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Magic Johnson's List of NBA Players Who Would "Succeed" in Michael Jordan's Era Should Be Longer

Magic Johnson put together his list of the five NBA players who would "succeed" in Michael Jordan’s era. But SI's Robin Lundberg says this list is way, way too short. Here's why.

Sports Illustrated

Magic Johnson released a list of five current NBA players who he says would "succeed" in Michael Jordan’s era. But SI's Robin Lundberg says this list is way, way too short. Watch the quick video above, or read the transcript below, to get Lundberg's take.

Full video transcript:

Robin Lundberg: Magic Johnson put together his list of the five NBA players who would succeed in Michael Jordan’s era, featuring LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Gee, you think Magic?

That list could keep going, by the way. And succeed? How about dominate?

Because the idea that today’s stars would somehow struggle in the 90s is the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard. What would the old guard do when current guys casually pull up for three from 35 feet? Or how would they handle big men who could put the ball on the floor and dribble drive into the paint? Do people not realize LeBron James is the size of Karl Malone? And that players of Kevin Durant’s height used to face away from the basket?

Sports and athletes both evolve. So sorry, nostalgia wouldn’t be enough to lock down the Splash Brothers. And I don’t want to hear about a damn hand check. Don’t be ridiculous. You think Giannis or Kawhi Leonard would have a problem with somebody’s palm? These players have to guard the entire floor nowadays, that’s a physical strain in its own way.

I certainly do not mean this as disrespect to the older generation. I grew up in the 90s. I love those legends too. But that respect should be reciprocated. Because today’s NBA superstars belong on any list.

You can read more from Robin Lundberg here.

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