The 50 greatest players in NBA history, ranked by win shares
By Cal Durrett
Greatest NBA Player #3: Wilt Chamberlain-247.26
Unlike his archrival, Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain rates much better in win shares despite also playing in an era where blocks and steals weren’t recorded. The difference of 84 wins can largely be attributed to Chamberlain being one of the greatest offensive players ever, whereas Russell was comparatively a below-average player on that end.
He terrorized the NBA during his prime, scoring at will, including averaging a record 50.4 points per game on 50.6% field goal shooting in the 1961–62 season. Chamberlain also shares the highest scoring average in NBA history with Jordan. That unprecedented scoring ability factors heavily into his total win shares, while his defensive impact relies on estimates.
Fortunately, even with estimates in place of actual defensive stats, Chamberlain comes in at a more than respectable third on this list. With a strong argument to be made that he is the greatest NBA player ever, that is definitely in line with expectations and proof that win shares can get it right even with statistical limitations. With just two spots remaining on this list, which players rank higher than Chamberlain?