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Phoenix Suns forward Charles Barkley (34) laughs at a foul call with Chicago Bulls guard Michael Jordan (23) in the first half 28 January 1996 at the United Center in Chicago.
NBA agent Rich Paul made some comments that upset fans over the topic of how Michael Jordan would fare in today’s league. Jordan is considered the greatest of all time after his iconic run with the Chicago Bulls. Max Kellerman claimed to Paul that he believes Jordan would average 40 points and a triple double in today’s league.
Paul was not having Kellerman’s take and said the following about why he feels Jordan would run into more problems today:
“You’re out of your mind. I do believe that sometimes people say things that (Jordan) wouldn’t even believe. You’re missing a major point. You’re basing on this as if people still consider the pecking order.
These kids today they not bowing down to nobody. They not just gonna sit around and let you shoot every shot. In today’s NBA, guys are coming in and they’re not caring as much as you think about who you are and what you did. Because in their mind, ‘I’m the guy’ too.”
The belief of Paul is that today’s stars coming into the league with more confidence would hurt Jordan. Paul implied that Jordan benefited from opponent viewing him with respect and some intimidation. Kellerman didn’t agree to set up their podcast debate.
Why Rich Paul Made This Claim
Kellerman did make a bold point too by saying that he feels Jordan would both average 40 points per game and a triple double. Few players in NBA history have done either of these things to make it extremely unlikely for anyone to do both.
Nikola Jokic and the previous peak of Russell Westbrook showed that triple double averages usually top out around the 30-point range. Jordan would likely be able to do one of these two things, but both would be impossible, even with the faster pace.
Paul felt he had to counter Kellerman’s take by coming up with other variables to explain why it wouldn’t happen. However, old school fans took exception that today’s weaker defenses would be able to slow down Jordan. Paul claiming that young talents wouldn’t be intimidated by Jordan also felt a bit ridiculous.
How Rich Paul’s Claims Tie To LeBron James
The everlasting Michael Jordan vs LeBron James debate sees that emerging even in other topics. Paul is considered James’ best friend and someone to enter the NBA agency field due to his connections setting up an incredible future.
Many of LeBron’s allies will find ways to argue him over Jordan as the greatest player of all time. One point made in defense of Jordan is that James plays against weaker defenses today since every team gives up over 107+ points per game today.
Paul tried to find a unique method to argue in favor of today’s stars presenting stronger competition. This era does see rookie and second year players taking big steps forward faster by showing less fear. However, dominant superstars usually do score at will against younger teams. Paul’s point doesn’t hold up, but he’s clearly trying to present a point that makes LeBron’s success look more impressive.
Joey Haverford Joey Haverford is a seasoned sports content writer with over 12 years of experience. He has covered the NBA, WNBA, MLB, NFL, and professional wrestling in the sports industry. More about Joey Haverford
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