step basis, so the casual fan can understand what exactly PER means, here is the formula for unadjusted PER.

uPER = (1 / MP) *
     [ 3P 
     + (2/3) * AST
     + (2 - factor * (team_AST / team_FG)) * FG
     + (FT *0.5 * (1 + (1 - (team_AST / team_FG)) + (2/3) * (team_AST / team_FG)))
     - VOP * TOV
     - VOP * DRB% * (FGA - FG)
     - VOP * 0.44 * (0.44 + (0.56 * DRB%)) * (FTA - FT)
     + VOP * (1 - DRB%) * (TRB - ORB)
     + VOP * DRB% * ORB
     + VOP * STL
     + VOP * DRB% * BLK
     - PF * ((lg_FT / lg_PF) - 0.44 * (lg_FTA / lg_PF) * VOP) ]

Now as seen here, the variables VOP, factor, and DRB% are not regular statistics used by traditional box scores. 

The way to calculate these statistics,  are also given by http://www.basketball-reference.com/about/per.html. 

factor = (2 / 3) - (0.5 * (lg_AST / lg_FG)) / * (lg_FG / lg_FT))
VOP    = lg_PTS / (lg_FGA - lg_ORB + lg_TOV + 0.44 * lg_FTA)
DRB%   = (lg_TRB - lg_ORB) / lg_TRB 

As seen in the formulas for all these 3 factors, the terms preceded with lg_ are indicating it as the league average of that statistic. 

So in order to find these league averages, I would find either a league average stat and use that, or find the total amount of that certain statistic over all teams in the league, and divide it by the average amount of games each team has player. 

Finding VOP(Value of Possession) is crucial is figuring out what the average amount of points in a possession is scored, across the league. 

VOP (Value of Possession) =  lg_PTS / (lg_FGA - lg_ORB + lg_TOV + 0.44 * lg_FTA)
So league average of points is given as a stat on BK ref as 100.8 as of 12/19/2015, and
VOP = 100.8/ [(2160/26) - 267/26 + 386/26+.44*(599/26)= 100.8/[83.0769- 10.2692+14.8462+10.1369]= 100.8/97.7908= 1.030772

The 2160 used is the FGA of all the teams in the league, and the denominator of 26 is the average number of games played by all teams as of 12/19/2015

The 267, 386 and 599 are also the totals of all the statistics of the league in their respective categories. 

All the rest of these values for factor and DRB% are pretty self explanatory if you look at the way we previously calculated VOP. 
Factor = (2/3) - (0.5 * (lg_AST / lg_FG)) / (2 * (lg_FG / lg_FT))

Factor = (2/3) – (0.5 * [(556/26)/(960/26)/[2* (960/26)/(454/26)](2/3)-[.5 * (21.3846/36.9231)]/[2*(36.9231/17.4615)]=(2/3) – [.5*(.5792)]/[2*(2.1145)= (2/3)- (.2896/4.229)= (2/3) – (.0685)= .5982 

Factor is calculated in order to find the amount of "assists" that should be counted towards the PER rating since Free Throws are not counted as made Field Goals, this is why the value is subtracted from 2/3.

 DRB % = (lg_TRB - lg_ORB) / lg_TRB DRB % = (1,128-267)/1,128= .7633
So, now that we found these factors that were variable beforehand, we can calculate the actual unadjusted PER of Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors, who was the leader in PER on 12/19/2015. 

These statistics are all taken from http://www.basketball-reference.com/?lid=homepage_logo.
uPER = (1 / MP) [To calculate on a per-minute basis]

* [ 3P (to account for the difference between FG and 3FG that isn't used in the equation)    

+ (2/3) * AST  (because Hollinger thought an assist was worth 2/3 of a point    

 + (2 - factor * (team_AST / team_FG)) * FG    (calculates the impact that the player's field goals has on PER) 

+ (2/3) * (team_AST / team_FG))) (calculates the amount of assisted field goals of the team)        

+ (FT *0.5 * (1 + (1 - (team_AST / team_FG)) (calculates the impact that the player's free throws has while factoring in that 

- VOP * TOV (subtracting the value of a turnover)      

 - VOP * DRB% * (FGA - FG) (subtracting the value of a missed shot)     

 - VOP * 0.44 * (0.44 + (0.56 * DRB%)) * (FTA - FT) (subtracts the value of missed free throws) 

+ VOP * (1 - DRB%) * (TRB - ORB)      (adds the value of a defensive rebound) 

+ VOP * DRB% * ORB     (adds the value of an offensive rebound) 

 + VOP * STL (adds the value of a steal)     

 + VOP * DRB% * BLK  (adds the value of a block, while factoring in that an offensive rebound may occur)  

 - PF * ((lg_FT / lg_PF) - 0.44 * (lg_FTA / lg_PF) * VOP) ] (subtracts the value of foul while factoring in the value of a free throw for the opposing team)  

That's a damn lot to swallow, and that's when I thought I should probably calculate it through Excel, but I said to hell with it, I said I should calculate it manually to show its calculation line by line.

(1/MP) = (1/902) = .0011086474 

 [*3P (129)

 + (2/3* 158) =  105.3333 

+[2-.5982(748/1104)*276= 277.5947

 +(151*.5*(1+(1-748/1,104)) = 1.32246* 151 * .5= 99.8460

 +(2/3)* (748/1,104) = .4517

 - 1.030772*96= 98.9541

 - 1.030772 * .7633* (530-276)= 199.8442 

- 1.030772 *.44*[.44+(.56*.7633))*(168-151)= 6.6882 

-1.030772 * (1-.7633)*(135-16)= 29.0341

 +1.030772 * (.7633) * (16) = 12.5886 

+1.030772*56= 57.723 

+1.030772*.7633*3= 2.3604 

- PF(51) *[(454/26)/(527/26)]- .44 * [(599/26)/(527/26)] * 1.030772= (51)(17.4615)/(20.2692)- .44(23.0385/20.2692)*1.030772= 

43.9355- .5155= 43.42 

So all these values are added and subtracted and multiplied by 1/Minutes Played in order to see what the PER was.  

 129 

+105.3333 

+277.5947

 +99.8460 

+.4517

 -98.9541

 -199.8442

 -6.6882 

-29.0341

 +12.5886

 +57.723 

+2.3604

 -43.42

 =34.03 PER for Stephen Curry

However, since Golden State is one the fastest paced team in the NBA, there needs to be an adjustment for the amount of possessions they get

Pace adjustment = lg_pace/ team_pace which 

= 96.1/99.7= .96389*34.03 = 32.8 is the actual PER of Stephen Curry

PER should also be normalized to 15/(lg_PER), but that would mean having to calculate everyone's unadjusted PER, which would mean me wasting more hours of my life.  

Now, after learning what goes into calculating PER, it's easier to think about what the strengths and weaknesses of the statistic are. 

Strengths 

- Shows percentages other than FG% to show how efficient a player actually is with his shooting

- Gives different weights for certain statistics according to their helpfulness/efficiency

- Takes all statistics with a relative value to a possession

- Factors in offensive rebounds as a possibility from a missed shot or block, which gives the possibility of a second possession

Even though, there are many positives of the stat, I believe there are many more negatives, actually. 

Weaknesses 

- Other than blocks and steals, doesn't account for defensive accomplishments

- For players who get a lower amount of minutes, but have a high usage rate (i.e Victor Oladipo lately), the numbers are skewed in their favor, because of the per-minute bias

- High volume shooters are rewarded if they shoot more shots above a certain percentage (my estimate was 34%)

- Fouls in my opinion, are included as an unnecessary subtraction, since it doesn't take "giving up an easy field goal" in its formula. Therefore, I don't think fouling, which give up free throws, are necessary to include

- The defensive statistics that are included, actually show that a player gambles more often than not, and should not be the main statistics used in deciding whether a player is a good defensive player or not. 

Nevertheless, I hope I explained PER well, and here are the current leaders in PER. 

Top 10 Nba Players' Most Unexpected Breakout Seasons

A player who has only one outlier season is a very big rarity considering that the best players in the game have been consistent for at least a total of 3 seasons. The players listed below happened to have one good season statistics-wise and dropped off again forming a peak in their respective careers. In addition, it is to no one's surprise that most of these players are Most Improved Player Award winners, or were peculiar one-time all stars. WS= win shares, the other stats are pretty self-explanatory. If you guys think I missed anyone it'd be great if you told me who it was I feel like I did actually missed quite a few players
Written by Rafael Hagopjanian (@RafaelHagopjani)

10. Don Maclean (1993-94) Washington Bullets, 18.2 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 50.2 FG%, 5.6 WS
Career Averages: 10.9 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 45.5 FG%, 1.0 WS
Don Maclean, otherwise known as the highest scoring player in Pac-12 history, really maxed out his potential during his UCLA days. After he was drafted 19th overall, Don Maclean didn't have a fantastic rookie year averaged only 6.6 points and 2 rebounds a game. His second year was monstrous and many people thought he had his abilities from college back, which prompted him into getting the 1993 Most Improved Award. Too bad they really weren't as Don Maclean is the first person to be banned from the NBA for performance-enhancing drugs.







   

9. Bobby Simmons (2004-05) Los Angeles Clippers, 16.4 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 6.8 WS
Career Averages: 9.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 0.8 SPG, 2.0 WS
Bobby Simmons, the OG Clipper himself, had a really weird one good year. He was a solid role player on the Clippers this year, and it seemed like a breakout year for him as he was one of the many who won the Most Improved Player award in the years posted here.

8. Aaron Brooks (2009-10) Houston Rockets 19.6 PPG, 5.3 APG, 43.2 FG%, 5.5 WS
Career Averages: 11.6 PPG, 3.4 APG, 41.5 FG%, 2.5 WS
Aaron Brooks looks like he must have lost a step after he came back from China, because he certainly doesn't look like he'll get his form back. And guess what? Aaron Brooks won the Most Improved Player in 2010 as well. I hope for his sake that he succeeds on the Rockets this year, and he could possibly regain massive respect in the NBA. 

7. Larry Drew (1982-83) Kansas City Royals 20.1 PPG, 8.1 APG, 1.7 SPG, 7.2 WS
Career Averages: 11.4 PPG, 5.2 APG, 1.1 SPG, 2.4 WS 
The current Milwaukee Buck coach was actually a pretty good baller back in the day, especially in the 1983 season. As part of the Kansas City Royals (known as the Sacramento Kings now), he averaged more than 17 points and 8 for the only time in his career. He was a statistical legend in this year, and he was even the leader on his team in points.

6.  Michael Adams (1990-91) Denver Nuggets 26.5 PPG, 10.5 APG, 2.2 SPG, 6.3 WS
Career Averages: 14.7 PPG, 6.4 APG, 1.7 SPG, 4.3 WS
Michael Adams is one of the few players on this list that is a one-time all-star as well but not even for this season. Michael Adams was a premier three point shooter, and the year after this 1991 season it seems the NBA felt bad about Adams not being an all-star in the previous year. Although Michael Adams had a 39.4% FG Percentage this year, the stats Adams had in this year are Magic-esque.  

5. Eddy Curry (2006-07) New York Knicks 19.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 57.6 FG%, 4.7 WS
Career Averages: 12.9 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 54.5 FG% , 2.0 WS
Eddy Curry (before he got even fatter) was actually a solid center for the Knicks in the 06-07 season. Sadly for Knicks fan, this was a contract year and Curry never got even close to the same form he had during that year. Although he didn't win Most Improved Player, several Knick fans know this is as the only season during the late 2000s where the Knicks seemed like they had any real hope. 

4. Mike James (2005-06) Toronto Raptors 20.3 PPG, 5.8 APG, 44.2 3PFG%, 7.6 WS
Career Averages: 10.0 PPG, 3.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.9 WS
Mike James has been a serviceable role player his whole career, so for him to average 20 points per game in one entire season wasa huge outlier during his career. The fact that Mike James had his only above 12 PPG season when he was 30 speaks volumes about how unexpected this season was for James. 

3. Pervis Ellison (1991-92) Washington Bullets, 20.0 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 2.7 BPG, 6.9 WS
Career Averages: 9.5 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.6 BPG, 2.0 WS
"Never Nervous" Pervis is famed for being the #1 overall pick bust for the Sacramento Kings, and this 1991-1992 season is not a reason why. Ellison won the Most Improved Player Award in this year, and for some reason he never seemed to regain his form. Seemed like he got a little nervous during his other years.

2.  Chris Gatling (1996-97) Dallas Mavericks/ LA Clippers 19.0 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 71.7 FT%, 3.9 WS
Career Averages: 10.3 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 66.0 FT% , 2.9 WS
Gatling was a journeyman role player during the 90s who usually filled his role well. In the 96-97 season not only was it a surprise that Gatling played so well, Gatling also got his first and only all-star selection. Starting off with the lowly Mavericks at the time certainly helped his averages and after this season, Gatling became his old role player self again.

1. Dana Barros (1994-95) Philadelphia 76ers, 20.2 PPG, 7.5 APG, 46.4 3PFG%, 12.7 WS
Career Averages: 10.5 PPG, 3.3 APG, 41.1 3PFG%, 3.5 WS
Dana Barros was a 3 point shot knockdown killer, the guy was amazing with his three point stroke. His stroke helped him out even more in the 94-95 season. Not only did he win the Most Improved Player Award, he also garnered his first and only all-star selection like our friend Mr. Gatling above in that year. After this season, however, much like all of our players listed, he came back down to Earth and shot a 41.1 3PFG% instead of the ridiculous 46.4% he averaged in 94-95.

Ranking the NBA’s Best All-Time Starting 5s Per Team Plus 6th man

    Written by Rafael Hagopjanian @RafaelHagopjani

   All franchises in the NBA have all-time greats and here we will rank all the best starting 5s in franchise history and a 6^th man. Each player will be ranked on how they stack up against the all time greats within their franchise and against other franchises. If a certain player has been on more than one team, he will be put on the one team that he spent the most years with.  The tiebreaker that will be used if a certain player was on two teams the same amount of years, will be whether that player played more games on one of the two respective teams. Also, a player can not be a different position than his natural position for the sake of this greatest all time starting 5 article i.e. Allen Iverson cannot be a Point Guard for the 76ers in their 5 because his natural position is Shooting Guard. Teams like the Seattle Sonics, New Jersey Nets, etc. are taken into account when including players as well. Stats are based on the years they were on their respective “all-time” teams. This is an opinion article, so please comment with any players I might have missed on some of the teams.

Worst of the best

30. Charlotte Bobcats: 

PG: Raymond Felton (2005-10) 13.3 PPG, 6.4 APG, 3.4 RPG

SG: Gerald Henderson (2009-13) 11.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 79.2 FT%

SF: Gerald Wallace (2005-11) 16.5 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 1.8 SPG

PF: Boris Diaw (2008-12) 12.9 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 48.9 FG%

C: Emeka Okafor (04-09) 14.0 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 50.6 FG%

6th: Brevin Knight (2004-07) 10.8 PPG, 8.3 APG, 81.8 FT%

Considering that the Bobcats have only been around for so long, its no surprise to see them at the bottom of this list. The two Geralds can only do so much with this lackluster squad, and this looks more like a regular starting lineup, not an all-time greatest lineup. There weren't many hard decisions on who to put in this lineup, that's for sure.

29. Toronto Raptors:

PG: Damon Stoudamire (1995-98) 19.6 PPG, 8.8 APG, 4.1 RPG

SG: Vince Carter, (1998-05) 23.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3,9 APG

SF: Jalen Rose (2003-06) 16.2 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.4 APG

PF: Chris Bosh (2003-10) 20.2 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 1.2 BPG

C: Oliver Miller (1995-98) 9.4 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 53 FGP%
6^th: Doug Christie (1995-00) 14.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.1 SPG

Sorry Canada, but since the Raptors are north of the border, it seems no "big fish" want to actually play there. Bosh, Carter, and Stoudamire, the main meat and bones of this all-time lineup, acted like they had always wanted out of Toronto and they all got their wish. It was also a tough decision to leave out Andrea Bargnani instead of Oliver Miller, but I didn't want to remind Raptors fans that Bargnani ever played in Toronto.

28. Memphis Grizzlies 
PG: Jason Williams (2001-2005) 11.9 PPG, 7.2 APG, 1.3 SPG
SG: OJ Mayo (2008-12) 15.2 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.7 APG
SF: Rudy Gay (2006-2013) 17.4 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 1.3 SPG
PF: Shareef Abdur-Rahim (1996-2001) 20.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.9 APG
C: Pau Gasol (2001-08) 18.8 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.8 BPG
6th: Marc Gasol (2008-13) 13.3 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 1.6 BPG

The Grizzlies have never really had a formidable backcourt until now, and hopefully there will be someone good enough to get rid of "above-average" players like White Chocolate and OJ Mayo (doesn't sound very good as a food choice) off this all time time list. If Mike Conley keeps playing like he is, it looks like he'll certainly surpass Williams. Otherwise, the Grizzlies' frontcourt is pretty darn stacked with Gay, Shareef and the Gasol brothers. The only person who could have possibly taken one of their spots is Zach "ZBO" Randolph.

27. Minnesota Timberwolves 
PG: Terrell Brandon (1998-2002) 15.6 PPG, 8.3 APG, 89.5 FT%
SG: Isaiah Rider (1993-96) 18.8 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 82.2 FT%
SF: Tony Campbell (1989-92) 20.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.8 APG
PF: Kevin Garnett (1995-2007) 20.5 PPG, 11.4 RPG, 4.5 APG
C: Rasho Nesterovic (1998-2003) 7.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 49.5 FG%
6th: Tom Gugliotta (1994-98) 18.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.7 SPG

Finally we get to a formidable team in the Timberwolves. The Timberwolves' all-time lineup would be much higher up the rankings if Al Jefferson was put on this squad or if Nikola Pekovic was put in (I thought it wouldn't be fair to put Pekovic in an all time greatest list after just one year). Kevin Garnett keeps this team afloat as well, considering this looks similar, yet still better than the subpar supporting cast he had in his first few years in the league.

26. Phoenix Suns:

PG: Steve Nash (1996-98,2004-12) 14.6 PPG, 9.0 APG, 44.2 3PFG%

SG:Charlie Scott (1971-75) 24.8 PPG, 5.3 APG, 4.1 RPG

SF: Shawn Marion (1999-08) 18.4 PPG, 10 RPG, 1.9 SPG

PF: Tom Chambers (1988-93) 20.6 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 2.3 APG

C: Alvan Adams (1975-88) 14.1 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.1 APG
6th: Kevin Johnson (1988-00) 18.7 PPG, 9.5 APG, 1.5 SPG

Chambers and Nash in their heyday could make for one deadly combination, and I would be excited to see this team run as well. If this team went small, this team could very well be the Run n Gun Suns we used to love. It was tough to choose between Kevin Johnson, Tom Chambers, and Amare Stoudemire, but it seems to be the correct choice considering the longevity of the first two's careers. 

Missing that one piece

25. Los Angeles Clippers/Braves

PG: Norm Nixon (1983-89) 14.6 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 9.0 APG

SG: Randy Smith (1971-79) 17.8 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 4.9 APG

SF: Danny Manning (1988-94)19.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.8 APG

PF: Elton Brand (2001-08) 20.3 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 2.3 BPG

C: Bob McAdoo (1972-77) 28.2 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 2.3 BPG
6th: Corey Maggette: (2000-08) 17.3 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.7 APG

The Clippers have always been known as the bottom feeders of the league until recently, and the Braves' McAdoo is possibly the only thing that keeps this team from being 29th on the list. Maggette, Brand, and Manning had the prime of their careers during their Clipper days, but they never really amounted to much other than a few playoff series wins. Chris Paul on this team would've been a lot of help, but sadly he's spent more time on the Hornets.

24. Milwaukee Bucks:

PG: Sam Cassell (1998-2003) 19.0 PPG, 7.2 APG, 4.0 RPG

SG: Ray Allen (1996-2003) 19.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2,857 3-pt FGM,

SF: Glenn Robinson (1994-2002) 21.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 81.2 FT%

PF: Terry Cummings (1984-89, 1995-96) 19.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 2.3 APG

C: Andrw Bogut (2005-12) 12.7 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 53.1 FG% 
6th: Marques Johnson (1977-84) 21.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.7 APG
Before I wrote this article, I had never even heard of Cummings or Johnson, but looking at their stats and highlight tapes, it is apparent that they were very good players. Everyone knows Sam "I'm the ugliest player ever" Cassell was a great journeyman point guard and Ray Allen is the greatest 3 point shooter ever. This team can certainly go toe to toe with many top-tier teams, but they just don't have enough to beat many of the teams above them. If only Kareem played more years on the Bucks than he did on the Lakers.

23. New Orleans Hornets 
PG: Chris Paul (2005-11) 19.3 PPG, 10.0 APG, 2.4 SPG
SG: Dell Curry (1988-98) 14.0 PPG, 40.5 3PFG%, 85.2 FT%
SF:  Jamal Mashburn (2000-04) 21.0 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 5.0 APG
PF: Larry Johnson (1991-96) 19.6 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 4.1 APG
C: Elden Campbell (1998-2003) 12.6 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.7 BPG
6th: Muggsy Bogues (1988-98) 8.8 PPG, 8.8 APG, 1.7 SPG

This squad resembles a slightly better 92-93 Hornets in 2k13 and if Mourning was on this team it would definitely be able to stop the top tier teams. Mashburn was very underrated as a Hornet, and Chris Paul will pass off with ease to the other players on this team, especially if Larry Johnson didn't have his back problems on this team.The only real weak link is Campbell and sadly the only other respectable center that could be put instead of him was Jamal Magloire, and Magloire was an all-star and all, but come on, no.

22. Dallas Mavericks

PG: Derek Harper (1983-94) 14.4 PPG, 5.9 APG, 1.8 SPG

SG: Rolando Blackman (1981-92) 19.2 PPG, 3.2 APG, 49.7 FG%

SF: Mark Aguirre (1981-89) 24.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.1 APG

PF:Dirk Nowitzki (1998-2013) 22.9 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 87.6 FT%

C: Roy Tarpley (1986-95) 12.6 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 48.3 FG%

6th: Michael Finley (1997-2005) 19.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3.3 APG

Yet again the center position is a problem for an all-time franchise starting 5. Nowitzki surrounds himself here with great scorers, especially with longtime running mate Michael Finley, but Tarpley is below par to say the least. He had good stats as a starter for the team, but those were during their rebuilding years, and he also had drug issues, which turns the Mavs' team down a notch.

21. Indiana Pacers

PG: Mark Jackson (1994-96, 1997-2000) 8.4 PPG, 8.1 APG, 36.2 3PFG%

SG: Reggie Miller (1987-05) 18.2 PPG, 39.5 3PFG%, 88.8 FT%

SF: Chuck Person (1986-92) 19.0 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 3.6 APG

PF:  Clark Kellogg (1982-87) 18.9 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 49.7 FG%

C: Mel Daniels (1968-74) 19.4 PPG, 16.0 RPG, 48.3 FG%
6th: George McGinnis (1971-75, 1979-82) 19.6 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 3.3 APG

This Pacers team is very confusing to me. I don't really know where to rank this team, because there would be no way of knowing whether this team would mesh together well. Mark Jackson will certainly try, but there are too many postups needed to keep Kellogg, Daniels, and McGinnis productive scoring wise. On the other hand, the legendary Reggie Miller and Chuck Person could absolutely head this team into the right direction, but to me it seems like there is just one piece missing from bringing this team into the next tier.

20. Orlando Magic:

PG: Anfernee Hardaway (1993-99) 19.0 PPG, 6.3 APG, 4.7 RPG

SG: Tracy McGrady: (2000-04) 28.1 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 5.2 APG

SF: Dennis Scott (1990-96) 14.8 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 40.3 3PFG%

PF:Terry Catledge (1989-93) 15.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 47.8 FGP%

C: Dwight Howard (2004-12) 18.6 PPG, 13.1 RPG, 2.1 BPG
6th: Nick Anderson: (1989-99) 15.4 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.8 APG

We're finally getting to the teams that would definitely win championships if teams were constructed the way they are here. Penny and the recently retired T-Mac would give defenses fits and Dennis Scott would be a great sharpshooter to offset their isos. Having Dwight before he became a pussy on the Lakers would also be a great addition to this already stacked squad. Having Nick Anderson in there would also be fantastic to add to the already great backcourt, hopefully he won't miss any crucial free throws this time around.
19. New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets

PG: Jason Kidd (2001-08) 14.6 PPG, 9.1 APG, 107 Triple-Doubles

SG: Drazen Petrovic (1990-93) 19.3 PPG, 2.7 APG, 51.3 FG%

SF: Richard Jefferson (2001-08) 17.4 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 3.0 APG

PF: Keith Van Horn: (1997-02) 18.2, 7.6 RPG, 36.4 3PFG %

C: Brook Lopez (2008-13) 17.9 PPG, 1.7 BPG, 79 FT%
6th: Derrick Coleman (1990-95) 19.9 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 1.6 BPG

This looks very similar to the Nets that had back to back Eastern Conference championships, except with a severe upgrade at the 2 and 5 (Kerry Kittles and Jason Collins anyone?). Draz could take over a game during his prime and Kidd looks to have a bevy of shooters to pass to. This looks like Stan Van Gundy's dream lineup with the inside-outside offensive setup looking like the best we would have ever seen. And with Derrick Coleman coming off the bench, this Nets team would've kept the team in New Jersey.

18. Cleveland Cavaliers

PG: Mark Price (1986-95) 16.4 PPG, 7.2 APG, 40.9 3PTFG%

SG: World B Free (1982-86) 23.0 PPG, 3.9 APG, 45.4 FG%

SF: LeBron James (03-10) 27.8 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 7.0 APG

PF: Larry Nance (1987-94) 16.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.5 BPG

C: Brad Daugherty (1986-94) 19.0 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 53.2 FG%
6th: Ron Harper (1986-90) 19.4 PPG, 5.1 APG, 4.7 RPG

Yet again it seems like LeBron has a below-average supporting cast. If this was actual starting it would be legendary but compared to other all-time 5s it falls just short. The rest of the players surrounding James are above-average but none of them can be necessarily called star players. World B Free and Brad Daugherty can make for some exciting basketball, but they are players that probably could've only won a championship by being the 3rd best star players on a team (kinda like Chris Bosh).

17. Miami Heat: 
PG: Sherman Douglas (1989-92) 16.0 PPG, 7.9 APG, 1.7 SPG
SG: Dwyane Wade (03-13) 24.7 PPG, 6.1 APG, 5.1 RPG
SF: Glen Rice (1989-95) 19.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 38.7 3PFG%
PF: PJ Brown (1996-2000) 9.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.1 BPG
C: Alonzo Mourning (1995-02, 2004-08) 16.0 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 2.7 BPG
6th: Eddie Jones (2000-05, 2006-07) 16.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3.0 APG

And after James's old team we get his current team. The Heat, although a young franchise, have had their more than fair share of great players. The only position that isn't above average for this article is Power Forward. PJ Brown is a great player in his own right, but its hard to really rank this 6 higher than this position when Udonis Haslem is about to break into your starting 5. Otherwise Rice, Mourning, and Wade make for a big 3.

Good, but not great
16. Oklahoma City Thunder/ Sonics 
PG: Gary Payton (1990-2003) 18.2 PPG, 7.4 APG, 2.1 SPG
SG: Dennis Johnson (1976-80) 14.2 PPG, 1.5 spg 1979 Finals MVP
SF: Kevin Durant (08-13) 25.3 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 88.2 FT%
PF: Spencer Haywood (1970-75) 24.9 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 1.4 BPG
C:  Jack Sikma (1979-86) 16.6 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 83.6 FT%
6th: Shawn Kemp (1989-97) 16.2 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 1.4 BPG

Before I started this article I thought an automatic insertion into the starting lineup would've been Shawn Kemp. Looking at Spencer Haywood's stats, though made me do a double take since those are legendary numbers over a span of 6 years. Onto the rest of the team, and what is there to complain about? This team is stacked from top to bottom, and I really see no holes for this team, since Gary Payton's horrid shooting is offset by Durant and Johnson. Sikma is also legendary in his own right, but even this team doesn't make it to the top 15 talent wise.

15. Sacramento Kings:

PG: Oscar Robertson (1960-70) 29.3 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 10.3 APG

SG: Mitch Richmond, (1991-98) 23.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.1 APG

SF: Peja Stojakovic, (1999-06) 18.3 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 39.8 3PFG%

PF: Chris Webber, (1998-05) 23.5 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 4.8 APG

C: Vlade Divac, (1998-04) 11.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 3.7 APG

6th: Jerry Lucas, (1963-70) 19.6 PPG, 19.1 RPG, 3.1 APG

The Big O is possibly the most underrated player in the history of the game. His numbers are eye-popping and it helps having such a good point guard when you have arguably two of the top 20 best shooters on this team. Add in Chris Webber, Jerry Lucas, and one of the greatest passing big men in Divac, and you've got one hell of a squad. There were really no other players on my mind in the history of the Kings/Royals that could've made this a better team for the franchise.

14. Portland Trail Blazers  
PG: Terry Porter (1985-95) 14.9 PPG, 7.0 APG, 3.5 RPG
SG: Clyde "The Glide" Drexler (1983-95) 20.8 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.7 APG
SF: Kiki Vandeweghe (1984-89) 23.5 PPG, 40.8 3PFG%, 88.1 FT%
PF: Rasheed Wallace (1996-2004) 16.8 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 1.3 BPG
C: Bill Walton (1974-78) 17.1 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 2.6 BPG
6th: Brandon Roy (2006-11) 20.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 5.0 APG

The Blazers arguably have the worst luck when it comes down to it. Bill Walton was the only player that brought a championship to this team, and soon after his career was derailed by injuries. Clyde Drexler ran into some guy named Michael Jordan and Rasheed Wallace was heartbroken in a loss to the Lakers that could've brought the Blazers another ship. Anyway, Porter and Vandeweghe are both very good players that could help this team and fit well as "role players" on such a talented team. Brandon Roy in his prime off the bench and you've got a very well rounded team. 

13. Houston Rockets
PG: Calvin Murphy (1970-83) 17.9 PPG, 4.4 APG, 89.2 FT%
SG: Kenny Smith (1990-96) 12.6 PPG, 5.3 APG, 40.7 3PFG%
SF: Rudy Tomjanovich(1970-81) 17.4 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 50.1 FG%
PF:  Ralph Sampson (1983-88) 19.7 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 1.9 BPG
C: Hakeem Olajuwon (1984-2001) 22.5 PPG, 11.4 RPG, 3.2 BPG
6th: Moses Malone (1977-82) 24.0 PPG, 15.0 RPG, 1.6 BPG

I don't think its fair that the Rockets have had such great big men in their history and never really have had a great backcourt to speak of. The trio of Olajuwon, Sampson, and Malone would make me tremble if they were ever on the same team together. Calvin Murphy and the Jet don't do this team any favors though (Sorry Kenny!). Tomjanovich might've been great on the Rockets, but he doesn't make me believe he really makes this team much better. It's really sad that that fantastic big man trio is surrounded by such average players.

12. Atlanta Hawks

PG: Mookie Blaylock (1992-99) 14.9 PPG, 7.3 APG, 2.6 SPG

SG: Joe Johnson (2005-12) 21.7 PPG, 5.5 APG, 4.7 RPG, 2.9 APG

SF: Dominique Wilkins (1982-94) 26.4 PPG, 6.9 RPG

PF: Bob Pettit (1955-65) 26.4 PPG, 16.2 RPG, 3.0 APG

C: Al Horford (2007-13) 15.3 PPG, 9.9 RPG 54 FG%
6th: John Drew (1974-81) 21.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 47.1 FG%

This team just looks like a bunch of underrated all-stars mixed together. Johnson and Wilkins would be great as a tag team, and Pettit is one of the most oft-forgotten players in the history of the NBA. Al Horford and Mookie are both average all-stars and this team can certainly make a case for being of those sneaky teams that can beat the teams above them. 

11. Washington Wizards/Bullets

PG: Gilbert Arenas (2004-11) 25.5 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.7 APG

SG: Earl Monroe (1967-72) 23.7 PPG, 4.6 APG, 3.7 RPG

SF: Caron Butler (2005-11) 19.0 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 87.2 FT%

PF: Elvin Hayes (1974-81) 21.3 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 2.1 BPG

C: Walt Bellamy (1963-66) 27.6 PPG, 16.6 RPG, 51.6 FG%

6th: Wes Unseld (1968-81) 10.8 PPG, 14.0 RPG, 3.9 APG

Agent Zero in his prime was a force to be reckoned with and the rest of the Bullets players were great in their own right. Bellamy, Hayes, Monroe, and Unseld are all legendary, and it would be unfair to say that just because we might not have seen them play, that they shouldn't be included in this all time list of Bullets/Wizards. Antawn Jamison was a player that could've been sneaked in but it would be idiotic to take out legends like Hayes and Unseld for him. 

10. Denver Nuggets

PG: Fat Lever (1984-90) 17.0 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 7.5 APG

SG: David Thompson (1976-82) 24.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.4 APG

SF: Alex English (1980-90) 25.9 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 4.4 APG

PF: Antonio McDyess (1995-97, 1998-2002) 18.2 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 1.7 BPG

C: Dikembe Mutombo (1991-96) 12.9 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 3.8 BPG

6th: Carmelo Anthony (2003-11) 24.7 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 3.1 APG

We arrive at the first team with a superstar 6th man in Carmelo Anthony, and I think any of the teams above them on the rankings would be very happy to have him as well. English, Thompson, and Anthony could go toe to toe with the best scorers of all time, because of their versatility on the offensive end. The only weak link seems to be Antonio McDyess, and no other Nugget really jumped out at me as being better than him. Mutombo is a great player to have on the inside, though, and with so many scorers around him its good to see that there is at least a defensive presence who can knock back shots with ease.

Contenders
9. Detroit Pistons 
PG: Isiah Thomas (1981-94) 19.2 PPG, 9.3 APG, 1.9 SPG
SG: Joe Dumars (1985-1999) 16.1 PPG, 4.5 APG, 38.2 3PFG%
SF: Grant Hill (1994-2000) 21.6 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 6.3 APG
PF: Dennis Rodman (1986-93) 8.8 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 53.7 FG%
C: Bob Lanier (1970-80) 22.7 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 3.3 APG
6th: Ben Wallace (2000-06, 09-12) 7.6 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 2.6 BPG, 1.6 SPG

If I was going up against this team, I would have to come well prepared for the physicality that these Pistons would bring. I rank them this high because if Rodman and Wallace were both in at the same time, its only logical to expect that they would stop the big men on the opposing team to a certain extent. With Thomas, Dumars, and Grant Hill as well they have great two way players who can go up against anybody. Also, Bob Lanier is often forgotten, but it would be foolish to think that he would be replaced by even Bill Laimbeer. This team is definitely the best defensive team in these rankings.

8. Golden State Warriors

PG: Tim Hardaway (1989-96) 17.7 PPG, 8.2 APG, 1,6 SPG

SG: Chris Mullin (1985-97, 2000-01) 20.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.9 APG

SF: Rick Barry (1972-78) 25.6 PPG, 7.3 RPG, .893 FT%

PF: Joe Fulks (1946-54) 16.4 PPG, 5.3 RPG

C: Wilt Chamberlain (1959-65) 45.1 PPG, 25.1 RPG, 54 FG%

 6^th: Paul Arizin, (1950-62) 22.8 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 81 FT%

Looking at these players, you would expect this team to definitely be top 5. Something about this team just makes me think that this team would not mesh well though. Wilt probably wouldn't be able to average as much as he did against players who were actually as big as him, and Joe Fulks is not someone I think of as someone who is definitely in the history books. Paul Arizin is very underrated as well and having the TC in the TMC would make it impossible to to think that this team wouldn't be able to score. Rick Barry would probably need the ball in his hands almost every possession to be of use and with so many mouths to feed, it might be reminiscent of how the 2011-2012 Lakers played, on offense and on defense. This is because if you look at the players on this team, no one was really revered for their defense other than Wilt, and its doubtful he can stop everyone who drives in from the perimeter.

7. New York Knicks

PG: Walt  Frazier (1967-77) 19.6 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 6.3 APG

SG: Richie Guerin (1956-64) 20.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 5.3 APG

SF: Bernard King (1982-87) 26.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 52.7 FG%

PF: Dave DeBusschere (1968-74) 16.0 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 3.1 APG

C: Patrick Ewing (1985-2000) 22.8 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 2.8 BPG

6th: Willis Reed (1964-74) 18.7 PPG, 12.9 RPG, 1.8 APG

The Knicks have a very storied basketball history, as evidenced by how legendary the Madison Squared Garden AKA the Mecca of basketball is. With this great history comes great individual players and boy did they have several individual talents. The Knicks have too much talent to be ranked lower than this, because this lineup is just filled with players who will still be remembered 50 years from now in New York. There are many players who could've been interchanged with the above 6 but this 6 seemed to work best.

6. Philadelphia 76ers

PG: Maurice Cheeks (1978-89) 12.2 PPG, 7.3 APG, 2.3 SPG

SG; Allen Iverson (1996-2007) 27.6 PPG, 6.1 APG, 2.3 SPG

SF: Julius Erving (1976-87) 22.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 3.9 APG

PF: Charles Barkley (1984-92) 23.3 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 57.6 FG%

C: Dolph Schayes (1949-64) 18.5 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 84.9 FT%
6th: Hal Greer (1958-73) 19.2 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 4.0 APG

Wow, AI, Dr. J, and Charles Barkley. If that doesn't convince of the 76ers' ranking being so high I don't know what will. Mo Cheeks might be a weak spot (Andre Miller and Larry Costello were the only real other options) but otherwise Schayes and Greer solidify this team's spot in the top 10 at the very least. We're getting to the point of these teams where if these teams stayed together they would win a championship for at least 5 years straight, and the first team on the list is not too shabby at all.

5. San Antonio Spurs:

PG: Tony Parker (2001-13) 16.6 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 5.6 APG

SG: Manu Ginobili (2002-13) 15.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.8 APG

SF: George Gervin (1973-85) 26.3 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 2.8 APG

PF: Tim Duncan (1997-2013) 21.1 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 2.2 BPG

C: David Robinson (1989-2003) 21.1 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 3.0 BPG
6th: Larry Kenon (1975-80) 20.7 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 1.6 SPG

What did you expect? The current Spurs' big 3, Iceman, the Admiral and Larry Kenon make up a very scary bunch. The only team this team would possibly lose to is the aforementioned Pistons and the teams above them in this list, in my mind at least. The current Spurs are already a dynasty, and if you add one of the greatest scorers ever in the Iceman and a 5 time all star in Kenon, what's not to like with this squad? 

4. Utah Jazz
PG: John Stockton (1984-2003) 13.1 PPG, 10.5 APG, 2.2 SPG
SG: Pete Maravich (1974-80) 25.2 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.6 APG
SF: Adrian Dantley (1979-86) 29.6 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 4.1 APG, 56.2 FG%
PF: Karl Malone (1985-2003) 25.4 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 3.5 APG
C: Al Jefferson (2010-13) 18.5 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 1.6 BPG
6th: Carlos Boozer (04-10) 19.3 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 2.9 APG

It's a shame the Jazz never had a truly good center. Al Jefferson is a very good post presence, but with the players around him on this squad its almost sad to see all that talent go to waste. Stockton and Malone are the best tag team since... yeah never mind they're arguably the best pick and roll duo ever. Maravich and Dantley would only add to that already fantastic duo. Boozer off the bench would only give Stockton a poor man's version of Malone and I'm sure Stockton would've been perfectly fine with that. 

3. Chicago Bulls:

 PG: Derrick Rose (2008-13) 21.0 PPG, 6.8 APG, 3.8 RPG

SG: Michael Jordan (1984-93, 94-98) 31.5 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 5.4 APG

SF: Scottie Pippen (1987-98) 17.7 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 5.3 APG

PF: Horace Grant (1987-94) 12.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 53.0 FG%

C: Artis Gilmore (1976-82) 19.3 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 2.1 BPG
6th: Chet Walker (1969-75) 20.6 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 48.3 FG%

Jordan can't do it all himself is all that needs to be said about this lineup. Horace Grant in this lineup is similar in talent dropoff to PJ Brown on the Heat. He was a solid role player for Jordan's Bulls but he just doesn't really seem like a guy who will be known as one of the legendary "Bulls Power Forwards". It's too bad that Rodman played more years on the Pistons, but nevertheless Gilmore and Walker are very good in their own right. With Jordan's longtime running mate Pippen alongside him and former MVP Rose at the helm, this team would still do perfectly fine. 

2. Boston Celtics:

PG: Jo Jo White (1969-79) 18.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.1 APG

SG: John Havlicek (1962-78) 20.8 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 4.8 APG

SF: Larry Bird (1979-92) 24.3 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 6.3 APG

PF: Kevin Mchale (1980-93) 17.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG 55.4 FG%

C: Bill Russell (1956-69) 15.1 PPG, 22.5 RPG, 4.3 APG
6th: Sam Jones (1957-69) 17.7 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 80.3 FT%  

Now we get to the top 2 and this is where the debate starts. How will we ever know whether the Celtics or Lakers' 6 would ever be better? I'm pretty sure we will never actually know but one thing is definitely true.  Both of these teams are absolutely legendary. This team is a bunch of Finals MVPS and title winners together, and I would go so far as to say that every Celtics fan would agree with the starting 5 at the very least (with Bob Cousy possibly replacing White). Putting Sam Jones on there might be a risky decision, but it only seemed fit to add a player that was on the Bill Russell squads. Anyway, I think any NBA fan would agree in saying that this assortment of 6 players could destroy every other team on a good day.

1. Los Angeles Lakers:

PG: Earvin Johnson (1979-90, 1995-96) 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG

SG: Kobe Bryant(1996-2013) 25.3 ppg, 5.3 RPG, 4.7 APG

SF: Elgin Baylor (1958-72) 27.4 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 4.3 APG

PF: James Worthy (1982-94) 17.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 52.1 FG%

C: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1975-89) 22.1 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 2.5 BPG
6th:  Shaquille O'Neal (1996-2004) 27.0 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 2.5 BPG

Now we finally get to the "Best All-Time 6" and I have to say, I don't think anyone would ever even try beating this team (except the aforementioned Celtics). It would be much more dominant than the Showtime Lakers, considering that the Showtime Lakers didn't have some of the best players EVER in Bryant, Shaq, and Baylor. It doesn't matter what anyone says, it is almost impossible to put this team below top 3. If you don't believe me, just look at the stats and come back to me. Jerry West was a close call between Kobe and Shaq but considering I'd never seen him play, the edge was given to the three peat Lakers duo.