East Conference Scout: LeBron Can't Compare to Kobe

Don't believe the hype or numbers. Kobe Bryant is the best player in basketball and no one, not even LeBron James, comes close.

The champion Lakers play the Cavaliers on Christmas Day, and of course it's billed as Kobe vs. LeBron. The truth is, the only thing the two truly have in common is they're Nike puppets.

One Eastern Conference scout said there's no comparison between Bryant and James, noting the difference in how they perform in the clutch. Bryant has numerous game-winners, while James has a handful.

"Kobe is a killer, and to be that, you must be selfish," the scout said. "Kobe has a level of arrogance that he doesn't give a (darn) what anyone thinks. LeBron has always had to share, ever since his childhood. It's not in him to be selfish."

"Whatever that 'it' is, Kobe has it and LeBron doesn't yet. (James) can get to a point where he's dangerous, but to Kobe's level? I don't think so."

Their approaches with teammates vary as well. Michael Jordan, the player both are compared to, inspired his teammates because they admired him. Bryant, although he has talented teammates in Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom, makes them bring their "A" game every night.

"They fear Bryant, but it's a fear born out of respect," the scout said.

James doesn't appear to have that force of personality, or that effect on his team. The scout went as far as to say James might need another great player besides him, as opposed to a bunch of role players.

"Every Batman needs a Robin," the scout said.

Bryant has modified his game in his 14th year. He no longer dunks over 7-footers, conserving his body for the long playoff stretch. James, the 2009 MVP, has gaudy numbers but his game hasn't matured in his seventh year.

"He's so gifted at what he does well," the scout said. "But he doesn't have that complete game yet. His jump shot is functional at best. If he ever gets a post game, it's over. "

After Bryant's Lakers dismissed the Orlando Magic in five games, the Finals MVP called up Hall-of-Famer Hakeem Olajuwon and asked for a personal tutorial on post play. It has translated into a career-high shooting percentage and six 40-point games this year.

With four championships and a 23-4 record so far this season, catching Jordan's mark of six rings is very possible. He's making his game more efficient as his athleticism decreases.

"I never thought I would say this, but I'm placing Bryant and Jordan in the same sentence. It's a legitimate argument now," the scout said. "He's one of the eight best to ever do it."

So when you watch the Cavs and Lakers on Friday, marvel at James' artistry but take note of Bryant's transformation.