RealGM

When Bird was a player, he asked Bill Russell, the game's ultimate competitor, how the former center could have dinner with chief rival Wilt Chamberlain the night before a big game.

"See, I don't think you can do that," Bird said, adding he's never been comfortable with all the pregame or postgame hugs between today's players. "I could never go out to eat with Magic before a game. Or after a game. Maybe in the offseason. Maybe.

"I talk to Magic every once in a while, but for me, it's hard. I was at a banquet one time and they (the Lakers) were all there. They're all good guys, but I don't know, I just can't let it go. It's not hatred. It's respect."