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[Saba Sports News] Bulls legend Michael Jordan is usually the first or second name mentioned in any all-time starting five. However, reigning Finals MVP Jaylen Brown didn’t include Jordan in his lineup.
In a chat with House of Highlights, Brown said, “LeBron at the four, Steph at the one. Kobe, Kevin Durant, and I might go Bill Russell because it’s a different game now.”
This lineup is stacked with players like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, renowned for their shooting and scoring. LeBron James, a 4x champion and 4x MVP, is also a standout choice, demonstrating unmatched impact and longevity in the game. Kobe Bryant and Bill Russell bring essential leadership and discipline, making them valuable picks despite not being obvious choices for everyone.
Jordan’s exclusion is surprising, given his status as a 6x champion and often considered the greatest player ever. Brown, along with his co-star Jayson Tatum, often compared to Jordan and Scottie Pippen, seems to prioritize modern adaptability over historical dominance.
During the 90s, Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six championships with an average of 31.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game.
Brown’s choice reflects a preference for players suited to the current perimeter-oriented game, opting for Bill Russell over Shaquille O’Neal for similar reasons.
Top five lists are subjective, and Brown’s lineup highlights his respect for winners and the evolution of the game. His omission of Jordan is likely to spark debate in the NBA community.