When comparing the careers of six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan , legendary point guard Magic Johnson , and three-time MVP Larry Bird to those of four-time NBA champion LeBron James , two-time MVP Stephen Curry , and four-time Olympic gold medalist Kevin Durant , it's clear that both trios have dominated their respective eras with unparalleled skill, accolades, and influence. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant added a major accolade to their resumes this summer in the 2024 Olympics, but when you delve deeper into their achievements—championships, MVPs, All-NBA and All-Defensive teams, win shares, and player efficiency—one question emerges: which trio truly stands above the rest?
Olympic Gold Medals
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 8
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 4
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have continued the tradition of American basketball dominance. LeBron won his first Olympic gold in 2008 and followed it up with another in 2012, showcasing his versatility and leadership on the international stage. Kevin Durant has been the most decorated among the trio, contributing to three gold medals in 2012, 2016, and 2021. In 2024, the three stars collected a medal each and that takes their tally to another level compared to the opposition. Though Curry has yet to claim an Olympic gold, his contributions to USA Basketball in other tournaments add to his international resume. Together, they account for 8 Olympic gold medals, emphasizing their global impact and sustained excellence.
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird were part of the iconic 1992 Dream Team, which easily secured gold in Barcelona. Jordan and Bird had already established themselves as leaders, with Jordan having won his first Olympic gold in 1984. This brought their combined total to 4 Olympic gold medals. Magic, despite his health challenges, was instrumental in this achievement, but it still does not place them over the iconic 2010s and 2020s stars.
Advantage: James, Curry, Durant
NBA Championships
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 14
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 10
The legendary trio of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird amassed 14 NBA championships combined, with Jordan leading the way with six, Magic securing five, and Bird contributing three. Jordan's two three-peats with the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s defined an era, and Magic's Showtime Lakers dominated the 1980s, with his unparalleled vision and passing. Bird's cerebral approach and clutch performances anchored the Boston Celtics to three titles, making the rivalry between Bird and Magic one of the defining narratives of the decade.
On the other side, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have collectively won 10 NBA championships, with Curry's four rings leading the pack. Curry’s titles with the Golden State Warriors revolutionized the game with his shooting prowess, while LeBron's championships with three different franchises—Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers , and Los Angeles Lakers —cemented his status as one of the game's all-time greats. Durant's two championships with the Warriors added to their dynasty, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility. Though their combined total is slightly less, their impact on the modern game is undeniable.
Advantage: Jordan, Johnson, Bird
Finals MVP Awards
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 11
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 7
When it comes to Finals MVP awards, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird combine for an impressive 11 accolades. Jordan alone accounts for six of these, having earned the Finals MVP in each of his championship seasons, a testament to his dominance on the biggest stage. Magic's three Finals MVP awards highlight his versatility, with his first coming in his rookie year when he played center in Game 6 of the 1980 Finals. Bird, with two Finals MVPs, showcased his clutch shooting and leadership in the 1980s, particularly in his battles against the Lakers.
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have accumulated seven Finals MVP awards, with LeBron leading this group with four. His ability to elevate his game during the Finals, particularly in his 2016 victory with the Cavaliers, is legendary. Durant secured two Finals MVPs during his tenure with the Warriors, where his scoring and all-around play were unmatched. Curry, often criticized for his lack of a Finals MVP, finally earned this honor in 2022 averaging 31.2 PPG, 6.0 RPG, and 5.0 APG, solidifying his legacy as one of the all-time greats. Their collective performance under pressure is significant, though still trailing the older trio's tally.
Advantage: Jordan, Johnson, Bird
MVP Awards
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 11
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 7
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird boast an extraordinary 11 MVP awards between them, with Jordan earning five, Magic securing three, and Bird also contributing three. Jordan's MVP awards spanned nearly a decade, reflecting his sustained excellence and dominance during the regular season. Magic's MVPs highlighted his transformative effect on the game with his passing and leadership. Bird’s three consecutive MVP awards from 1984 to 1986 were a rare feat, underscoring his all-around skill and impact on the league during that era.
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have combined for seven MVP awards, with LeBron leading the charge with four. His MVP awards came during peak years where he was virtually unstoppable, particularly during his Miami Heat tenure. Curry's two MVPs, including the first-ever unanimous MVP in 2016, showcased how his shooting ability changed the game. Durant’s lone MVP in 2014 was a testament to his scoring prowess and versatility. While their total falls short of the older trio, their MVPs represent an era where the game evolved significantly, largely due to their influence.
Advantage: Jordan, Johnson, Bird
Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) Awards
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 1
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 0
When it comes to Defensive Player of the Year awards, Michael Jordan stands out as the sole representative from his group, having won it in 1988 when he averaged 3.2 steals and 1.6 blocks per game. Jordan's DPOY award highlights his tenacity on both ends of the floor, making him one of the most complete players in NBA history. While Magic Johnson and Larry Bird were not known primarily for their defense, both were highly intelligent defenders who contributed significantly to their teams' defensive schemes, with Magic often guarding multiple positions.
In contrast, neither LeBron James, Stephen Curry, nor Kevin Durant has secured a DPOY award. However, this doesn't diminish their defensive impact, particularly in LeBron's case, who has been named to five All-Defensive First Teams and is known for his chase-down blocks and ability to guard multiple positions.
Durant has also become a formidable defender, especially during his time with the Golden State Warriors, where his rim protection and versatility were crucial. Curry, though not a DPOY candidate, has improved his defense over the years, becoming a key part of the Warriors' system. The absence of a DPOY among them highlights the unique all-around brilliance of Jordan in this category.
Advantage: Jordan, Johnson, Bird
Scoring Titles
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 10
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 7
Michael Jordan’s unmatched ten scoring titles highlight his offensive prowess, setting him apart as the greatest scorer of all time. His ability to dominate on the offensive end year after year, particularly during the late 1980s and early 1990s, was a cornerstone of the Chicago Bulls' dynasty. Jordan averaged a career-high 37.1 points per game in 1986-87 and had eight seasons posting at least 30 points per game. Magic Johnson and Larry Bird did not claim any scoring titles, as their strengths lay in other areas, particularly playmaking and all-around team play, but they were nonetheless elite scorers in their own right.
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have won a combined seven scoring titles, with Durant leading this group with four which ranks third all-time behind Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain. Durant's ability to score from anywhere on the floor, combined with his size and skill, has made him one of the most lethal scorers in NBA history and his career-high came in 2013-14 when he posted 32.0 points per game.
Curry has two scoring titles (30.1 PPG in 2015-16 and 32.0 PPG in 2020-21), thanks to his revolutionary three-point shooting, while LeBron, despite being more of a facilitator, has one scoring title (30.0 PPG in 2007-08), showcasing his versatility and ability to take over games when needed. Still, amazingly, Jordan won more scoring titles by himself than the greatest players of the 2010s and 2020s combined.
Advantage: Jordan, Johnson, Bird
All-NBA Teams
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 41
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 31
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have earned a combined 41 All-NBA Team selections, with LeBron alone securing an incredible 20, the most in NBA history. His remarkable consistency and longevity are reflected in these numbers, as he has been a fixture on the First Team for most of his career. Durant and Curry have also made multiple All-NBA Teams, with Durant earning 11 selections and Curry securing 10.
The trio of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird collectively amassed 31 All-NBA Team selections, with Jordan leading the way with 11 All-NBA Team honors. Magic’s 10 First Team selections highlight his dominance as a point guard in the 1980s, while Bird’s 10 First Team selections emphasize his consistency as one of the league’s top forwards. These selections reflect not only their excellence but also their ability to remain at the top of the league throughout their careers.
However, James, Curry, and Durant’s combined total surpasses that of the older trio, underscoring their dominance in the modern NBA and their ability to perform at the highest level year after year. However, it is obvious LeBron is on a level by himself because 20 All-NBA Team appearances is something we will likely never see a player accomplish again.
Advantage: James, Curry, Durant
Related: The Chicago Bulls History: Every Award Their Players And Coaches Have Won
All-Star Appearances
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 44
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 38
On the other hand, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have racked up 43 All-Star appearances, with LeBron alone accounting for 20, the most in NBA history. LeBron’s enduring presence at the All-Star Game has been a testament to his consistent performance and fan appeal. Durant has 14 appearances, showcasing his scoring ability and popularity among fans and players alike. Curry, with 10 appearances, has been a fan favorite, known for his incredible shooting displays during these games. Their collective All-Star appearances reflect their dominance and enduring impact on the league, but again, James’ number is simply beyond incredible.
The trio of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird earned a combined 36 All-Star appearances. Jordan led the group with 14 appearances, each a showcase of his unparalleled popularity and skill. Magic Johnson’s 12 All-Star appearances include his memorable 1992 appearance, where he was named MVP despite having retired the previous year. Bird’s 12 appearances reflect his consistent excellence and popularity, solidifying the trio's status as basketball icons but they can’t keep up with the modern stars.
Advantage: James, Curry, Durant
All-Defensive Teams
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 12
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 6
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird combine for 12 All-Defensive Team selections, with Jordan alone responsible for nine First Team honors. Jordan's defensive tenacity was a significant part of his game, contributing to the Chicago Bulls' six championships. Magic, with his primary focus on offense, earned zero All-Defensive selections. Bird, though not as decorated defensively, was a smart team defender and earned three All-Defensive Team selections, further highlighting the well-rounded nature of this legendary trio.
In contrast, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have a combined six All-Defensive Team selections, with LeBron accounting for all of them. LeBron’s defensive versatility has been a key component of his game, allowing him to guard multiple positions and contribute significantly to his team's success. Durant, though not an All-Defensive Team regular, has become a much-improved defender, particularly during his time with the Warriors, where his shot-blocking and defensive presence were crucial. Curry, while known for his offense, has improved defensively over the years but has not made an All-Defensive Team.
Advantage: Jordan, Johnson, Bird
Total Win Shares
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 569.1
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 515.6
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant have a slight edge in total win shares, combining for 569.1. LeBron, with a staggering 263.7 win shares, tops the list, reflecting his extraordinary impact over a 20-year career. Durant follows with 170.2, showcasing his scoring efficiency and all-around contributions, particularly during his time with the Thunder and Warriors. Curry’s 135.2 win shares highlight his role in revolutionizing the game with his three-point shooting and leadership of the Warriors dynasty. Their combined win shares not only surpass those of the older trio but also reflect their significant impact on the modern NBA.
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird amassed a combined 515.6 win shares, with Jordan leading the group with 214.0. Win shares, which measure a player's contributions to their team's success, reflect Jordan's incredible impact, especially during the Bulls' championship runs. Magic's 155.8 win shares highlight his leadership and ability to elevate the Lakers during the 1980s, while Bird's 145.8 win shares underscore his all-around brilliance and consistency in making the Celtics perennial contenders.
Advantage: James, Curry, Durant
Player Efficiency Rating (PER)
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant: 75.7
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird: 75.5
When analyzing Player Efficiency Rating (PER), which measures a player's per-minute productivity, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant combine for an impressive 75.7 PER, with LeBron leading the trio with a PER of 27.1. His ability to excel in every aspect of the game, from scoring to playmaking to defense, is captured in this metric.
Durant’s PER of 25.0 highlights his scoring efficiency and overall impact, while Curry’s PER of 23.6 reflects his offensive brilliance, particularly his shooting and playmaking. Their combined PER surpasses that of the older trio, reflecting the advanced analytics that captures their all-around contributions to the game in an era where efficiency has become increasingly valued.
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird have a combined PER of 77.4. Jordan’s PER of 27.9 stands as one of the highest in NBA history, reflecting his all-around dominance on the court. Magic’s PER of 24.1 highlights his unique ability to influence games as a playmaker, while Bird’s PER of 23.5 showcases his all-around efficiency and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Advantage: James, Curry, Durant
Winner
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird vs. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant 6-5
In this ultimate career comparison, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird edge out LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant by a narrow 6-5 margin. Jordan, Magic, and Bird claim victory in six categories: NBA championships, Finals MVPs, MVP awards, Defensive Player of the Year awards, scoring titles, and All-Defensive Team selections.
Their dominance in these accolades, particularly Jordan's unmatched resume, underscores their status as some of the greatest to ever play the game. Their collective ability to not only lead their teams to titles but also to excel individually in both offensive and defensive aspects of the game cements their legacy as a trio that defined excellence in the NBA.
On the other hand, LeBron, Curry, and Durant take the lead in Olympic gold medals, All-NBA selections, All-Star appearances, win shares, and player efficiency rating (PER). LeBron’s remarkable longevity gives his trio a distinct advantage in these cumulative categories, showcasing his sustained greatness over a two-decade career.
Durant’s four Olympic medals, paired with LeBron’s three, also provide a significant edge in international success. However, despite these impressive achievements, the trio of Jordan, Magic, and Bird remains slightly greater, with Jordan’s status as the greatest player in terms of accolades tipping the scales in their favor. The debate may continue, but when it comes to pure accolades, the legends of the past hold a slight edge.
Related: Ranking All-Time NBA Starting Lineups By Birth Month
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