Clyde Drexler is better and greater than Paul George. Let’s be real #NBA
2025/1/13 Edited to
... Read moreOkay, so in the original post, I made a bold statement: Clyde Drexler is simply better and greater than Paul George. I know, I know, it's a hot take for some, but I've really dug into the numbers, and I think the stats back me up! I even put together a little comparison table in my head, just like the one you might imagine, listing out all their career achievements and per-game averages. Let me walk you through my thought process and why 'Clyde the Glide' truly shines.
First off, let's talk about overall career accolades. When you look at All-Star selections, All-NBA teams, and even defensive honors, both players have had fantastic careers. But for me, it's the sustained elite performance and the context of their eras that makes the difference. Clyde Drexler, a phenomenal shooting guard from the 80s and 90s, was a 10-time All-Star and a 5-time All-NBA selection. He consistently put up incredible numbers: we're talking about per-game averages that hovered around 20-25 points, 6-7 rebounds, and 5-6 assists for much of his prime. His ability to score, rebound, and distribute from the guard position was truly ahead of its time. And let's not forget his defensive prowess – he was a menace in the passing lanes, racking up steals consistently.
Now, let's get to one of the key points from our search queries: Clyde Drexler's 1992 Finals stats. This was arguably the pinnacle of his individual performance, facing off against Michael Jordan and the legendary Chicago Bulls. While the Blazers didn't win, Drexler absolutely balled out. He averaged over 24 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in that series. Think about that: almost a triple-double threat every single night against the best team in the league. That kind of all-around impact on the biggest stage is something special. Paul George has had some great playoff runs, no doubt, but that specific Finals performance from Drexler, even in a losing effort, showcased his elite talent and competitive spirit against arguably the greatest player of all time. It was a testament to his versatility and leadership.
Comparing their overall career per-game averages, you'll see both are elite. George has a strong scoring touch, good rebounding for a wing, and solid defense, earning him multiple All-Defensive team selections. But when you factor in the sheer consistency across categories and the era Drexler played in, where the game was physical and stats were often harder to come by, Drexler's numbers often feel a bit more impactful. Rings are often the ultimate measure, and while Drexler only got his ring later with the Rockets, his journey to multiple Finals appearances with the Blazers, leading those teams, says a lot about his individual greatness.
In my humble opinion, based on breaking down their career achievements, looking at their per-game stats in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks, and especially considering Drexler's iconic 1992 Finals run, 'Clyde the Glide' just edges out Paul George. It's a debate for the ages, but for me, the stats don't lie. What do you guys think?