NBA History: 50 best NBA players of the 21st century

50 greatest NBA players from 21st century: 34. Amar’e Stoudemire

A staple of the Seven Seconds or Less Suns, and one of his generation’s most purely entertaining players, Amar’e Stoudemire was a walking highlight reel. The 6-foot-9 forward thrived next to Hall of Fame point guard Steve Nash, aggressively attacking the rim and putting his explosive athleticism to good use.

After winning Rookie of the Year in 2003, Stoudemire averaged over 20 points per game in his second season. From that point forward, he wouldn’t spend a healthy year below that mark until 2012-13. Stoudemire accumulated six All-Star berths in his career, five of which came with Phoenix. He never developed a jump shot, but few players were more efficient and prolific inside than Stoudemire.

Stoudemire was the ideal No. 2 to Nash in Phoenix. His contributions to one of the greatest offensive teams in history should not go unrecognized. He was never quite the same after leaving for New York in 2010, but Stoudemire still rounded out his playing days in respectable fashion.

In many ways, Stoudemire was a precursor for the modern NBA big. He and Nash were as good as any pick-and-roll duo in league history. His ability to get up and down the floor was a selling point in his prime, but that particular skill has increased dramatically in value in the years since. Stoudemire’s imprint on the modern game should not go unrecognized.

50 greatest NBA players from 21st century: 33. Pau Gasol

Though he played in the often blanketing shadow of Kobe Bryant, it is difficult to overlook Pau Gasol’s contributions to Lakerland. He helped deliver two championships to LA and made three All-Star appearances across his six seasons with the team. Between Memphis and Chicago, Gasol made another three All-Star appearances.

While Gasol was excellent before and after his time in LA, it’s difficult to remove his legend from Lakers lore. He was the ideal complement to later-career Kobe — a dynamic offensive big who could switch effortlessly between the four and five. He could space the floor and splash home mid-range jumpers, or work into the post and score with touch at the rim. Gasol was unselfish and versatile, and played a key role in both of the rings he won with LA.

Before Gasol arrived in Los Angeles, he was an All-Star who put Memphis on the postseason map — even if the Grizzlies never managed to get far. He also made two All-Star appearances in two years with Chicago after departing the Lakers. When you factor in his sprawling overseas career, it’s impossible to diminish the magnitude of Gasol’s accomplishments.

Part of the only brotherly pair to make this list, Gasol has his spot in the NBA history books. A dominant offensive player, a staunch rebounder, and by no means a helpless defender, Gasol will be remembered fondly for a great many reasons.