Larry Bird Vs Magic Johnson Head-To-Head Record
Basketball fans in the United States have always been intrigued by the rivalry between two of the greatest players of all time, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson. Both players dominated the NBA in the 80s, winning multiple championships and individual awards. They were the face of the league and helped popularize the sport around the world. But when it comes to head-to-head matchups, who was the better player? Let's take a closer look at their record.
Larry Bird's Career Stats
Larry Bird, also known as "The Hick from French Lick," played his entire career for the Boston Celtics from 1979 to 1992. He was a 12-time All-Star, 3-time MVP, and 3-time NBA champion. Bird was known for his incredible shooting ability, court vision, and clutch performances in important games.
During his career, Bird played against Magic Johnson 36 times in the regular season and 14 times in the playoffs. In those matchups, Bird's team won 23 times in the regular season and 7 times in the playoffs.
Individually, Bird averaged 23.6 points, 10 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game against the Lakers. He shot 47.3% from the field and 88.6% from the free-throw line. He also recorded 9 triple-doubles in those games.
Magic Johnson's Career Stats
Magic Johnson, also known as "Showtime," played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1979 to 1991 and again in 1996. He was a 12-time All-Star, 3-time MVP, and 5-time NBA champion. Johnson was known for his amazing passing skills, leadership, and charisma on and off the court.
During his career, Johnson played against Larry Bird 36 times in the regular season and 14 times in the playoffs. In those matchups, Johnson's team won 13 times in the regular season and 7 times in the playoffs.
Individually, Johnson averaged 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 11.2 assists per game against the Celtics. He shot 51.4% from the field and 84.4% from the free-throw line. He also recorded 7 triple-doubles in those games.
Head-To-Head Matchups
When it comes to head-to-head matchups between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, Bird had the upper hand in the regular season while Johnson had more success in the playoffs. The two players faced each other in three NBA Finals, with Johnson's Lakers winning two of them (1985 and 1987) and Bird's Celtics winning one (1984).
Overall, Bird's Celtics won 23 out of the 36 regular season matchups against Johnson's Lakers, while Johnson's Lakers won 7 out of the 14 playoff matchups.
Who Was Better?
So, who was the better player between Bird and Johnson? The answer is not clear-cut, as both players had unique skill sets and played different positions. However, it is safe to say that both players were among the best to ever play the game.
Bird was an incredible shooter and scorer, with a deadly jump shot and the ability to create his own shot. He was also a great passer and rebounder, with an excellent basketball IQ and a fierce competitive spirit.
Johnson, on the other hand, was a phenomenal playmaker and leader, with unparalleled court vision and passing skills. He was also a solid scorer and rebounder, with a versatile game that allowed him to play multiple positions on the court.
In the end, it is up to the fans to decide who was the better player. Both Larry Bird and Magic Johnson left a lasting impact on the NBA and inspired generations of players to come.
Conclusion
The rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson will always be remembered as one of the greatest in sports history. Their head-to-head matchups were always intense and memorable, and they helped elevate the NBA to new heights of popularity and success.
While both players had different styles and approaches to the game, they shared a common goal: to win at all costs. Their fierce competitiveness and mutual respect for each other made their rivalry even more special, and their legacy will live on for years to come.