Michael Jordan had the most dominant stretch that any player has ever enjoyed in the history of the NBA throughout the 90s. Not only did he win 6 titles in 8 years, but he was also regularly leading the league in scoring and winning MVPs while doing so. his accomplishments during his prime are what set him apart as the GOAT, while other players have amassed more points or accolades in other departments, they didn’t quite have a peak like his. According to many analysts like Chris Broussard, even LeBron James is a firm No. 2 to MJ.
Those that make a case for LeBron as the GOAT often point to his longevity, it is true that James has played more seasons at an elite level than Jordan managed. He isn’t showing any signs of slowing down just yet either, and has a chance to win more. However, according to NBA fan Miguel Jordan on Twitter, the fact that MJ had more accolades in fewer seasons at the top is what makes his case better.
Michael Jordan: played 4 seasons/284 games fewer than LeBron.
Also Michael Jordan:
– 2 more rings
– 2 more Finals MVPs
– 1 more MVP
– 1 more DPOY
– 9 more scoring titles
– 3 more steals titles
– 3 more All-Defensive teams
than LeBron.
It’s about efficiency, not longevity. 🐐 pic.twitter.com/sa4BSAN23z
— Miguel Jordán (@PettyAirJordan) March 7, 2022
LeBron James has shown the ability to be an elite defensive player throughout his career, but he’s obviously not been at the same level as consistently as Jordan was. The fact that Jordan managed to achieve more of every single major award in significantly fewer seasons than James is a very strong point in favor of MJ as the GOAT. This comparison between their first 13 seasons in the league provides further insight into the differences between the two.
The argument that is often made is that LeBron James still has time to achieve the same number of awards as Jordan before he retires, but even if he should do so, the fact that Jordan was able to do it in lesser time will always remain. The fact that he took a break in the middle of his prime and returned to dominate again almost immediately is unbelievable to think about.
The debate will likely go on for many more decades to come, as younger players also try to make their case to be considered the greatest to ever do it but overcoming Jordan’s prime will take a lot of work for anyone no matter how good they might be. As for LeBron James, he’ll have to do something truly spectacular in his remaining 2-3 seasons if he wishes to strengthen his case.
