He may have a bone to pick with Michael Jordan, but Reggie Miller has deep respect for his former rival. Furthermore, he’s transferring similar respect to MJ’s opponent in the GOAT debate. While he’s at it, he has seemingly taken a shot at MJ’s relatively shorter career. The Knick Killer bestowed serious honor on LeBron James, who is edging towards the end of his playing career. According to Miller, there is something King James has accomplished now that Jordan couldn’t.

It’s not the first time Miller has chimed in on this raging debate. His latest opinions shut down any doubts about LeBron James’ longevity.

Reggie Miller is full of praise for LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers turned the tide on the Phoenix Suns during the fourth quarter, with LeBron James leading the charge. He scored on back-to-back possessions, ending their home season opener with a 100-95 win. He’s proving that despite being in his 21st year, he’s far from declining. This, according to Reggie Miller, is the most phenomenal thing about King James.

During the game, when the Lakers were up to 99, Reggie Miller said, “21 years in the association, Michael was not doing this.” You’d wonder what Michael Jordan had to do with this game, but Miller can make anything about him.

Even though he admitted he considered MJ the GOAT, he was blown away by James’ longevity and commitment. He compared His Airness’ career trajectory to James’. Unlike James, MJ retired twice and spent a total of 15 years in the NBA. After his second three-peat, there was a visible decline in his skills leading up to his retirement. Miller sees no such decline in James’ “waning” years.

Comparatively, James seems to have the fountain of youth in his backyard as he’s pushing 39 without concerning decline. He’d say himself that he’s not playing at the standard he wants to be at but his strong performance still makes him a worthwhile asset to NBA teams.

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James scored 21 points in this game before the home crowd. 10 of them were in the fourth quarter alone when the Lakers took the lead. Despite being the oldest player on the roster, he’s proving Miller right.

Reggie Miller’s pick for GOAT

Though he took a dig at His Airness in the same breath he praised James, Miller has the highest regard for his fiercest opponent. Saying that whoever criticizes James for his age is a Michael Jordan fan, he said, “Everyone considers Michael Jordan the greatest. I personally do. ‘Cause I got my b**t whooped many times against him.” That’s a backhanded compliment if there is one.

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He has a similar admiration for James. He sees MVP quality in him regardless of age. However, because he’s endured MJ’s fierceness in his prime and played against rookie LeBron bursting with potential, he declared both of them his GOATs. Most would call it a cop-out. But do you agree with Reggie Miller’s comparisons?