Apr 10, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Danilo Gallinari (8) reacts after scoring a basket during the second quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 10, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Danilo Gallinari (8) reacts after scoring a basket during the second quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
During his playing days in the NBA, Danilo Gallinari was viewed as one of the most skilled forwards in the game. Although his career was marked by injuries, leading some to consider him one of the game’s biggest “what-ifs,” Gallinari’s 14-year tenure was impressive.
With considerable experience as a professional, Danilo Gallinari is capable of providing keen insight into the game. While he shared some interesting stories during his interview with ClutchPoints’ Cyro Asseo, as the interview was nearing its end, the forward was asked to reveal his all-time starting lineup.
While a trend has emerged with regard to responses to such questions, Danilo Gallinari’s answer was particularly intriguing, as he shared:
“I would go with John Stockton; at two, MJ; at three, LeBron James; then Bill Russell and Jokic.”
While the mention of players like Michael Jordan and LeBron James is fairly commonplace, including players such as John Stockton, Bill Russell, and Nikola Jokic is quite refreshing.
Stockton is often overlooked in all-time lists, primarily because the NBA has seen so many great floor generals. Although he is often overshadowed by Magic Johnson or even Stephen Curry, Stockton certainly earns his place in such conversations.
Interestingly, Danilo Gallinari places Bill Russell at the power forward position, allowing one of the game’s greatest defensive players to anchor the defense. Meanwhile, he pairs Russell with Nikola Jokic, creating a formidable big man duo to complete his unique starting lineup.
While Danilo Gallinari’s picks for his all-time starting lineup are a minor deviation from the norm, his choice for the GOAT is likely to align with several NBA fans, as he named Michael Jordan. When asked why Jordan was his GOAT, the forward responded:
“Because I guess I grew up in an area where all of us were MJ fans. So it was the guy, and he’s still the guy in my opinion.”
Michael Jordan was undoubtedly one of the most noteworthy athletes during the ’90s. While his dominant run through the decade with the Chicago Bulls largely cemented his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history, Jordan’s rise into a global icon was equally meaningful.
Michael Jordan’s popularity stretched far beyond American borders, even reaching a young Danilo Gallinari, who was born and raised in Italy. Hence, even though Jordan’s status as the GOAT has become a key topic of discussion within the NBA community, those who have witnessed the Bulls’ superstar in action remain loyal to their pick.
In these two responses, Danilo Gallinari showcased his knowledge of NBA history. Still, when speaking about the present state of the league and being asked to name his top five players, Gallinari remained slightly biased toward the players he once faced on the court, as he revealed:
“Current Top 5, I always, I guess I always go with the old heads first: Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James. And then I put Anthony Edwards and Nikola Jokic.”
On paper, mentioning Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James doesn’t seem out of place in the slightest. But considering their ages heading into the next season, one could argue that Gallinari is playing favorites, which also appears evident considering Nikola Jokic’s inclusion.
Still, arguing Jokic’s reputation as one of the league’s best players is pointless. Having finished second in MVP voting after a historic campaign, the Nuggets’ superstar remains elite.
Similarly, with Anthony Edwards firmly establishing himself as one of the best shooting guards in the NBA, Danilo Gallinari does well to give the Timberwolves’ superstar a shout-out. With more eyes on him entering the new campaign, we can only look forward to his performance alongside the Wolves’ revitalized core.