It seems to Kobe Bryant's ever lasting detriment that, while obviously great, he isn't like Mike. Not enough like him anyway, to be regarded as the best ever to play the game.
Then again, he shouldn't have to care as he winds down his 20th NBA season as a compromised but still occasionally dangerous player still capable of scoring 38 points in a game, as he did last week against Minnesota. He's clearly reached iconic status, as will be proven by the sellout crowd at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Monday when the Lakers are here to play the Pacers.