I can only go back to the 60's, but I would agree with you about the 80's. I loved watching those guys play! They loved the game...
I also agree with you about KG. To me, he's the "best" player in the game today...sure it's arguable, but he can do it all shoot, dribble, score, block shots, play defense, play the power game when he has to...I just wished the Wolves would either get some decent players or let him go to a contender.