In the annals of NBA history, Nick Van Exel remains one of the most exciting point guards of the 1990s. Known for his “Nick the Quick” speed, long-range bombs, and electrifying playmaking, Van Exel recently sat down to reflect on his career, the players he shared the court with, and how the modern game stacks up against his era.
Respecting the Past, Acknowledging the Present
The conversation began by addressing the nostalgia often associated with players like Van Exel and fellow guard Rod Strickland, particularly their flair and “wizardry” with the basketball. Van Exel, a self-proclaimed “basketball historian,” takes a measured view of comparing eras.
“I don’t put too much into all that nonsense,” he said, emphasizing the constant change in the league. “When I came into the league, we were different than the 80’s and the 80’s were different from the 70’s… these guys have their own features.”
While he respects the “OG’s” and appreciates the game’s history, Van Exel believes every generation brings its own unique attributes.
The Blueprint for Greatness: Kobe’s Early Years
Van Exel’s tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers overlapped with the arrival of a young Kobe Bryant. Van Exel vividly recalls a teenage Bryant’s precocious mindset and overwhelming ambition.
“Kobe was like… he was determined, man. He was so far ahead of himself and he was way more mature than we were,” Van Exel noted.
According to Van Exel, Bryant already possessed a laser-focus on his legacy, even at a young age: “Kobe KNEW that he wanted to be a NBA Champion, he wanted to be one of the greatest; he wanted to leave a legacy.” This mindset, combined with his legendary work ethic, was the perfect combination.
“Some people can say it but they don’t want to put in the work to accomplish it. He [Kobe] put in that damn work and of course, he accomplished everything he got.”
LeBron and Magic: Cerebral Geniuses
Comparing the game’s greats, the topic shifted to Magic Johnson’s brief return to the Lakers in 1995-96, playing the small forward position, and whether that resembled LeBron James’ modern role. Van Exel drew a clear parallel between the two legends’ supreme basketball intellect.
“Magic is VERY smart and cerebral. He knew what you were going to do before you did it; he thought the game out before it was even thought of… That’s LeBron right now,” Van Exel explained.
The only significant difference? Athleticism. “The difference is LeBron is a freak and he’s OVER the rim and Magic plays under the rim, that’s the only difference. But as far as just basketball IQ going through the roof, BOTH of those guys basketball IQ is unbelievable.”
A Look at Today’s Talent
As a coach, Van Exel has a front-row seat to the current NBA. When asked who reminds him of himself, he struggled to name a single player, acknowledging the high level of skill across the board. “These guys are so good and they can do so much and their handles are crazy,” he admitted.
He did, however, offer high praise for Trae Young, recognizing his unique talent: “Very talented, very special. The guy is the smallest guy on the court giving you 28 and 10 every night.”
Van Exel sees a championship ceiling for Young once he learns to fully command the game, comparing his potential to a legendary floor general. “Once he really, really understands the game… Once he understands the game and can slow that thing down to a Chris Paul level where he has the vision AND just getting guys involved… once he figures that out… it’s over with.”
Shaq’s Early Drive and Eddie Jones’ Modern Fit
Van Exel also provided insight into a hungry Shaquille O’Neal during their early Laker years.
“He was hungry to win a title,” Van Exel stated. Though the young Lakers team wasn’t quite ready to win a championship yet, O’Neal’s intensity was clear. “He just was competitive and he wanted to win! He wanted to win a title!”
Finally, he considered how former teammate Eddie Jones—a defensive stalwart and versatile scorer—would translate to the modern NBA’s high-volume three-point environment.
“Eddie would probably be one of the BEST two-way players in the league! He probably would’ve won a Defensive Player of the Year award,” Van Exel asserted.
He sees Jones’ scoring potential soaring in today’s game due to the freedom to shoot from outside. “Probably average about 25-30 just for the simple fact that nowadays shooting the three is what’s allowed… Nowadays I can shoot 10-15 threes and nobody gives a damn… oh yeah, he’d be SPECIAL in this league.”
While he enjoys coaching and watching the game evolve, Van Exel maintains a humble perspective on his current role. “I really don’t like none of ‘em when we’re playing against them [laughing], but I respect all of ‘em man! These dudes, they be ballin’ out here and I got a great seat!“
