Are T-Mac's days as an elite player over?

[westkoast]

That is a poll currently on ESPN.com right now....

Yes - 71%

No - 29%

What would you vote for and why?

[Skandery]

I'll tend to agree only because he's in such bad shape physically that he can't be asked to consistently carry a heavy load.  A load that most teams would ask of an "elite" player. 

Because he's so young, people forget this is T-Mac's 12th year in the league and he doesn't strike me as a player that is a work-out freak or keeps in top shape, like Kobe.  These elite-level high school players that came in the mid 90s:  Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Jermaine O'Neal, and Tracy McGrady.  Only Kobe Bryant isn't showing signs of wear-and-tear.

[WayOutWest]

I'll tend to agree only because he's in such bad shape physically that he can't be asked to consistently carry a heavy load.  A load that most teams would ask of an "elite" player. 

Because he's so young, people forget this is T-Mac's 12th year in the league and he doesn't strike me as a player that is a work-out freak or keeps in top shape, like Kobe.  These elite-level high school players that came in the mid 90s:  Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Jermaine O'Neal, and Tracy McGrady.  Only Kobe Bryant isn't showing signs of wear-and-tear.

Actually, Kobe is showing more wear and tear than KG.  Since KG is a big man he can disguise his loss of some of his atheltic ability.  Kobe has definately lost a step as far as exploding to the basket or jumping out of the gym.  It used to be so effortless, now he has to pace himself and I don't see him jumping out of the gym on every shot.

[jn]

Given the fact that KG is 7 feet and has played 10 million minutes he's held up remarkably well.   He's never been known as a party animal and has kept himself in good shape, especially in terms of flexibility through Yoga.   Kobe has always struck me as a guy who really focuses on his health.   

And in answer to the question, yes, McGrady can't be considered an elite player at this point.