“(Michael Jordan) was the only one that really had skill…” This comment from Anthony Edwards sent shockwaves through the NBA community. Before making the statement, he admitted to not watching games in the league back then. Former players like Magic Johnson even gave a harsh reality check to the Minnesota Timberwolves star. However, DeMar DeRozan took a measured approach and explained the key difference.

The 6x All-Star has been part of the Bulls lore thanks to his contributions in the past, so he not only respects Michael Jordan but values players from other generations as well. Adding on the same sentiment, he said, “But even some like that, we never would have made no statement like that.” When asked about the “skilled,” debate, DeRozan said via Podcast P with Paul George, “You can’t tell me it wasn’t no skillful guys around just because at the time you have such a phenom of an athletic freak in Michael Jordan, don’t discredit everybody else.”

DeRozan further added that the game was built on a foundation of the previous generation. Apart from the physical notion of the league, it had more than enough skilled players. The 35-year-old also gave credit to Michael Jordan’s running mate.

“If you see Scottie Pippen like that today, you would think he a unicorn.” The Bulls #33 was hailed as Robin to MJ’s Batman. During his first stint in Chicago, Scottie Pippen averaged 18.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 11 seasons. There is even a debate in which some consider the forward to be a more integral piece of the dynasty run.

However, bringing the focus back on Edwards and his generational debate, DeRozan even credited Hakeem Olajuwon. The Rockets center was instrumental in the ’90s as he won multiple awards during his tenure. A thought that even Magic Johnson shared and explained how difficult it was for Jordan to win his first championship.

Magic Johnson and his history lesson before Michael Jordan’s domination

While speaking to Stephen A. Smith during a conversation at the Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, Magic discredited Edwards’ claim simply because the Wolves star had no championship. Not only that, he even questioned if the 23-year-old had achieved anything significant during his college and high school tenure.

Later, he added, “What they don’t understand, Michael Jordan didn’t win in his 6th, 7th year. So I guess it was some great players before Michael Jordan.” In 1984, the Bulls drafted MJ, but he won his first championship in 1991. Before the Bulls star took over and stood on a 3-peat, it was the Larry Bird and Magic Johnson era.
Even Jeff Teague said on his podcast, “like if you go watch Larry Bird he play a whole game left-handed.” Playing the majority of the game with his left hand, Bird scored 47 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists. That’s why DeMar DeRozan doesn’t believe in discrediting the previous generation of athletes, as each of them paid their dues.