@TreyIM2: Yes Magic is probably the greatest Multi-Position player EVER. He proved that time and time again. I'll agree with that for sure!

@BlackJack: Larry Bird was/is not the greatest shooter of all time. That is not even debatable. Go do your research before you spew statements like

" Michael was not the best at anything really..."

I'm not even going to entertain your reponse further other than saying go roll the tape....and see the 63points he dropped on Larry Bird and his MUCH better team at the time in Boston......Please don't be a *****....be a student of the game.

I've been a die-hard Lakers fan since I was 6. I'm 38 now. Magic is the man and my favorite player of all time. But hands down, without a doubt, Jordan is the GREATEST of all time. The drive to win, the skill to back it up, the unbelievable talent that changed the game. Jordan, GOAT. Period.

TreyIM2:I think you solved it for me. It is what you value and my thinking with magic is If I could have 5 of any player who would that be and it would be magic.

As far as Shaq goes he can not help that he is 7 feet plus and over 300lb that is how he was made. I say he is #2 for me because of the ability to score, The ability to rebound, the ability to block shots, the ability to pass out of the post, and his agility for someone that size. I guess what I am saying is I can not think of anyone more dominate than him. When the NBA changes the rules so that you don't dominate so much you must be doing something right. I can not argue "THE DREAM" he is an awesome player.

I think all of you make great points, but you are looking over two people. Bill Russell and Kareem are imo the #1 and #2 in G.O.A.T ratings. When you think of great teams, great players, and coaches, you think of winning. Bill Russell has more championships than anyone. Everyone is trying to beat Kareem's career scoring mark so, I think these two should at least be mentioned or thought of.

I'm from Chicago and love those Bulls. I can't say MJ is the greatest if he hasn't won the most. Bill Russell gets that #1. Can't be the man with the most rings until you take his spot.

I don't think you can have a definite #1 greatest player. Magic and Jordan had very different styles. For me it would have to be 1a and 1b with Magic and Jordan. You can't go wrong with either one.

Jordan, hands down.

Michael Jordan averaged 30 PPG and shot 50% from the floor in an era when you could hand check or elbow bar a perimeter player.

If Jordan, in his prime, played under today's rules; he would averaged 35 PPG easy. He'd be shooting free throws, left and right.

I agree with sportguy 100%. These rules today wouldn't benefit just Jordan but players like KJ, Zeke, Magic, etc. I personally think if some of today's players had to play with the rules/physical play of the 80's and 90's their star would not shine as bright. On the other hand if you put the legends in with these current rule changes..........................