According to former Michael Jordan teammate and five time champion Dennis Rodman, resting isn't something that today's NBA players should be proud of. On Tuesday he spoke to CBS Sports’ Bill Reiter and openly critized Cleveland Cavaliers' superstar LeBron James.
'Michael Jordan never rested'
Rodman went on a rant, talking about his former teammate Michael Jordan and comparing what today's players are doing to what Jordan did. He was especially referring to LeBron James and him missing some games this season due to rest. "You know what, LeBron is doing one thing that I said Michael Jordan never did.
He never rested. He played every game." said Rodman to CBS Sports' Bill Reiter. He then added: "It's very easy to do what they define as greatness now. Michael Jordan did it when it was tough." He also said that it was much tougher "back then" to lead the league in scoring like Michael Jordan did.
Stats show that LeBron James actually never played all 82 games in a season in his career, and has already missed six of the Cavaliers' 78 games this season. Michael Jordan played 82 games nine times in his career.
Rodman played three seasons with the Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan. In that period of time he won three championships with the Bulls so his stance in this debate is not surprising at all.
Rodman was also a key part of that Bulls team that won 72 games in the 1995-1996 season. Rodman averaged 5.5 points and 14.9 rebounds that year. He led the league in rebounding seven consecutive times and only Wilt Chamberlain has more rebounding titles than him.
His career averages are 7.3 points and 13.1 rebounds.
During his playing time in the NBA he won two Defensive Player Of The Year Awards.
He also won two championships with the Detroit Pistons also known as the "Bad Boy" Pistons during those years. Rodman will be remembered as a true team player who knew his role, as well as being remembered for his crazy hairstyles and antics.
Steve Kerr responded to Rodman in funny fashion
Head coach for the Golden State Warriors, Steve Kerr also talked recently about the issue of players resting: "I do understand it from a fan standpoint.
It's a difficult dilemma but I got to do what's best for our team."
He then went on to comment on Rodman's recent statements and said this with a big smile on his face: "I saw Dennis Rodman was complaining about it. Dennis was suspended for 15 games a year anyway. He got plenty of rest." Kerr and Rodman were teammates in their playing days with the Bulls.
