Greatest NBA rookies of all time

[PurpleHaze]

http://a.espncdn.com/page2/s/list/bestNBArookies.html

Interesting that two players were both MVP and ROY the same season - Wilt Chamberlain and Wes Unseld (although Unseld listed at #7 was said to have been outplayed statistically by fellow rookie Elvin Hayes). Some very great players not listed at all because they began careers in ABA like Julius Erving, Moses Malone, George Gervin, Connie Hawkins, etc.

 

[Gargamel]

I'm uncomfortable with this sort of ranking across all decades because huge rookie numbers happened in the 60s to a greater extent than later periods, suggesting a much different game. Walt Bellamy, a HOFer, but not a transcendent figure in the sport, averaged 32 and 19 boards a game as a rookie in 62 (ROY). He's not top 10 over Shaq or Robinson? Why that?

Duncan belongs in there over Robinson. Proof's in the pudding.

 

[Superman]

If I'm understanding the premise of the list properly, it's about who had the biggest and most significant rookie seasons. I think, just based on the numbers and the huge win +/-, which Robinson owned. The Spurs had an even bigger win differential when Duncan came on, but you have to account for Robinson missing the previous season with injury also.