Due to the franchise's historic appeal, most think about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. However, in the earlier stages of his career, Kareem was just as good as -- if not better than -- he was in the latter parts of his Hall of Fame path.

This was the first of two consecutive MVP awards for the 7'2" center, as he produced 22.3 win shares at a pace of .326 per 48. In 40.1 minutes a game, the 6-time MVP supplied a league-best 31.7 points and a ridiculous 16.0 rebounds.

For the first and only time in Milwaukee Bucks history, the team won the NBA championship. Abdul-Jabbar led the way with 27 points per game, and for his efforts, was rewarded with the first of two career Finals MVPs.