The Legend vs The King: Comparing Bird and James after 10 Seasons

After 10 NBA seasons, the debate about who is the best small forward in history is as logical as ever. James just won his second NBA title and is on pace to become one of the five best players ever, as well as the best in his position. However, threre is still a lot of people who think that Bird is far and beyond superior to LeBron, and that this argument doesn´t even make sense. Personally, i think is one of the most interesting topics to debate, and that´s way i´m about to compare both stars, their skills, their hardware and their numbers, and try to reach a fair conclusion.

Scoring

Fisrtly, i will compare both players in terms of putting the ball in the hole. On one side, when it comes to shooting, i truly believe that Bird is superior to James. Larry is one of the best shooters to ever live, whether it is from mid or long range. Nonetheless, James is not a bad shooter by any means, he´s actually pretty good at it and when he gets hot, you better watch out. He´s also a better penetrator and post scorer, as well as a better scorer in transition. James averages 27 points on 48% shooting, while Bird did 25 on 50%.

Advantage: None.

Passing

Secondly, i think passing is another important weapon to take into account. And, while Bird is a great passer and has good court vision, it´s a no-brainer that the Heat´s forward is a better facilitator and floor general. Passing is, probably, James´best skill. Unlike players like Kobe, Jordan or Wilt, he is a pass-first guy, and this is blatantly proved by his seven assists a game, one more than "Larry Legend".

Advantage: James.

                                         

Rebounding and Defense

Then, you also must compare both players on the defensive end of the court. Bird is a better rebounder, averaging three more assists (10-7), as he is slightly taller. On the other side, James is a better defender, as he can guard four positions. He has slowed down the likes of Carmelo, Rose and Pau Gasol, all three very different players. So, while Bird is great rebounder, James is a tough defender to score against.

Advantage: None.

                                          

Leading 

This part is not measured by numbers, so that makes it a little more subjective. LeBron has often been criticized for not showing up in big games...until now. With his last two titles and three NBA Finals appearances, this myth is quickly being dismantled. When it comes to Bird, he is known as a clutch shooter, and his three titles are good proof of this. Even one day James may win four or five, right now Bird has prove to be more decisive.

Advantage: Bird

Stats and Accolades

As top ten players ever, this two have won about any personal or team award that can be collected. "The Chosen One" is a two time NBA champion, four time MVP, two-time olympic gold medalist and averages 27 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists on 48%. "The Hick from French Lick" is a three-time champ, three-time MVP, one-time gold medalist and averages 25 points, 10 rebounds and six assists on 50% from the floor.

                       

                         

Verdict

All in all, as good as the boy from Akron is, i feel is too early to put him ahead of Bird in the all-time list. One or two years could very well change this, and they probably will, as LeBron may end up being better, more accomplished and a top three player ever. But, as of now, Bird is the best SF to ever lived.