There is no greater thing in basketball than winning the NBA championship. The greatest basketball players in history built their legacies on the number of championships. Thus, each great player strives to win at least one championship in their career. It is the greatest honour for such an athlete and a mark of their excellence.
But it is important to realize that the NBA is a league with many great players at any point in time. Thus, it is inevitable that there will be some all-time greats who do not win a championship. It certainly does not diminish their dominance on the court but it is still a question mark on their legacy. Players like Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, and Patrick Ewing would all be higher on the all-time list if they had a ring. Here are the greatest active players who might never win a ring.
Player #1: Chris Paul
Chris Paul in terms of pure point guard instincts might be the third-greatest PG of all time. But players like Curry and Isiah Thomas stand above him because they were leaders of championship teams. Paul is one of the greatest assisters and point guard defenders of all time. He is a sure-fire Hall of Famer with a great resume.
But people will always hold his lack of a championship against him. At this late stage of his career, it is unlikely Paul will be able to win a title. His large contract will deter any contenders and while he can still lead playoff teams, it is likely too late to win a title unless he goes ring chasing once his current contract expires.
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Player #2: James Harden
James Harden is one of the greatest offensive players of all time. His stepback jumper is almost unguardable and he is at the heart of a perennial playoff team in Houston. But after continuous shortcomings in the playoffs, Harden does not
seem to have it in him to win a title. He always seems to disappear in crunch time and that has led to exactly 0 finals appearances with the Rockets, which the Warriors are largely to blame for. While he does still have a few great years left, Harden might end up as another great without a title.
Player #3: Russell Westbrook
For better or for worse, Westbrook’s fate is tied to Harden’s for now. They both have large contracts which means they will stay in Houston. Like Harden, Westbrook is a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He is the only player with multiple seasons averaging a triple-double. But many do not believe he plays winning basketball. Given his track record, it seems true. Harden and Westbrook are each other’s only hope at contending. But it seems that like Harden, Westbrook will end his career without a title.
