The basketballing world may never see any other like Michael Jordan again, or LeBron, of course. Although they played in different eras, the epic duo have become symbolic figures to the entire NBA. However, fans are increasingly anxious to close the GOAT debate — Michael Jordan or LeBron James?
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James recently broke a record to become the NBA’s leading top scorer. The historic feat was achieved after Jordan averaged 27.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.3 assists in the 1,410 games of his 20th season. For Jordan, the forward maestro attained 30.1 points with 6.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists in 1,072 games across 15 seasons.
However, while James just surpassed Abdul-Jabbar’s 40-year-old record to become the NBA’s top scorer, many fans don’t think it’s enough reason to crown the Lakers forward as the greatest NBA player ever. According to them, the modern basketball game is less tactical than during the time of Jordan.
George Karl, former NBA coach who lent his opinions to the debate, attested that Jordan would “average a 40 PPG triple-double in the modern game”.
The new record-breaker LeBron James isn’t shy about what he thinks of himself. The NBA legend pointed out after Tuesday’s game that he will pick himself over any other player in the NBA.
“For me personally, I am always going to take myself against anybody that has ever played this game, but everyone is going to have their favorite. Everyone is going to decide who their favorite is,” James said.