Former Coach Stan Van Gundy Calls Dwight Howard’s Exclusion from NBA’s Top 75 Players List “Absolutely Ridiculous”

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Former Coach Slams NBA Top 75 List

Former NBA coach Stan Van Gundy has voiced strong criticism over the omission of Dwight Howard from the NBA’s Top 75 Players of All Time list, calling it “absolutely ridiculous.” Howard, a former Orlando Magic legend and eight-time consecutive All-Star, was notably absent from the prestigious list released during the league’s 75th anniversary in 2021.

Van Gundy, who coached Howard during his tenure with the Orlando Magic from 2007 to 2012, expressed his disbelief in an interview with The Players’ Tribune. He highlighted Howard’s exceptional career achievements, particularly during his prime years with the Magic, where he was a dominant force on both ends of the floor.

In his remarks, Van Gundy directly compared Howard’s career to that of Anthony Davis, a current Los Angeles Lakers big man who made the cut for the Top 75 Players list. Van Gundy pointed out that, at the time of selection, Howard’s career achievements and impact were unmatched by Davis. He further stressed that, regardless of personal opinions on player comparisons, Howard’s contribution to the game warranted his inclusion in the list.

Stan Van Gundy on Dwight Howard: “For him to not be in the Top 75, that was just a personality thing… You cannot make a case that Anthony Davis had a better career than Dwight Howard. That’s absolutely ridiculous… It’s not close.” pic.twitter.com/1u8kJLG5X3

— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) August 21, 2023

“Like, you can think a guy is better. That’s fine. That’s a subjective thing,” Van Gundy stated. “What you can’t make a case for is that Michael Jordan had a better career than LeBron James. You can’t make a case for that. And when you’re going top 75, you cannot make a case… that Anthony Davis had a better career than Dwight Howard.”

Van Gundy’s remarks have ignited a conversation in basketball circles about Howard’s legacy and rightful place among the all-time greats. The debate also raises questions about how career achievements, longevity, and impact on the game should factor into such prestigious selections.

Despite the occasional challenges in the coach-player relationship between Van Gundy and Howard during their time together, their mutual respect is evident. Van Gundy’s comments underline the impact Howard made on the game, particularly during his prime years.

As discussions continue to unfold, Howard’s supporters emphasize his remarkable contributions and accolades, which many believe should have secured his place among the NBA’s greatest of all time.