Stephen A. scoffs at notion LeBron-Kobe could've beaten MJ-Pippen | First Take

Stephen A. Smith says LeBron James would've benefited more from Kobe Bryant, and LeBron wouldn't have struggled to win a title as long as he did if he teamed up with Kobe. Max Kellerman disagrees and says Kobe Bryant needed LeBron James more for his legacy. Stephen A. and Max then debate if a LeBron-Kobe duo for the Los Angeles Lakers would've topped Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen at the height of the Chicago Bulls.
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[@lumbergerb12]

Man wtf Kobe and LeBron? MJ the greatest but he ain't God

[@lumbergerb12]

SAS trippin

[@alfarouqaminufor3892]

MJ is god.

[@christianallen8126]

I think of it like dis scootie was great at defense but so is Leonard. Actually he considered one of the best in the league today lebron dropped 30 on his head lebron wouldn’t just bully him but to say he wouldn’t score on him is crazy actually your an idiot if u think he not gone put Scottie to work now Mj and Kobe dats just nasty that just depends on who the better play maker and who can finish at the rim better but overall if Kobe and lebron played with each other like Scottie and Mj did and they all played in they prime I think Kobe and bron winnin

[@T-H-E-WORLD]

@Intensity Fit Club "In fact he never even faced guys like MJ and Pippen." What do you mean? Lebron faced Kobe. Kobe is most certainly just as good a defender as Pippen or Jordan. Kobe even has made all defensive team more than Pippen and Jordan...

[@T-H-E-WORLD]

@Intensity Fit Club I agree with the first part. I just dont agree with you saying Lebron has never faced anyone like Mike or Pippen because he did(KOBE). And in this sense Kobe could only be compared to Jordan because like Jordan Kobe played a great offensive and defensive game. Pippen was good offensively but better defensively and Lebron was okay at perimeter defense but better offensively. What I think is that Pippen probably never faced anyone like Lebron .. I cant say who would win on a 2 vs 2 ??????? But id have to lean towards Bron and Kobe.

[@tonyj9743]

Kobe was on the All defensive team for 12 years. How is he not a phenomenal defender?

[@thsu8]

Kobe is one of the 10 best wing defenders ever with Jordan, Pippen, Payton, Pat Bev, Kawhi, Bowen, Tony Allen, Rodman, Artest.

[@breadwinner3558]

thsu8 don’t ever mention pat bev with those players again. Overrated for his defense against mediocre and bad guards, he gets lit up every time he plays an elite guard.

[@lawdzoe576]

because like dereck Jeter after a while they both started making defensive teams based on reputation just like McGrady and shaq extra all star selections. But when kobe wasn't the primary option he is one of the greatest defensive guards ever

[@younglove3362]

Considering that at least 4 of them belonged to wade. Same as the bs notion that Jordan is a better defender than Pippen. Stop it, those awards are misleading.

[@tonyj9743]

@@younglove3362 every time Kobe got in, it was the NBA coaches who voted him in. These were earned awards, not some popularity contest BS.

[@stutterbox334]

So we gone act like Kobe wasn’t a elite defender ? Welp

[@wolfgangvanbach9739]

He wasn't elite. He was just very good. Never had the tools to be all time defender even tho he's 9 time defensive first team.

[@ralx225b]

@@wolfgangvanbach9739 He was elite, he just wasn't as elite as Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, Kawhi etc.

[@wolfgangvanbach9739]

@@ralx225b I suppose.

[@The8310353]

@@wolfgangvanbach9739 bro you even watch kobe play, one of the damn best on ball defenders of his generation. but that wasn't his role with lakers.

[@wolfgangvanbach9739]

@@The8310353 I said he wasn't elite. I just said he was very good. He wasn't as good as a young to middle aged Mike or Scottie. Kawhi and Payton as well outclasses him by a tier in my opinion. Dude was a very good defender but didn't have the tools. Big wingspan. Huge hands and long fingers. He did very good with what he was given.

[@TheDsaf10]

The disrespect kobe gets of being one of the greatest of all time is so sad....

[@RickyTanTriads]

He's a little disrespected but also a little overrated, he's top 10 maybe top 5 but people try to say he's the GOAT or on MJ and Lebron's level which ain't the case.

[@christianhenry4173]

@@RickyTanTriads LeBron's not on MJs level let alone Kobe I'm tired of that.

[@christianhenry4173]

@@kabeperry6356 false they play two different positions LeBron has the most turnovers and most missed playoff shots stop acting like Kobe wasn't a major contributor with or without Shaq

[@itskash6466]

Kabe Perry Lebron got the works whenever he played against Kobe so idk what ur tryna say

[@3TDynamics2024]

Please don't care what the American media says. They hate Kobe bryant. Nba basketball players, international athletes, nba world respects Kobe bryant. They put him in 2;3 or 5.

[@josereveles5137]

Prime kobe and lebron wouldve killed golden state

[@MinnieCeeOfficial]

By themselves lol

[@jamesdawny1855]

Something I can finally agree with. Old kobe was bybhimself in 2013 vs them still giving buckets lbj beat them in 2016 old lol

[@bullshark3771]

Jose Reveles no I don’t think so they need a third

[@N8veJay]

No doubt...

[@danielbeavers8701]

Prime labron????? Labron is the most overrated player all time

[@jongee7034]

Kobe would've turned lebron into the NBA's Thanos

[@mahlonthomas1775]

@@Dracotv512 true shit

[@mahlonthomas1775]

True shit

[@th3ronin407]

Facts

[@jongee7034]

@@reggiesmith6196 🤔 funny

[@reggiesmith6196]

jon GEE lebron can be the right hand man but not the main villain

[@coltonterry366]

So pippen is offensively better than James? 😅😂🤣 I don't like LeBron but we all gotta respect the offense too now.

[@bryanperez8628]

Colton Terry lebron doesn’t defend pippen does

[@emjay570]

bryan perez prime lebron was an all time great defender lol

[@topshotta2000]

@@bryanperez8628 in his prime lbj was a beast in defending

[@smittycool0121]

@@topshotta2000 no he was a beastt at team defending

[@TheSlithice]

@@bryanperez8628 you started watching bball in 2018?

[@OGWasabaki]

If kobe and lebron linked up, no duo would ever stop them.

[@fancyhoops1132]

Jordan and kawhi could

[@DeeRemedy]

bruce wayne seriously? Kawhi? On the same level as MJ,Kobe, and Lebron? That’s just wrong man

[@fancyhoops1132]

@@DeeRemedy he is, and he can lockdown anyone specially lebron.

[@scottb3034]

jordan and wilt? i mean lebron is like a 30% shooter from beyond 3 feet. LOL

[@alexjames6412]

Scott B If they can coexist yeah

[@johnnyzims]

Miami Lebron and a Prime kobe WOULD destroy anyone in this current league.

[@KyleC11]

Facts. Miami Lebron was a monster. And Kobe is the 1B to Michael's 1A. Absolute greatness. Been disrespected way too much.

[@nervio2701]

would destroy any team of any era, is not even a debate

[@Catholic-Christian]

Manuel Segura Except for Boston Celtics with William Feldon Russell, Bob Cousy, John Havlicheck, Sam Jones, Red Auerbach etc. 🐐

[@ilovecaulk2542]

In the current league, sure. It’s barely a league right now.

[@antpain1156]

@@nervio2701 facts no debate at all

[@ChrisDan94_]

Why does he act like Kobe is a role player wtf? 5 rings and 81 points

[@kirbyolsen5941]

CJ Carpenter cause he’s old

[@ChrisDan94_]

Big Chungus I mean so is MJ..

[@turtleislandlac1490]

What's Kobe's high in the PLAYOFFS. I'll wait.

[@josuemagana7242]

I got you fam. In game 1 of the 2001 WCF kobe put up 45 pts and 10 rebounds against the spurs. That same year he put up 48 points on 29 shots and had 16 rebounds in game 2 of the WCF semi finals against the kings. Kobe dropped 50 on the suns in the first round of the 2006 playoffs but the lakers did lose that game . In 20008 game 2 of the first round kobe dropped 49 points and got 10 rebounds in less than 43 minutes against the nuggets. In game 1 of the 2009 finals kobe got 40/8/8 in less than 40 minutes against the Orlando magic.

[@josuemagana7242]

@Jessy Carter the warriors with their ridiculously stacked team haven't even been to the finals 6 times.

[@adolfdrippler243]

I would pay to see Kobe and LeBron vs Prime MJ and Pippen

[@Dj_Kevikev]

Stephen A. raises his voice to make his point. Typical.

[@adolfdrippler243]

kevin kamakani lol 😂

[@oneworldkingdom]

Who wouldn't?

[@db-hj9cu]

That's a perfect match up. Espn actually found a thought provoking way to bring up LeBron instead of the usual daily nutswing

[@dhu55ein9]

Pippen would've locked up l36ron mike and kobe would've neutralized each other

[@marvsville]

if this had happened, kobe would probably have 15 rings now.

[@v.4_como576]

Yu dragged it bro

[@v.4_como576]

Probably like 9 or 10

[@wnsbug]

20 if shaq went to the gym

[@user-df2uu3qp3y]

@@wnsbug kobe lebron and shaq on same team. the nba is going to be very boring.

[@DJSkandalous]

Steph and KD like, why don't they ever compare us? 😭 KD Burner Account; "KD better then all these fools".

[@davelepage8255]

cause they are just not on the same level thats sit 👍

[@timewind7586]

@Itachi Is Invincible No he isn't.

[@TheFlowBrothers]

@@timewind7586 and shooting and that’s it nothing else

[@seba2tiansalazar]

@Cameron BVHS2021 Lynch fs that’s why LeBron n Kyrie Cavs won against KD n Curry, I have mad respect for Curry, but naw

[@Sijan.G]

@@seba2tiansalazar tf is u talkin bout

[@Bill4realbeats]

D rose dropped a Passionate 50 Points and i am a Laker fan telling you to change the damn subject sometimes...

[@DanielFlores-fo1ee]

Drose is done move on bruh

[@gargeluy3035]

@@DanielFlores-fo1ee dam so that mean nobody can acknowledge an accomplishment lol

[@chrisringer5778]

Daniel Flores wtf does that have to do with last night dumb fuck

[@TayTopDon]

Daniel Flores oh so you a dickhead I see.

[@Chester-mz2ep]

Damn let them talk about anything other than 1 subject chill

[@sedaw3261]

Max: "Well argued but you're wrong" Stephen A: "I'm not" Max: "You are. Now ..." That exchange lmao 😂😂

[@b.6621]

SedaW LoL sounded like kids bickering! At that moment I realized why am I watching 2 grown ass men speak about things we’ll never see lol

[@theCoolcatrich]

I actually laughed out loud when I first saw it. 😂😂😂

[@juniorrose5138]

😂😂😂

[@antpain1156]

Lol it was funny af

[@isaacmonson4403]

SedaW LoL that was hilarious 🤣🤣🤣

[@NickJTerry]

I remember watching this live and thinking, “we have officially made Jordan into something that he’s not.” Kobe AND LeBron! Come on now. And I thought Skip saying a 50 year old Jordan could beat prime LeBron was bad enough.

[@HaHa-vy9ct]

Pippen in his prime could defend anyone.

[@im_waffles2920]

I think you forgot about a man named Scottie Pippen.

[@majormarketing6552]

Remember that highlight of kobe lob to Shaq? Pippen was guarding Kobe. He got torched in that series by young Kobe

[@MrSeanMDolan]

HAx2 defence is one part of the game, Kobe and LeBron could both guard Pippen, and they get buckets

[@mrr1491]

Couldn't agree more with this comment.

[@spartanrealah2121]

Lebron 28ppg 8rpg 8apg at 33 Kobe at 34 27ppg 6rpg 6apg Kobe was aging like wine before that achilles injury DAMN

[@saintmeel]

Spartan Realah shooting percentage?

[@dandreclay8821]

@@DTB1995 right 🤣🤣🤦🏿‍♂️

[@wnooristany539]

Daniel Barwatt cause I can play in the nba and shoot 2% but score 50 points if given the amount of shots

[@wnooristany539]

Daniel Barwatt I’m exaggerating, I’m saying someone with poor shooting percentage is not a good shooter or scorer. Should be common sense.

[@wnooristany539]

@@DTB1995 What do you mean it never happens? i always see players shooting a lot, but with terrible shooting percentage and it shows in analytical stats. Carmelo anthony is one name that comes to mind, he shoots a lot but doesnt make a lot of them which is one reason why he doesnt play anymore. I see kobe shooting like 35-40% in clutch moment, sure he can make the basket, but the point is you would rather want someone like lebron or jordan, who shoot a better percentage in clutch moments, to shoot the ball.

[@sergiogarcia5593]

03 Kobe: 30/7/6 13 Bron: 27/8/7 They would’ve wrecked anyone. Both, had the 3PT shot going those years and were the best perimeter defenders. I’m sorry, but Kobe & Bron taking it.

[@Ranger.TomGunna]

I completely agree.. people bash Lebrons defense but he's had to carry the offensive load of every team he's been on since 2015 and he wouldn't have had the energy to carry the offensive AND defensive load every game

[@guilhermevieira6010]

@@Ranger.TomGunna he had kyrie from 2015 until 2017 lol

[@TheRealPunisher]

Mj and pippen stand no chance.

[@TG-nhl]

Sergio Garcia 06 Kobe 35/5/5 was the best tho

[@kabeperry4702]

Bron will have more assist and be a facilitator... Kobe would have more points and be the scorer

[@trunks4139]

These are guys that can go on 15-20 point scoring runs on their own lol. They’d dominate.

[@kobebryantthanosstopper5077]

Kobe and Jordan are more like 50-60 scoring runs. Easy scoring runs.

[@lukaz3336]

@@kobebryantthanosstopper5077 50 to 60 scoring runs???? I don't think anyone ever went on a 50 to 60 scoring run lol. 30 max. LeBron went on that 25 point scoring run back in 07 against the Pistons at just the age of 22 and scored the game winner.

[@mrblue3879]

This is why I don't take him seriously when it comes to Jordan as soon as he discusses Jordan he loses all intelligence and sense of reason

[@lukaz3336]

Ya he over does it with Jordan. Jordan is the goat but he isn't god. You could put Kobe, Shaq and LeBron all on the same team and he'd still take MJ and Pippen in less than 7 games.

[@theevilascotcompany9255]

"Uh, Stephen, I really think Jordan and Pippen would lose in a fight to Muhammed Ali and Daniel Cormier." "You're wrong, and I'm gonna tell you why."

[@mrblue3879]

@@theevilascotcompany9255 💀💀💀

[@DOLLAMAC190]

@@theevilascotcompany9255 😂🤣

[@deucebanks973]

@@theevilascotcompany9255 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@JoeMama-tl4tr]

I heard MJ would destroy Godzilla and King Kong 1 on 2

[@pacooyerbides3514]

yea in his dreams

[@dontquityourdayjob5188]

ENTER NAME 😂

[@bricktalk776]

While Jordan has the flu

[@sawyerstone9632]

i would beat them all 1-17

[@CP-vw2rp]

ENTER NAME 🤣😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@aldermand7268]

Man sometimes they think mj played with angel wings..😵

[@theballereli]

facts lmao

[@babarowski4544]

He did tho

[@ben1ben2ben1]

He was not perfect, but he was by far the closest to flawless player to ever play

[@Cooljoshua567]

It's ridiculous. They're making MJ far more open to criticism by trying to paint this narrative that he was perfect in everything.

[@Islanders83]

Ummm Michael “Air” Jordan

[@dickid113]

Loving Kobe fans and LeBron fans getting together

[@paradisee3293]

Never fuck kobetards

[@redpatrickdesepida8069]

That's all media protecting LBJ since his not having a good start in the Lakers uniform. LBJ vs MJ is dead and the media wants to keep hyping the LBJ era. They don't want to start with the LBJ vs Kobe comparison too since LBJ is sucking right now in the Lakers jersey.

[@DonkeyKong5479]

Bronsexuals < Kobetards

[@dannyp4759]

Bronsexuals are bunch of delusional losers

[@1vaoracle]

The media is tryna angle yall towards it

[@haamidscott7594]

"Great argument, but you're wrong" "No I'm not" "You are" 🤣🤣🤣

[@antpain1156]

shyt was so funny lol

[@donutboy4483]

I'm dead

[@jrsmith1998]

“Well argued. But you’re wrong.” “I’m not.”

[@deleonbenson741]

Kobe and LeBron on the same team will win the championship every year Stephen a need to do his research on Kobe

[@michaeljones8429]

False

[@deleonbenson741]

@@michaeljones8429 who would of beat them

[@daevonthesavage7483]

@@deleonbenson741 the Lebron system.... and Kobe aint sitting on no 3 point line waiting to see what Lebron is gonna do with the ball and Lebron doesn't wanna play off ball

[@deleonbenson741]

They both would respect each other enough to change there game plans it's 48 mins in a game enough time for both of them to do what they do

[@brentmonkhouse6638]

They would need years playing together, pip and mj knew where each other was without looking coz they played together for so long. Teams win championships, not players

[@StefanoPucc1886]

According to espn Kobe not even a top 10. But he’s name is in EVERY SINGLE VIDEO

[@AriesMarquis]

EXACTLY!!! Lol! Great point!

[@fernandogonzalez9837]

Christian Stoytchev bc espn is full of dumb fucks

[@zignarrr5834]

they don't put him in the top 10 just for the rape to me.

[@OmniscientVirtuosity]

Christian Stoytchev fuck espn

[@cachedreamer]

i mean pogba isnt a top 10 player in football but hes in every ESPN uk video

[@dennisdunker8764]

Prime Kobe and lebron would have wrecked the league so hard lol.

[@truth-hurts-_-5572]

Facts

[@Cochise954]

Yeah it would have been ridiculous. They would have ran the league.

[@blAnc1k]

lebron was with wade, the guy who is not far from kobe. lebum promised alot of rings, how did it went?

[@MrBearcatjew]

yeah kobe would clutch that is lebrons biggest weaknest

[@danjr130]

Dennis Dunker Lebron played with Wade and didnt even get 4??

[@JayJay-mr2nx]

Why is this even a question? Kobe and Bron would destroy everyone

[@antoninicolas6222]

Jay Jay 1988 MJ and 2016 KD? 🤔

[@antoninicolas6222]

*2017

[@jwiguy6547]

@@antoninicolas6222 Bron and Kobe still spank them.

[@gamexsimmonds3581]

Why is this even a question because Lebron and Kobe were never on the same team( other than Olympics) so why even say this For that matter give me Kareem and MJ and I'll run through everone Like sometimes these who would wins are too much I love them but this is like fantasy barbershop talk

[@gregoryjones7074]

@@jwiguy6547 u joking right! Neither Kobe nor Lebron would've stopped Jordan. Plus let's stop acting like Pippen couldn't score, plus his defense. His length, and the way he plays defense is why they would beat Kobe and Lebron. I didn't even have to mention Jordan defense

[@thatguyaj5275]

Can we just take a moment and remember Lebron and the THIRD greatest SG DWade... we’re dominate. Kobe and Lebron would be a nightmare

[@jasonneuman5378]

Thatguy AJ bra d wades dope but if u think he better than jerry west u trippin

[@goose0078]

@@jasonneuman5378 Relative to their eras, maybe he isn't, that's too difficult to gauge, but, Wade is absolutely the better basketball player.

[@maliknelson4253]

Who would've been the leader on that team though? They would be amazing on paper but in reality it would not have worked.

[@jasonneuman5378]

Malik Nelson of course it would have worked Phil Jackson would have made the talent work together

[@maliknelson4253]

Not with those two egos. Remember he retired the first time because of kobe. Now imagine that plus the passive aggressiveness of Lebron. And they are both alpha males Kobe being a super alpha. The reason Miami worked was because dwade was magnanimous enough to hand the keys over to bron. Kobe was still trying to prove that he could lead a team to a chip without shaq and bron was trying to show that he indeed was the "chosen one". Know that those two would have clashed constantly.

[@airforcex9412]

I watched MJ’s six rings. No, MJ and Pippen don’t beat LJ and Kobe. That’s borderline disrespectful.

[@kingme4690]

Idk.. Lebrons defense man? So i wouldn't say its disrespectful.

[@jaleeneverette4588]

Just Me he was a lock down defender in his prime he was robbed defensive player of the year in 2013 and made over 5 first team all defenses in his prime

[@kingme4690]

@@jaleeneverette4588 its still not disrespectful to say MJ and Pip could take them.

[@cozyfades1587]

Just Me you niggas think because LeBron's a bad defender NOW at 34 means he was a bad defender his whole career that man was runner up for DPOY twice bruh lol

[@younglove3362]

@Aaron Robles I don't know, Lebron and Kobe ain't stopping Penny either. Terrible example. You're naming beyond strong offensive players who can outshine even the greatest defenders.

[@tthomaselli2]

"Well-argued... But, you're wrong.". --Max Kellerman.

[@igethighhighhigh]

tthomaselli2 frfr and max never know wtf he b speaking

[@austinnichols9196]

@@igethighhighhigh ya he does lmao

[@booixeli9523]

@@igethighhighhigh He actually does make sense lmao, you probably don't have enough knowledge?

[@igethighhighhigh]

Can’t have knowledge if you base you’re answers off of somebody else’s 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@slimmyjimmy4708]

QuelakaLilNino Ain’t that just what students do when learning in school?

[@KyleC11]

First time I've agreed with Max. MJ is the Goat. But if he's #1 then Kobe is 1B. I'm taking Kobe-Lebron over MJ-Scottie any day. Kobe and Lebron are arguably top 5 and Scottie is not even in top 10.

[@Youngster543210]

Kobe is top 12-15 at best. The guru Ben Taylor of ThinkingBasketball has him at 13 all time.

[@Flyhr]

Kobe is not 1B to MJ, Kobe is a 2 to MJ's 1. There is a gap between MJ and everyone else, especially Kobe. And Kobe is not top 5, realistically he's between 7-12

[@KyleC11]

@@Flyhr @Maverick92 Based on what criteria? and the idiot Ben Taylor has Lebron above MJ LMAO so there goes your credibility. Kobe is top 5 easily and top 3 imo.

[@Flyhr]

​@@KyleC11 First off I don't agree with LeBron>MJ. I never said that nor do I care about this Ben Taylor guy... My criteria for asserting that Kobe is not on the same level as MJ would be by comparing his team success and then individual success (accolades/achievements/stats). (Note for stats I will be using Kobe pre achilles injury and MJ from his Bulls seasons only, also I will exclude first two years for both players) *MJ vs Kobe Team success:* Championships: MJ's 6>Kobe's 5 Career Win percentage: MJ's Career Win percentage is 65.9% Kobe's Career Win percentage is 62.1% Playoff Win percentage: MJ's Playoff Win percentage is 66.5% Kobe's Playoff Win percentage is 61.4% *Let's look at Kobe's hardware:* Kobe has 5 Rings, 2x Finals MVPs, 1x League MVP, 2x Scoring Champ, and 11x All NBA First Team. *Let's look at MJ's hardware:* MJ has 6 Rings, 6 Finals MVPs, 5x League MVP, 10x Scoring Champ, 10x All NBA First Team, 3x Steals Leader, 1x Defensive POTY. *Lets compare MJ to Kobe in scoring:* Scoring titles: 10x Scoring Leader to Kobe's 2x. Scoring Averages: MJ averaged 32.0 PPG on Bulls after first 2 years (11 seasons). *Kobe only averaged more than 32 PPG one season of his entire career.* Kobe averaged 27.4 PPG (15 seasons) after his first 2 years and pre injury. *Lets compare MJ to Kobe in defense:* MJ Defensive accolades: 9x All Defensive, 3x Steals Leader, 1x DPOY, 7x Top 5 DPOY voting. Kobe Defensive accolades: 12x All Defensive, 3x Top 5 DPOY voting. MJ Bulls Defensive Stat Avg: 2.5STL - 0.9BLK per game. Kobe Pre Injury Defensive Stat Avg: 1.6STL - 0.5BLK per game. *Let's compare MJ to Kobe in individual value:* MVP Award Race: MJ's won 5 MVP Awards, Top 3 in MVP Voting 10x *MJ is tied with Bill Russell for 2nd most MVP's* Kobe's won 1 MVP Award, Top 3 in MVP Voting 5x Player Efficiency Rating(PER): MJ's Bulls PER average is a 29.4. *MJ's career PER average of 27.9 is the highest ever* Kobe's pre injury PER average is a 23.9. Win contribution percentage: MJ's Win Share/48 minute average on the Bulls is 28.1% *MJ's career WS/48 is the highest ever* Kobe's Win Share/48 minute average on the Lakers pre injury is 18.8% So many other stats like (Value over Replacement, Box Plus Minus, True Shooting Percentage, Turnover Percentage, etc) that MJ just is better than Kobe at... even other minor stats like assists per game, rebounds per game, but you get the picture. "But what about Kobe's 81 points in one game? That has to be the best game played in modern NBA" Well actually theirs a stat called Gamescore which tracks the best games ever played by recorded stats and Kobe's 81 point game is number 2 not 1. MJ's 69 point game is number 1 and graded as the best statistical all around game ever with a Gamescore of 64.60. Kobe's 81 point received a Gamescore of 63.50. *Regular Season Best performances:* MJ has 16 games in the Top 100 Highest Gamescore leaderboard (Regular Season) *MJ has the most Regular Season Top 100 appearances of any player* Kobe has 5 games in the Top 100 Highest Gamescore leaderboard (Regular Season) *Playoff Best performances:* MJ has 11 games in the Top 100 Highest Gamescore leaderboard (Playoffs) *MJ has the 2nd most Playoff Top 100 appearances behind LeBron (15)* Kobe has 2 games in the Top 100 Highest Gamescore leaderboard (Playoffs) I feel like I have touched all the critical categories of determining the greatness of a player. And I believe that it is objectively undeniable, given the stats, that MJ is superior to Kobe. They are not the same tier.

[@youngerudit2524]

@@Flyhr only delusional Kobe fans think they're close..the 1a 1b thing Kevin Durant came up with is widely influenced by their similarities. as far as who's better its not even as close as Kobe stats make it to be

[@Jiren832]

THE KING and The Mamba.. That fusion reminds me of Son- Goku and Vegeta turning into Gogeta

[@nmasijika7557]

Cringe

[@themasierpartx2990]

Lolllll if kobe and lebron fuse they would turn in 2 evil m.j lolll some1 had 2 go there loll

[@iSheep4ever]

More like Veku than gogeta :-D

[@rondeebarlis7390]

That is KING.MAMBA

[@Shiny415]

I think if they fused it would be like vegito they would just playaround and not go 100% like vegito unless the personality is more kobe then they would go 100%

[@Nbafanla03]

Jesus this question is every other day. D rose just scored 50 points last night for Christ sakes!!

[@ranjanudayashankar1569]

HAHA

[@user-xw5lu4hh2p]

Nbafanla03 dont use God’s name in vain

[@koreypaul6698]

Nbafanla03 And?? They covered DRose....

[@malcolm3610]

How long is first take on air? They cover multiple topics dumbass

[@Nbafanla03]

JayR no they haven’t dumbass

[@Johnny-hn9ts]

This is nothing more than ESPN's daily Lebron propaganda

[@susanadiaz8819]

Johnny yess is true 💯

[@skineyemin4276]

Don't watch it, then.

[@VillyVille]

Can y’all enjoy anything without complaining lol sheesh

[@John6-40]

Did they even talk about DRose dropping 50? If they did, it was probably for 30 seconds.

[@brog1456]

Johnny stop bitching cause ur dumbass still watching

[@TheFineGreat]

Kobe made it pretty clear he was coming for MJ, not just LeBron.

[@lowkeymood1406]

Kobe would have that chance If he would have stuck around until this trade happen the lakers would have been unstoppable and Kobe would have definitely gotta 8 to 10 rings with the current laker squad

[@cheerioss-9121]

Lowkey Mood Kobe could have caught him if he didn’t get injured

[@lowkeymood1406]

@@cheerioss-9121 man bro Kobe could have done a lot better If he had the discipline to sit out when he was truly injured instead of being a jackass he could have been on his 26th season still healthy and playing with Lebron and AD... I don't wanna hear it

[@cheerioss-9121]

Lowkey Mood He didn’t want to sit due to the passion he had for the game. He’d rather give everything he had and be forced out than to just sit. Which is why I have crazy respect for, because he had heart something a lot of players now lack. However I do kinda agree it was just dumb at times, because he could of just played it smart like Kawhi and lasted way longer he could of even ended up as being the best player ever.

[@lowkeymood1406]

@@cheerioss-9121 so the only reason I'm saying this is because of Lebron to be honest before Lebron I would have never said this but he proved its possible to stay healthy in the league and be a superstar for 17 years straight.

[@imixvines1647]

Lebron the best small forward and Kobe the second best shooting guard vs Jordan the best shooting guard and Scotty Pippen a top 10 small forward

[@jamesmatthews6715]

Kobe better then Jordan

[@crazygamer-mr6nr]

@@jamesmatthews6715 false Kobe isn't better

[@stflxtreem9824]

crazygamer28 Kobe better

[@petiteexplication6249]

Jordan had a better career but Kobe is a better player skillwise

[@alexcuellar484]

Petite Explication yupppppp

[@NabberDog]

*This debate is pointless and never ending.*

[@Johnny-hn9ts]

well said

[@allenreynolds3136]

Something thats not going to happen and you will never know.

[@dime1012]

Well it IS entertaining and interesting to think about despite it being hypocritical.

[@DBlockKTV]

Connoralpha and you’ll continue to click on it. What point are you making

[@edsworld760]

Stimulant your mind

[@blasphemous491]

I’m a forever mj fan but this is blasphemous. 2 arguable 2nd greatest ever vs goat+ 1 top 50 ever. 🤔 math don’t lie

[@vampycaltm5273]

Pippen's like atleast top 30 all time and better defensively than either LeBron or Kobe in their primes, don't do him like that. MJ is better than both of them offensively and defensively. MJ and Pippen have arguably the greatest chemsitry, trust and understanding of each other than any other duo in sport history nevermind Basketball and you think Kobe who's the hardest working person to ever step foot in the NBA and LeBron who is constantly criticised for being too laid back are gonna be able to connect like MJ and Pippen... Not a chance.

[@deanoss777]

when is lebron criticisized for being too laid back? dude you puts in more work than almost anybody in the league, idk where you got that from

[@darkkiwi6312]

@@deanoss777 i know right lmao

[@scottb3034]

Pippen never got his due because he only had a year and a half in his prime without jordan. by the time jordan retired in 1998 pippen was breaking down physically and getting older. 1994 was his best individual season and arguably MVP worthy if not for Hakeem. He is definitely closer to top 25 than top 50.

[@darianh.2048]

@BLASPHEMOUS fax

[@sreerajunnikrishnan6478]

So Stephen is saying Kobe is not a great defender at all... seriously maannn

[@TJinoue]

I feel in a way espn is hurting Lebrons likableness by talking about this man so much , by now I know more about him than I know about myself and it isn’t right man

[@AFR0MAMBA]

Lebron is likable?

[@jamalwoods9649]

Likeableness is not a word.

[@deviantanomaly]

I think the word you're looking for is "appeal".

[@TJinoue]

jamal woods lmao I’m aware it just felt right to say

[@redvilleho4127]

So so true people just tired of hearing it

[@mrslapside]

The league is much more soft now days. I can only imagine Kobe and lebron together. It would be nasty!

[@jackcruz1565]

kobe and kawii would be more like pippen and jordan imagine kawii and kobe

[@CH2716]

Jack Cruz Tru Lebron is more like Magic/Bird tbh

[@mr.motivation3797]

They would be ok. But Kobe keeps the rock and LeBron is a follower placed in a leader role. So behind Kobe he'd shine. If Kobe would pass him the ball lol

[@MoePeezy]

@@patrizio181 Beast Mode

[@damienenzo2085]

And they still wouldn't beat the Warriors!😉

[@j.wilkerson8860]

Stephen A thinks being loud makes him right 🤦🏾‍♂️ LeBron and Kobe in their prime = OP & unbeatable

[@MrBacon-ou1kw]

i dont think they would mix well though

[@erickchajon5049]

@@MrBacon-ou1kw Lebron is not a selfish player if Kobe wants the ball he'll get the ball and with Lebron on his team kobe would trust him more and pass more

[@cuamagfamily2300]

@@MrBacon-ou1kw You dont know basketball, if you think that

[@RandySavagxe]

@@cuamagfamily2300 Kobe and LeBron aren’t great shooters and both are ball dominant some what it would work but not a perfect fit

[@ImPapehungry]

@@RandySavagxe you don’t know ball. Those 2 on some same team will be a worst than a nightmare. So many easy buckets

[@HB-lx3wv]

People tend to forget the prime lebron was a top 3 defensive player in the league lol. Im just reading all those comments about no def. Too much Jordan supporters, dude played plumbers. Kobe had the toughest competition ever

[@alexjames6412]

Lebrons historic 2013 MVP campaign he was 2nd in DPOY and a lot of people said he shouldve won it (which i agree) and he was 1 vote short of that Unanimous MVP (1 dude legit voted for Carmelo Anthony of all people that year lmfao)

[@donovanpitts6907]

Jordan same

[@scottb3034]

@Thomas J ONeill not his fault he played in a center dominant era. but he still faced good sgs. Drexler, Miller, Mullin, Richmond, Dumars, Stackhouse, Allan Houston, Latrell Sprewell, ray allen, isaiah rider was no joke in the jordan era, reggie lewis, etc.... now yes pretty much all these guys weren't faced in the finals. (only three of them in the finals or ECF) but OP is wrong about janitors and I am just saying not like he played no one in the league either. not strictly up to the level kobe and james faced but not scrub level either.

[@jonathanquezada1578]

Max: well your Wrong SAS: “am Not” lmaooo

[@smac919]

that is 95% of First Take lol

[@blastinkaps8826]

Jonathan Quezada bro they funny asf 😂😂

[@lildagga2064]

That USA intra squad scrimmage was legendary that isn’t talked about as much. It was kobe vs Lebron both with talented teams and of course you know what kobe did closed it out

[@ahsanaziz3594]

Lil Dagga it was kobe vs Jason kidd Lebron was getting set up for easy shots

[@JOSH5000K]

true but this was also prime Kobe vs Pre-King LBJ... both at their apexes would be something special to see though.

[@Immortal12567]

That was LBJ bfr his prime n Kobe in his prime

[@anthonyrhodes2141]

JOSH5000K how is it Pre King James? He game himself that nickname in high school lol He came in thinking he’s the best ever.

[@Luisthenerd]

Be sure to check out my gaming channel and subcribe

[@dcsupremebasketball5358]

The way Stephen A speaks about MJ defense you'd think nobody in history ever scored a point off this man lol

[@bookermiller2545]

Da fc I stg he makes it seem like nobody else played defense other than Jordan. He forgets hat Jordan had a player on his team who was just as good as he was on d if not better

[@Shadowxdemon1]

It’s all nostalgia my guys. People my age will be saying that Lebron or even Kobe is the Goat.

[@michaelo1878]

TheRealist 811 Lebron was a dpoy level player and was clearly the best all around defender in 2013. Being dpoy doesn’t mean you’re leagues above everybody else in defending especially when you’re talking Kobe and Lebron

[@David-_-_-]

​@@michaelo1878 MJ and Pippen are similar to Kawhi in defensive capabilities. They are lock down defenders who could completely pressure players out of a game. Example of something they did regularly watch what they did at the olympics with toni kukoc (before he joined the bulls). Its not even just about what they did to him .... its about their mentality. They aimed to win the game defensively and to completely humiliate and destroy the oppositions best player. That was the game plan. To win on the defensive end. Pippens comments after the game when asked if they were satisfied that they forced croatia to take their best player out of the game he Relied. Yes - but I still wanted to go to guard him while he was sitting on the bench. :P :P Lebron has never been able to do something like that in his career and his mentalitity is he wouldn't even consider it. He just can't - he doesn't have that defensive killer instinct in his DNA. He is a very versatile defender able to guard every position pretty well .... but not an absolute elite top of the class defender at any position and certainly not a top tier lock down defender who could completely destroy and dismantle opponents like Pippen and MJ could.

[@ben1ben2ben1]

He is arguably the best man to man defender of all time. Plus Pippen was probably the best all around defending guard ever

[@yehwanlee1720]

come on. Lebron and Kobe over MJ and Pippen anyday

[@xlixity]

Lol no. Millenials talking whack.

[@alexjames6412]

As a duo MJ and Pippen is better because they won 6 rings together and are still good friends,Kobe and LBJ never played with eachother plus Kobe is a ballhog so idk if they could coexist very efficiently,yeah LBJ is an all time great passer but he have to get his buckets too

[@Milo_and_O]

Its Cosmic he doesn’t have to get his buckets Bron is a pass first player, perfect for Kobe

[@mrclean9513]

@@alexjames6412 bron averages 25+ points what are talking about. You saying he has to get buckets like he can drop 30+ on any given night. He is not on the top 5 all-time scoring list for no reason

[@alexjames6412]

@@mrclean9513 hes top 3 all time what

[@statik4961]

Yall would rather dig up more BS about the Lakers than talk about anything important like DRose's 50 points ?

[@SuperWizzle85]

They pathetic bro smh same ass topics.! D.Rose went off mane well deserved to be talked about..

[@alfredreyes7846]

I came to youtube to see if they talked about him on first take

[@Philly-zo2xn]

they did talk about D Roses 50 point game tho maybe watch the show isntead of KZbin clips D Rose game was the 1st thing they talked about

[@thottydagod457]

They already talked about it

[@foi9841]

@@Philly-zo2xn they talked about it, but they made it a topic about jimmy butler

[@lildagga2064]

Ain’t nobody beating this tandem lmao 😂 but he had his chance in 10

[@nosauzamere4827]

Lil Dagga facts Kobe would’ve won tho He had a wayyyy better squad

[@lildagga2064]

Nosa Uzamere Na I’m talking about brons free agency, he could have went to LA

[@nosauzamere4827]

Lil Dagga Oh yeah Facts

[@itstrevel]

Lil Dagga they had no money to sign LeBron tho in 2010

[@yallaretrippin7947]

MJ Pippin not even better than Kobe and Shaq lmao and Kobe was just finding his strides in the league. The two together in their prime would be unstoppable

[@wweecwwcwtna1928]

D rose dropped 50 guys. Talk bout his come back story.

[@-Trauma.]

@407Movement Beats Well upload them shits lol

[@jeptime657]

Even after watching 8 episodes of the Last Dance, I still think MJ & Pip would be having a very hard time against Kobe and LBJ.

[@eddiewilks4874]

Wasn’t checking Kobe got switched off an old magic Johnson in 91

[@DrAdnan]

Kobe-Lebron would destroy

[@KIDDGRIFF]

How is he stupid ? We argue over who’s the greatest with these three names being the only involved every day, so when you put two of the three together I’m pretty sure they would dominate if they can co-exist on the same team

[@antonpickett6885]

@@KIDDGRIFF so nobody plays defense huh??

[@blowc1612]

Sean Kidd the legends believe Michael Jordan’s is at the top, Pippen’s defense is just halfway beneath Jordan and the 2nd best defensive player. I’m saying is Pippen would be tied for 1st but Jordan inches enough because of his drive that he also helped Pippen with. Although Pippen’s defense is so elite that today’s NBA would use his suggestion on how to shut the great players today.... a brief explanation of how to shut down Harden from Pippen was enough insight for Bucks to use and actually shutdown Harden in a time span he was lighting the league averaging 40+ points a game. Lebron is not on the same level on Mike and Pippen’s defensive genius.

[@blowc1612]

@Jessy Carter Pippen would lock down Lebron, You act like Pippen enver guarded anyone big. Prime Kobe is no where near Prime Jordan. Rookie Jordan posted the same numbers as Kobe's MVP. Jordan and Pippen's defense are elite. Defensive player of the year and the runner up most of those times would had been Pippen. Pippen is as good as any legends, he was just over shadowed by Jordan. Pippen would had probably won MVP the years Jordan retired if it wasn't for a guy name Hakeem who a lot of people consider one of the best centers of all time, so great that EVERY big man or ANYONE who wants to have better post game would ask to teach them and guess what?! That included Kobe. Lebron is a big and strong, but when your opponents are in the same level of strength, its about your will power to overcome them like Pippen did against the Pistons.

[@sonic150assassin3]

@@blowc1612 I love how you compare rookie jordan to mvp kobe with stats but failed to mention that bulls didn't even make the playoffs. Stop hating dude! Jordan is the GOAT but both kobe and lebron was in the top 10 all time great while pippen might be great but his not on the same level as kobe and lebron. Pippen can't guard young kobe and there's a reason why jordan think kobe was the only player who could beat him.

[@palehorse5350]

Im a MJ fan,I think he is the GOAT,but I swear LeBron must have fu&ked over Stephen A. Smith in some way that he always down plays him..lol...MJ,KB,LJ and Bird for life..love the four of them.

[@E46325mod]

People need to stop exaggerating Jordan. It's also funny how when people talk about the bulls and Jordan and pippen its like talking about Israel, you need to make sure you don't say ANYTHING bad about them

[@orlmagicfan4life528]

😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@SuperMisteryMan01]

Maybe they were just that good together?

[@ryan.3059]

Cuz they won 6 rings!! They went 6-0!!! During the most physical era of NBA basketball to play in!! MJ and Pippen have nothing to prove when they never took an L they have a right to be honored the way they are because without Jordan, the NBA wouldn't be where it is today in terms of world wide coverage.

[@bigmacncheez1775]

Ryan .305 That’s cool, but Kobe/lebron duo is too much for anyone. Idc what anyone says

[@SuperMisteryMan01]

BigMac N Cheez MJ and Pippen are more than capable of guarding both tho 😂

[@oneman5753]

My money is on Kobe-lebron. I think the talent disparity between those tandems would have been 2 much.

[@gregoryjones7074]

Jordan Pippen would win. Stop underestimating Pippen ability as a scorer. Him and Jordan definitely will give Kobe and Lebron problems

[@oldchannel9631]

@@gregoryjones7074 Lebron and Kobe are miles better then Pippen. LMAO

[@scottb3034]

@@oldchannel9631 no they really aren't. the year and a half seasons in his prime when he was without Jordan were fairly close to Kobe or Lebron-esque in stats and his 1994 season was one of the best years posted by a player that decade not named Jordan. James and Bryant were better than Pippen but not MILES better.

[@agenttombstone1018]

Scott B stop it they are miles better than pippen you’re comparing 2 top 10/5s to a top 30

[@scottb3034]

@@agenttombstone1018 neither kobe nor lebron are top 5 lol. Kobe is borderline top 10. And James is outside top 10 or maybe 10th. But again, Pippen's top season is pound for pound better than the vast majority of LeBron's seasons. Which was my point. Not that he had a better statistical career. Btw, I am sure if Pippen didn't play within an offense and play with facilitating the offense for mj and the rest like a true point forward AND if he didn't play as the best defensive small forward and drew the tough assignments almost nightly he could put up LeBron's stats. The same lebron that takes off on defense and brings the bronfense where he wants regardless of coach. He could play for pop, red or phil jackson and still use the bronfense first. 9_9

[@Jojo-md1bp]

Kobe and lebron on the same team under Phil Jackson omg that would've been heaven on earth and hell on earth for every other team in the NBA just imagine lebron and Kobe together as lakers Jesus that would've been something

[@yagamilight6261]

If lebron play the position of pippen. Mj vs. kobe Lbj vs.pippen

[@panama1942]

The truth is that LeBron would annoy the ever living hell out of Kobe. Kobe would have hated LeBron's attitude, LeBron has to be the leader of his team, same with Kobe.

[@AAA310]

The Zohan theyve played on team USA together twice fym and are friends

[@panama1942]

AA It would be the same relationship as Shaq and Kobe, unless LeBron let Kobe take the leader role.

[@chriswaite8784]

@@yagamilight6261 LeBron would simply overpower Pippen. Too big, too strong, too fast.. Pippen would be all over him defensively no doubt, but once Bron gets moving, there is very little you can do with him.

[@demetriusreynolds8178]

The 1st time I’ve ever agreed with kellerman.

[@Cavsfan02]

D 🌹 dropped 50 last night and ESPN is still talking about LeBron!

[@panama1942]

Ikr just a shame.

[@bendover3653]

They already talked about D Rose, so this comment is just plain stupid

[@biggdave6253]

Dude they talked about it already so what Rose will never be the MVP Rose or even a All Star again

[@Cavsfan02]

@@bendover3653 they talked about him for 45 seconds so shut it you degenerate

[@BrownBear636]

Did D Rose drop 50 in an NBA finals? Cuz the king did. D Rose is a footnote and always will be.

[@whiteChocolate808081]

Could you just imagine though: A Prime Jordan and Pippen team VS. A Prime Kobe and Lebron team. That would be the most Legendary Basketball Showdown Ever.

[@MrBacon-ou1kw]

tbh i dont think lebron and kobe would mesh well together

[@resist1581]

@@MrBacon-ou1kw agreed. Kobe doesnt like shooting wide open shots :)

[@cwiezbicki55]

Nostalgia just as bad if not worse than recency bias. LeBron and Kobe would wipe the floor with MJ and Scottie

[@eazyduzit-tr3nx]

Chris A lot of kids today would agree with you, but folks who actually seen all 4 play? Naw, MJ/Pippen would have Kobe playing solo due to LBJ being way more passive than he usually is.

[@eazyduzit-tr3nx]

jackass dumb Both great but against MJ/Pippen? Like Jordan man, this ain’t PG13 or DeRozan that LBJ is going at. LBJ is passive as it is when it comes to crunch time most of the time. Kobe isn’t that efficient shooting, Pippen would hold his own vs LBJ and MJ would still be MJ vs Kobe. I see it as two great defenders, one who happens to be a great scorer >>>> an inefficient shooter and a player playing through the motions and is passive.

[@rambothefuckingmachine4541]

Lebron = an unskilled loser

[@Maurice-hs8vn]

Pippen lockin James up like he did magic

[@Maurice-hs8vn]

He played real defense

[@justinmichaelknox]

I think Kobe and Lebron would win. MJ-Pippen best duo ever, but Lebron-Kobe would have been better

[@Uthur]

LBJ don't play defense, and Jordan would average 45 a gam not to mention he plays both ends

[@Walteralexander1]

Joe spears lebron in his prime was a lock down defender

[@RR-fc3zm]

@@Walteralexander1 who couldn't stop the janitor Jason freaking Terry in the finals...yeah 👌 😂😂😂

[@doobysnatcher5715]

This is an easy argument. No one can guard each other. Pippen has weaker offensive threat compared to kobe and lebron

[@albertbrownjr1415]

What are you smoking. Lol

[@reggiep3369]

I grew up in the end of the MJ era and beginning of the Kobe era. Loved them both and consider MJ the GOAT. Not a big fan of lebron...respect his game but not a fan. Saying that to say this, if all players were in their prime Kobe and Lebron wound FKN DESTROY MJ and Pippen.

[@thornflex391]

Y not a fan of bron u just like overrated selfish players oh I c

[@Alpha-ix5tq]

Thorn flex stop being a brain dead lebron can you probably weren’t even old enough to watch MJ or kobe in their primes

[@globalevents0]

@@Alpha-ix5tq who cares. Wasn't old enough to experience the Civil War but we know how shitty it was lol

[@mkeonine]

Nope. They can't handle the lock down D of MJ and Pip.

[@knicks8099]

@@mkeonine wait so if jordan got torched by magic in game 1 of the 91 finals but lebron, an upgraded version of magic will somehow get locked down by jordan? and if kobe torched pippen albeit he was old, pippen magically locks down kobe? jordan stans logic is straight bs

[@buckeyemade5158]

Im taking Kobe and Bron Everytime 🤷

[@prvncoll92]

Each n everytime..

[@agent0_894]

Max: You’re wrong SAS: Well you’re wrong and here’s why

[@ladgrove]

Max K & Stephen A would have combined for 10 straight rings.

[@georgeprchal3924]

They would have been swept by LeBatard and Stugotz in the first round for a few years.

[@AKh53]

No.2 and No.3 all time vs No.1 and No.30. No question Kobe and LBJ would've beaten them!

[@dell3259]

Osaurus he’s not

[@rumham7631]

Kobe and Bron are both top 5 but I think Kareem knocks Kobe out of the top 3

[@wolfgangvanbach9739]

@@rumham7631 Kobe is top ten. He's not better than Jordan Kareem Magic LeBron Or Bird.

[@williampoinsett9189]

Lebron has a bigger purpose in life. He is sending and graduating schloars. I am a MJ fan but the brother is solid!✊🏾🙏🏾💪🏾

[@malachijackson5630]

Big facts

[@MasterSiliconCarne]

LBJ is a better advocate for the game than MJ ever was.

[@magicman-3586]

Nobody : Max : well argued , but wrong !

[@Mad07Hatter]

MagicMan - SAS: I’m not

[@antpain1156]

you are!!

[@pauldunlapjrbham]

Stephen A said something here when he said Max was saying what Lebron "could do" but not what he's done. This new NBA is always getting credit for their potential and not their accomplishments. And it irks my spirit lol.

[@adriancampos4027]

Well said! I think it's a reflection of this generation (in general of course, there are always exceptions). Pippen may never get credit for his defensive talent. He was a beast on D. A beast! I dare say he was probably the best defender the NBA has produced -- it's unfortunate stats don't capture that (unless you look at the stats of WINS!) And I have no doubt he would have picked Lebron's pocket all day long, and frustrated him to no end. He wouldn't match up physically to Lebron (who would), but he wouldn't have to in order to give Lebron bad days (just watch Kobe play D on Lebron (and Pippen was a couple notches better defender than Kobe). And M.J. matching up with Kobe.... Kobe is the closest thing we've seen since MJ. Kobe is greatness. But MJ's numbers still show he was the GOAT -- the greatest of the the greats.

[@damianpresha5155]

@@adriancampos4027 I want to know since guys getting credit for what they didnt do right when did jordan win his 11th or 12 ring cause he's not matching up with bill russell

[@nbng7]

@@damianpresha5155 The man won 11 rings when at the most there were 14 teams in the NBA.

[@playoffp7452]

Paul Dunlap while Lebron has done more than Jordan Kobe and Pip.Lebron stats at the end of his career are gonna blow Jordans

[@chriscolbert2188]

@@playoffp7452 put lebron on that bulls team in that era and its over.

[@borruelca1]

Tell you one thing for sure Kobe would of drained those 2 free throws last night

[@brzy1188]

Considering Kobe has went 0-2 in late game situations 10 times it's safe to say hes went 1-2 significantly more, therefore your argument is not grounded in facts but merely emotional based assumptions, I do however agree though LeBron's late game free throw shooting is pretty terrible.

[@borruelca1]

@@brzy1188 where you getting those satitics from?

[@RJ-ph5zg]

daniel blazing borruel Those stats were given on ESPN the day after LeBron missed the free throws and everyone kept saying Kobe would of made them. 10 different times in late game situations Kobe missed both free throws.

[@brzy1188]

@@borruelca1 www.sbnation.com/nba/2018/10/23/18013682/kobe-bryant-lebron-james-stats-free-throws

[@borruelca1]

But 10 in 18 years? I like those odds in a 82 game season

[@abeselomalene8817]

Max: well argued...but you're wrong Stephen: im not I love them two 😂😂🔥

[@A1KX100]

Mamba 🐍 x King 👑 = Greatnesses 🐐🐐

[@coolinshorts]

Kobe is the closest we will get to Jordan

[@lexetordo8954]

I would say he was better.

[@WarGutsy]

@@lexetordo8954 he's discount MJ. He stole MJ's moves

[@ShietEverywhere]

@Rasuke11 I would love to see you punch his shit. Wear gloves tho

[@hamzaelhousseiny9553]

Colin Reich Kobe used the same moves like copied him but lbj better

[@veryspyzzy6803]

Hamza El Housseiny Nigga yall pretty much saying everyone copying because someone did the layup and everyone now doin it?

[@CripSkylark]

I seen this lol come on I dont care how big a Jordan fan you are Lebron n Kobe would curb stomp Jordan n pippin lol

[@nbng7]

Kobe is my favorite player of all time. I ride with the Lakers and even I know Kobe is not better than MJ.

[@JahleelX-xx9wd]

@@nbng7 that's debatable but we're not talking about who's better. We're talking about which duo would win. Kobe and LeBron would beat mj and pippen.

[@carterbilbro4615]

Jahleel Sayers while I agree with you, Kobe MJ is in no way debatable

[@antonpickett6885]

@@JahleelX-xx9wd not if they have only one ball!!

[@CripSkylark]

@Jessy Carter Jordan has never played against more than one HOF in any of his finals. Kobe n Lebron have went up against up to 3... Jordan also had the better coach and better overall team. Yes Jordan was great but he had a great supporting cast even without Jordan the bulls won 55 games.....

[@oliviergrenier3574]

"Lebron announced to the world he was coming for MJ." Pretty sure the media did that lol

[@therealdannymullen]

The media tattooed "Chosen One" on Lebron?

[@bigxo6379]

@@therealdannymullen they announced it he embraced it. Not the same as naming yourself that are u slow

[@josephaustin8067]

Kobe and Lebron definitely beat MJ and Pippen. Mj is gonna do him no matter what but Lbj and Kobe just too much fire power!

[@mr.leroysmith7012]

@MMA MMA have u watched the 2008 and 2012 Olympics? They coexist there like they are teammates for more than a decade.

[@strangemachines_]

You clearly didn’t live through the 90s then

[@MrReece9]

"Even Deron Williams, of all people." Damn Deron. Zero respect for his past. Lol

[@razkable]

that 2012 all star game was the same season d will socred 51 in 3 quarters hitting 10 3's but okay smith...

[@MrReece9]

@@razkable Exactly!

[@kung-fukennyfamily]

Y'all need to stop them unlimited comparisons and appreciate both players , *LeBron* and *Kobe* are GOATs🐐🐐

[@johnpaulkerrigan7975]

Only one goat. Mike bibby

[@345cycle]

Greatest of all time is singular not plural buddy

[@noahdorland7438]

2 of the best ever

[@lenardshuler3592]

thank you

[@thottydagod457]

@@345cycle the word greatest can represent a plural noun

[@Sincity1427]

“ I’m Not “ Max: You Are😂😂😂😂😂

[@jumpstart55million]

Kobe and Lebron is a way better duo then Jordan's and Pippen. And I,m like the biggest Jordan fan on the planet he is without a doubt the GOAT. But Kobe and Lebron would win every year they were in the finals which would be like every year. And they would share finals MVPs every year.

[@facelessandnameless]

jumpstart55million Agree 👌

[@bigrc2255]

Stay off those drugs kids

[@harveymessan3021]

jumpstart55million Idiot!!!!

[@deviantanomaly]

Maximus Alpha MGTOW So you're telling me you'd bet on MJ and Pippen to beat LeBron and Kobe???? Yeah, stay off the drugs kids.

[@24uber]

@dboyBR225 MJ with Bird, Magic, AI and Dirk will still lose because those guys defensively would struggle guarding LeBron. They'd still get off offensively but not enough to overcome the game. Wilt and Shaq are both centers doesn't fit and KD and Tmac are a good suggestion BUT defensively again, they'd struggle and MJ likes players who can defend rather than score.

[@larryfrancoeur1536]

Its sickening the lengths ESPN goes to muster up stories that Lebron is in... gag

[@davidwillingham8476]

Kobe and MJ are somewhat the same.... Pippen ain't LeBron tho. So yeah I'll give to Kobe and LBJ

[@garciaivann]

David Willingham But pippen can lock down James

[@turtleislandlac1490]

Jordan and Kobe are NOT the same. Jordan was a vastly superior defender than Kobe. Scoring in the regular season they were about equal. But when in the playoffs, when teams play tougher physical defense, Jordan was clearly better than Kobe.

[@travisblair3189]

@@turtleislandlac1490 False 👎🏾

[@lamefart]

Somewhat the same? Regular season? He's the highest career ave pts in regular season. Did Kobe average 37 pt 6 reb 6 ast 3 stl 1.5 blk in a season? Guess he didn't. 10X scoring champ (7 consecutively) 9X all defensive first team, a DPOY, 3x steals leader, 3rd all time steals, 5 MVP, 6/6 champ and MVP in all those finals series, 200stl/100blks (as a guard) back-to-back seasons and constantly being double teamed til he's 40 prior to retirement.. The god of playoffs... Don't compare Kobe to Black Jesus... Hahaha

[@bg23allday1]

Turtle Island LAC tf? Vastly superior defender?

[@lamelo3998]

do you really need to have that “killer mentality” to be one of the greatest?

[@yobro6053]

@A T but he is one of the greatest regardless , he has shown up when his legacy was on the line and won rings

[@shasankamadduri1998]

@A T Kobe melted against Detroit, Phoenix, and Boston. He was playing terrible but artest caught fire and pau Gasol dominated KG. He also got swept by those Mavs u just talked about and also got outplayed by terry

[@MrBacon-ou1kw]

@A T "would have never" yet both have been wiped in the first round multiple times.

[@chrisbodega6920]

@@MrBacon-ou1kw both are considered Killers over LeBron. LeBron had to be coached into becoming great nobody coached Kobe or jordan

[@MrBacon-ou1kw]

@@chrisbodega6920 I was simply responding to that person's comment how "kobe and mj would never" while both of them have been wiped in the first round 3 times each. Could you imagine the criticism on Lebron if he had lost in the first round? As for your comment, I can agree with your point on MJ, but for some reason people are acting like Kobe is anywhere near Mj's level just because he died. Last I checked he came into the league averaging 7 ppg and took until his 4th year to hit the 20 point mark. I laughed when I read this part, "nobody coached Kobe," you're trying to tell me Kobe wasn't coached into being great? So Kobe winning his first championship had nothing to do with Phil Jackson joining the Lakers that same year? Atleast MJ was already a glorified superstar by the time Phil Jackson arrived but Kobe wasn't even putting up 20 ppg and they suddenly win the championship the year Phil arrives. Man these Kobe fanboys make me laugh with their stupidity. Kobe is top 7 at the very best and is nowhere near MJ or Lebron. The only thing him and MJ shared was the mentality and work ethic.

[@EmacMac-ph2zd]

Bruh this is such a pointless debate there’s plenty of other things going on ESPN doesn’t have to reach for subject matter

[@leoobrien2377]

The have to because they are on LeBrons payroll......

[@brandons4240]

Imagine LeBron on Kobe/Shaq Lakers.

[@immanuelrashad1490]

How do we keep forgetting 9x all NBA 1st team defense

[@ImFaiis]

I cant even imagine an 06 Kobe and 13 lebron both at their peaks OOOOOO baby easily 6+ rings

[@gregoryjones7074]

Imagine Jordan at his highest peak and all star Pippen, it's over I'm sorry

[@emjay570]

Gregory Jones ur delusional. 2 top 5 players of all time vs 1 top 5 player and a dude that some don’t even consider top 50. Kobe and lebron would obliterate them.

[@ImFaiis]

Gregory Jones bruh they literally played bro

[@jisookwon5787]

@@emjay570 ur delusional if u think pippen isnt top 50

[@emjay570]

Jisoo Kwon I believe he is top 50 but a lot of people don’t.

[@allshownogolf]

Jordan > Kobe, but Lebron >>>> Pippen. End of story.

[@blowstunner]

Alan Lin Jordan=Kobe

[@louisalvarez9907]

@@blowstunner Jordan and Kobe are not equals.

[@adangbe]

LeBron too soft to play offense against Pippen!

[@faisalsalam4161]

@@adangbe what are you smoking? So now LeBron is worse than Scottie Pippen.

[@melvinjackson6552]

Kobe is Jordan without the 6-6 record and obsessive gambling habits

[@mikestillrapping612]

Kobe is a 9x All-NBA Defensive 1st Team player. Scottie has 8. So this notion Kobe isn't as great of a defender as Pippen is super overhyped by Stephen.

[@whoodyGPonder-fj6hq]

Ko8e was not A better defender than pippen stats mean nothing

[@spikespiegel7442]

Kobe’s last 4 Defensive Teams were off of reputation. Kobe stopped playing defense as he got older.

[@T-H-E-WORLD]

@@whoodyGPonder-fj6hq I agree, forget stats. But why wasn't Kobe a better defender?? He was just as good, if not better, a defender and a better offensive player.

[@Kinglouie638]

Don’t even see this as a arguement. Yal acting like MJ was Jesus on the damn court.

[@PrintLUK]

he was, the argument really is about pippen

[@yootoobe1790]

don't diminish MJ. Also, Michael Jordan is real.

[@King_drew]

@@yootoobe1790 So is Jesus, whats your point?

[@yootoobe1790]

@@King_drew you mean Jesus Applewhite? Or Paul Rovia?

[@King_drew]

@@yootoobe1790 nah, Jesus the Christ, homie. The One who died for your wretchedness.

[@missmoody5763]

Kobe and LeBron would definitely beat MJ and Pippen if they played 2 on 2..

[@bsdx110]

Better comparison: MJ & Bird vs. Kobe & LeBron

[@jakewalker7393]

bsdx110 nah Kobe and lebron would win

[@vacion610]

@@jakewalker7393 Dirk outplayed LeBron in the Finals, and he's the closest to a Bird-type player we've had in the 21st century. Kobe never shot better than .469 fg% in a season while the other three average above .496 for their entire careers. MJ and Bird have the edge.

[@loo0oop]

@bsxdsx110 kobe is mj 2.0 and lebron is magic 2.0 The matchup shud be mj32 & mj23 vs Lebron & Kobe.....

[@bsdx110]

loo0oop, LeBron's stats are actually closer to Bird's than Magic's. The gap caused by LeBron's scoring and Magic's passing is just too big of a combination. The biggest statistical difference between them and Bird is the rebounding, which can be done on both ends of the court.

[@nicksnyder1023]

How about MJ & Magic vs. Kobe & Lebron?

[@shamogardo9390]

They cant go one show without talking about Lebron

[@proplayaa1]

Swear.

[@illuminated_]

Kobe dropped 36 on mj when he was in Chicago and kobe was 19 showing MJ how competitive he was at a young age his 2nd year in the league 🤔

[@seancool]

Who got the Ring at the end tho? Ah, ok ;)

[@illuminated_]

@@seancool that's no diss to the Goat it just shows how Kobe was a baby showing his potential to the Goat that's all

[@seancool]

@@illuminated_ I guess thats why Kobe is a contender behind MJ and Lebron as a TOP10 or maybe even TOP 5 in the GOAT discussion after all :)

[@illuminated_]

@@seancool young people say that and this media but all HOF and nba stars and players all picked Kobe so y'all fans opinion don't matter when all the greats and legends and even MJ himself said Kobe is the closest thing to him . Check and mate

[@thewonthatloss227]

@Angel god coming straight out of high school, how did you expect kobe to hop on the Lakers of all teams and put up 36 mins a game? In the end, that same lakers franchise that was "shaq's lakers" kobe brought more titles than shaq. And unlike Jordan, he didn't have to retire and come back or switch teams

[@DavidSmith-nm7un]

3:32 “super duper Scotty Pippen” and 4:47 “do this to Pippen”. 😂

[@eastwood1026]

I think Kobe was jus as a good defender as pippen or mj. He could clamp down

[@Kc08246]

Kizer Sosei bitch wtf are you talking bout

[@SportsFanaticTfes]

Kevion Cleveland facts... he’s talking facts.

[@moffo2626]

Kizer Sosei Dude defense isn’t predicated purely on steals and blocks. Sure it is great for people to have it but it doesn’t paint the whole a story. Iverson who lead the league in steals many year was never a great defender. If you render your opponent to taking bad shots or make them miss, that’s still defense

[@tybtyler9186]

Kizer Sosei Kobe has 9... N I N E 1st team All Defense selections. Only other guard with that many is Gary Payton, with Kevin Garnett (forward) being the 3rd. Show some respect. Kobe is one of the best wing defenders of all time along with Payton, Jordan, Pippen, Leonard, etc..

[@T-H-E-WORLD]

@Kizer Sosei Kobe has made the DEFENSIVE team 12 times, more than any other guard... He was def just as good a defender

[@shawnclarke1993]

Slightly toned down MJ?? Kobe's prime? smh foh. Stop comparing these two. They had similar play styles but both brought something different. Kobe was a better shooter. MJ was a better slasher. Both great defenders. Both great finishers. Kobe molded his own genre. As did LeBron.

[@deciuswtasby]

Sir Plata most sensible comment I’ve seen

[@MasterKeyMagic]

How was kobe a better shooter? MJ’s shooting stats are all around better than kobes. MJ never had the long common droughts of bad fg% and missed clutch shots kobe did his entire career. In 5 extra seaons kobe could only score 1000 points more than MJ🤦🏼‍♀️ kobe has the most missed shots of all time

[@MasterKeyMagic]

rp161093 so show me the numbers of kobe shooting better from the distance of your choice than. you cant. your just guessing. MJ was a superb jump shot shooter, with or without fading away

[@shawnclarke1993]

@@MasterKeyMagic I mean, since you rather be petty and sassy, Kobe has a higher career 3P% than Jordan and held the record for most 3 pointers made in one game (12) before Curry recently broke it. Those are just the facts. You can ingest & debate them however you'd like. You asked for numbers of Kobe shooting better & here they are.

[@MasterKeyMagic]

Sir Plata Sir Plata i knew you would switch to 3’s cause there aint no way kobe a better shooter than MJ, even without hand checking. those aint numbers. thats just some meaningless record. before someone from the modern era that only shoots threes, the 6 in a row MJ made in the finals just to prove he could, was also some meaningless record. Kobe will forever be 4/5’s MJ in every aspect. get over it

[@JM-bg2ts]

ESPN is like a small child asking you who would win in a fight between a T rex and a Great white shark. It couldn't happen and didn't happen so why ask the question?

[@jimmy3610]

EXACTLY!!!!!!!!!

[@CertifiedFresh7]

It could have happened who knows. Sharks have been around for a while.

[@henrymartinez4883]

JMarz still fun speculate tho js

[@Kaa279]

it's just for fun, dumbass little fart.

[@George-gg4pb]

But fo real, who would win, a t-rex or a great white shark? Will they fight on land or water? Is it a death match ?

[@louisloother301]

They would've wiped the floor with MJ and Pippen