
via Imago
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

via Imago
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Since the 2018-19 season, LeBron James has been the centerpiece of the Los Angeles Lakers. Acquiring him in free agency, the Lakers believed that he would be the key element in helping the Lakers win their 17th championship. And he did exactly that. Alongside Anthony Davis, LeBron and the Lakers cruised past the Miami Heat in 6 games to win the 2020 NBA title.

USA Today via Reuters
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James smiles while holding the MVP and Finals trophy after game six of the 2020 NBA Finals. The Los Angeles Lakers won 106-93 to win the series. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
However, things have not been smooth since then. After a disappointing end to the 2020-21 season, the Lakers’ form seems to have dipped. This came as a surprise for fans, especially since the franchise added Russell Westbrook to the mix as well. Despite LeBron’s high-scoring performances this season, the Lakers have a dismal 29-40 W-L record so far. As a result, Skip Bayless claimed that Michael Jordan, at age of 40, had a greater impact than LeBron is having now, at the age of 37.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Skip Bayless Compares LeBron James and Michael Jordan
During an episode of the ‘Skip and Shannon: UNDISPUTED‘ show, Skip Bayless explained how Michael Jordan, during his later years on the Wizards, had a greater impact on the results than LeBron James is having now.
“Michael Jordan at age 39 and 40 was having more impact on wins and losses than LeBron is having at age 37,” said Bayless.
DIVE DEEPER: “Scared” LeBron James Asked to Learn 1 Very Important Thing From “Confident” Michael Jordan to Save Lakers
This, of course, comes due to the fact that the Lakers are having a disappointing season. With a 29-40 W-L record so far this season and a tough stretch of games left, the Lakers could finish below 37 wins – a number that Jordon achieved while playing in Washington.
So clearly, only a miracle can save the Lakers. Moreover, since the All-Star Weekend, LeBron leads the league in turnovers, and the Lakers are ranked 22nd in Opponent Points off Turnovers per game.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In Conclusion
Clearly, it’s going to take a miracle to change things in the Lakers’ favor. LeBron’s heroic scoring performances might give him an edge in the GOAT debate. However, his teams’ losses continue to push him lower in this debate.

via Imago
LeBron James (2021-22 (Stats Valid as of 18th March 2022)) and Michael Jordan (2001-03) – Player Comparison
The only thing that can save the ‘King’ now is to win another title. That may possibly bring the argument more into his favor. However, for this season at least, lifting the title looks highly impossible. LeBron James and the Lakers just have 13 games left to turn around the season. He will have to improve his scoring and reduce his turnovers to maximize his team’s chances of winning.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY: Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant and Other NBA Superstars With Must-Watch Documentaries
It remains to be seen how LeBron James and his team, LA Lakers fare in the remainder of the season.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT