Michael Jordan Named the NBA Legend Who Had No Weakness

Although Michael Jordan is seen as an indomitable figure who could never be defeated due to his perfect NBA Finals record and dominance of the league in the 1990s, he struggled for many years to reach the mountaintop. It took Jordan until his seventh NBA season to hoist the Larry O'Brien trophy.

Most legends have to pay their dues before breaking through by losing at the hands of the previous generation's superstars. Oftentimes, these losses are plentiful, and the lessons learned through defeat are what shape the best players of all-time. Jordan is no different, despite his reputation.

MJ had several rivals in the 1980s as he became the league's best player, from Isiah Thomas' Pistons to Magic Johnson's Showtime Lakers. He was beaten in the postseason six straight years to begin his career, five of them by two different teams. Three were to Thomas' Pistons, but two of his first three agonizing defeats came at the hands of a top-ten all-time player.

When asked about this player in 1987, before suffering back-to-back playoff sweeps against him, Jordan had some odd comments to describe his game.

Michael Jordan Revealed Former NBA Rival Was a Complete Player

Michael Jordan's welcome to the NBA moment happened in the 1986 playoffs, where he was swept three games to none by the Boston Celtics, who are considered to be one of the greatest teams of all-time. Those Celtics finished with a 67-15 record and went 15-3 in the postseason on their way to hoisting the trophy.

Although Jordan averaged 43.7 points per game and had a 63-point Game 2 in a four-point loss, prompting Larry Bird to call him "God disguised as Michael Jordan", the dynastic Celtics were simply too talented for the Bulls' one-man show. When asked about Bird the following season by the Chicago Tribune, Jordan had some interesting comments of his own.

Mike was asked what made Bird so special. He began by seemingly dissing the legend.

While this seems to be a negative, Jordan was actually about to give Bird the highest praise possible. According to MJ, Bird's lack of athletic gifts was proof of his flawless skillset as a basketball player.

Jordan acknowledged that for guys who, unlike himself, aren't blessed with natural talent in areas such as jumping or lateral quickness, they have to make up for their deficiencies with superior skill and precision in other aspects of the sport.

Furthermore, Mike explained that Bird not only overcome his weaknesses, he became a legendary player by perfecting every single other part of basketball. Bird may never have been one to dunk on a defender, but he would always emerge victorious because he was better than they were with his skill and intelligence.

In 1987, Jordan still hadn't broken through to the superstardom that would eventually lead him to becoming basketball's GOAT. However, he was certainly able to recognize greatness, especially when it dominated him repeatedly during his ascension. By handing out what seemed to be a vicious insult, he actually gave Bird the ultimate credit.

Larry Bird Was an NBA Superstar Without Athleticism

Larry Bird is a top-ten all-time player for a reason. He was a 12-time All-Star and 10-time All-NBA member. Bird won three league MVPs, three titles, and two Finals MVPs in his 12-year career. Despite his time being cut short due to injuries in his early thirties, Larry left behind a legacy as a top-three small forward ever.

He did it all without supreme athletic talent, which is extremely rare for a legend of his caliber. So, how did Larry Legend do it?

As Jordan says, Bird had no weaknesses as a basketball player. Sure, he couldn't move as quickly or fluidly as most superstars he faced. He wasn't a springy jumper. Though those abilities give a guy certain advantages and margin for error on the court, they're not what makes a basketball player a great winner.

No, Bird was legendary because he helped his team win at the highest levels with tremendous skill, cunning, intelligence, and a brash demeanor that intimidated his opponents. He was one of the best shooters of his age, whether it be from deep, mid-range, or any short shots around the rim. He was simply a shot-maker, regardless of the circumstances.

Larry was also an excellent playmaker who read the floor better than anyone. He saw passing angles before they opened up and delivered unique dishes with both hands, something Jordan himself never quite could. Bird committed as a rebounder as well, posting 10.0 boards and 6.3 assists per game for his career.

Defensively, while never a lockdown guy, Bird competed more than well enough to win because of positioning and smarts on the floor. He was an excellent team defender, making up for his lack of speed in one-on-one matchups.

Michael Jordan is the best player to ever play the game. Bird isn't far behind, even though he was ten stratospheres behind in athletic talent. He was able to close the gap and beat MJ several times because he had a flawless game, which Jordan knew better than anyone.