Lines between those who believe basketball was better in the 1980s and 1990s those who believe the best players of today could thrive in any era have become even starker over the last few weeks with the release of episodes of ESPN’s “The Last Dance.” However, while some observers, including ESPN’s duo of Jalen Rose and Michael Wilbon, believe that LeBron James and Kevin Durant wouldn’t dominate in the past era, LeBron has spent the past week complimenting players of the past. After going online to talk about the greatness of Detroit Pistons legend Isiah Thomas, LeBron James wanted to make sure Celtics legend Larry Bird got his credit too, saying Bird could ball in “any era.”
One of the ways that LeBron is trying to combat some of the disrespect thrown his way is to honor the legends of the past who helped pave the way for his generation. It also is, of course, a subtle shot to those who think he couldn’t do what he has done in any past era too. That will likely continue tonight as “The Last Dance” is expected to focus on Kobe Bryant’s relationship with Jordan.
