It’s not a unique concept around the NBA, but it’s one that’s been particularly prevalent in discussion about the Utah Jazz. In order to win big in the league, having a legit star player — an alpha dog — is a prerequisite.
Even the 2004 Detroit Pistons, the club that is most often cited as an exception to the rule had big-time stars. Chauncey Billups could end up in the Hall of Fame, Ben Wallace was a Defensive Player of the Year and both Richard Hamilton and Rasheed Wallace were All-Stars.
Since Deron Williams was traded away five years ago, Utah’s lack of a star player has been a popular talking point.