A near-uncopyable skill set let Duncan stay decisive against any defensive scheme.
Shaq’s 2002 game—three straight Finals MVPs, a paint throne no one could challenge.
Shaq’s 2001 game—a center who could not be moved—was a style no one could copy.
Shaq’s 2000 game—a center who could not be moved—was a style no one could copy.
: Jordan's poise after a 72-win year showed a leader's stamina; his two-way game made him the Finals' most complete weapon.
James’s 2020 game—a point-forward who ran the offense at 35—was a style no one could copy.
: Jordan's flu-game 38 showed a will no scheme could solve; his two-way poise made him the Finals' most complete weapon.
: In 2018 Durant's two-way game, scoring, rebounding and playmaking together, made him the Finals' most complete and uncopyable weapon.
James’s 2016 game—point-forward who blocked a breakaway in Game 7—was a style no one could copy.
James’s 2012 game—point-forward who guarded all five spots—was a style no one could copy.
Kawhi’s 2019 game—a two-way wing who carried a first-time champion—was a style no one could copy.
Kawhi’s 2014 game—a two-way wing who smothered LeBron—redefined the defensive Finals MVP.