HoopWatch

40. James Worthy – Jerry Stackhouse

Coach Avery Johnson has inculcated into the mind of Jerry Stackhouse what his role is in the much-talented Dallas team. He has emerged as a great supporting player for Dirk Nowitzki and Josh Howard. And he has readily embraced it, becoming a spark off the bench for the Mavericks’ championship hopes. James Worthy did just that for Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and the 80’s Los Angeles Lakers. Both are good scoring options when their stars are being checked.

39. Reggie Miller – Richard Hamilton

They both know how to run through screen after screen. They are tireless in making themselves open, and their team wants them to be. Why not? They are great perimeter shooters. The only difference is Miller has the farther range. But Rip is slowly learning how to shoot that three consistently.

38. Dominique Wilkins – Shawn Marion

Although Wilkins has proven to be a worthier franchise player than Marion, single-handedly leading his Hawks to the playoffs, Marion is a definite All-Star, and will eventually be a franchise player to reckon with in the future. Both jump so high, and they dunk with impunity.

37. Dominique Wilkins – Andre Iguodala

I still think AI2 will become more of Dominique in the future. This emerging young star has taken upon himself to carry the scoring role for the Philadelphia 76ers with the departure of Allen Iverson. And they are winning. The open floor is his playground, and expect a rim-rattling dunk each time.

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36. Byron Scott – Richard Jefferson

They can both score when needed, extremely athletic and defend well. RJ has been given the task to guard the likes of Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady and even Dirk Nowitzki. Although, with the eventual departure of Jason Kidd and Vince Carter, Jefferson may surpass Scott’s role and become the future of the Nets franchise.