Paul Pierce, Boston Celtics

He doesn't have the grace, athleticism and explosiveness of Bryant or James, or even the size and strength. But nobody can refute he is as fine a pure perimeter shooter as there is in the league. He has become equally devastating posting up against multiple-sized defenders because of his ability to use his body for position. That isn't to say he just acquired these talents, though. And last season, he vastly improved as a defender and did a fine job guarding Bryant in the Finals. The difference in Pierce clearly stems from learning to apply those skills with the right attitude. After winning the Finals MVP and with the way he has led the Celtics so far with clutch shooting, he may follow it up with a regular season MVP award. -- Mike Kahn