Michael Jordan has been a name that is never out of the scene, no matter the era. Every time a generational player surfaces, hoops fans combat the skills with the GOAT himself. However, a player who has matched the aura that MJ displayed during his time at this juncture is LeBron James. Also, since King James is almost at the twilight of his career, this generation’s legendary Anthony Edwards‘ name is now up for debate. However, his recent “skill” remark on the Jordan era stirred controversy, raising a question in the community. Why is Michael Jordan still relevant in today’s era over the various players who entered the league after him?

It seems ex-NBA star Gilbert Arenas has figured it out, as he expressed on Dwight Howard’s Above The Rim podcast. “He’s not real. He’s real today, but the only people that bring him up when LeBron James’ name gets. That’s the only reason Michael Jordan’s relevant,” Arenas shared his bold take on the issue. And it’s true! There is already enough competition in the league. However, when fans or veterans need to compare their skills and they can’t find any in the current generation, they go to His Airness. That might be the reason LeBron James is in a league of his own, far apart from today’s talents.

That’s what Gilbert agreed with as he further added, “They’re combating the stats the greatest like once LeBron James is solidified like you’re the GOAT, Jordan swindles.” The ex-Warrior then slammed down the Wolves‘ star’s Kobe Bryant remark once and for all as he said, “That’s why ni— is like yo why nobody talks about Kobe being a great coz he got surpassed already, there’s no point of talking about number three, it’s only one and two.”

Those number one and two positions are shuffling between Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Since the Lakers star might retire soon, does he really deserve to be the GOAT of basketball? Let’s move ahead with it.

Has LeBron James proven himself worthy of the GOAT status surpassing MJ?

It can’t be said for sure, of course, since this debate has been going on for years. However, with numbers, the debate can reach some conclusion. Like when it comes to career stats, LeBron James stands at 27.1 points per game, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists. He is more of an all-rounder with his massive frame and 6’9″ stature. On the other end, MJ was more of a scorer as his career stat line looked something like 30.1 points, 6.2 boards, and 5.3 assists. He was more of a scorer than a playmaker or a screen.

Even MJ’s 6’6″ stature and 220 lbs weight were short of LeBron’s 250 lbs. So, on the physical end, it might be safe to assume that MJ was not a match for LeBron James. Even on the wingspan, the Lakers star has an edge as his wingspan is 2.14m while that of Jordan is 2.1m. Also, when it comes to skill, His Airness was more of a volume scorer than an accurate freak. His basketball sense and longing for the baskets pushed him for excellence, blasting through the intangibles. With LeBron, it is more about accuracy.

Wondering how? Well, LeBron James’ field goal accuracy is 54%, while that of Jordan was 49.7%. However, it also depends on the era, facilities, and requirements. And when those factors come into play, no doubt, Michael Jordan is the GOAT. Because learning the game today is quite easy for everyone. But who made it global? MJ did.