This year, for the first time, NBA pundits allowed themselves to utter, albeit rather apologetically, a heretofore blasphemous statement — that Kobe Bryant might actually might be as good as Michael Jordan. Bryant's performance in the playoffs — up until the Lakers/Celtics final — seemed to justify that discussion.
Bryant's disappearing act, especially last night, when the Celtics stomped the Lakers by 39 to win the championship in six games, should put that talk to rest.
Let me stress that I'm no more a fan of Jordan than Bryant. Why? I could go into specifics, but sports-o-philes know: There are just some players you hate. And Bryant and Jordan are high on my list. (Bryant may be alone on top.)
