Rockets star Tracy McGrady is not having a good season, which has prompted the inevitable local criticism that McGrady is an overrated player who is not “tough” enough to lead his team to success in the NBA playoffs.
On the other hand, Kobe Bryant is widely considered to be one of the best players in the NBA and far superior to McGrady. Ask your average Rockets fan whether they would trade McGrady for Bryant, most would approve the deal in the proverbial “New York minute.”
So, statistician Dave Berri compares the careers of McGrady and Bryant. The result of his analysis may surprise you.
Hint — peer effects make a big difference in basketball.