The truth is that the NBA has changed the damn rules so much now that you can't play good hard defense anymore. As great as Kobe, McGrady, and Iverson are, I'd like to send them back to the late 80's and see if they are still able to slice down the middle of the lane for a lay up or dunk. Taking away the hand check basically meant the big man was no longer as intimidating as the tall guard with the quick first step. The argument for the current rules is it increases the exciting dunks and penetration moves that draws in the casual fan. Unfortunately, it also means hard working, disciplined defensive teams are a thing of the past.
I think Kobe and T-Mack would have a easier time scoring in the 80's than they do now. Why? In the 80's it was less micromanaging in the game than it is today. It was more shot attempts at the goal which gave you more chances to score. Playing today, the team who attempts the most shots is Sac or Dallass at about 90. In the 80's it was not uncommon for a low scoring team to launch 95 shots a game. The Late 80's Pistons were considered a defensive team, but they gave up 100pts a night. Nowdays, no matter how much you score, if you give up 100pts your team is considered weak defensively.
