Best NBA players from before Bill Russell became pro

The Game Room
1

Which NBA players from before Bill Russell became a pro would be stars, even minor stars, today.

I refer to absolute ability, not to dominance in their time. (Thus, George Mikan would not be a candidate.)

I can think of only Bob Cousy and Bob Petit.
Any others?

2

Bill Sharman, maybe. Eight time all-star.

3

Ed McCauley was the AP Player of the Year in college. As a pro he averaged 1,100 points per season, more than 35 minutes per game, and played in seven consecutive All-Star games. Unfortunately, he’s best remembered as the player the Celtics traded to get Bill Russell.