My latest reports on the world of sports. Welcome to Vaughn's World Sports Network. Here, you will receive nothing but pure, absolute, unbiased facts and opinions on the world of sports. I was inspired to create this, because of my undying passion for sports, and love of history. For those who desire a healthy combination of history with modern facts, this is the place for you. Follow me on Twitter: @301kingvaughnjr
Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce the Undisputed Champion of the entire Universe and all of history. He has been imitated by many, but never duplicated. Other champions have lost their titles, but not this one. Other champions have died, but this one rose from the dead, while others are still in. It is because of him, that I have hope and can face the future with no fear, but with faith. This champion is my ultimate role model, because every time he wins, I win! This champion is none other than Jesus Christ, the True and Living God, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. I serve an Awesome God who is timeless, that never changes, and can still fight my battles while fighting for others. Before The Rock, he has always been The Great One, The People's Champion and will continue to be that for all of eternity! When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, he used his greatest weapon, The Word (Matthew 4:4). Like you and I, Jesus has also faced temptation, but the Word gave him the power and discipline to win. Jesus fed the thousands and thousands of hungry people with two fishes and five loaves of bread. He went on to die for the millions and millions of people who would follow him for generations to come! Jesus is also the Most Electrifying Man of All-Time!! There will never be another like him in any lifetime! He is the true image of Immortality. Long before Ric Flair, he has been and always will be The Real World's Champion, Whoooo!!! Jesus is the Real Headliner, The Main Event, The Icon and The Showstopper. He stopped Satan's show at Calvary 2,000 years ago to conquer death, hell and the grave all at once. He won a 3-on-1 handicap match, even at that time. Even in death, he still had the belt, because death could not hold him down! It is because of him that I am More than a Conqueror (Romans 8:37), and No Weapon Formed Against Me Shall Prosper (Isaiah 54:17). It is because of his victory for me, that nothing shall separate me from the love that he has for me (Romans 8:39). His victory has given me dominion and authority over the enemy and all of the guns that he has aimed against me. It is because of his victory and his blood that I have a testimony so that I can overcome (Revelation 12:11). I can overcome hate with love, because he did so. Like you and I, Jesus faced betrayal and rejection even from those in his circle. This included Judas and Peter. However, he taught us to love those that hurt us, and to pray for them. He forgave them, because they never knew what they were doing. Those who have an encounter with Jesus will NEVER, EVER be the same again! Jesus is the True Phenom with the Undefeated Streak that matters, not The Undertaker. So at his name, every knee shall bow and tongue confess that he is Lord, including a Deadman. Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever which truly makes him the Best There Is, The Best There Was, and the Best There Ever Will Be. When he makes his Grand Return, we can all proudly say, Finally, The King Has Come Back to take us home!! John 3:16 says For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him will not perish, but have everlasting life. And that's the bottom line, because God's Word said so!
Ever since the explosion of Michael Jordan, any and everyone at Shooting Guard has to be compared to him. Unfortunately, many of those players do not even get past Lakers Legend Jerry West. (Mr. Clutch, The Logo) Obviously, the modern era player that is compared to Jordan the most is Kobe Bryant. However, even he does not surpass West, because of the lack of consistency throughout his career. Jerry West was the original standard for Shooting Guards BEFORE Michael Jordan. His body of work is evidence as to why. More often then not, Jerry West bailed his team out of games. Kobe's teams bailed HIM out, but he gets much of the credit. This project is to further educate younger fans on the career of Jerry West. I have come across fans who only remember Jerry West with Wilt Chamberlain, when he did more passing and only associate him as a Point Guard. However, Jerry West was a Hall of Fame player BEFORE playing with Wilt. With this comparison, you will see how Jerry West was a more efficient scorer, shooter, more versatile, and rose his level of play when needed.
Jerry West:
vs.
Kobe Bryant:
All-Rookie 1st Team:
Jerry West: Yes
Kobe Bryant: No
All-Star Selections:
Jerry West: 14
Kobe Bryant: 15
All-NBA 1st Teams:
Jerry West: 10
Kobe Bryant: 10
All-Defensive 1st Teams:
Jerry West: 4
Kobe Bryant: 9
MVP Awards:
Jerry West: 0
Kobe Bryant: 1
Career Games:
Jerry West: 932
Kobe Bryant: 1,225
Regular Season (Career):
Jerry West: 27.0 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.7 apg, 47.4% FG, 81.4% FT
Kobe Bryant: 25.5 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 4.7 apg, 45.4% FG, 83.8% FT
Scoring Titles:
Jerry West: 1
Kobe Bryant: 2
Steals and Blocks were not recorded until Jerry West's final season in 1973-74. If so, it would be a much different story in that aspect. If West played with the 3-point line, he would have had a field day.
The NBA didn't finally add All-Defensive Team Selections until the 1968-69 season. If they acknowledged them earlier, Jerry West would have won many more because of how disciplined he was as a defender.
Seasons with 30 ppg or higher:
Jerry West: 4
Kobe Bryant: 2
Seasons with 32 ppg or higher:
Jerry West: 0
Kobe Bryant: 1
Seasons over 50% shooting:
Jerry West: 1
Kobe Bryant 0
Seasons over 48% shooting:
Jerry West: 5
Kobe Bryant: 0
Seasons under 48% shooting:
Jerry West: 9
Kobe Bryant: 16
Seasons over 47% shooting:
Jerry West: 9
Kobe Bryant: 0
Seasons under 47% shooting:
Jerry West: 5
Kobe Bryant: 16
Career Player Efficiency Rating (Regular Season):
Jerry West: 22.9
Kobe Bryant: 23.5
Career Win Shares (Regular Season):
Jerry West: 162.6
Kobe Bryant: 171.7
Career Offensive Win Shares (Regular Season):
Jerry West: 124.6
Kobe Bryant: 122.9
Career Defensive Win Shares (Regular Season):
Jerry West: 37.9
Kobe Bryant: 48.8
Career Win Shares Per 48 Minutes (Regular Season):
Jerry West: .213
Kobe Bryant: .184
*Bonus (Olympic Gold Medals):
Jerry West: 1
Kobe Bryant: 2
All-Star Game MVP's:
Jerry West: 1
Kobe Bryant: 4
As you can see, Jerry West was clearly a more productive player than Kobe across the board, except for free throw percentage. Jerry averaged more points, rebounds, assists and shot a higher field goal percentage than Kobe. When Kobe broke the Lakers franchise scoring record held by Jerry West (25,192), he did it while playing many more games than West along with more minutes. In other words, he missed many more shots along the way, while Jerry set the record in less than 1,000 games (932). This was clearly a cover up by the media. As I have said countless times, Jerry West lacked the MVP Awards because he played in the same era as the Greatest Giants of all-time (Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell), who captured 9 out the 10 MVP's during that decade. Kareem would later come and win 3 during the end of Jerry's career.
*I firmly believe that he was robbed of at least 1-2 MVP's between 1969 and 1970.
If you thought that I would stop there, I am just warming up. Now, time for the playoffs.
Playoffs (Career):
Jerry West: 29.1 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 6.3 apg, 46.9% FG, 80.5% FT
Kobe Bryant: 25.6 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 4.7 apg, 44.8% FG, 81.6% FT
Career Player Efficiency Rating (Playoffs):
Jerry West: 23.1
Kobe Bryant: 22.4
Career Win Shares (Playoffs):
Jerry West: 26.7
Kobe Bryant: 28.3
Career Offensive Win Shares (Playoffs):
Jerry West: 21.3
Kobe Bryant: 21.0
Career Defensive Win Shares (Playoffs):
Jerry West: 5.4
Kobe Bryant: 7.3
Career Win Shares Per 48 Minutes (Playoffs):
Jerry West: .203
Kobe Bryant: .157
NBA Playoff runs over 50% shooting:
Jerry West: 3
Kobe Bryant: 0
Playoff runs over 48% shooting:
Jerry West: 5
Kobe Bryant: 1
Playoff runs under 50% shooting:
Jerry West: 9
Kobe Bryant: 15 (entire career)
Playoff runs under 48% shooting:
Jerry West: 7
Kobe Bryant: 14
Playoff runs under 46% shooting:
Jerry West: 4
Kobe Bryant: 11
Playoff runs under 44% shooting:
Jerry West: 2
Kobe Bryant: 7
Playoff runs over 30 ppg:
Jerry West: 7
Kobe Bryant: 4
Playoff runs over 32 ppg:
Jerry West: 2
Kobe Bryant: 2
Playoff runs over 34 ppg:
Jerry West: 2
Kobe Bryant: 0
In 1964-65, Jerry West averaged 40.6 ppg in the playoffs. He also had a series vs. The Bullets where he set the record for highest scoring average in a playoff series. (46.0)
Now, let's get ready for the Biggest Stage (The NBA Finals):
Finals Appearances:
Jerry West: 9
Kobe Bryant: 7
Finals MVP Awards:
Jerry West: 1 out of 9 tries
Kobe Bryant: 2 out of 7 tries
This is the major factor, and in the case with most fans the only factor that they take into account when they compare Kobe Bryant with Jerry West. Instead of saying Kobe was a member of 5 championship teams in 7 finals appearances (3 sidekick, 2 leader), they just simply give him blanket credit for all 5 (He has 5 rings). Meanwhile, people downgrade Jerry West, because of his lack of TEAM success (1 championship in 9 tries). Little do people really understand the fact that for most of his career, the Lakers were a top heavy team with a two-man combo (West and Baylor). Unfortunately for West, here is a list of circumstances that HURT his team:
1. The Boston Celtics Dynasty (led by Bill Russell, coached by Red Auerbach)
2. The Lakers did not have an answer for Russell at Center for most of that time
3. Elgin Baylor's volume shooting.
4. They also lost twice to the Knicks
For the most part, Jerry West and his Lakers teams went up against more stacked teams. Meanwhile Kobe Bryant was on the opposite side of that situation, because the teams that he played on were more stacked than the opposing teams. It blows my mind to listen to people say that Jerry West constantly had powerhouse teams. If you REALLY want to look at other stacked Lakers teams outside of Shaq & Kobe, check out Magic & Kareem's Lakers. Wilt Chamberlain came later in Jerry's career. ('68-'73) Kobe played with Shaq for half of his career. ('96-'04) Throughout that time, and even later with Gasol, the Lakers were stronger than their opponents.
Now, let's look at their production in the Finals:
*The 2002 Finals series was an anomaly for a player like Kobe, because the series was a 4-0 sweep. If the series went longer, his FG% would have dropped.
More often than not, Jerry West raised his level of play with less around him while Kobe has often lowered his level of play with MORE help around him. Jerry West played better in losing efforts than Kobe did in winning efforts. (Example: 1969 NBA Finals vs. Boston) You would never find anything about Jerry West being outplayed by the likes of an Austin Croshere like Kobe did in the 2000 NBA Finals for example. Kobe also deliberately shot his team out of the 2004 Finals vs Detroit, because he was tired of playing the sidekick role to Shaquille O'Neal.
Kobe's 40.5% FG in the 2010 NBA Finals has been considered the WORST Field Goal Percentage for a Finals MVP in NBA History! However, Pau Gasol and the refs bailed him out during that series, especially where he shot an abysmal 6-24 in Game 7. That night, he dodged the biggest silver bullet of his career. Meanwhile, Jerry West recorded a Triple-Double in Game 7 of the 1969 NBA Finals, while his team fell apart against Boston. Jerry West's production in that series earned him the NBA Finals MVP Award. He became the first and only player to win on a losing team.
Personally, I believe that if you put Jerry West in Kobe's place for those first 3 championships, he could have helped out Shaq much more. At best, I say they win at least 5-6 championships, with Shaq staying as a Laker to the end. Players like West and Magic will always be respected for how they accepted their role to improve the team. They did not step outside of the system for their own personal agenda. Kobe has built his legacy out of that.
Kobe has been historically infamous for destroying team chemistry. NEVER EVER forget the way that Kobe put Shaq's personal business out in the open, to deflect criticism of his own. Not only that, but Kobe ultimately forced the hand of Lakers management to run SHAQ OUT OF L.A.! As a result, the media now holds him in higher regard than Shaq, and have blacklisted Shaq's run as a Laker. (Look no further than ESPN)
"Bryant told Jackson that O'Neal's presence on the team would affect his decision to stay with the Lakers, adding, "I'm tired of being a sidekick".
Translation: "Either he goes, or I go".
Jerry West has virtually been the best player on his team, at least until his last 2-3 seasons with the Lakers. Kobe did not become the best player, until the 2004-05 season. During that season, the Lakers missed the playoffs for the first time ever in Kobe's career. Who's fault was it for running off the franchise player, which caused the Lakers to bring in the likes of Smush Parker and Kwame Brown? You guessed it, Kobe. It wasn't until Kobe's trade demand where the Lakers restructured around him to keep him there for two more titles.
Kobe could not avoid the silver bullet for long. The same $90 million dollar roster that Kobe won Finals MVP with twice (2009 & 2010), is the same roster that got swept off the court and smoked by the 2011 Dallas Mavericks. Everyone wanted to blame players like Pau Gasol, when instead Kobe should have taken the fall.
Kobe's legacy as a leader is taking an even bigger hit with the implosion of this current Lakers team with Dwight Howard, Steve Nash, Pau Gasol and Ron Artest. Nash and Howard's numbers are being hindered playing next to Kobe. That is NOT the true sign of a leader, when you handicap the abilities of other marquee players. Kobe has NEVER made anyone around him better.
When Jerry West had the likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor and Gail Goodrich, he dialed back his scoring. In fact, Gail Goodrich was the leading scorer (25.9 ppg) when the Lakers won the Finals in 1972. It could have easily been West, but he knew that in order to succeed with that team, he had to sacrifice his stats to make Gail Goodrich better. This is why West was the co-leader with Wilt.
I also notice those same Jerry West skeptics say that "Jerry West was too little", or "He would be on the bench in today's game". They also say that "Jerry West wouldn't survive in the 80s/90s era of perimeter players, because of his size". They want to degrade West, because he was a "small, white guy". Well, Larry Bird turned out great in that era in spite of his athletic disadvantages in the strongest era of all-time. In fact, Larry Bird CONQUERED his era, as a "white guy", out playing the best black players of any era. Last time I checked, he was no more athletic than Jerry West, just 5-6" taller and 35-45 pounds heavier. West is actually between 6'3"-6'4".
In fact, if you send Kobe back in time to the 1960s, where he doesn't have Michael Jordan's influence as an advantage, he would not thrive the way that he does now. He would have fewer players to emulate, with practically next to none, outside of Jerry, Oscar and Elgin. Instead, he would have to play AGAINST those guys on a night-in, night-out basis.
Conclusion:
Jerry West was an innovator, while Kobe Bryant is an imitator. What Jerry West did for his era, and NBA history is remarkable. West did not have the benefits of the Modern Game, with the Anti-Aging Supplements, Weight Training, and Nutrition. Jerry West also did not have the opportunity to have other great players to come before him to pattern himself after. Basically, he had no other choice but to be original. Jerry West was a more productive, and consistent player in all stages. (Regular Season, Playoffs, Finals) The facts are staring you right in the face, with no lie. Kobe only has the advantage in longevity, team accomplishments, and volume achievements such as career total points. His style of play was much more conducive to team basketball, no matter the lack of championships on his side. No matter how many fans, analysts and ex-players prop up Kobe, West will always leave a greater mark on the game. Before Michael Jordan and Larry Bird, Jerry West was the ultimate clutch player.
Now that we have gotten the point crystal clear about the dominance of the 80s/90s, it is time to show how players like Jordan would translate into today's game. The fact that Michael Jordan put up the insane numbers that he did (10 scoring titles, 6 finals mvp's, 5 league mvp's), in an era where players went through wars getting the crap kicked out of them with all of the grabbing, holding, wrapping around, etc, is the ultimate testament to his greatness. The very fact that Michael Jordan became the cream of the crop for shooting guards, with his numbers (8 seasons of 30 ppg, 5 w/32+ ppg, shooting 50%+ from the field) further adds to that greatness. These are all testaments to sustained dominance, the likes that we have never seen before, and we may never see for a long time. With all respect to LeBron, I am not talking about a streak of games. I am talking about over the span of an era, and career. Unfortunately, too many new school fans cannot comprehend the idea of a player like Michael being as versatile as he was, and being able to attack the rim against such force during that time. Like many others, I firmly believe that if Jordan were in his prime today, his numbers would be greatly enhanced by today's rules. Not just me, but others such as Phil Jackson, Clyde Drexler, Dominique Wilkins, Penny Hardaway, and others. Obviously Phil coached him in that era. Dominique, Drexler, and others played under the rules of that era, and can tell first hand the drastic difference between the game then and now. They obviously understand how the rules impacted perimeter players like themselves. In this article, I will go into further detail to show how the rules would further enhance their numbers as well.
Here, I will give you a timeline of the various rule changes since Jordan's 1998 retirement. Over time, the game was slowly, but rapidly becoming more of a perimeter player's game.
1999-00
In the backcourt, there is no contact with hands and forearms by defenders. In the frontcourt, there is no contact with hands and forearms by defenders except below the free throw line extended in which case the defender may only use his forearm. In the post, neither the offensive player nor the defender is allowed to dislodge or displace a player who has legally obtained a position. Defender may not use his forearm, shoulder, hip or hand to reroute or hold-up an offensive player going from point A to point B or one who is attempting to come around a legal screen set by another offensive player. Slowing or impeding the progress of the screener by grabbing, clutching, holding "chucking" or "wrapping up" is prohibited.
2000-01
No contact with either hands or forearms by defenders except in the frontcourt below the free throw line extended in which case the defender may use his forearm only
Neither the offensive player nor the defender will be allowed to dislodge or displace a player who has legally obtained a position.
Defender may not use his forearm, shoulder, hip or hand to reroute or hold-up an offensive player going from point A to point B or one who is attempting to come around a legal screen set by another offensive player.
Slowing or impeding the progress of the screener by grabbing, clutching, holding "chucking" or "wrapping up" is prohibited.
(I guess the repeat is to further endorse and remind everyone).
2001-02
A new defensive three-second rule will prohibit a defensive player from remaining in the lane for more than three consecutive seconds without closely guarding an offensive player.
2004-05
New rules were introduced to curtail hand-checking, clarify blocking fouls and call defensive three seconds to open up the game.
2006-07
On a clear-path-to-the-basket foul, the team that is fouled is awarded two free throw attempt and the ball on the sideline.
As you can see, as time went on, the NBA was deteriorating the impact of the post players in favor of the perimeter. Ironically, the rules began to shift during the Shaq/Duncan reign (last era of dominant big men). No longer could a player grab, hold, wrap around or check with the hand in the face. Forearms were prohibited. The 2004-2005 season is where things really came to a head, when they clearly wanted to "curtail hand-checking" to call defensive three seconds in favor of this one key purpose "to open up the game". Even though this is pretty explanatory, allow me to break it down even more: When they say to open up the game, it is to give perimeter players more space to score. It is no coincidence that Steve Nash went from a middle of the pack Point Guard, to suddenly a 2-time MVP, while shooting 50% from the field.
Here is Brooklyn Nets Star Joe Johnson on how the rule changes helped him, from an interview in the summer of 2010: "It benefits me," said Johnson, who was one of three Hawks players that season who averaged 20 or more ppg that season. (Mike Bibby & Jamal Crawford were the other two) Johnson continues: "It definitely changes the game because it gives every guy that extra step. If we could hand check now, the game would be totally different. If they could hand check back in the day, there are some guys that would have been even better than they were. It would have been nuts for some of the big-time scorers and perimeter players from the 1980's and 1990's. Can you imagine what Michael Jordan would have done in a league where you couldn't hand check."
That is the smoking gun evidence from a player of this era! Even he testifies about how the rule changes would further benefit not just him, but the top perimeter players from back then. If you won't take his word, I have other accounts.
Here are quotes from players and coaches from that time.
Phil Jackson on Michael Jordan today: "Michael would average 45 with these rules."
Former Bulls Assistant Coach Tex Winter (Architect of "Triangle Offense"): "Players today can get to the basket individually much easier."
Larry Brown: "The college game is much more physical than our game. I always tease Michael Jordan, if he played today, he'd average 50."
Now, time for the players:
From a radio interview with Clyde Drexler:
Question: In the current league where there is no hand checking and no ruff play, how much better would your numbers be?
Clyde Drexler: "Oh, tremendously better, from shooting percentage to points per game everything would be up, and our old teams would score a lot more points, and that is saying something because we could score a lot back then. I do think there should be an asterisk next to some of these scoring leaders, because it is much different trying to score with a forearm in your face. It is harder to score with that resistance. You had to turn your back on guys defending you back in the day with all the hand checking that was going on. For guys who penetrate these days, it's hunting season. Yes, now you can play (floating) zone, (legally), but teams rarely do."
Scottie Pippen in January 2006: "The defensive rules, the hand checking, the ability to make contact on a guy in certain areas...(have) all been taken away from the game. If Kobe could get 81, I think Michael could get 100 points in today's game."
Craig Hodges, another former Jordan teammate, now a Lakers shooting coach:
Question: If you could take one player in their prime, would you take Michael Jordan or Kobe?
Hodges: "M.J., all day. There's no comparison. M.J. could score 100 points in this era. You can't hand-check now. Imagine that trying to guard M.J. It would be crazy."
Dominique Wilkins was also addressed with this subject.
Question: Seeing that you played in one of the greatest eras in NBA history, what has changed the most in the NBA since your days as a player?
Dominique Wilkins: "The power forward position had the license to kick your butt and the game was very physical. I think the physical aspect of the game, some of it has been taken away with the rule changes."
Question 2: Do you think you could take them?
Wilkins: "I don't believe in comparisons, but I look at the era I played in. Like I said, when you have to play against a great player every night, that defines who you are if you can compete on that same level night in and night out. That tells you where your place is in the whole, I would say, history of the game. You put yourself in a very high spot."
Dominique on how he would play today:
Wilkins: "When you can compete on that level against the greatest players every single night, and when you can play just as good or better, that really defines who you are as a player. So if you're asking me what would I have done (today), well, put it this way, if you couldn't touch me (because of the rule changes), instead of averaging 25 or 30 (points), I'd probably average 40."
Scottie Pippen on MJ/Kobe:
Scottie Piippen: "I think you definitely have to give Michael a little bit of a nod in most areas of the game, whether it is passing or shooting. Kobe is truly a great shooter, but he is playing in a different era of the game. It's not as physical. He also has more freedom in going to the basket, which creates a more wide-open scoring opportunity for players like him in today's game. We've never seen the amount of players scoring 30, 40 or 50 points in a game. Ten years ago, if a player scored 50 points in a game, it would be major news all week."
Tim Grover, (who has trained Jordan, LeBron, and Kobe) was asked who would win a 1-on-1 battle with Jordan vs. either Kobe or LeBron:
Grover: "Oh, Michael. No question. From a physical and mental standpoint, he's the best I've ever seen. If he were playing now, with the way the refs call everything, and with all the padding these guys wear, he'd average 40 or 50 a night if he wanted."
NBA.com conducted an interview with Executive Vice President Stu Jackson about the impact of the hand checking rule changes back in 2004-05.
NBA.com: "Since the hand-checking rule was interpreted differently beginning in the 2004-05 season, the game has opened up. Players are penetrating and the floor is spread. As a result, scoring has risen every season. Was this anticipated back in 2004?
Jackson: "No. The scoring increase was not our goal. Our objective was to allow for more offensive freedom by not allowing defenders to hand-, forearm- or body-check ball handlers. By doing so, we encouraged more dribble penetration. As players penetrated more, it produced higher quality shots for the ball handler as well as shots for teammates on passes back out to perimeter. When NBA players get higher quality shots-having more time to shoot-they tend to make more of them."
NBA.com: "Shooting percentages have risen since 2004-05 regardless of location- at-the-rim shots, short-and deep-mid range and 3-pointers. Does this surprise you, especially the higher percentages from 3-point range?"
Jackson: "It doesn't. With the rule and interpretation changes, it has become more difficult for defenders to defend penetration, cover the entire floor on defensive rotations and recover to shooters. This has provided more time for shooters to ready themselves for quality shots. With more dribble penetration, ball handlers are getting more opportunities at the rim. Additionally, teams now realize the 3-point shot is a great competitive equalizer, so they are taking more; they have improved their skill level on threes and are making them at a higher rate."
Finally, it is time to for the man himself, Michael Jordan:
"The history book inspires them to be some of the best", said Jordan. "Rules have changed to help them. I could have averaged 50 points today."
Jordan also says due to the hand checking rule changes, triple digits would be reachable for him in today's game. "It's less physical and the rules have changed, obviously." says Jordan. "Based on these rules, if I had to play with my style of play, I'm pretty sure I would have fouled out or I would have been at the free throw line pretty often and I could have scored 100 points."
I decided to test that theory myself in video game form. Recently, I played NBA 2k12, and used Michael Jordan in Create A Legend Mode. During the season, MJ won MVP. (50 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 2.6 spg, 61% FG, 38% 3pt, 92% FT) This may seem like a game, but for me, it is also a symbol of art imitating life. Not only did MJ break his own scoring record (3,041) from 1987, but he also broke Wilt's 1962 scoring record (4,029). MJ finished with 4,045.
Now, let's take a look at Jordan's 1986-87 season:
Points: 3,041
Points Per Game: 37.1
FG%: 48%
FT%: 85%
Rebounds: 430
RPG: 5.2
Assists: 377
APG: 4.6
Steals: 236
SPG: 2.9
Blocks: 125
BPG: 1.5
Now, here is a more realistic view of what MJ would average in today's game. (61% was a bit of a stretch by the way, no matter how bad today's defense is)
MJ in the Modern NBA:
Points: 4,041
PPG: 50.5
FG%: 50.6% (51%)
FT%: 85%
Rebounds: 525
RPG: 6.5
Assists: 400
APG: 5.5
Steals: 265
SPG: 3.2
Blocks: 150
BPG: 1.9
With that said, I firmly believe that he would score at least 1,000 more points than that season with the modern rules. With his advantage in free throw shooting, he would be able to break Wilt's 1962 scoring record. Naturally, Wilt would have an advantage in shooting percentage from the field, because of his position. Chamberlain shot 50.6% (51%). The other stats are a bit miscellaneous, but I believe that Jordan's field goal percentage would increase because of how much easier it would be for him to score without resistance. If you look at Jordan's other seasons where he shot between 52-54% (88-92), those percentages would increase as well.
Here is a look at the difference in defense:
Jordan vs. Old School Defense:
Modern Era Defense:
The difference in contact is clearly obvious. If that doesn't cement it even more, here is something else that will blow you away.
Michael Jordan had 39 career 50+ point games. 22 of them came against Top 10 Defenses, 13 against Top 5 Defenses.
Here is a career timeline of Jordan's 50 point games:
1. 63 points vs. Boston Celtics (4/20/1986) (Playoff Career-high)
Defensive Rank: #1
2. 50 points vs. New York Knicks (11/1/1986)
Defensive Rank: #20
3. 53 points vs. Portland Trailblazers (1/8/1987)
Defensive Rank: #13
4. 58 points vs. New Jersey Nets (2/6/1987)
Defensive Rank: #18
5. 61 points vs. Detroit Pistons (3/4/1987)
Defensive Rank: #5 (DPOY: Dennis Rodman)
6. 56 points vs. Philadelphia 76ers (3/24/1987)
Defensive Rank: #12
7. 53 points vs. Indiana Pacers (4/12/1987)
Defensive Rank: #8
8. 50 points vs. Milwaukee Bucks (4/13/1987)
Defensive Rank: #4 (DPOY: Sidney Moncrief)
9. 61 points vs. Atlanta Hawks (4/16/1987)
Defensive Rank: #2
10. 52 points vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (12/17/1987)
Defensive Rank: #11
11. 52 points vs. Portland Trailblazers (2/26/1988)
Defensive Rank: #10
12. 59 points vs. Detroit Pistons (3/3/1988)
Defensive Rank: #2 (DPOY: Dennis Rodman)
13. 50 points vs. Boston Celtics (3/18/1988)
Defensive Rank: #17
14. 50 points vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (4/28/1988)
Defensive Rank: #5
15. 55 points vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (5/1/1988)
Defensive Rank: #5
16. 52 points vs. Boston Celtics (11/9/1988)
Defensive Rank: #20
17. 52 points vs. Philadelphia 76ers (11/16/1988)
Defensive Rank: #24
18. 52 points vs. Denver Nuggets (11/26/1988)
Defensive Rank: #8
19. 53 points vs. Phoenix Suns (1/21/1989)
Defensive Rank: #5
20. 50 points vs. Milwaukee Bucks (2/16/1989)
Defensive Rank: #6
21. 50 points vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (5/5/1989)
Defensive Rank: #2
22. 54 points vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (11/3/1989)
Defensive Rank: #9
23. 52 points vs. Orlando Magic (12/20/1989)
Defensive Rank: #27
24. 69 points vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (3/28/1990) (Career-high)
Defensive Rank: #9
25. 51 points vs. Washington Bullets (3/19/1992)
Defensive Rank: #12
26. 50 points vs. Denver Nuggets (3/24/1992)
Defensive Rank: #13 (DPOY: Dikembe Mutombo)
27. 56 points vs. Miami Heat (4/29/1992)
Defensive Rank: #25
28. 54 points vs. LA Lakers (11/20/1992)
Defensive Rank: #17
29. 57 points vs. Washington Bullets (12/23/1992)
Defensive Rank: #25
30. 64 points vs. Orlando Magic (1/16/1993)
Defensive Rank: #11
31. 52 points vs. Charlotte Hornets (3/12/1993)
Defensive Rank: #19
32. 54 points vs. New York Knicks (5/31/1993)
Defensive Rank: #1
33. 55 points vs. Phoenix Suns (6/16/1993)
Defensive Rank: #9
34. 55 points vs. New York Knicks (3/28/1995)
Defensive Rank: #1
35. 53 points vs. Detroit Pistons (3/7/1996)
Defensive Rank: #7
36. 50 points vs. Miami Heat (11/6/1996)
Defensive Rank: #1
37. 51 points vs. New York Knicks (1/21/1997)
Defensive Rank: #2
38. 55 points vs. Washington Bullets (4/30/1997)
Defensive Rank: #13
39. 51 points vs. Charlotte Hornets (12/29/2001)
Defensive Rank: #10
Here is a breakdown of this timeline:
Jordan had 34 games between 50-59 points. (27 during the regular season, 7 in the playoffs)
Jordan scored 60+ points 5 times. (4 during the regular season, 1 playoffs)
The fact that Michael scored a playoff record 63 points against the powerhouse 1986 Celtics, is beyond impressive. Boston not only had the 1st ranked Defense, but they went on to win the Championship that season as well. I am much more impressed with that game, than Kobe scoring 81 points against a bottom feeder Toronto Raptors team. (WORST defense in the league that season)
Jordan also had 4 50+ point games against teams with a Defensive Player of the Year:
61 points vs. Dennis Rodman (Detroit- 3/4/1987)
50 points vs. Sidney Moncrief (Milwaukee- 4/13/1987)
59 points vs. Dennis Rodman (Detroit- 3/3/1988)
50 points vs. Dikembe Mutombo (Denver- 3/24/1992)
Bonus:
Here are the players that won Defensive Player of the Year that Jordan scored 40+ points:
41 points vs. Los Angeles Lakers (11/28/1986)
(D.P.O.Y- Michael Cooper)
41 points vs. Milwaukee Bucks (12/12/1986)
(D.P.O.Y- Sidney Moncrief)
43 points vs. Houston Rockets (1/15/1987)
(D.P.O.Y- Hakeem Olajuwon)
44 points vs. Houston Rockets (3/16/1987)
(D.P.O.Y- Hakeem Olajuwon)
44 points vs. Houston Rockets (12/12/1987)
(D.P.O.Y- Hakeem Olajuwon)
42 points vs. Los Angeles Lakers (12/20/1988)
(D.P.O.Y- Michael Cooper)
46 points vs. Detroit Pistons (1989 ECF- Game 3)
(D.P.O.Y- Dennis Rodman)
44 points vs. San Antonio Spurs (2/3/1990)
(D.P.O.Y- David Robinson)
42 points vs. San Antonio Spurs (1/24/1993)
(D.P.O.Y- David Robinson)
40 points vs. Seattle Supersonics (1/13/1998)
(D.P.O.Y- Gary Payton)
Notice how 6 out of these 10 games came against Big Men (Centers) who won Defensive Player of the Year:
David Robinson ('92)
Hakeem Olajuwon ('93 & '94)
Kobe has had 25 50 point games in his career. Only 7 of them came against Top 10 Defenses.
Out of those games, Kobe has played 20 games with 50-59 points. (19 regular season, 1 playoffs)
Kobe also has 5 60+ point games (5 regular season, 0 playoffs)
Scoring in the Jordan Era (Old School Rules):
1988-89 Points Per Game Leaders:
1. Michael Jordan- 32.5
2. Karl Malone- 29.1
3. Dale Ellis- 27.5
4. Clyde Drexler- 27.2
5. Chris Mullin- 26.5
6. Alex English- 26.5
7. Dominique Wilkins- 26.2
8. Charles Barkley- 25.8
9. Tom Chambers- 25.7
10. Hakeem Olajuwon- 24.8
(Hakeem was the only player under 25 ppg)
1989-90 Points Per Game Leaders:
1. Michael Jordan- 33.6
2. Karl Malone- 31.0
3. Patrick Ewing- 28.6
4. Tom Chambers- 27.2
5. Dominique Wilkins- 26.7
6. Charles Barkley- 25.2
7. Chris Mullin- 25.1
8. Reggie Miller- 24.6
9. Hakeem Olajuwon- 24.3
10. David Robinson 24.3
1990-91 Points Per Game Leaders:
1. Michael Jordan- 31.5
2. Karl Malone- 29.0
3. Bernard King- 28.4
4. Charles Barkley- 27.6
5. Patrick Ewing- 26.6
6. Michael Adams- 26.5
7. Dominique Wilkins- 25.9
8. Chris Mullin- 25.7
9. David Robinson- 25.6
10. Mitch Richmond- 23.9
1991-92 Points Per Game Leaders:
1. Michael Jordan- 30.1
2. Karl Malone- 28.0
3. Chris Mullin- 25.6
4. Clyde Drexler- 25.0
5. Patrick Ewing- 24.0
1992-93 Points Per Game Leaders:
1. Michael Jordan- 32.6
2. Dominique Wilkins- 29.9
3. Karl Malone- 27.0
4. Hakeem Olajuwon- 26.1
5. Charles Barkley- 25.6
6. Patrick Ewing- 24.2
1993-94 Points Per Game Leaders:
1. David Robinson- 29.8
2. Shaquille O'Neal- 29.3
3. Hakeem Olajuwon- 27.3
4. Dominique Wilkins- 26.0
5. Karl Malone- 25.2
6. Patrick Ewing- 24.5
1994-95 Points Per Game Leaders:
1. Shaquille O'Neal- 29.3
2. Hakeem Olajuwon- 27.8
3. David Robinson- 27.6
4. Karl Malone- 26.7
5. Jamal Mashburn- 24.1
(The league's scoring was ruled by Big Men when during Jordan's 1st retirement)
1995-96:
1. Michael Jordan- 30.4
2. Hakeem Olajuwon- 26.9
3. Shaquille O'Neal- 26.6
4. Karl Malone- 25.7
5. David Robinson- 25.0
1997-98:
1. Michael Jordan- 28.7
2. Shaquille O'Neal- 28.3
3. Karl Malone- 27.0
Now, a look at the Modern NBA:
2003-04 Point Per Game Leaders (Pre-Rules Changes):
1. Tracy McGrady- 28.0
2. Peja Stojakovic- 24.2
3. Kevin Garnett- 24.2
4. Kobe Bryant- 24.0
(Anyone notice how low the scoring was during this season? Does anyone also notice where Kobe is on the list? Immediately, the NBA changed the rules to speed up the pace of the scoring, and to open the floor.)
2004-05 Scoring Leaders- (The floodgates opened for perimeter players with the rule changes):
1. Allen Iverson- 30.7
2. Kobe Bryant- 27.6
3. LeBron James- 27.2
4. Dirk Nowitzki- 26.1
5. Amare Stoudemire- 26.0
6. Tracy McGrady- 25.7
7. Gilbert Arenas- 25.5
8. Vince Carter- 24.5
9. Dwyane Wade- 24.1
2005-06:
1. Kobe Bryant- 35.4
2. Allen Iverson- 33.0
3. LeBron James- 31.4
4. Gilbert Arenas- 29.3
5. Dwyane Wade- 27.2
6. Paul Pierce- 26.8
7. Dirk Nowitzki- 26.6
8. Carmelo Anthony- 26.5
9. Michael Redd- 25.4
10. Ray Allen- 25.1
11. Elton Brand- 24.7
12. Vince Carter- 24.2
(This was the same season where Kobe scored the notoriously overrated 81 points against the Toronto Raptors, a below sub-par team. Overall, this was the WORST season for perimeter defense, because of how many players averaged 24.0 ppg or higher. 11 out of those 12 play on the perimeter. Nowitzki is a hybrid PF that plays outside.)
Wilkins (Modern Era):
Points: 2,700
Points Per Game: 34.7
FG%: 51%
FT%: 84%
(These are mere projections. The Big Men would have a field day under these rules.)
The amount of perimeter players that led in scoring since 2004-05 is alarming! This is the direct example of the extinction of the interior scorers like Shaq, Hakeem, Robinson, and others.
In Conclusion, Michael Jordan will always be the ultimate measuring stick for perimeter players to be measured by. The facts speak for themselves. Players in Jordan's era were still very impressive, in spite of the physical resistance during that time. Michael not only overcame the best perimeter players, but also the best interior players when he got to the basket under very stiff, and intense competition. Michael Jordan reigns supreme in ANY ERA!
Case Closed!
(Special Thanks to Bruce Blitz, Basketball-Reference, and NBA.com)
Warning: This is a long and very intense article. However, I highly recommend that you take some spare time to carefully go through the information for greater comprehension. For those thirsty for knowledge, this will keep you pretty busy.
If I had a dime for every time that I heard someone say that today's athletes (ex: LeBron James) are "bigger, stronger, faster", I would be a retired billionaire right now. Now if you think that is bad, get a load of this:
"Michael Jordan skated by in an easier era".
"Players today have it much harder" (Kobetard argument).
"Jordan played against midgets in his era".
"The defenses MJ faced were much weaker than what Kobe sees"
"If LeBron was in that era, he would destroy everyone".
"Players back then were too slow".
"If you think players don't hand check today you don't own a television"
"In terms of strictly pure basketball ability, give me LeBron over MJ.
"MJ and Kobe are Top 2 all-time. Respect is mandatory."
"LeBron will never catch Kobe or MJ's rings, but may still end up a better basketball player".
"The advancements in skill and athleticism can't be ignored. Too much for '92 to overcome"
"Dream Team can't guard speed. And there's no Easter Bunny. Sorry you're finding out like this"
These idiotic comments are from a combination of Kobetards, LeBrontards, and even fanboy ESPN analyst Chris Palmer. Yes, I said ESPN ANALYST! Much of this trash comes from a guy who works for the alleged "Worldwide Leader in Sports". As a basketball fan, it is downright criminally insulting to see someone getting paid to diminish what legends like Michael Jordan and others have done, just to blow smoke up the butt of today's players. Here, I will dissect these foolish ideas, and myths that are thrown out that today's players are more advanced. Follow me, as I take a journey like Marty McFly, as I go back to the 1980's and 1990's. During this journey, I will show you how that era was superior in every major category:
Athleticism-Size (Height/Weight)
Talent/Competition Level
Achievements
Basketball IQ/Chemistry
Ratings
I will also explain the recent regression of the game.
First off, players back then were excellent athletes.
Athleticism
To those who deny that fact, here are some of the great athletic perimeter players that Michael Jordan has played with, and against:
Dominique Wilkins
Clyde Drexler
Julius Erving
Scottie Pippen
James Worthy
Penny Hardaway
Glen Rice
Mitch Richmond
Here are a number of big athletic guys that played in that era:
Charles Barkley (in-between, because of height)
Karl Malone
Hakeem Olajuwon
David Robinson
Shawn Kemp
Larry Johnson
Shaquille O'Neal
Patrick Ewing
Alonzo Mourning
Larry Nance
Drexler, Pippen, Barkley, Malone, Robinson, and Ewing played with Jordan on the 1992 Dream Team. Olajuwon, Richmond, Shaq, The Admiral, Pippen, and Barkley were all on the 1996 Dream Team. Many of these players were great at getting up and down the court, and could dominate on each side. David Robinson was built like a terminator, and could run the floor like a guard. When you look at the 2012 US Olympic Team, there were NO dominant big men on that team. It was a purely small ball team. Speaking of the Dream Team, Kobe was another person who fed into the myth that players back then were "too old, and slow". Now, time to dispel this garbage. Here are the ages of the Dream Team players:
Michael Jordan (29)
Charles Barkley (29)
Karl Malone (29)
Clyde Drexler (30)
David Robinson (26 going on 27)
Scottie Pippen (26 going on 27)
Patrick Ewing (29 going on 30)
John Stockton (30)
Chris Mullin (29)
Magic Johnson (32 going on 33)
Larry Bird (35)
Christian Laettner (22)
Larry Bird was the only player from the 92 Dream Team that was older than Kobe (33-34). Magic's career was cut short, and he still had 5 solid years left in him. That is another myth busted.
As far as today's players being "stronger" and "more advanced", that is so far from the truth. When you look at the different growth hormones in today's food and nutrition, naturally they will have more mass. Society as a whole is larger than before. Farmers, and meat producers all across the United States inject these same hormones in their animals, and meat, which impacts the weight of this country. They have also used high-volume ways to produce more crops with chemistry methods that are unheard of. The end result is a food supply that has been distorted, and tainted by toxic, disease-causing chemicals. Unfortunately, the NBA's drug testing policy is an absolute joke. Human Growth Hormones (HGH) have been completely running wild in all areas of sports (high school, college, and pros). Studies have shown, that although HGH can increase muscle size, it does not increase strength. There is also a "Who's Who?" of performance enhancers that help the recovery rate, and endurance of players today. In fact, the very best players could be using these enhancers, but it is often swept under the carpet. Chicago Bulls 2011 MVP Derrick Rose even came out publicly, and admitted in ESPN magazine that PED's were a huge issue in the NBA. I believe there is more than enough evidence.
Size (Height/Weight):
The last 20 years alone have seen a major inflation in weight: (1991-2011)
Ideal weight: 171-181
Actual weight: 180-196
Weight of Perimeter Players (Jordan Era)
Michael Jordan: 195-215
Clyde Drexler: 215-222
James Worthy: 220-225
Magic Johnson: 215-220
Larry Bird: 220-230
Dominique Wilkins: 215-230
Michael Cooper: 175
John Stockton: 175
Weight of Perimeter Players (Modern Era):
Kobe Bryant: 200-210
Dwyane Wade: 212-220
Kevin Durant: 215-230
Carmelo Anthony: 220-235
LeBron James: 240-250
Danny Granger: 225
James Harden: 220
Derrick Rose: 190
Russell Westbrook: 187
Weight of Big Men (Jordan Era):
Shaquille O'Neal: 300-325
Hakeem Olajuwon: 250-255
David Robinson: 240-255
Patrick Ewing: 240-255
Karl Malone: 250-265
Alonzo Mourning: 240-250
Weight of Big Men (Modern Era):
Tyson Chandler: 240
Roy Hibbert: 278
Dwight Howard: 250-260
Andrew Bynum: 285
Marc Gasol: 265
Pau Gasol: 240-250
The lighter weights are what they were measure at during draft time.
Now, that I have explained the weight of today's athletes, let's move on to the height. During the Jordan era, there were many taller players at the time. In fact, 1987 is considered the tallest year in NBA history. (Average height: 6'8")
Here are a list of players at the time who were within that range:
Interior Defenders (Big Men) 6'9"-above:
Manute Bol (7'6")
Ralph Sampson (7'4")
Mark Eaton (7'4")
Artis Gilmore (7'4")
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (7'2")
Robert Parrish (7'1")
Bill Cartwright (7'1")
Sam Bowie (7'1")
Patrick Ewing (7'0")
Brad Daugherty (7'0")
Alton Lister (7'0")
Brad Sellers (7'0")
Kevin Willis (7'0")
Kevin Duckworth (7'0")
Joe Barry Carroll (7'0")
Hakeem Olajuwon (7'0") (Closer to 6'11")
Jack Sikma (6'11")
Caldwell Jones (6'11")
Bill Lambeer (6'11")
John Salley (6'11")
Rick Mahorn (6'10")
Tom Chambers (6'10")
Moses Malone (6'10")
Larry Nance (6'10")
Otis Thorpe (6'10")
Karl Malone (6'9")
Charles Oakley (6'9")
Terry Cummings (6'9")
Players 6'7"-above:
Larry Bird (6'9")
Magic Johnson (6'9")
James Worthy (6'9")
Dominique Wilkins (6'8")
Jerome Kersey (6'8")
Chuck Person (6'8")
Julius Erving (6'7")
Clyde Drexler (6'7")
Alex English (6'7")
Dennis Rodman (6'7")
Jerome Kersey (6'7")
Xavier McDaniel (6'7")
Chris Mullin (6'7")
Reggie Theus (6'7")
Players within Jordan's range (6'6"-under):
Mark Aguirre (6'6")
Gerald Wilkins (6'6")
Rolando Blackmon (6'6")
Michael Cooper (6'5")
Charles Barkley (6'5") (Barkley was a hybrid PF)
Michael Ray Richardson (6'5")
Joe Dumars (6'4")
Terry Porter (6'3")
John Stockton (6'1")
Here are the players to come since that time:
Shawn Bradley (7'6")
Rik Smits (7'4")
Dikembe Mutombo (7'2")
David Robinson (7'1")
Shaquille O'Neal (7'1")
Vlade Divac (7'1")
Tim Duncan (7'0")
Dirk Nowitzki (7'0")
Kevin Garnett (6'11")
Marcus Camby (6'11")
Alonzo Mourning (6'10")
Shawn Kemp (6'10")
Chris Webber (6'9")
Cliff Robinson (6'9")
Sean Elliott (6'8")
Grant Hill (6'8")
Jamal Mashburn (6'8")
Glen Rice (6'7")
Shawn Marion (6'7")
Calbert Chaney (6'7")
Steve Smith (6'7")
Dale Ellis (6'7")
Anthony Mason (6'7")
Larry Johnson (6'7") (Hybrid PF like Barkley)
Penny Hardaway (6'7")
Reggie Miller (6'7")
Bryon Russell (6'7")
Bruce Bowen (6'7")
Reggie Lewis (6'7")
Nick Anderson (6'6")
Dan Majerle (6'6")
Eddie Jones (6'6")
Mitch Richmond (6'5")
Ray Allen (6'5")
Adrian Dantley (6'5")
Gary Payton (6'4")
Vernon Maxwell (6'4")
Dennis Johnson (6'4")
Hersey Hawkins (6'3")
Kevin Johnson (6'1")
Allen Iverson (6'0")
Tim Hardaway (6'0")
*Note: Not everyone on this list necessarily played in the Jordan Era, but they are at least honorable mention.
Today's Average NBA Height: (6'6")
Big Men/Interior Defenders (6'9-above):
Roy Hibbert (7'2")
Tyson Chandler (7'1")
Marc Gasol (7'1")
Javale McGee (7'0")
Andrew Bynum (7'0")
Pau Gasol (7'0")
Brook Lopez (7'0")
Joakim Noah (6'11")
Nene Hilario (6'11")
LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11")
Andray Blatche (6'11")
Jeff Foster (6'11")
Chris Bosh (6'11")
Dwight Howard (6'10")
Al Jefferson (6'10")
Amare Stoudemire (6'10")
Kevin Love (6'10")
Serge Ibaka (6'10")
Kendrick Perkins (6'10")
Al Horford (6'10")
Blake Griffin (6'9")
David West (6'9")
Joel Anthony (6'9")
Perimeter Players:
Kevin Durant (6'10")
LeBron James (6'8")
Danny Granger (6'8")
Paul George (6'8")
Carmelo Anthony (6'7")
Kobe Bryant (6'6")
James Harden (6'5")
Dwyane Wade (6'4")
Derrick Rose (6'3")
Russell Westbrook (6'3")
Deron Williams (6'3")
Tony Parker (6'2")
Rajon Rondo (6'1")
Chris Paul (6'0")
Players at the time were very balanced in athleticism, and size. There were fewer hormones in the food and milk during the 1980s/1990s. Many players were leaner during that time, because there weren't so many different instant, fast food options during the time. Weight training was different, but not that much different from today's time. It is not like these players were from the George Mikan 40s/50s. Even though society has gotten taller, the NBA itself has gotten shorter and heavier than before. That is definitely not a good thing if you are a basketball player. With that said, the lack of height further negates that today's players are "bigger". Shaq was the one exception from that time, and you know how things went down when it came to his weight. (Side note: Add in the beating that Shaq took during that time) If LeBron was born in 1959, and was drafted in 1979, he would be at least an inch shorter and at least 25 pounds heavier. He would be built like Clyde Drexler. These advancements in medicine, weight training, etc HAVE NOT guaranteed today's players to be more athletic.
Talent/Competition Level:
The competition level was second to none at the time, with teams such as Magic & Kareem's Showtime Lakers, Bird's Celtics, Jordan's Bulls, and the Sixers of Dr. J & Moses leading the way. You also had blue collar teams in the East such as The Bad Boy Pistons, Ewing's Knicks, Shaq's Orlando Magic, and the Cleveland Cavaliers who were strong threats at the time. In the West, you had Hakeem's Rockets, David Robinson's Spurs, Payton's Supersonics, Drexler's Trailblazers, Stockton & Malone's Jazz, and the Suns led by Charles Barkley to name a few. Both conferences were loaded with contenders. The games were exciting, and left you with anticipation every single night that they were on. The talent pool was much deeper, with Hall of Fame talent all across the board. There were many more marquee players, whose production speaks for itself.
Production/Achievements:
Here are just a few to name, with their accomplishments:
Michael Jordan: 14-time NBA All-Star, 6-time Finals MVP for 6 championship teams, 10-time Scoring Champ, 5-time NBA MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, 1985 NBA Rookie of the Year, 10-time All-NBA 1st Team, 9-time All-Defensive 1st Team, 3rd All-Time in Career Total Points: 32,292, 1st All-Time in Career PPG: 30.12, 1st All-Time in Career Playoff PPG: 33.45. 2-time Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1984, 1992). Hall of Fame: Class of 2009.
Magic Johnson: 12-time NBA All-Star, 3-time Finals MVP on 5 championship teams, 3-time NBA MVP, 9-time All-NBA 1st Team, 2-time NBA All-Star MVP. Retired as All-Time Leader in Assists (10,141). Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1992), Hall of Fame: Class of 2002.
Larry Bird: 12-time NBA All-Star, 2-time Finals MVP on 3 championship teams, 3-time NBA MVP, 9-time All-NBA 1st Team, 1-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 3-time NBA All-Defensive 2nd Team. Career PPG: 24.3, 10.0 rpg, 6.3 apg. Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1992), Hall of Fame: Class of 1998
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 19-time NBA All-Star, 6-time NBA MVP, 2-time Finals MVP on 6 championship teams, 10-time All-NBA 1st Team, 5-time All-Defensive 1st Team, 6-time All-Defensive 2nd Team. NBA All-Time Leading Scorer, 3rd All-Time in Blocks, 4th All-Time in Rebounds. (Kareem was slightly past his prime, but still effective). Hall of Fame: Class of 1995
Shaquille O'Neal: 15-time NBA All-Star, 3-time Finals MVP on 4 championship teams, 1-time NBA MVP, 2-time NBA Scoring Champion, 8-time All-NBA 1st Team, 1-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 4-time All-NBA 3rd Team, 3-time All-Defensive 2nd Team. Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1996)
Hakeem Olajuwon: 12-time NBA All-Star, 2-time Finals MVP on 2 championship teams, 1-time NBA MVP, 2-time Defensive Player of the Year. 2-time Leader in Rebounds, 3-time Leader in Blocks. 6-time All-NBA 1st Team, 3-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 3-time All-NBA 3rd Team, 5-time All-Defensive 1st Team, 4-time All-Defensive 2nd Team. 1st All-Time in Blocks, 9th in Steals, 11th in Points, 13th in Rebounds. Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1996), Hall of Fame: Class of 2008.
Moses Malone: 13-time NBA All-Star, 3-time NBA MVP, 1-time Finals MVP, 6-time Rebounding Champ, 4-time All-NBA 1st Team, 4-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 1-time All-Defensive 1st Team, 1-time All-Defensive 2nd Team. 7th All-Time in Career Total Points, 1st All-Time in Offensive Rebounds, 3rd All-Time in Total Rebounds. Hall of Fame: Class of 2001.
David Robinson: 10-time NBA All-Star, 1990 Rookie of the Year, Leader in Rebounds (1991), Leader in Blocks (1992), Defensive Player of the Year (1992), 2-time Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1992, 1996) Scoring Champion (1994), NBA MVP (1995), 2nd Best Player on 2 championship teams, 4-time All-NBA 1st Team, 2-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 4-time All-NBA 3rd Team. 4-time All-Defensive 1st Team, 4-time All-Defensive 2nd Team. Hall of Fame: Class of 2009.
Karl Malone: 14-time NBA All-Star, 2-time NBA MVP, 11-time All-NBA 1st Team, 2-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 1-time All-NBA 3rd Team. 2nd All-Time in Career Points. 2-time Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1992, 1996). Hall of Fame: Class of 2010.
Charles Barkley: 11-time NBA All-Star, 1-time NBA MVP, 5-time All-NBA 1st Team, 5-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 1-time All-NBA 3rd Team. Rebounding Champ (1987). 2-time Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1992, 1996). Hall of Fame Class of 2006.
Julius Erving: 16-time All-Star (11-time NBA), 4-time MVP (1-time NBA MVP), 5-time All-NBA 1st Team, 2-time All-NBA 2nd Team. Member of 1 NBA championship team. Hall of Fame: Class of 1993.
Today's Players:
LeBron James: 9-time NBA All-Star, 3-time NBA MVP, 1-time Finals MVP, leader of 2012 championship team. 1-time Scoring Champion. 6-time All-NBA 1st Team, 2-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 4-time All-Defensive 1st Team. 2-time Olympic Gold Medal Winner (2008, 2012)
Kobe Bryant: 15-time NBA All-Star, 1-time NBA MVP, 2-time Finals MVP on 5 championship teams, 2-time Scoring Champion, 10-time All-NBA 1st Team, 9-time All-Defensive 1st Team. 2-time Olympic Gold Medal Winner (2008, 2012)
Dwyane Wade: 9-time NBA All-Star, 1-time Finals MVP on 2 championship teams, 1-time Scoring Champion. 2-time All-NBA 1st Team, 3-time All-NBA 2nd Team, 2-time All-NBA 3rd Team. Olympic Gold Medal (2008)
Kevin Durant: 5-time NBA All-Star. 3-time NBA Scoring Champion, 3-time All-NBA 1st Team. Olympic Gold Medal (2012)
Dwight Howard: 7-time NBA All-Star, 3-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. 5-time All-NBA 1st Team, 4-time All-Defensive 1st Team, 1-time All-Defensive 2nd Team, 1-time All-NBA 3rd Team. Olympic Gold Medal Winner (2008)
Basketball IQ/Chemistry:
You had a league with players, who took their craft seriously, and created their own brand without the media giving them things that they did not deserve. The 1992 Dream Team alone had 11 Hall of Famers. When you include Olajuwon from the '96 team, that makes 12, because players such as The Admiral, Barkley, Malone, Stockton and Pippen returned for that team. Reggie Miller was just inducted as well. Players like Shaq, Gary Payton, and Mitch Richmond are future HOF'ers. That is more than both the 2008, and 2012 teams together. When you consider Players had much more discipline, because of the systems that molded them in college. With that said, the game was built with great basketball IQ to match. Not only was there style, but there was plenty of substance to match. I highly doubt that teams like the Heat, and the Thunder would survive, with their one-on-one smallball style. Teams with great chemistry, perimeter defense, physicality, and interior players will eat them alive. Teams like the Portland Trailblazers, Seattle Supersonics, and Phoenix Suns would destroy them before they could even think of playing teams like Chicago, LA or Boston. During that era, you had teams and players shooting on average, between the mid-late 40s to the 50s from the floor. The only exceptions were the really sub-par teams. They never had to rely on the three-point shot as much, because at the time it was considered a "bail-out" shot. As far as crossovers, players from that time used them as well. (Look at Isiah Thomas & Tim Hardaway as examples) However, they knew when to keep it under control. Now, you have players with a deeper sense of entitlement, who think that the NBA owes them something, without even proving themselves. For crying out loud, today's dunk contests are full of nobodies! The prima donna mentality has clearly polluted the NBA. Today's game has gone from a game from men to a game for boys.
Ratings:
To further cement how superior this era was, the ratings tell even more of a story:
1980 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Sixers (Rating- 8.0) (Plot line- Magic saving the series in Game 6)
1981 NBA Finals- Celtics vs. Rockets (Rating- 6.7)
1982 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Sixers II (Rating- 13.0)
1983 NBA Finals- Sixers vs. Lakers III (Rating-1 2.3) (Plot line-Redemption)
1984 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Celtics (Rating- 12.1) (Plot line-Magic vs. Bird I)
1985 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Celtics II (Rating- 13.7) (Plot line- Lakers finally defeat Celtics)
1986 NBA Finals- Celtics vs. Rockets (Rating- 14.1)
1987 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Celtics III (Rating- 15.9) (Plot line- Magic vs. Larry- Final Showdown)
1988 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Pistons I (Rating- 15.4) (Plot line- Lakers win back-to-back)
1989 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Pistons II (Rating- 15.1) (Plot line- Rise of the Bad Boys)
1990 NBA Finals- Pistons vs. Blazers (Rating- 12.3) (Plot line- Motor City Madness)
1991 NBA Finals- Bulls vs. Lakers (Rating- 15.8) (Plot line- Bulls win 1st Title)
1992 NBA Finals- Bulls vs. Blazers (Rating- 14.2) (Plot line- Bulls win back-to-back)
1993 NBA Finals- Bulls vs. Suns (Rating- 17.9) (Plot line- Three-peat)
1994 NBA Finals- Rockets vs. Knicks (Rating- 12.4) (Plot line- Clutch City in Houston)
1995 NBA Finals- Rockets vs. Magic (Rating- 13.9) (Plot line- Dream leads repeat)
1996 NBA Finals- Bulls vs. Sonics (Rating- 16.7) (Plot line- Jordan returns to the throne)
1997 NBA Finals- Bulls vs. Jazz I (Rating- 16.8) (Plot line- Flu Game Series)
1998 NBA Finals- Bulls vs. Jazz II (Rating- 18.7) (Plot line- Jordan's Final Dance)
Each series was exciting not just because of the quality of play, but also because of the amazing story lines surrounding them. The initial story lines going on during those seasons built even more anticipation (Jordan's arrival & scoring, rise to MVP level, 1st 3-peat, retirement, 2nd 3-peat). Barkley leaving for Phoenix, and winning MVP. Chicago's 72-win season Unfortunately, Jordan's 1998 retirement and the 1999 lockout wounded the ratings. The Finals ratings dropped by seven points, from 18.7 in 1998 to 11.3 in 1999. In spite of how great Duncan's Spurs and Shaq's Lakers played during this time, fan interest was lost because of how David Stern curtailed the rules, taking away the integrity, and over-promoting singular players for the sake of a "Like Mike" figure. Even a LeBron vs Durant Finals series was only able to pull in a 10.1 rating.
As far as the rigging goes, you don't have to look any further than these examples:
2002 WCF- Lakers vs. Kings
2006 NBA Finals- Heat vs. Mavericks (Perfect example: Game 6)
2010 NBA Finals- Lakers vs. Celtics (Perfect example: Game 7)
Regression:
Once upon a time, the NBA stood for "No Boys Allowed". Now, David Stern has corrupted the game, and turned it into a soft, freestyle, skills circus show. Stern stripped away the ability to play real, physical defense, as well as the impact of the big men in the paint. Now, you don't have enforcers in the paint ready to knock you on your butt. Instead, you have a league full of cream puffs. Stern and the media have dumbed down the game. The game is no longer about team, but about singular players. How many times must we put up with "Kobe", "LeBron", "Carmelo", "Durant" being over saturated by ESPN? How many more times do I have to put up with the cherry picking that they do with today's players, by taking single games or streaks to compare them with the likes of Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar or Wilt Chamberlain? (Ex: In 2012, ESPN said LeBron was the 1st player since Wilt in 1964 to have a 45/15 game in the playoffs) Fortunately, the smart fans like myself see through the phoniness like glass. The smoke and mirror act does not fool us, which is why the NBA has lost so many viewers.
Conclusion:
In Conclusion, the evolution theory does not work for the NBA. In fact, things also have a tendency to devolve, and regress over time. That is exactly the case with the NBA. Over time since the Era of Jordan/Magic/Bird, the game has devolved. (The Shaq/Duncan era in between was the only bright spot) The devolution of the game has become dramatically worse even since then, with the changes in the rules to favor one specific area of the game (perimeter). I am not here to come across as a hater or cynic, but as a passionate NBA fan who has been exposed to the very best that the game has ever seen. As I have said before, their production speaks for itself. The work they put in to put up those numbers while playing the game the way that it should be played. If you have watched the game for as long as I have, and have studied the history of it the way that I have, you will understand with a better sense of appreciation. However, naive new school fans will believe what they want to, and make excuses to diminish what players like Jordan have done. Whatever. I do this for educated, hardcore fans that care. This is not just about Old School, but about real recognizing real, and game recognizing game. Check the games for yourselves, and it is clearly obvious how drastic the change has been. Players from the past earned their keep. The game had the perfect balance between perimeter players and interior players. It was a much more even game. (Interior players were just that good)
Greatness is EARNED, not given!
(Special thanks to Internet Sports legend Mr. Bruce Blitz, along with Clutch 23 Productions):
Here are glimpses of the great athleticism from that Golden Era (80s/90s):
