SMALL FORWARD

1992: Larry Bird & Chris Mullin

What is there to say about Larry Legend? One of the greatest players to dawn the short shorts of the late 80’s/early 90’s. What he may have lacked in raw athleticism he made up for in a deadly shot and a will to win that may be unmatched in basketball history. Bird found himself invited to 12 NBA all-star games…and he played exactly 12 NBA seasons. A member of Golden State’s “Run TMC” with a 1984 Olympic gold medal to his credit, Chris Mullin was added to the 1992 roster largely for his ability to stretch a defense. Mullin would prove to be a key contributor off the bench as he trailed only Barkley in scoring average during the Barcelona games.

2008: Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Tayshaun Prince

I am a witness. Nike is known for it’s basketball advertising but the accuracy of this tag line should even surprise them. King James is constantly doing things on the court that leave fans feeling lucky to have witnessed that display of athleticism. If he’s not faster than you, you can bet he’s bigger and stronger. If you can match his size and strength, try to follow him out to the perimeter and I’m sure he’ll help you to the bench after he breaks your ankles. Melo has been described as “the best international player” going into the 2008 Olympics. While he’s had a quiet campaign thus far, when focused, Anthony can take over a game offensively. Motivate him defensively and he’s an ideal forward. Prince doesn’t get much time playing behind these two but if the Redeem Team happens to find themselves needing a shut down defender, Prince will no doubt get the call.

Advantage: Redeem Team

This may be controversial, but give me the 2008 squad at small forward. I can’t argue Bird’s greatness and Mullin was a perfect fit for that 1992 roster but give me the versatility of the new guys any day. I think we can agree that Lebron would be able to at least slow down Bird’s scoring but I have a hard time thinking Bird could do much of anything to stay in front of James. Additionally, Bird’s retirement prior to the ‘92-’93 NBA season indicates that while still a very talented player, during these games he wasn’t exactly in his prime.  Looking at the other SFs, Mullin versus Melo may be a draw but the presence of Prince and the versatility of the unit as a whole gives them a slight advantage in my book.

Thoughts?

Other positions:

Power Forwards: Malone & Barkley vs. Bosh & Boozer

Centers: Ewing & Robinson vs. Howard