The best ever players at every lottery draft pick
Pick Number 8: Robert Parish
Robert Parish is probably one of the most underrated players of all time. Despite the fact that he was the third part of Boston’s Big Three, along with Larry Bird and Kevin McHale, he is rarely acknowledged for his part in the 80s Celtics dynasty. However, he was integral to their team. Averaging a double-double in rebounds and points for all three of their championships, Parish was the leader and intimidation on those feared Celtic’s teams. Averaging 14.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists throughout his career, Parish was an incredible center and easily the best ever player to be selected eighth overall in the NBA draft.
Accomplishments:
9x All-Star
2x All-League
4x NBA Champion
Pick Number 7: Stephen Curry
The only unanimous MVP in league history, Stephen Curry was a shoo-in for the best ever at this spot. Along with fellow sharpshooter Klay Thompson, Curry has revolutionized the game. Averaging 23.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 6.6 assists throughout his career, Curry has helped transform Golden State from perennial lottery teams to title challengers within 6 years. He had some help, but Steph remains the star for the Dubs, and one of the most influential players of his time.
Accomplishments:
6x All-Star
1x League Scoring Champion
6x All-NBA
3x NBA Champion
2x MVP
Pick Number 6: Larry Bird
Larry Bird saved the NBA. Although it seems like a bit of an overreaction, it’s true. In 1979, when Bird entered the league as the 6th overall pick, the NBA was losing viewers and was in the red. However, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson’s rivalry swiftly revitalized the league. Larry Bird led the Celtics to 3 championships in the 80s, cementing himself as an all-time Boston and NBA legend. He averaged 24.4 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists throughout his career, and probably would have been even better if injuries hadn’t plagued the end of his career. However, he still ended up as one of the all-time greats, so there isn’t much he could complain about in that regard.
Accomplishments:
12x All-Star
3x NBA Champion
10x All-NBA
3x All-Defensive
1x Rookie Of The Year
2x Finals MVP
3x MVP