Jordan vs. Kobe: A Difference in Eras

Who is the better player: Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant?   With all the reasoning by analysts and diehard fans, this heated debate will never have a legitimate answer until Kobe Bryant retires.     Anyone can compare the numbers, records, or awards that both players have achieved, but very few people factor the differences between the Jordan era and the Kobe era.   Let’s take a look at several key factors that are omitted in this Jordan vs. Kobe debate.     Defensive Players   I am very surprised that players in the 80s and 90s receive very little credit for their defensive skills compare to players after Jordan retired. Since Jordan entered the NBA in 1984, the league has produced many stellar first and second All-Defensive players featuring:   Hakeem Olajuwon, Michael Cooper, Maurice Cheeks, Dennis Johnson, Kevin McHale, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, John Stockton, Joe Dumars, David Robinson, Dennis Rodman, ... (link)