The NBA has evolved dramatically over the years, from rule changes to shifts in playing styles across different eras. This has sparked debates about whether certain players could excel in different time periods. One player often at the center of this conversation is the Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James. However, former Chicago Bulls standout Dennis Rodman once claimed that LeBron wouldn’t have been skilled enough to compete in the 1990s.
During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, James reflected on how players from previous eras have downplayed his ability to succeed in their time. Confident in his skills, the Lakers star dismissed the criticism and asserted his versatility as a player.
“Come on… I would be able to play in any era,” James stated. “It’s funny, you hear some of the older guys like, ‘LeBron James couldn’t play in this era.’ I think I saw Dennis Rodman say that once. He was like, ‘LeBron James ain’t skilled enough. Not big enough, not strong enough.’ I’m like, ‘Okay’”.
LeBron, the NBA‘s all-time leading scorer, is well-known for using his physical attributes—size, speed, and strength—to dominate the court. Considering the physicality that defined Rodman’s prime era with the Chicago Bulls, James made it clear that he would have excelled in any generation.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives against Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. (Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
What did Dennis Rodman say about LeBron?
In a 2019 interview with Overtime, Rodman confidently stated that he, Michael Jordan, and Scottie Pippen would have had no trouble shutting down LeBron on the court.
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“You know who could lock up LeBron? Me, Mike, and Scottie could. F— yeah. I would have locked his a— up. LeBron is so easy to play. He’s so f— easy to play, he don’t have any moves,” Rodman declared.
Rodman elaborated that James’ game is simplistic and reliant on a single move. “Only move he has is streak down the line,” he continued. “He ain’t got no moves. Where is he going? Where is he going that’s quick? Scottie Pippen would have shut his f— a— down quick before I get to him”.
The five-time NBA champion also dismissed James’ size as a factor, pointing out that he had faced bigger, stronger opponents throughout his career. “His game is too simple, he’s just big. I’m 260 and 6’8” or 6’9”, and that’s the only thing he’s got, pretty much. I played against guys 7-foot, 300, so it doesn’t really matter,” Rodman added.
