He lacked any significant flaws. It was common knowledge that Larry Bird was a sluggish, unathletic player. This was partially accurate, but Bird more than made up for it with his skill as an outside shooter, frequently using a variety of ball fakes to get open and drive to the hoop.
It’s been long disputed whether he can defend. Bird was a GOOD defender even if he wasn’t the best isolated defender or shot blocker. His average amount of steals was high, and he was frequently able to predict the other team’s play and obstruct passing lanes. Although he wasn’t particularly well-known for this, his defensive prowess didn’t hurt his career.
Bird was a fairly well-rounded player aside from it.
Is Larry Bird still one of the NBA’s greatest players?
Let’s speak about the legendary player who spent the 1980s with the Boston Celtics, where he was selected for 12 All-Star teams, won three championships, and received three MVP awards.
The man also known as Kodak, The Great White Hope, The Hick from French Lick, and Larry Legend.
Some of you may argue that because Bird was a product of his time, he couldn’t compete with the quickness, agility, and talent of players today.
One could assume that quicker, stronger, more adaptable guys who can shoot from wherever on the court would expose him.
You could assume that he would be vulnerable to attack and a liability on defense.
In a league full of them, you might assume he would be just another competent shooter.
I’m here to tell you that your assertion is incorrect. Completely incorrect. And I’ll give you proof of it.
Bird was just one of the greatest shooters of all time.
His career percentages on field goals, three-pointers, and free throws were.496,.386, and.886, respectively.
Throughout his career, he nailed innumerable game-winning and buzzer-beater shots, making him one of the greatest clutch shooters ever.
His ability to make difficult shots while defenders were in his face or with his body twisted in midair was exceptional.
His shot had a high arc and a rapid release, making it difficult to block. He was capable of shooting off screens, handoffs, dribbles, cuts, and anything else.
