Y'all have seen my argue blue in the face on Manu. Think I'll just leave it in Ben's hands here.
Induction Vote 2: Artis Gilmore
So, this is a flip because I was advocating for Rick Barry over Artis previously. Tough call between the two and I may flip again.
I might put it like this:
I think Artis was more valuable at peak.
I think Barry was a more resilient star.
I think Artis was better able to remain a positive contributor with time, on and off the floor.
While I don't think Artis was a superstar-level player in the NBA, and that is a disappointment, there's no doubt that his defense was valuable, and his high efficiency on limited volume offensive game was remarkably ahead of its time.
Nomination Vote 1: Draymond Green
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/54441341/usa_today_10030059.0.jpg)
Much like Manu, I'm past the point with Draymond where I'm finding reasons to not take the impact indicators that seriously. Green's career is absolutely remarkable as the #2, and a strong #2 on the dynasty of the modern era. I see him as the best defender of the era, and I think his playmaking impact on offense is significant, as is his leadership capacity - though that's not always in the positive direction.
Last thing I'll say here is that I'm high on Steph, Dray, Kerr, and the Warriors in general. I think what they've accomplished is remarkable, and expect to champion them in debates like this...although as I say that, I'm not sure I have Klay in my Top 100. I think Klay's had a great career, but I think Steph & Dray have been the shoulders on this the rest of the Warriors ride on piggy-back.
Nomination Vote 2: Kevin McHale
Exceptionally scary opponent. Outstanding defense, and extremely effective as a volume scorer. Not to be dismissed.