Fantasy Matchup - Kobe vs. Jordan

The subject most often discussed is an age old question that has turned intelligent debates into fist fights uploaded onto Youtube.  "Who is better?  Kobe or Jordan?"  After seeing a pattern of enraged fanatics following the notorious question, I've learned to keep my

mouth shut and watch as the heated disscusion unfolds.  Now that I was able to stay clear of the crossfire, I was then allowed to process each side of the debate consisely.  Although never really unbiased when facing any topics pertaining to the Lakers, I normally take pride in always being able to accept a lose and give credit where credit is due.  This topic was so intriguing, it was important to seek out the real answer instead of the usual stubborness often found among two opposing men. 

Jordan Has More... 

Okay, so Jordan has more championship rings, holds more scoring titles, and revolutionized the game of basketball.  It is very clear that Jordan has accomplished so much more than Kobe.

Reply: The fact that most diehard Jordan fans tend to forget is that Jordan, although great, is indeffinitely retired.  Don't expect to see a Jordan comeback like we have all grown to know and love.  The fact of the matter is Jordan is done, Kobe is not.

Jordan is a Better Leader... 

MJ is known for singlehandedly taking the Chicago Bulls to six NBA Championship wins.  The odd moment when Jordan traded in his hi-tops for cleats, the Bulls coincidentally fail to accomplish a 4-peat.  But with Jordans return, they are back on track with three more rings, bringing his grand total to an amazying 6 championship rings.

Reply: Just look at the supporting cast that ran with Jordan.  Big Bill Cartwright, although not an allstar player, he was still a huge presence in the key.  Then of course there was the Worm, Dennis Rodman dominating the boards.  The second in command, Scottie Pippen.  And last but not least, the man with range, Danny Ainge.  Now let's see, Kobe has Lamar Odom... And that's it.  Kwame Brown was a huge dissapointment and continues to be a non factor.  Until either the rest of the Lakers develop into solid role players, or management brings in a fresh new cast, then Kobe will not win another title for the Lakers.  Jordan in his prime wouldn't even be able to do it, so why expect Kobe to.

Jordan is better...

Jordan is better in general.  He held a better shooting average, and always played tough defense.

Reply: Remember who were the people Jordan was up against.  The NBA league in the 90's would have never imagined the caliber of players that rule the courts today.  LeBron James, KG, Yao Ming, and Allen Iverson all have something in common.  All of them are desparate for a championship ring. This means tougher competition for Kobe.

There are countless numbers of factors to consider when debating Jordan vs. Kobe.  All  arguments for either side have from time to time lacked strong valid arguements.  The only arguement that has convinced me was the question, "In a pick-up game, with the whole NBA as the player pool, who would your first pick be?"  Kobe; He's unstoppable in today's league.  There is not one person that can guard him.