When it comes to the greatest of all time debate, Magic Johnson doesnt hesitate. For him, the answer is simple, Michael Jordan.
I would have to say Michael, Johnson said, via Dodgers. We havent seen anybody do the things that Michael could do. And he was physically so gifted at the same time, smart. And then I think that we have two other Lakers following him right after that, and that would be LeBron [James] and Kareem [Abdul-Jabbar].
But Michael, I would say, and then you got to throw Bill Russell in there because 11 championships, you cant deny that. When a man wins that many World Championship rings, hes got to be in the GOAT conversation. No question about it. So, they go back and forth in todays world about Michael and LeBron, and thats okay.
But Michael, I still remember that shot he did against us in 91 where he went up with the right hand, tongue was out, and we went for it. See, youre too young. I want you to YouTube this, okay?
So he watched us go down, switched the ball from his right to his left, tongue went left, and he spun it against the glass and good. Still the greatest shot Ive ever seen.
Johnson also acknowledged how the debate has shifted with every generation of players and fans. While todays era often pits LeBron James against Jordan, Magic noted that his own perspective comes from playing directly against MJ in the 1991 Finals.
That series marked a turning point in NBA history, as Jordan captured his first championship at the expense of Johnsons Lakers, cementing the start of the Bulls dynasty. For Magic, witnessing Jordans dominance firsthand left little doubt about who set the ultimate standard for greatness.
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