Popovich proved himself more than Jackson. I think both coaches can manage egos in different ways, and I think Jackson is overrated in that regard. Popovich is so ridiculously competent and has such a strong background, that most players completely buy into his systems. He would've done just fine with the Bulls or Lakers.
Meanwhile, we know for a fact, that Popovich is better at,
- Raising the floor & ceiling of a team
- Talent maximization
- Player development
- Play running
- Rotations
- Defensive coordinating
- Offensive coordination
- Culture building
- Maintaining professional relationships (Jackson was an arrogant douche who pissed off both his teams, was close to being fired in CHI before leaving, and was fired by Jim Buss)
- Helping with the draft
I don't like giving credit based on hypotheticals, and as Jackson refused to coach any team without a superstar, we can never equate him to the GOACH.
Surely the Timberwolves are just on a hot streak? No way they're actually good... right? Someone punch me to make sure I'm not sleeping. This can't be real 🤣
(Seriously though, they look amazing. It's weird to see them doing well after years of ass. I'm happy for the fan base.)