Quote:
Originally Posted by tk13
LeBron is more of a physical specimen than MJ. Although MJ's athleticism is probably being underrated in this conversation because most people remember 1998 Jordan instead of 1988 Jordan that could dunk from the free throw line.
LeBron probably has a chance to equal Jordan in titles, if not surpass him. Even though I think the league has had a resurgence of talent, I just don't see a Celtics, Pistons or Knicks of the 80's/90's that LeBron has to contend with. At least for now. There's probably more "decent" teams now, but better than average isn't going to beat guys like Jordan, LeBron, Kobe etc. People are mocking the Pacers but they probably have the best shot at this point. The Bulls could get there if they get Rose back and get one more elite player. It may be different in 4 years.
But all things being equal, you'd still be hard pressed to take a LeBron team over a Jordan team head to head. This is where banking on statistics can become a bit fatal. There is no statistic for Jordan's rage. LeBron's never going to have that. I just don't think he's capable. It's not a knock on him. LeBron's been treated like a king since high school. Jordan had to work his tail off to even make his HS team. You just can't change that. Jordan was the perfect storm of elements coming together to create a superior athlete who spent his entire life trying to destroy everyone. There is a human element to sports. There probably always will be.
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I agree 100% with you. Looking at KevB's post about Jordan's stat line it really brings home the fact that if the Jordan in his prime was playing now he would probably average 45-50ppg. Just like the NFL has neutered defenses so has the NBA. You don't have the physical play like there was when Jordan played.