Ever wondered how Michael Jordan would fare in today’s NBA? LA Clippers coach Tyronn Lue has a theory, and it’s a bold one! He believes MJ would be an absolute scoring machine, averaging an unbelievable 45 points a game. Could the GOAT truly dominate that much more in the modern era?
LA Clippers coach Tyronn Lue recently offered a compelling hypothesis regarding how Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan would perform in today’s NBA, suggesting an unprecedented scoring output that underscores Jordan’s timeless skill.
During an appearance on “Club Shay Shay” with Shannon Sharpe, Lue emphatically stated that Michael Jordan would easily average “45 points” per game in the modern NBA. This bold claim stems from the contemporary rules that significantly limit physical defense, essentially creating a more open court for offensive superstars.
Lue highlighted Jordan’s career high of 37 points per game in a single season, arguing that the current rule changes would naturally inflate that figure. The diminished physicality means fewer contested shots and more opportunities at the free-throw line for an aggressive scoring machine like Jordan.
The evolution of NBA rules, particularly the restriction on hand-checking and and the elimination of illegal defense, would drastically benefit Jordan’s singular offensive talent. His ability to create space and draw fouls would be amplified, transforming him into an even more unstoppable force.
The discussion also touched upon Jordan’s often-overlooked tenure with the Washington Wizards in his late 30s. Despite nearing 40, Jordan’s passion for basketball remained undimmed, as he famously stated, “I’m just going to play the game of basketball that I love. I’m not about the money. I don’t care if I get paid a dime. I’m going to play the game because I love it.”
Beyond raw athleticism, Lue emphasized Jordan’s superior basketball IQ. He argued that Jordan’s intelligence and understanding of the game would allow him to exploit modern defenses, even considering the prevalence of zone defenses which were less common in his prime. His cerebral approach to the game would still make him a dominant player.
For many, Michael Jordan remains the undisputed greatest basketball player of all time, a legacy forged during his six championship runs with the Chicago Bulls. Tyronn Lue’s analysis only reinforces the notion that true greatness transcends eras, suggesting Jordan’s dominance would persist regardless of the league’s contemporary landscape.
The LA Clippers coach thus paints a vivid picture of a hypothetical scenario where Jordan’s unmatched skill, combined with modern officiating, would elevate his scoring prowess to unprecedented levels, making him an even more formidable presence on the court than he already was.
