Had to join in this discussion. I did not realize the NBA had no athletic individuals playing in the 80s and 90s with an average vertical jump of 3 inches (see Dominique Wilkins) versus today's players with an average vertical jump of 79". I did not realize Wilt Chamberlain had no athletic skills (see Kansas track team) and would be dominated by Kevin Durant in the current NBA (Wilt would probably dunk on Durant so hard it would break Kevin's foot). Also did not realize Dennis Rodman does not have any viable opinion on defense and would have a hard time covering the 12th man for the Dallas Mavericks.
I've seen both players (Lebron and Michael) in person. From a visual perspective, it's like watching Michelango painting the Sistine Chapel versus Bob Ross painting the neighbors pond. Alright, not quite that level but give me MJ highlights any day of the week!
Player I want to shoot last shot of game (for the win): Michael
Player I want in game 7 of the finals: Michael
Player I want for entire final's series: Michael
Player I want for a season: Michael
Player I want to start a franchise: Michael
Player I would like for 20 years: Lebron
Michael's intensity and drive for every practice, game, season, and career (minus Wizards) was unprecedented. Lebron may be slightly bigger but Michael's athleticism and body control was off the charts (just go watch his highlights).
Before Michael, the Bulls were a laughing stock with zero chance of winning the championship and little chance of beating the old men's championship YMCA team.