There was a perception that James and Wade had even surpassed Bryant.
Many people felt Bryant's game would face a noticeable decline due to age and eventual wear and tear. Furthermore, a broken finger sustained early in the season didn't do much to change many minds.
Bryant did manage to average 27 points, five rebounds, and five assists during the course of the regular season, while James averaged nearly 30 points per game, to go along with 8.6 assists and 7.3 rebounds.
Wade's situation was different from Bryant's and James because he didn't have a comparable level of talent surrounding him. Yet, he still managed to average 26 points, six assists, and 4.8 rebounds.
James had one of the most dominant regular seasons in NBA history and would go on to capture his second consecutive MVP award, but the post-season told the story for all three players.
As far as legacies go, the only common denominator to grade all three players would be success in the postseason, and this is the area where Bryant has left James and Wade in the dust.
This would seem to be an unfair measuring tool considering the quality of Wade's teammates, but the Chicago native has already tasted the nectar of championship success, and thus has a place in the discussion.
Not to mention, Wade was also the Finals' MVP of his 2006 Miami Heat team, which puts him in a class that James has yet to reach.
James' flame-out in the second round of the postseason against the Boston Celtics raised questions about his desire and commitment, something James hadn't yet faced in his career.
No one will ever doubt the talent of James, but after capturing the NBA's No. 1 overall seed each of the past two seasons, the excuse that his supporting...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
