Dennis Rodman says Larry Bird wouldn’t cut it in modern NBA: ‘He’d be in Europe

Dennis Rodman, the controversial and outspoken NBA legend, has sparked debate with his recent comments on Larry Bird’s ability to compete in the modern game. In a recent interview, Rodman asserted that Bird, a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players of all time, wouldn’t be able to keep up with the pace and physicality of today’s NBA.

“Larry Bird wouldn’t make it in this league,” Rodman said bluntly. “He’d be playing in Europe or somewhere else, not in the NBA.”

Rodman cited the increased athleticism and defensive intensity of modern players, suggesting that Bird’s skillset, which relied heavily on fundamentals and shooting, would be exposed. “The game has changed too much,” Rodman argued. “Bird was a great player in his time, but he wouldn’t be able to hang with these young guys.”

Rodman’s comments have sparked a heated debate among basketball fans, with some defending Bird’s timeless skills and others agreeing with Rodman’s assessment. While it’s impossible to know for certain, one thing is clear: the NBA has evolved significantly since Bird’s playing days, and it’s intriguing to consider how he would fare in today’s fast-paced and physically demanding league.