The best NBA Draft pick of all time at every slot

NEW YORK - JUNE 26: LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers poses with his jersey during the 2003/2004 NBA Draft Portrait at Paramount Theatre Madison Square Garden on June 26, 2003 in New York, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory copyright notice: Copyright 2003 NBAE (Photo by: Jennifer Pottheiser/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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CHICAGO, IL – APRIL 01: Scottie Pippen meets fans at American Express “Paints The Town Platinum” At The Chicago Bulls Game At The United Center In Chicago on April 1, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for American Express) /

5. Scottie Pippen, 1987 NBA Draft, Seattle SuperSonics,

While Michael Jordan’s talent was undeniable, the Chicago Bulls didn’t become unbeatable until they brought Scottie Pippen on board. Yet, they had to first make a trade with the Seattle SuperSonics to secure Pippen. Chicago would send Olden Polynice (eighth pick in the 1987 NBA Draft), a 1988 second-round pick, and a 1989 first-round pick to Seattle in exchange for Pippen and a 1989 first-round pick. At the time, most thought the deal was even for both sides. Hindsight shows us just how much of a mistake that was for Seattle.

From that point on Jordan and Pippen would team up and win six of the next 10 NBA titles. Pippen would turn into more than just a sidekick for Jordan. His defensive abilities and offensive exploits would help him get chosen as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history during the 1996 season. When Jordan decided to retire following the 1998 season, Pippen would continue to showcase his full arsenal of skills to the world. In stops with the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers, Pippen’s ability to impact the game in multiple areas made him a key contributor to title-contending teams outside of Chicago.

Given the narrative that surrounded Pippen during his days with the Bulls, it is amazing to think that he got the praise that his talents deserved. So often media and fans end up driving a wedge between teammates with the discussion of whose team it is that we fail to recognize the talents of two elite players on the same team. Thankfully that isn’t the end result of the Pippen and Jordan tandem.

Like Russell, Pippen ended up starring for a team that didn’t use their own pick on him but instead acquired them via trade. This list is full of other players that went through some variation of the same route. Pippen was a diamond in the rough going into college and Chicago deserves the credit for being able to unearth him in the end.

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