At this point, it’s safe to say Lakers legend Kobe Bryant is going to be compared to NBA and Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan for the rest of his life. No matter the situation or topic people will find a way to compare Bryant and Jordan.
However at 37 years of age and how Bryant’s career has gone the last few years he dosen’t think he should be compared to Jordan at this stage in their careers. In a interview with USA Today Sports Sam Amick, Bryant had the following to say.
“My 37 (years old) isn’t MJ’s 37 (when he returned after taking two seasons off to play for the Washington Wizards), you know what I mean? Nor is it the same team or the same system that he was playing in. It’s much, much different. There’s really no barometer, no (precedent) for training physically, for recovery. It’s unchartered territory.”
Kobe is 100% correct. Jordan never had to deal with 3 consecutive season injuries or as of recent minute restrictions when he’s still the best player on his team. Jordan also retired twice before his final years, that’s close to four extra years of rest in his 30’s while Bryant had played non-stop until the injuries before and into his 30’s.
Jordan was able to put up 22.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists on the Wizards at age 37. He was asked to do a more than what the Lakers are asking Bryant to do this year but don’t be surprised if Bryant puts up similar numbers. He’s always had a knack for doing Jordan-esque things so we’ll just have to wait and see.
