Out of 100s of superstars that have walked on the NBA hardwood, only a selected few are the favorites for the famous GOAT title. The likes of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Wilt Chamberlain, and Bill Russell among a few others are the frontrunners for the prestigious title. However, there are only two whose names will forever be associated with this debate – Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
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For years now, analysts and basketball enthusiasts over the world have been arguing over the two icons’ greatness.
While MJ supporters bring in the Bulls legend’s scoring ability, mentality, and famous ‘6-0’ record during the argument, LeBron fans use the Lakers star’s physicality, durability, and versatility as a rebuttal.
Also Read: Allen Iverson Once Said LeBron James Would Never Surpass MJ as The GOAT
A few years ago, Magic Johnson spoke about this same topic, making his pick for the GOAT title pretty clear.
“Michael Jordan never lost in the NBA Finals”: Magic Johnson
Back in 2017, during an interview with Patrick Bet-David, Johnson made it pretty clear that His Airness was the greatest player of all time. Further, when asked to reveal what LBJ needed to do in order to surpass the 6-foot-6 HOFer, Magic said:
“He would probably have to win 7 or 8 because right now, you have to remember something about Michael – he never lost in the NBA Finals. Never. And he averaged like, in those finals he was averaging like 35 points per game. He was putting in work. So, that’s hard.”
Further, the former 3-time MVP spoke about a hypothetical draft and how he would still select Jordan even if James managed to win 7 championships in his career.
Patrick: “If we play draft pick, greatest of all time, and LeBron wins 7, you have first pick. Whose (Who’s) your number 1 draft pick?”
Magic: “Michael. I’m taking Michael. Look, I love me some LeBron. I think that besides his jumping ability, we are similar in what we do cause he makes his teammates better, he’s great, (and) he wants to win. But, when I think about trying to surpass Michael and also the competition Michael had to beat to win, but LeBron has done great things for the game today and he wants to win again, that’s why I like him. But, I gotta take Michael.”
Can LeBron James win 7 championships and overtake MJ as the GOAT?
Over the span of his 20-year career, the 6-foot-9 forward has constructed a decorated resume, to say the least. Apart from winning 4 championships, 4 MVPs, 4 Finals MVPs, and 18 All-Star appearances, Bron holds several records to his name.
As great as the future Hall-Of-Famer is playing despite being 37 years old, as impossible as it sounds, it is extremely difficult for him to win 3-4 championships more.
Yes, it will be a great achievement even if Bron manages to add another title to his resume. And when he does that, it is only going to strengthen his case for the GOAT debate. However, until then, we have to give MJ his dues.
Also Read: Where is the New Michael Jordan MVP Trophy Silhouette From?
