Crazy Comparison: Gary Payton on Why Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Can't Be Measured Against Kobe Bryant

As the NBA Finals series stands at 2-2 heading into Game 5 this Monday, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is on a quest to solidify his standing among basketball legends. Averaging an impressive 32.7 points per game during an MVP-worthy season, leading Oklahoma City to the league's best record with 68 victories, comparisons to Kobe Bryant are emerging.In a crucial Game 4, Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton had the opportunity to establish a dominant 3-1 series lead, but SGA delivered a remarkable performance reminiscent of Bryant's legendary style, putting forth a stat line akin to Jerry West's from 1962—35 points and zero assists. This marked only the third instance of such a figure in Finals history. Former NBA player Lou Williams praises SGA as "Kobe Bryant being created," while Hall of Famer Gary Payton contests this, asserting, "There’s only one Kobe… Let Shai be Shai." As debates swirl regarding SGA's potential, the disparity between eras in basketball remains a topic of fervent discussion among fans.