The third match-up of our elite eight pits two Western Conference heavyweights against one another in a battle of two seven-footers. German Dirk Nowitzki looks to make it into the final four of our ?Be an NBA GM? contest, but American Kevin Garnett has other ideas. Which of these two all-stars would you rather start a team with?

The Case for Dirk

Nowitzki, a native of West Germany and an eight-year NBA veteran, has become one of the league?s most consistent players over recent years. His name, which was once unpronounceable, is now being mentioned annually in the race for MVP. That?s not difficult considering he?s a durable seven-footer who has averaged 22.0 points and 8.6 rebounds per game over the first eight years of his career.

The Case against Dirk

For a seven-footer Dirk could be more active on the defensive end of the court. He?s far from a poor defender, but a guy his size should be altering more than just one shot per game. With his long arms and agility he could be more of a shot-blocking force than he has been, but the Mavericks seem content with having him expend most of his energy on the offensive end.

The Case for Garnett

It?s hard to believe that KG is entering his twelfth season in the league, he?s no longer part of the NBA?s youth movement. However, he?s still young at thirty years of age. That?s where he becomes a great option as a franchise player. He has a great deal of experience, but he?s also still full of youth. He seems to be a lock for the Hall of Fame with averages like these ? 20.4 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. He also puts people in seats, and that?s important as well.

The Case against Garnett

While his experience at such a young age might be considered an advantage, one could also use it against Garnett. His body has taken a lot of abuse for a thirty-year old. Although he?s been durable over his twelve seasons, the amount of basketball he?s played is bound to take a toll on his body. He?s still among the league?s elite players, but for how much longer will that last?

The choice is yours ? Who would you rather start an NBA franchise with?

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