Michael Cooper compares Luka Doncic to Larry Bird
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 9:46 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026
Michael Cooper, former teammate of Magic Johnson, suggests Luka Doncic resembles Larry Bird more than Johnson. In an interview with the Sports Illustrated network, he highlights Doncic's basketball IQ, scoring ability, and rebounding skills as similarities to Bird. Doncic, the Lakers' franchise player, posted impressive stats last season and is seen as entering the prime of his career. As he leads the Lakers, comparisons to a Celtics legend may define his legacy in the NBA.
- •Michael Cooper believes Luka Doncic is akin to Larry Bird.
- •Doncic averaged 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds last season.
- •He is now the Los Angeles Lakers' franchise player.
- •Cooper noted Doncic's high basketball IQ and scoring ability.
- •Doncic's comparisons may shape his career trajectory.
- 9:46 PMYahoo Sports — Michael Cooper calls Luka Doncic 'a Larry Bird type of player'
"While many compare Lakers superstar Luka Doncic to Magic Johnson, Johnson's former teammate Michael Cooper feels Doncic is more like Larry Bird.
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