“Michael Jordan Could Still Play Bully Ball When He Was 35”: LeBron James Bashed for Kobe Bryant Style Volume Shooting

LeBron James’ consistency in performance is something that is rarely seen in NBA players. As he has gracefully aged over the years, the scoring barrage that LeBron throws at his opposition does not seem to stop. In fact, he scored 56 points in his most recent encounter against the Golden State Warriors.

This heroic from LeBron involved one of the best three point shooting performances from the ‘King’ where he shot 6-11 from beyond the arc. However, his game wasn’t reliant on shooting. Known as the ‘Freight Train,’ LeBron often used his size speed and strength to get to the basket for an easy finish. In contrast, he has now become a volume shooter like Kobe Bryant, especially from the three-point line. Skip Bayless addressed this change in style.

Skip Bayless on LeBron James

While discussing LeBron’s performance against the Warriors, Skip Bayless stated how LeBron’s style of play has changed over the years. He mentioned that the ‘King’ has become more of a shooter as opposed to his previous interior play tendency. Bayless believes that LeBron is a stronger player in the interior and must employ ‘bully ball’ to score as Michael Jordan did.

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This coupled with occasional three-point shooting can take his game even further. In response, Shannon Sharpe mentioned that players like MJ and Kobe became volume shooters in the later stages of their careers. However, Bayless disagreed with the following statement.

“Michael could still play bully ball when he was 35.”

So clearly, Bayless believes LeBron’s strength lies in taking the ball to the rim as much as possible. Although this can take a toll on his body, it’s the best way for him to score. Moreover, Bayless is right about LeBron’s exterior shooting tendency. In fact, he has had the highest number of three-point shot attempts this season as opposed to any other regular season in his career.

So in a sense, it is right for Bayless to say that LeBron must focus more on his interior game. In fact, he scored 26 points in the paint and 12 free throws in the game against the Warriors. This amounts to nearly 68% of the total 56 points. However, as mentioned earlier, interior play can affect one’s health. This is due to the increased physicality and body contact from the opposition as one gets closer to the rim.

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So maybe this is why LeBron is settling for long-distance shots. Another reason could also be the higher value of a three-pointer as opposed to a bucket. Regardless, the bottom line remains the same – LeBron must continue this consistent level of play for as long as possible. This is his responsibility as the Lakers’ frontman.