It's not that Kobe should not appreciate the honor of being compared to Jordan, but Kobe is now playing for his fifth NBA Championship. He is creating a legacy that legitimately stands by itself. No comparison is needed. On the day that he retires, Kobe Bryant will be remembered as one of the greatest players to wear an NBA uniform.
It is his mindset, like Jordan, that seems to have elevated his game to the level he has achieved. It is his will to win that forces him to accept nothing less than a championship season.
In ABC's half-time show of Game 1, Kobe sat down and watched footage of former NBA great's and discussed how he had taken the moves of these players. He learned how to use his quickness from Jerry West. The way his body moves in the air is a recreation of what Elgin Baylor did decades ago. He imagine's his move long before the time to make it, as he saw Magic Johnson do.
What he did not discuss was his drive. There is nothing more comparable to Jordan than this feature of Kobe Bryant. Who knows what Chris Rock was saying next to him on the bench. It didn't matter, Kobe didn't hear a word of it. This is the NBA Finals, there is nothing on his mind other than putting that fifth ring around his finger.
Kobe has been a superstar for years now. His career has been celebrated, but also despised. He has not enjoyed the same level of adoration as Jordan. It could be because of the incident in Eagle, Colo. Maybe it is the way he sometimes comes off as self centered or ego driven. Maybe it is a misunderstanding between the fans and Kobe.
The stone cold glare he has on his face is intimidating. The m...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
