Jordan, the face of the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty, holds six NBA championships, including two remarkable three-peats interrupted only by a brief retirement. LeBron, meanwhile, has earned four titles across three franchises and has sustained elite performance levels since gaining national attention as a high school prodigy.

As what could be LeBron James’ final season with the Los Angeles Lakers unfolds, The Athletic surveyed 142 active NBA players on their GOAT choice. The result: Michael Jordan garnered 45.9% of the vote, edging out LeBron James, who received 42.1%. A separate poll conducted by HoopsHype widened the gap—Jordan led with 49%, while LeBron came in at 37%.

A shift in perspective: Devonte’ Graham’s take

One player’s opinion, however, reflects how personal experiences can reshape the GOAT conversation. Devonte’ Graham, currently with the San Antonio Spurs, once played for the Charlotte Hornets under then-majority owner Michael Jordan. Speaking to HoopsHype, Graham revealed his stance has changed.

“I played for the GOAT, Michael Jordan,“ Graham said. “He paid me. When I played there, he was definitely the GOAT. Once I got traded, it became LeBron.“

Although Jordan sold his majority stake in the Hornets last year, he retains a minority ownership in the franchise. Graham‘s shift in viewpoint highlights how proximity to greatness—and a change in vantage point—can influence even those inside the league.

Graham’s journey across the NBA

After being traded from the Hornets to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2021, Graham was later dealt to the San Antonio Spurs in February. This season, he averaged 5 points and 2.1 assists over 23 games, offering a veteran presence to a young squad. His first-hand interactions with Jordan as an owner and continued observation of LeBron’s longevity and achievements have clearly impacted his perception of greatness.

While fan focus will be on the best teams like the Bucks, the New Jersey Nets, the Boston Celtics, or the top players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, James Harden, and Kevin Durant, we can’t count out the players who are looking to have a breakout year.

That sixth man or most improved player is always key to taking their team to the next level, and we have chosen 5 players ready to have a breakout year in the 2021/2022 NBA season. Here are our 5 picks!

1. Keldon Johnson – San Antonio Spurs

Now in his third season, Keldon Johnson is coming off of a Team USA participation at the Summer Olympics and usually Olympic players see substantial increase in playing time the following year, especially after a gold medal run. With a bit more experience to call his own look for Gregg Popovich to get the most out of his power forward.

2. Devonte Graham – New Orleans Pelicans

Devonte Graham is a talented player and after a rough season with the Charlotte Hornets a change in scenery was in order. Now in New Orleans, Graham will replace Lonzo Ball and will be alongside Zion Williamson, look for these two to create a great one-two punch.

3. RJ Barrett – New York Knicks

RJ Barrett now enters his third season with the Knicks as a much-improved player, having increased his numbers in his two previous seasons. Now it’s time for the first-round draft pick to earn his keep, Barrett showed not only stat improvement but better overall awareness on the court and on a New York Knicks side who will want to improve on their quick playoff run from last year, he will be key.

4. Facundo Campazzo -Denver Nuggets

Facundo Campazzo had a feet wetting first season with the Denver Nuggets, the veteran 30-year-old has a long list of accolades from his time in Europe and injuries last season opened a lot of doors for the Argentine to showcase his talents and show he can be a team player. Campazzo now has the confidence of his teammates and coaching staff to play a bigger role for the Nuggets this season. The man won over 10 championships in his career, the Nuggets need to get more out of him.

5. Tyler Herro – Miami Heat

Now entering his third season in the NBA, Tyler Herro had an explosive first season only to match that with an equally low second season. Nonetheless Herro’s numbers were better last year, still the Heat have a much-improved roster heading into the new NBA season and may make a run for the NBA title. Herro could be a go to guy for bucket shots and could be a strong sixth man this season.