Why that bum ass Wilt isn't the goat.
The "Bill Russell" Problem (AKA Bill gave wilt belt every chance he got)
The strongest argument against Wilt is that he played in an era with only 8 to 14 teams, yet he only won two championships. His primary rival, Bill Russell, won eleven.
Head-to-Head: While Wilt almost always won the individual stat battle against Russell, Russell’s teams almost always won the game.
The "Winner" Narrative: In GOAT discussions, winning is often weighted heavier than scoring. My argument is that if Wilt was truly the greatest, he would have found a way to overcome the Celtics ONCE AT LEAST. Lebron did it. Curry did it. So why couldn't an unstoppable force do it?
NUMBER 2: Wilt’s scoring dropped significantly in the playoffs.
Regular Season: 30.1 PPG
Playoffs: 22.5 PPG
The Drop-off: In the biggest moments, Wilt often became less aggressive or was neutralized by defensive schemes. For comparison, Michael Jordan’s scoring average actually increased in the playoffs (30.1 to 33.4). LeBron and KD and Giannis and Curry are known for there legendary PLAYOFF PERFORMACE. Wilt's greatest accomplishments happened in the regular season. Plain and simple. His 100 point game? Regular season. His 50 Point per game average? Only held up in the regular season. Cant call a guy who regresses come playoff time a GOAT.
The Pace of the 1960s The 1960s was the fastest era in NBA history. Teams took way more shots, which meant there were way more rebounds available.
Volume: In 1962 (Wilt's 50 PPG season), teams averaged about 126 possessions per game. In the modern NBA, that number is closer to 100.
Minutes: Wilt averaged 45.8 minutes per career game. If you adjusted modern stars' stats to match that insane pace and playing time, their numbers would look much closer to his.
Now there will be a claim that his team needed him to play all of those minutes. No they didn't. They had Billy Cunningham, a Hall of Famer. There's even reports suggesting that Wilt wouldn't play as hard late game just to keep his fouling out streak. Notice a pattern?
Reputation as a pain in the ass Unlike Jordan or Magic Johnson, who were known for elevating the culture of their teams, Wilt was often traded while still in his prime. This bastard is supposed to be the GOAT but he's getting TRADED IN HIS PRIME?
He played for three different franchises (Warriors, 76ers, Lakers).
Some reports that I've read suggest he was more focused on his specific statistical goals (like the year he decided he wanted to lead the league in assists) than on the cohesive flow of the offense.
Overall WILT is NOT the GOAT. Give the crown to MJ or Bron or even Magic.
Wilt is 20. Just behind Giannis.