NBA legend Carmelo Anthony sparked a heated debate in the basketball world with his recent comments on the "Brooklyn 7PM" podcast. While discussing the best shooting guard of all time, Melo boldly declared Dwyane Wade as the absolute number one player in his heyday.
"People forget how dominant Dwyane Wade was," Anthony stressed. He was the master of creating shots. When he locked down a win, arguably, he was the best two-guard in the league."
Wade's illustrious career spanned 16 seasons, making him one of the greatest shooting guards of all time, and when he retires in 2019, he'll have an impressive résumé: 13 All-Star selections, eight NBA All-Star appearances, three NBA Championships, and career averages of 22.0 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game on 48 per cent shooting from the field. While his place in Miami Heat history is unquestionable, his ranking compared to other shooting guard legends remains controversial.
FAN REACTION: However, opinions vary.
Melo's statement about Wade's superior shooting ability is not shared by all fans. Some argue that Wade's limited range compared to other top scorers weakens his argument. Others counter that Wade's athleticism and ability to create space make him a force to be reckoned with.
Interestingly, some fans completely agree with Melo, even going so far as to argue that Wade would have been among the top three shooting guards of all time had it not been for injuries. Kobe Bryant's name inevitably enters the discussion, with many believing that his consistent scoring ability and clutch play overshadowed Wade's prime.
Traditional Comparisons Between Wade and Kobe
Kobe and Wade have had heavily overlapping careers, often facing off on the court. Wade was drafted by the Miami Heat in 2003 and rose to fame after winning his first championship with Shaquille O'Neal in 2006. His unrivalled athleticism and speed allowed him to dominate in the paint, earning him a well-deserved statue off the court.
Wade's talent is undeniable, but Kobe's legend is unrivalled. While their prime years may not have coincided exactly, Kobe dominated as the undisputed top shooting guard for over a decade, cementing his status as the second greatest shooting guard in NBA history. His accolades speak for themselves: 18 All-Star selections, five championships, two scoring titles, and a reputation as a clutch performer and shooting master.
The Takeaway.
Melo's comments may be controversial, but it doesn't diminish the greatness of Dwyane Wade or Kobe Bryant. Both players have earned their place among the all-time greats, while Kobe has a slight edge in the shooting guard rankings due to his long history of dominance and key moment performances. Ultimately, individuals will differ on their rankings, but their legacy as iconic figures in NBA history remains undeniable.
