Why surviving Jutland would not guarantee a top-five admiral

How might rankings of British admirals change if Hood and Kempenfelt had survived their sudden losses?

Both could have extended strong careers, but neither is guaranteed the major battle opportunities needed for an all-time top-five reputation.

Hood would probably not receive another major battle after Jutland even if he survived. A longer career might lead to fleet rank, but probably not an active Second World War command. Kempenfelt had more room to demonstrate ability, yet would still need opportunity and luck to enter an all-time top five. The exchange shows how reputations depend on circumstances as well as professional skill.