LeBron James and Anthony Davis led the dominant LA Lakers to their 17th NBA title last season. However, many fans believed that the Lakers had an easy path to that ring as most of the competition was eliminated early in the postseason.
Regardless of that, LBJ won the 4th ring of his career and strengthened his credentials in the perennial GOAT debate. With a string of victories, James and the Lakers have established themselves as strong favorites in the 2020-21 season as well.
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However, with James Harden forming a Big 3 with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving after the recent mega trade, the common belief is that Lakers’ championship window has closed. It could be true to some extent, but LeBron has proved time and time again that he can overcome hardships in his quest for an NBA title.
Kendrick Perkins talks about the impact of James Harden’s trade on LeBron James and the Lakers
NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins has always been known to uphold James as the GOAT. He is back with a pretty good reason for why LBJ could become the undisputed GOAT this season. Perkins said:
“I don’t need to be convinced that Bron is the GOAT, it’s stamped. But if this Nets team can make it out the East and Bron takes care of them, he’s the undisputed GOAT. Beating 2 super teams today is greater than 6-0 in the 90s. Carry on..”
I don’t need to be convinced that Bron is the GOAT, it’s stamped. But if this Nets team can make it out the East and Bron takes care of them, he’s the undisputed GOAT.
Beating 2 super teams today is greater than 6-0 in the 90s. Carry on…
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) January 14, 2021
If LBJ wins another ring this season, it will be the 5th of his career. However, if he can bag that against the Eastern juggernauts, its value will be amplified. Regardless of the outcome, if the two sides face off, it will be a memorable matchup.
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Brooklyn Nets vs Los Angeles Lakers – Which team is better?
Following the Harden trade, the Brooklyn Nets have one of the strongest starting 5s in the league. Their team will be spearheaded by Harden, Irving, and Durant. But if there is one flaw that we can point out, it will be their average defense.
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On the other hand, the Lakers are making their bread and butter on the defensive end of the court. Along with a strong defense, they have a deep bench that can hold the fort until their superstars catch a breath.
Keeping everything in mind, as of now, the LA Lakers look like the better team. But we will get a clearer picture once we see the Nets’ Big 3 in action.