One of the biggest debates that has gripped the NBA fanbase for the past couple of seasons is the definition of a superstar. Some names like LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, Stephen Curry, and many others are constant names in this debate. However, there are a huge number of fans who disagree here as well. Recently, a Brooklyn Nets player, who has played with Luka Doncic and Kevin Durant, chimed into the debate.
Talking on the Pat Bev podcast, Spencer Dinwiddie made a major revelation about the ‘superstar’ debate which might upset some fans.
30 YO NBA star makes controversial superstar claim
The ‘superstar’ debate initially started doing the rounds in basketball circles last year. Four-time NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal revealed that there are only 4 ‘real’ superstars in the league.
Dinwiddie feels the same. Talking with Patrick Beverley, the Nets player revealed that there is a difference between how the fans and players define a superstar. “The difference in how normal people define superstar and how players in the NBA define superstar are two totally different things. The fans say there are like 40 superstars and we say there’s like 5”, said the 30 YO.
He further added, “A superstar is, ‘I’m here, we win’. So if you define it as that, who would you say is a superstar?”, said Dinwiddie. Beverly was visibly shocked when Dinwiddie mentioned that there are only 5 superstars in the league currently.
The panel then went on to name some players they think fit into the ‘superstar’ profile. While they agreed on Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid being superstars, there was some doubt about LeBron James.
via Imago
Spencer Dinwiddie asserted that while there is no denying that James is a superstar under normal circumstances, the billionaire is 38 years old and in his 21st year in the league. For this reason, his level might drop in the near future.
The NBA’s new rule might spell trouble for Kevin Durant and others
The 2023-24 NBA season will see some major changes. One of the biggest rule changes is the new resting policy. As per ESPN, no more than one-star player should be unavailable for the same game. Moreover, the number of games played by the players will also determine their availability for All-Star selection and other individuals.
This might trouble a lot of NBA stars. For example, Kevin Durant played just 47 games last season for the Phoenix Suns and the Nets. In case he continues that trend this season, the 13-time NBA All-Star might not make it to the All-Star game this season!
