I know that sounds impossible but I was comparing his work ethic to Kobe.

By no doubt MJ was a hard worker and put in the time and effort. I'm not calling him a slacker here by any means. But Kobe took it to another level all in the pursuit to be the undisputed best (which he never quite achieved). Kobe's training regime probably eclipses that of any other NBA athlete.

MJ is famous for his drinking, gambling parties, golfing, and whatever else before games. Just imagine if MJ took it to an entirely different level and had the off court focus that Kobe did. I find it hard to believe that MJ could have been any better than he already was but I think it actually could have been possible.