Gretzky and Jordan were great because of their understanding of the way the game was back then. Yes being an astronaut nowdays might seem less arduous and dangerous but that doesn't mean that the only 'real' astronauts were durring the Apollo program.
I think what makes a great player is the ability for situational awareness. He doesn't have a 120 scout, he has a BW south on his team, he is up against a US T4 CV, he plays acordingly. He does not throw his hands up and blame while waiting for the retreat countdown. When it comes time, he dies hard.