...or should he try to play 30 minutes per game? Full Story Jordan: I can play 30-35 minutes -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ESPN.com news services One week before the opening of NBA training camps, part-owner Michael Jordan gave another hint about his possible on-court return to the Wizards. Jordan, who turns 40 in February, would return after a knee injury forced the six-time NBA champion to miss 12 games late in the regular season. "I'll play as long as I love the game of basketball," Jordan told the Sun-Times. "I don't believe it myself sometimes that I'm still playing. I never thought I'd play again. But I still love the game.'' Jordan also mentioned that he might not agree to Wizards coach Doug Collins' idea of giving Jordan a new sixth-man role, which will put his average playing time around 20 minutes a game. Jordan thinks he is healthy enough to play 30 to 35 minutes. I know that he loves the game, but with all the personal turmoil that he has been through, injuries to his aging body, and ability of younger players, I would hate to see Michael become a sixth man. It would be such a slap in the face for one of the greatest players to play the game.
I don't think he'd care about that slap in the face...his six rings could comfort him. I think he's earned the right to do what he wants.
Actually, it's perfect for him. He's not like Hakeem, where injuries have FORCED him to play limited minutes. He's such a fierce competitor, he could go out at age 39 and average 40 minutes and 25 points per game. With Stackhouse, he doesn't have to put all the extra strain on his body. It's too bad his career has been shortened by four years, or he would probably have the all time scoring record by now...
I still remember Kareem's last year with the Lakers...seeing him miss his sky hook so many times, playing in a diminished capacity...It just didn't seem right. I think Mike could still school much of the NBA, but I don't think he should wait until he is forced out. Then again, I've never seen such a competitive spirit in a man...
Mike should do whatever Mike wants to do...I don't want people coming to me and telling me it's time to give up my law practice...it's his career...his life. My opinion is meaningless.
