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How many number 1 picks actually lived up to their draft position? (alien.top)

submitted 2 years ago by Kcd1077@alien.top to c/nba@nba.space

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There are obvious ones, such as LeBron, Tim Duncan, Hakeem, and Shaq (although I’ve even heard some people claim that Shaq underachieved for a #1 pick).

But I’m curious exactly how many actually have lived up to their #1 pick status. There are some legends like Iverson and Kyrie that you could even question. Curious to hear people’s opinions on this, especially with Victor now in the league.

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[–] HotspurJr@alien.top 1 points 2 years ago (2 children)

What do you mean "lived up to their draft position?"

I think people tend to have unreasonable expectations of high draft picks. As I've mentioned before, only two players acquired via a top 10 draft pick in the 21st century have led their team to a title as the best player on that team.

I tend to think Iverson is broadly over-rated, but if you don't think he lived up to first-pick status, your expectations of the top pick are unreasonable.

[–] GarmRift@alien.top 1 points 2 years ago (1 children)

Who are the 2?

[–] HotspurJr@alien.top 1 points 2 years ago

Wade and Curry.

LeBron also won a title for the Cavs to a title, but only after leaving and returning.

Then you have Jokic and Giannis and maybe Kawhi who have done it after being drafted outside the top ten.

Point being: people's expectations for high draft picks are way too high.