Kobe a Wizard

[GhettoDogAllStars]

Originally Posted by 12thMan

Good question, why don't they win more. I don't know how far back you go, but during Jordan's first few seasons with the Bulls he was tearing it up and yet the Bulls sucked ass year after year. It wasn't until they added a few solid role playes and Phil Jackson, (wink, wink) that things took off for the franchise. Look the Celtics had an incredible run during the 80s with Larry Bird, but they always had two or three excellent players around him - always. Same with the Sixers, same with the Lakers of old. I could go on and on here.

The formula is simple, we'll let "him" beat us, but "you guys" won't beat us. It's just not possible, no matter how great the player is.

You're right, the rub on Kobe is his attitude. He's never really escaped that rape charge back in Colorado. What I mean is, he's only done and said things to further cement in the minds of the public of what an asshole he is, or at least can be.

I'll still contend when it comes to playing unselfishly, I don't have a problem with him.

Do you think MJ could win with players like Caron Butler, Lamar Odom, and Vlade Divac? I think MJ could, but Kobe couldn't. I guess the problem that season was Rudy Tomjanovich? I know that was a rebuilding year, and the chemistry was a little off. I also know that you can have a great team and still lose. I'm not blaming Kobe for that. He just doesn't improve the players around him. MJ did, and I can name a handful of other players who do -- most notably Gilbert Arenas.

There are some players who have a positive effect on team chemistry and some players who have either a negative effect, or no effect at all. I'm not saying Kobe has a negative effect on team chemistry (he probably does), I'm just saying he doesn't have a positive effect. No amount of talent, or points scored, can overcome poor chemistry. Case study: every US Olympic basketball team since 1994.