Over 18 and a half years, LeBron James has only ever missed the playoffs three times in his career. But with the Lakers at 27-31 on the season, there’s a strong chance he could miss it again.
As conversations swirl about what this failure means for James and the 17x Champs, one has to wonder how it will impact the superstar’s legacy.
Despite widespread criticism from fans, FOX Sports’ Chris Broussard denied that this season, however it ends, will have a negative impact on the grand picture of LeBron’s career.
“Missing the playoffs wouldn’t hurt LeBron’s legacy at all. His legacy is set. All he can do now is add to it. If the Lakers don’t make the playoffs in his 19th year, we aren’t holding that against him. All he can do is win more Championships, win more MVPs, which will make his legacy even greater But he cannot lessen his legacy.”
"Missing the playoffs wouldn't hurt LeBron's legacy at all. His legacy is set. All he can do now is add to it. If the Lakers don't make the playoffs is his 19th year, we aren't holding that against him." — @Chris_Broussard pic.twitter.com/N0QvJ3aw1P
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) February 22, 2022
Broussard backed up his take with a comparison to Michael Jordan. During his two seasons with the Wizards, MJ failed to make the playoffs once before eventually retiring for the third (and final) time.
Not only does that fact not get held against Jordan, but it’s hardly even remembered when considering his tenure in the league.
What LeBron is doing this season, at 37-years-old, certainly deserves some credit — even if the Lakers fail to make the postseason. Through 41 games, he is averaging 29.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game on 52.5% shooting.
Add that to a resume that includes 18 All-Star appearances, 17 All-NBA selections, 4 MVPs, and 4 NBA Championships, and there are very few who can compare.
This season, we will see how far James is able to lead the Lakers. It is not too late for them to make a run and shock the world. But even if they don’t, it doesn’t do anything to diminish what the Akron native has already done.
