“Magic Johnson was not a good defender. Advantage Michael Jordan”: George Karl Disagrees With RHCP Guitarist Over NBA Goat Debate

Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan are two of the most influential players the league has ever seen. While one is responsible for putting the NBA on the map, the other is responsible for popularizing the association.

Both of these talented guards are among the best players we’ve ever seen. With the two sharing 8 MVPs, 11 championships, and 9 Finals MVPs, both the icons racked up some of the most illustrious resumes we’ve ever seen.

Also Read: Magic Johnson Recalls how he Softened up Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in his Rookie Year

Both fanbases defend their respective favourite for the GOAT debate. Flea, the guitarist from Red Hot Chili Peppers, recently took it to social media revealing to select Magic over MJ.

I would rather build a team around Magic @MagicJohnson at his peak than peak Jordan any day always and forever. https://t.co/C06xxtrXFE

— Flea (@flea333) January 14, 2023

George Karl compares Jordan’s and Johnson’s defense

After the Musician’s response to his tweet, George Karl couldn’t help but let the musician know about his insights.

Giving His Airness the advantage over Johnson, the former legendary coach mentioned defense as a differentiating attribute between the two legends.

Love Magic. But not a good defender! Advantage – Michael.

And definitely Love the Chili Peppers!! https://t.co/57nANM5vnh

— George Karl (@CoachKarl22) January 14, 2023

George isn’t wrong. While both the stars possessed deep offensive arsenals, defensively, Jordan was far superior.

Not only did MJ get selected to 9 All-Defensive teams, but even was the Defensive Player of the Year in 1988.

Magic’s accolades for his defense? None.

Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson’s head-to-head stats

Jordan and Johnson played merely 18 games against each other. However, whenever they went at it against each other, it would ensure to be an action-packed thriller.

Not only did MJ manage to win more matchups (11-7), the 6-foot-6 shooting guard even outscored (30.4-19.2), had more rebounds (6.6-6.3), and lodged more steals (2.4-1.1) than Earvin.

Also Read: 6ft 9’ LeBron James Has Played 325 Games More & Grabbed 31 Lesser Offensive Rebounds Than 6ft 6’ Michael Jordan