Tyronn Lue has no doubts about how dominant Michael Jordan would be in the modern NBA.
Speaking on the Club Shay Shay on the subject of Jordan’s prime years, the Los Angeles Clippers head coach argued that the six-time champion would put up unprecedented numbers in today’s offensive-friendly environment.
“Oh man—45. What you mean? You can’t touch nobody. It’s a foul. So I mean—you’ve got the best player in the world. 45,” Lue said, via HoopsHype, when asked by Shannon Sharpe about Jordan’s potential scoring average in 2025.
Jordan’s highest single-season scoring output came in 1986–87, when he posted 37.1 points per game. Lue believes the current officiating would easily push that total higher, with free throws and rule changes giving Jordan even more opportunities.
“Every time he gets touched—it’s two free throws,” Lue explained. “The zone stuff could be a difference. You know, like back then you had illegal defense. But yeah—I don’t see a year where he wouldn’t average 45.”
The three-time champion coach emphasized how the evolution of physicality in the NBA has shifted dramatically compared to Jordan’s playing days.
“You couldn’t touch nobody. I mean, you can’t touch nobody now. The physicality is pretty much gone. Anything—you’re going to the free throw line,” Lue said.
Jordan, who played 15 seasons in the NBA, retired with career averages of 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists. He led the league in scoring 10 times, collected five MVP awards and went a perfect 6–0 in the NBA Finals.
While debates about era comparisons continue, Lue pointed to Jordan’s basketball IQ as another factor that would translate seamlessly.
“Just how smart he was—especially nowadays—he’d take advantage of these guys, just from IQ alone,” Lue added.
Jordan’s dominance in an era defined by hand-checking and physical defense has long fueled speculation about how his game would adapt to the pace-and-space style of the modern league. With stars like Luka Doncic, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo benefiting from today’s rules, Lue insists Jordan would reach an even higher level.
