That point wasn't even valid in D2 - magic and rare items with high and good combined stats were by far the most seldom and highest rated items, maybe except 100% perfect uniques with many variable stats.

Like JMODs, 30frw 3sock circlets, rare 2sock circlets, 6 Bo helmets and all the other well known high level PVP items.

The randomization of D2s item creation made them so valuable, not the fact how often they dropped.

Many rather useless items have been collected just for their sheer rareness.