Right. Russell was one of the most dominant big men in the league at that time partially with the help of his great athleticism and superior defense. Russell had the leadership ability, where it took Chamberland some years to realize that great stats don't always lead to championships. When he utilized teamwork, the Sixers broke the string of championships by the Celtics in 1966.
The main difference between Jordan and Bryant is this: trial by fire. Jordan came into an organization full of coke heads and took them to the playoffs. Jordan was often ostracized by his teammates and later had to help develop rookies Pippen from Central Arkansas State and Horace Grant. Jordan took his teams up against Boston and Detroit, who were the most dominant teams in the East at the time. Jordan was so dominant, that John Daly and the Pistons instituted the Jordan Rules to try to stymie him. Nevertheless, as he persevered and his team matured and eventually went on their first streak of three peats.
Jordan's and the Bulls impact was so large on the East, that the East has never been the same. I mean, look at Boston.
Kobe came into a Laker organization in the midst of resurgence. Although he and Shaq had their tough years together, they were still title contenders and needed Jordan's coach to take them to the promiseland, along with a slew of all stars. I guess its the Gary Buss way.
IMO, Magic is a much greater Laker than Kobe. Game 6 of the 1980 finals is my proof, and I rest my case...
