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NBA: Who is the best duo from each franchise’s history

By Christopher Jeter

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 6: Scottie Pippen #33 of the Chicago Bulls is seen talking to Michael Jordan #23 of the Chicago Bulls during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on May 6, 1997 at the United Center in Chicago, IL. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1997 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 6: Scottie Pippen #33 of the Chicago Bulls is seen talking to Michael Jordan #23 of the Chicago Bulls during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on May 6, 1997 at the United Center in Chicago, IL. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1997 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Best duo from Philadelphia 76ers: Julius Erving and Moses Malone

In terms of roster improvements, the Philadelphia 76ers benefitted the most from the ABA/NBA merger. When the Knicks basically forced the Nets to sell Julius Erving’s contract after imposing territorial fees, the Sixers were more than happy to open their wallets for the high-flying forward.

Upon arrival, Erving was as advertised. His combination of speed and size turned most Sixers transition sequences into two points, but he also harbored some passing and post skills that are often overlooked because of the dunks.

With Erving sending fans home with memories to share with their kids, the Sixers became contenders in a tough Eastern Conference that many older fans wax poetic about, but they couldn’t corral that elusive championship in what was at the time seven straight playoff appearances.

That changed when Philly unloaded a first-round pick and role player Caldwell Jones to add then-two-time MVP Moses Malone to their ranks. His inaugural numbers with the Sixers in 1982-82 made the investment more than worthwhile: 24.5 points, a league-leading 15.3 boards, and a 25.1 Player Efficiency Rating (PER).

Malone’s dominance in the post and Irving’s usual productivity contributed to the Sixers’ top-five ranking in offensive and defensive rating, their 65-17 record, and the sweep of the “Showtime” Lakers to win the NBA Finals.

These two would play together for three more seasons — ending their time with .179 WS/48 —  and even though they never won another title, Erving and Malone proved themselves well worth what the Sixers gave up for them.