Law Murray: When Bob Lanier retired in 1984, he was 11th in NBA history in points, 16th in rebounds, and 51st in assists. Just short of 20K points, 10K rebounds. But was one of four players at time of retirement with 19K points, 9K rebounds, 3K assists (Elgin, Wilt, Kareem)
More on Bob Lanier Death
In all seriousness, Lanier is remembered as one of the greatest college players ever and a top NBA talent who averaged a double-double, appeared in eight All-Star games and was the No. 1 pick of the 1970 NBA draft. He had a bad knee, which likely cost him in terms of how he's talked about as a player by those who remember him and those who are too young. He was an enforcer and occasional fighter who used to smoke cigarettes at halftime.
Daryl Morey: RIP Bob Lanier who I saw play in the first NBA game I ever attended in Milwaukee. He was the only one who could wear out @Kareem Abdul-Jabbar - dragging him up and down the court for 48 minutes.
Eddie Johnson: This man educated as a young player and I never played on one of his teams. Not one time did he not give me advice when I encountered him. An amazing person. RIP mentor. pic.twitter.com/HV4vOfBtfk
James Edwards III: A statement from Pistons owner Tom Gores on the passing of Bob Lanier pic.twitter.com/yEllTrOS8t
Adrian Wojnarowski: Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame center Bob Lanier, one of the game's great players and statesmen, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was 73 years old.
Adrian Wojnarowski: Adam Silver on the passing of Bob Lanier
