ChrisWoj

Bird is comparable. It isn't simply nostalgia. We're talking about a three time MVP, four time runner up for MVP, Rookie of the Year, and 2 time Finals MVP who averaged 24/10 on his career on 50% shooting, plus a 89% from the line. He led the league in defensive win shares three times and offensive win shares twice. Twice led the league in total win shares.

Compare this to Tim Duncan who is a two time MVP, one time runner up for MVP, Rookie of the Year, and 3 time Finals MVP who averages 21/12 on his career on 51% shooting (despite only 68% from the line). He led the league in defensive win shares four times but has never been high on the list in offensive win shares. Twice led the league in total win shares.

To say that Larry Bird is ONLY remembered over Duncan for nostalgia's sake is statistically wrong, and looking at the viewpoints of their contemporaries (MVP Awards, Finals MVP Awards) both have been viewed in very similar manners during their playing careers. I will agree that another title (and maybe another Finals MVP) will put Tim Duncan solidly above Larry Bird, especially because of longevity of career and peak.

Right now as someone who has lived Tim Duncan's career and didn't become a true sports fan until he was about eight (1993) I give the edge to Duncan, but mostly because I have seen Duncan and it is my opinion that he's better. In reality they're very even both statistically and in the eyes of their contemporaries.


-Chris.

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