Throughout NBA history, only a select few have truly left their mark on the league. Icons like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Larry Bird certainly made lasting impressions, but it was Michael Jordan who redefined greatness and sparked the GOAT debate. While LeBron James has inserted himself into this conversation, many still hesitate to crown him the ultimate winner. Recently, a former three-time NBA champion offered a surprising take on the Lakers veteran’s place in this ongoing discussion.
“[It’s] hard to have this GOAT conversation with guys while [we’re] watching who’s still playing, right? Because he’s going against the GOAT… We haven’t been able to digest LeBron [James’] body of work yet… It’s very unfair for him,” Dwyane Wade said, via Wy Network.
Wade and LeBron teamed up for five years with the Miami Heat, where fans witnessed what many consider the pinnacle of James’ career. Together, they clinched two NBA championships. Considering the latter, Dwayne’s perspective on LeBron is understandable. As time passes and fans feel his absence, his legacy will likely receive greater appreciation, perhaps attracting more support in the ongoing debate about his greatness.
Moreover, LeBron James remains focused as he nears the end of his illustrious career, still chasing a fifth championship to elevate his legendary status. Reaffirming his commitment to the Los Angeles Lakers, James has joined the ranks of franchise icons like Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant. Securing another title could solidify his legacy and shift the debate, positioning him ahead of contemporaries like Stephen Curry as the greatest player of this era.
Neither Jordan nor LeBron: NBA Hall of Famer Clyde Drexler delivers bold take on GOAT debate
The debate over the NBA’s Greatest of All Time continues to spark passionate discussions throughout the league. While Michael Jordan and LeBron James often dominate these conversations, not everyone agrees with focusing on just these two legends. In light of this, NBA Hall of Famer Clyde Drexler recently voiced his strong opinions on the matter, adding a significant perspective to the conversation.
“I have a real problem with that. For all these guys who played the game, for you to have a conversation, are these two guys the GOAT when you got Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, two of the greatest players that ever lived, you start with those two. And then you’ve got guys like Dr. J [Julius Erving], Larry Bird, George Gervin, Elgin Baylor, Oscar Robertson, Jerry West… all those guys are in the conversation,” Clyde Drexler said, via ESPN.