The Top 5 NBA Draft Classes in Recent History

2. Class of 1996

WS/48: .1143

With 13 qualified players, the biggest difference between the number-two ranked class and the other four is one thing -- none of the players are still active. After Kobe Bryant called it quits a year ago, that made him the last to surrender to Father Time. Preceding him, there were others of his kind -- Hall of Famers and future Hall of Famers.

Among those, the only inductee to-date is Allen Iverson. After 14 seasons, which included 11 All-Star appearances and an MVP in 2000, Iverson ended his career in 2009. But, before doing so, he averaged 26.7 points per game and .126 win shares per 48 across his career.

Another Allen, but by last name only, Ray Allen thrived in his 18-year career, racking up 145.1 win shares in 1,300 games. His career average of .150 win shares came as a product of a silky shooting stroke and an ageless game. Allen averaged 18.9 points and 2.3 threes on his way to 2 championships, 2 All-NBA teams and 10 All-Star teams. He ranks 50th among qualified players.

Steve Nash, absent the rings, shared the same kind of success as Allen in his own 18 seasons. Across three teams, the Canadian-born point guard posted averages of 14.3 points and 8.5 assists per game with .164 win shares per 48 minutes of playing time -- 33rd among qualified players. And as a product of his efficient play and one-of-a-kind style, Nash procured eight All-Star bids and two NBA MVP awards.

Bryant joined Nash in attaining an MVP of his own back in 2007. On top of that, he ended his career with two Finals MVPs, four All-Star game MVPs and five NBA titles. With 25 points per game, Kobe averaged a 24th-ranked .170 win shares per 48 minutes for a total of 172.7 career win shares. He played all 20 of his seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, and he'll go down as one of the best -- at least, offensive -- players in NBA history.