NBA Hall Of Famer Mitch Richmond Slams Modern NBA Critics: “Larry Bird Would ‘Mop’The Floor With JJ Redick”

Mitch Richmond Slams Modern NBA Critics: Defending the Legends of the Past

Hall of Famer Mitch Richmond has strongly rebuked the growing trend among some modern NBA fans and players who dismiss the greatness of past generations.

Richmond, speaking with Back In The Day Hoops On SI, has labeled this trend as “garbage” and “disrespectful,” particularly in regard to the `80s and `90s basketball eras.

In recent years, a movement has gained traction suggesting that players from the past, including legends like

Michael Jordan and Larry Bird, would struggle to compete with today’s athletes.

Critics argue that today’s game, marked by its increased pace and three-point shooting, renders the skills of yesteryear’s stars obsolete.

Richmond takes issue with this narrative, highlighting a perceived lack of respect from the current generation of fans and players. He expressed particular dismay at criticisms from players like Gilbert Arenas and JJ Redick.

Redick, now a coach for the Los Angeles Lakers, recently downplayed Larry Bird’s standing among the greatest three-point shooters, despite Bird’s career having spanned a time before the three-point shot became a central element of the game.

“I’ve heard a couple of players like JJ Redick say something stupid about the players,” Richmond said. “I just think it’s idiotic to always disrespect the people who came before you.”

Richmond believes that Bird’s contributions and impact far surpass Redick’s critique, asserting that Bird would have easily outperformed Redick in his prime.

When it comes to the ongoing debate between Michael Jordan and LeBron James, Richmond acknowledges the limitations of such discussions. “We’ve never seen Michael and LeBron go up against each other, so it’s all hearsay,” he noted. “It’s all of our different opinions.”

Richmond’s comments emphasize a broader sentiment that while it’s natural to debate and enjoy the evolution of the game, it should not come at the expense of respecting the foundational players who shaped the sport.

His stance calls for a balance between appreciating today’s stars and honoring the legacies of those who paved the way.