In this series created by Bleacher Report let’s analyze the Mount Rushmore of all NBA teams since 2000, or the four players who best represent each franchise over the last quarter century.
In the first part, the focus is on Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers.

Atlanta Hawks

Al Horford

Bring young

Joe Johnson

Paul millsap

Al Horford has been the face of the Hawks’ best versions, while Bring young He’s already the franchise’s leader in assists and three-pointers. Joe Johnson has made six All-Star Games, more than almost anyone in Atlanta history. Fourth place goes to Paul Millsap, who has made an impact on the game and taken the Hawks to the next level.

Boston Celtics

Paul Pierce

Kevin Garnett

Jayson Tatum

Jaylen Brown

Paul Pierce He is a Celtics legend, MVP of the 2008 Finals. Kevin Garnett led the defense to the 2008 title. Jayson Tatum, a multiple-time All-NBA selection and NBA champion, represents the present and future of the franchise. Jaylen Brown, the 2024 Finals MVP, completes the quartet with his elite numbers on offense and defense.

Brooklyn Nets (New Jersey)

Jason Kidd

Vince carter

Richard Jefferson

Brook lopez

Jason Kidd led two consecutive Finals. Vince carter brought his superstar status to New Jersey, while Richard Jefferson he was the protagonist of those playoff runs. Brook lopez, the all-time leader in points and blocks, closes the list ahead of Durant and Irving, who were too fleeting.

Charlotte Hornets

Kemba Walker

Gerald Wallace

LaMelo Ball

Al Jefferson

Kemba Walker It is the symbol of the modern Hornets. Gerald Wallace He was a defensive leader and an All-Star. LaMelo Ball, despite injuries, is the most electrifying talent in the franchise. Al Jefferson, All-NBA and top-10 MVP in 2014, represents the pre-Ball era.

Chicago Bulls

Derrick Rose

Jimmy Butler

Joakim Noah

Luol Deng

Derrick Rose, MVP in 2011, remains a legend despite injuries. Jimmy Butler he was the most complete player of the post-Rose era. Joakim Noah, DPOY in 2014, and Luol Deng, two-time All-Star, embody the Bulls ethic.

Cleveland Cavaliers

LeBron James

Kyrie Irving

Kevin Love

Zydrunas Ilgauskas

LeBron James It’s synonymous with Cleveland: four consecutive Finals and the 2016 title. Kyrie Irving, Rookie of the Year and scorer of the decisive basket against the Warriors, is essential. Kevin Love contributed to the title, while Zydrunas Ilgauskas represents pre-LeBron continuity.