Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens offered some valued perspective on the life and career of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant in the devastating wake of Bryant's passing on Sunday.

Stevens said that Kobe was the modern generation's equivalent of Michael Jordan:

This is a notion that was discussed even during Bryant's playing days with the Lakers, especially because of the similarities the two legends shared.

Both Jordan and Bryant were shooting guards, and each stood 6-foot-6 in height. Just as Jordan entered the league as a high-flying phenom known for what he could do in mid-air, so too was “Frobe” notorious for his athleticism and outstanding motor.

Their careers even played out similarly. As Jordan grew older, he became a more savvy scorer and developed one of the finest midrange jumpers in NBA history. Naturally, as Jordan's predestined successor, Bryant perfected the turnaround post jumper.

Jordan finished his NBA career with six championships; Bryant capped his 20-year resume with the Lakers with five rings.

However, Steven's words have far more resonance on this solemn occasion, especially considering reactions from young players throughout the NBA.

Dallas Mavericks 20-year-old star Luka Doncic was all over Twitter when the news first broke, including a picture with Bryant's daughter, Gianna, who also tragically perished in the fatal helicopter crash:

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Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young unveiled a No. 8 jersey in honor of Bryant as he took the floor for Atlanta's game against the Washington Wizards:

Kobe Bryant was the definitive icon for the newest generation of NBA stars, who will not soon forget the impact the Lakers great had on their love for the game of basketball.