Yeah, I can. There are tons of guys in professional sports who aren't like that. One example that comes to mind is John McEnroe, whose praise and admiration for Roger Federer seems genuine and deep. There are countless other examples of former players -- even HoFers -- turned commentators who have been able to acknowledge the greatness of those who came after.
McEnroe is exactly what you want in a commentator, someone with a great amount of knowledge, a good amount of attitude and snark, but also a healthy respect for today's players.