One of the biggest debates in all of sports is about who the greatest of all time is within the game of basketball. For a long time, the easy answer was former Chicago Bulls shooting guard Michael Jordan, but Los Angeles Lakers All-Star forward LeBron James has been giving him a run for his money over the last decade. Arguments can also be made for Lakers center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Boston Celtics big man Bill Russell.
James became the all-time leading scorer in the NBA last season, further helping cement his already historic resume. There are many who believe that James has surpassed Jordan on the list of players, including myself and I promise that it took me a good while to do so.
Many current NBA players have jumped into the debate, as well as former players too. It’s a hot topic that always seems to spark heated conversation no matter who initiates it.
It seems that long-time ESPN NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith may be waffling on his pick between Jordan and James. Smith has long defended Jordan but seems to be leaning more toward James of late.
No matter who you believe the GOAT is, what James is doing this season is incredibly impressive. He may not be the same player that he once was, but he is still going strong in year 21.
He is doing things that nobody ever thought would be possible and makes it look easy as well. James has shown the ability to still take over a game at any time, and he has carried the Lakers during their early season struggles.
James is still adding to his legacy, and could further help his case by winning another championship. But even if he were to do so, there are some who would still pick Jordan over him in the long run.