Open letter to LeBron James
The dictionary definition of King is “a male sovereign”, “a chief among competitors”. My definition is “The Man, unstoppable, pure and close to perfection in the art of dominating”.
LeBron, you are not that yet and if you don’t start to work on your deficiencies you will be removed from the title of King that should not have been bestowed upon you at such young age – especially when we still have Kobe Bryant, who is the best player on the planet.
I really love your upside. I think you have the ability to become one of the best players in the history of this league. I also think you have a chance to become one of its biggest failures.
Here’s why…
LeBron, you refuse to work on the most difficult part of the game. I have no clue who your shooting coach might be, but he has not helped you.
I still see the same mistakes in your jumper that I saw when I watched you during those ESPN high school games. The Pistons have studied film and they know your weaknesses. They have exploited you and sadly you and your team are slowly fading away because of it.
The Pistons have decided to pack the paint so deep with defenders that you have no choice but to shoot or pass. You have decided to pass, which has added up to 16 assists in the first two games. The problem is your team needs you to score and the Pistons have thrown the kryptonite at you and it’s working.
LeBron, in order to become a player like Air Jordan or Kobe Bryant you must master the skill that set those two apart from everybody else. MJ and Kobe had and have an unbelievable mid-range game to go with excellent free-throw shooting. With that, you wouldn’t allow any defense to stop you in your quest for excellence on offense.
Let me give you a war analogy – thus using the History degree I received from the University Of Illinois… The airplane and missile were the best inventions ever for war because they allowed you to strike from far distances and achieve great benefits without exhausting your troops and putting them in harms way consistently. The plane and the missile are also the most laborious to perfect because of cost and the time it takes to build them.
This use of weaponry softened up the defensive tactics of the enemies and made them come out in the open. Then the enemies would be taken advantage of.
That’s what the jump shot does in basketball. It forces the defense to extend itself, thus allowing you to penetrate and still achieve success – but in a more devastating and precise manner.
LeBron, you have no consistent ability to achieve that on the basketball court. I have to believe that whoever coaches you on shooting is constantly reminding you of one fatal flaw. Every time you shoot the ball, you are off balance. You are either fading away or leaning sideways. What that does is force you to shoot at a moving target. Your mechanics are not the greatest, but if you would just eliminate those off-balances flaws you would have a better result.
Think about it. All you needed was two more of those jumpers to fall and the Cavaliers would be up 2-0 instead of down 2-0. But it was obvious to me in Game 1 – when you had a layup and passed it to Donyell Marhall – that you were occupied with the thought of maybe having to go to the free-throw line and then having to hit two shots.
At the end of Game 2, you had a 10-foot jumper at your leisure over Richard Hamilton but you executed a half-hook off-balance shot and wanted a foul – which you know officials will not call to decide a game. Just look at the hit Rasheed Wallace put on noted flopper Anderson Varejao. He did not get called. (And he should have).
Bottom line with my war analogy… The planes and missiles are laborious and expensive. It takes hours upon hours to perfect the best weapon. Well, the jump shot is the same way. You need to put more quality time on perfecting that jumper or you will be dethroned.
LeBron, also please tell your coach that he will not win the series unless he rolls the dice and puts shooters on the floor. That means Donyell Marshall, Damon Jones, Daniel Gibson and Sasha Pavlovic. That might allow you to shake loose like you did for a short stint in the first half of Game 2.
LeBron, I did write an article a while ago about Danny Ferry’s big mistake: not supplying you with enough shooters. Larry Hughes was not the answer (6-22 in the series). This is not Hughes’ fault. He is just not a shooter. We saw Hughes’ awkward fade away at the end of Game 2. A real shooter would have used the glass to soften the touch on a shot like that. So because of the lack of long-range snipers, you are shooting 12 for 34 after the first two games and things look very bleak.
Your kingdom is very much exposed and taking a beating. Take my advice and toughen it up by developing that mid-range game like Mike and Kobe did and then you really will be King.
Torrey D. Elcan Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 6:04 pm
I really appreciate you telling it like it is, because when I talk basketball with people they say that Lebron is the best player in the league and this is not true. He is the best player in Madison Avenue’s opinion. I have to go 1A-Kobe Bryant, 1-B Tim Duncan, 2-Dwayne Wade, Kevin Garnett and so on. I love his game, but he needs to work on the jump shot like you said, and also free throw he looks like he does not want to take the shot when he has to.
Oliver Harris Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 6:40 pm
Eddie you are correct. Labron is a great talent but he has not earned the right to be called the best basketball player in the league. The problem I have with him is that he tries to distribute too much and seems to run away from the game winning shot. The Cavaliers have done an injustice to him by not having a true point guard on the team thus causing Labron to just be a distributor instead of the man on most occasions. Labron will one day be great but as always everyone is looking for that next Michael Jordan and he has a ways to go.
Chris Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 6:51 pm
I have been watching Lebron play since his days in Akron, and although I have seen a little improvement, I totally agree with you. There really is no excuse for James’ lack of consistency from the field. His strength will most likely always be attacking the basket, but staying one-dimensional offensively for much longer will nullify that. Tony Parker, Mike Bibby, and Dwyane Wade are guys that have come into the league with sub-par jumpers, and have all evolved into guys who are lights out from between 12 and 20 feet. As a Cavs fan, I hope that day comes soon for Lebron. Maybe Sunday??? Pleeeeaaassse?
al davis Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 6:57 pm
I feel LJ gets frustated wih his teammates & he’s afraid to screw up so he passes off. He needs to develop some alternative shots for he’s predictable & guardable.
james Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 7:26 pm
Lebron is so overrated in my opinion. He is not a good closer and not a good shooter he can suck a cock 4 all i care.
Luka B, WAterloo Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 7:27 pm
yo boyz, lebron is sik yo. SJAM fo life. bre. yes murp!!!
Wise Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 7:37 pm
Funny how LeBron gets bashed for taking a bunch of scrubs to the Eastern Conference Finals at the age of 22. Michael Jordan didn’t get to the Eastern Conference Finals until he was 26. Michael Jordan turned the ball over and missed free throws in the final 2 minutes of close playoff games early in his career, (if you don’t believe me then go watch those playoff games, and not the playoff games when MJ was 30 years old). MJ had a 1-9 record in the playoffs after his first 3 appearances. LeBron’s 15-10 so far in the middle of his 2nd appearance.
All you guys hating on LeBron are going to look silly after his career is over much like all you guys looked silly for bashing MJ early in his career.
3sixD Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 7:48 pm
You know the best thing about LeBron, he’s gonna read this and take your advice. He isnt gonna get mad and he isnt gonna get offended, he’s gonna take it as a challenge. I continue to look forward to the growth of Lebron James,
Matin Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 7:51 pm
EJ : wonderful article and fantastic analogy. I would like to one additional thing - posting up. With Lebron’s size and strength you rarely see him leveraging the post : this allows the defense to sag and eventually collapse and counter his stagnant offensive repoitoire. LeBron is a fantastic player but his improvement over the course of 4 years has been stagnant. Then again, he was so impressive coming into the league that to expect even more is unrealistic. He is only 22 years old - will he be the prince or the pauper?
jon Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 7:52 pm
thank you Eddie. It’s about time someone pointed this out. Can you please help LeBron out? I just don’t want to see someone who could be the greatest of all time end up with nothing just because someone couldn’t teach him a jump shot.
Daniel Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 8:08 pm
I love LBJ, but it may be true that he might not be king yet, that title belongs to Kobe, duncan or maybe Nash. But all this that he don’t want to screw up and miss freetrows is just pure untrue. Lebron is a pure leader and he has a big trust in his teammates and that’s why he passes on the shot! He believes that that is the right desision and he knows they can hit the longball to win the game.
Lucky Luciano Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 8:43 pm
Fools…When was Kobe and Duncan drafted? oh right, in the last century. Give Lebron a couple more years Eddie and we’ll see that LeBron will have developed everything u have just talked about, and he will have achieved it through ‘maturity’ just like every great player, would Magic have taken the Lakers to the finals without the rest of the showtimers in his 3rd year? No. Kobe is the best player in the game but he’s matured heaps more than lebron
George Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 8:51 pm
LeBron is definitely not the best player in the league. He is not a good shooter but he has unbelievable strength for a swingman and that makes him unstoppable when he drives to the basket. It is obvious though, that LeBron, in order to achieve in what he wants(win a title) it’s not enough only driving to the basket. One of his biggest strengths is his passing ability which I think is unbelievable for a player who’s not starting as a point guard. He has to learn how to shoot. His shot mechanics are awful for a player with so huge expectations. At 6-8 1/2 and 250 lbs he has the perfect body for guard-forward. Very strong and quick and athletic. But really, imagine LeBron when he improves his shooting by 25-30 %…. No doubt he will be the best player.
Thamand1 Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 8:52 pm
The problem with Lebron is that he is only 22 and learning the game, but he has been deemed the next mj since he was a junior in high school. He is paid as the next mj, gets endorsements as the next mj, get critized too much for not being the next mj. He is 22 and still learning the game, but he gets the perks of the next mj.At this point in his career he is over hyped and the system that he plays in changes from night to night. Is he a power forward, a point forward, small forward??? Is he suppose to drive and dominate the paint or be an accomidator. His role needs to be defined and a system built around it. His handlers should back off hyping him. He needs to find his role in basketball and life. At 22, he has all the $ he needs for 10 lifetimes and he will earn plenty more.It is hard to realize how good he is at 22. It is harder to realize at only 22 he is not mj because people have been saying he is the next mj for 6 years. He needs to just play and have fun. It is hard to have the weight of a franchise on your shoulders at 22.
jay Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 8:55 pm
Your letter was very well written but Kobe is at home.Yes there are things that THE KING has to do to better his game.But becoming one of the leagues biggest failures?Look at what he has accomplished in a short time
longback Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 9:24 pm
last i know, kobe never put the lakers in the conference finals himself. is that what you call best player on the planet? that’s the most selfish i guess. look at lebron, he may have his weaknesses but all he thinks of is team wins. go figure, cavs in the conference finals all because of lebron’s team-first attitude.
jhay jhay Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 9:52 pm
LeBron James is so Overrated…he called himself a King….but he’s suck….he must reach the level of Kobe Bryant…or atleast the second best wing player of the league Paul Pierce….
niwdle Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 10:25 pm
dude we ain’t fools! you must have known mr. wade used to have a very terrible perimeter game but every year he but effort in adding the jump shot into his game… this what made him hard to guard because even he gets fouled he still have a chance at the line which is also one of the deficiencies of king james… what mr. johnson told us that this is what made king james human… his jump shot and free throw woes… james is a really great team player but james is the franchise player so he have to lift up their team to new heights by elevating his game to the next level. look at the box score every game buddies! you’ll see the idea of mr. johnson is pointing out…
Eric Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 10:39 pm
Kobe best player on earth???no….Tim Duncan and steve nash r both better than him. When kobe actuallry starts raising the level of the play of his teammates, then u can make the argument. Btw contary to popular belief or hype, the lakers do have players other than kobe, lamar bynum, walton, vladmir turiaf, cook,etc r all solid to good players. Stop making excuses fo kobe.As for lebron…well eddie, wats wrong with passing to a guy with a wide open shot attempt??? why r u crticizing him for making the right play instead of forcing it up in front of two defenders? even u said urself that at end of games, refs tend to not call fouls…….so i dont see wats wrong with giving it to a SHOOTER to shoot the three.
Carnell Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 11:10 pm
Eric,
Kobe is the best player in the NBA PERIOD!!!!! I’ve watched quite a few Lakers games this year. No excuses, Kobe has no help. Odom is inconsistant. Odom lacks aggressiveness. He knows he’s thier second scoring option but doesn’t look to do it. He has no jumper and can only go left. Walton is a smart player but he is turn over prone & has offensive deficencies. Cook doesn’t play a lick of defense and refuses to hustle. The only real player that brings a competitive attitude is Turiaf. Look at the Lakers roster. Bynum is really the only one that has something to become a special player, but it’s going to be a project. Kobe has no one to help him now, in his prime.
You also said Kobe don’t elevate his players. How can he???? He does pass, if you watch the Phoenix series this year and last year. Every time he passed out of a double or triple team, they failed to make wide open shots. Unlike LeBron, when Kobe sees his teammates aren’t getting the job done, he will put his team on his back. I do believe he got them to the playoffs two years in a row. I promise you Nash and Duncan couldn’t get these guys there. How could they, when no one can make an open shot and it takes a player like Kobe to have to hit 50 just to give his team a chance to win. You need to watch a little closer. Kobe by far is the best player in the NBA!!!! He’s solid offensively & defensively. He does pass also, so don’t come at me with that one. He was just as much responsible for the 3peat as Shaq.
Steven K Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 11:12 pm
Gimme a break dude… LeBron James is by far the most refined / game time ready player to come straight out of high school. Think of what he’s accomplished thus far in his short NBA career. Look at how many times he’s made the playoffs and how many playoff series’ he’s won. It’s truly incredible considering the Cavs were absolute garbage when they drafted him. Compare him to Kobe but keep in mind the rocky learning curve and the excellent, veteran cast he played along side with during his successful tenure. And keep in mind where Lebron is Right now and Kobe Isn’t (always deep in the playoffs).
If he’s not the King than he’s the prince
and it’s only a matter of time before he’s crowned!
Damien Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 11:26 pm
Mr. Johnson I respect you and your knowledge as a basketball player. But you and everyone else need to stop mentioning Kobe’s name as the best player on the planet. Just like James need to earn the king title. So does Kobe. He has yet to win a playoff series since The Big Aristotle left town. Like the saying goes names are made in the postseason. Tell kobe to give you those streak of great games he did in the regular season in the posteason and they will win also. At least James can win a series. James has defeciencies true but so does Kobe. Kobe dosent demonstrate the ability to make players better. They were up 3 to 1 against the suns and could’nt close the series out. The best in the league can finish a series out. Thats my argument. Niether is MJ and no ones close. So stop with the comparisons.
Nick Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 11:43 pm
LeBron is overrated, at this stage of his career, although he is still one of my favorite players (I stick by what I believe). Clearly, he is still very young, not even at his peak, but he’s already putting up amazing numbers. Remember that he is still 22 years old and in time, a year or two, he will mature and grow to be an amazing player. He messed up these last two games but I think this series is a good experience for a budding superstar like him and it will help him learn and mature from mistakes like this.
Rashidi Said,
May 25, 2007 @ 11:44 pm
LeBron has barely improved in the last two years. If anything, he regressed from last season.
It is very fair to criticize LeBron because he has made no effort to correct the obvious flaws in his jumper. As EJ said, he has had these same flaws since entering the league. Most players with kinks in their jumper in HS or college get them worked out as soon as they enter the pros. While LeBron ended up being a better shooter than was anticipated given his HS track record (as well as all those airballs in his rookie preseason), but he has not improved on it since his second season.
I would fire Cleveland’s shooting coach effective immediately because I noticed that Cleveland players have worse FT years than they did before becoming Cavs.
Lebron shot a career worst .698 and has regressed every year since hitting .754 as a rookie (and .750 as a sophmore, so clearly something is off).
Hughes shot .676, easily his career worst, and also stands out since his final two years in Washington he shot .797 and .777
Eric Snow, a career .767 shooter who has shot over 80% in the past, has been at .688 and .633 the past two years.
Damon Jones, while not the greatest FT shooter (.727 career), was at .764 and .791 two years before joining the Cavs. Since joining? .640 and .681.
Donyell Marshall? Shot .663 this year. He shot .791 before joining Cleveland and is .730 for his career.
Gooden shot .714 compared to .684 last year, however he also shot 81% in 2005 and is .715 for his career.
The only players to actually improve on their FT shooting with Cleveland are Ilgauskas, Pavlovic, and Varejao (any coincidence that they’re the teams’ three Euros?)
Clearly something is literally “amiss” in Cleveland. Players over the last two years have been underperforming at the line.
In 2003 and 2004 Cleveland was 75% from the line, then after adding more shooters they regress to .695? What gives?
Eddie Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 12:15 am
great responses guys. lets help king james out! i hope he reads this article. the truth hurts. And yes i know Jordan, Karl Malone, Magic struggled early with the J. Thats why i hope he understands criticism and turns it into a positive
niwdle Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 1:04 am
lebron is a responsible player… i know he can elevate his game to greater its just that its to late to practice shooting and experimenting since their opponent is the pistons… kobe is the best one-on-one player! he’s got all the tools… how many player who achieved what kobe did? well both lakers and cavs are not balanced as far as the roster is concern but cleveland is a lot deeper and more of a defensive team since their coach is a defense minded coach… i believe the coach focused more on the defensive end since they want to add the defensive toughness since it said to make teams win championships… maybe later on if their defense is like 2nd nature to then they might revert back to making the plays work… another fact is defending makes you work twice as hard because basically your kinda guessing what the offensive player is going to do in possession of the ball…
Hudson River Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 1:09 am
“would Magic have taken the Lakers to the finals without the rest of the showtimers in his 3rd year?”
Uhmm I hope you remember he played center and recorded a triple double in his rookie season. Sorry to burst your bubble, although he did struggle with his jumpshot.
Hudson River Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 1:10 am
“would Magic have taken the Lakers to the finals without the rest of the showtimers in his 3rd year?”
Uhmm I hope you remember he played center and recorded a triple double in his rookie season in the finals because Kareem was out, I think it was game 7… Sorry to burst your bubble, although its true he did struggle with his jump shot and wasn’t the same player he was later in his career.
Omar Aberilla Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 2:21 am
First of all, the annointing of James as “King” was a marketing ploy and more importantly, such royal treatment albeit premature, can be attributed to the media (which sadly includes you Eddie). It’s always inappropriate to attach such titles on anyone until they have proven their worth even if they were perceived or hyped, if you will, to be that good. Unless ofcourse, the price is right. That’s the burden of being so young yet so talented i guess. And besides, if Lebron’s last name was different there wouldn’t even be a discussion on his monicker.:) King Kobe sounds a bit off but fits perfectly well. But all’s not too late for Lebron “The Chosen One” James.
LéGuy Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 2:37 am
First I wanna thank u for great - I mean really GREAT post! I am so happy someone can see what is obvious and writes about it… I thought many times about LeBron and his jumper but who would listen to me:))
And for all those LeBron fans… u gotta be happy someone opened this topic, maybe lebron will open in during the summer. So save the “king” nickname for at least couple of seaseons…
Emre Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 3:03 am
when you look at lebron, you see the greatest talent in the world and it’s sad that he’s not using that to be the best player in the world.
eddie wrote about shooting, but i believe he has other weaknesses. do you remember last summer when greece destroyed usa? all they did was play pick-n-roll and zone-defence and usa team had no solution for that. like all his teammates, lebron CONSTANTLY tried to get pass his defenders, isolate, play one-on-one and failed to get the result, because that’s not the way you play against teams like that. he should master a great jumpshot and read the game better, like when mj was playing, he was some kind of a bug in a computer game, his mind was so in the game and he knew every little detail he had to do. he did the right thing all the time on the court.
with all these said, i believe lebron will win a championship in three years even if doesn’t master his weaknesses. i just wish he becomes the master of the game like mj and then win it all.
Omar Aberilla Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 3:15 am
Now that we have that King stuff out of the way, I know the article was directed at pointing out areas of improvement for LeBron, which I must admit is right on point. People seem to expect a lot from the kid. It’s probably because when you get to the pros nobody really cares or they to tend to forget how old you are, you still have got to show up. And rightly so. James’ skill set is absolutely impressive, defying his age. He’s a star as it is, but still far from being anywhere near the ranks of an MJ or a Kobe Bryant in terms of clutch performances and accomplishments. Fortunately, he’s young and still has a lot of upside although it’s really up to how much he’s willing to put in some work. But even if he does improve and has every weakness addressed, he’s better off being his own person and having his own style of play than living up to comparisons.
LeBron James Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 4:31 am
I am LeBron James, thank you Eddie! Don’t worry, I will improve my jumpshot next season… And we will go to the championship.. Thanks Fans!
North Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 5:34 am
Nice analogy!!!
Iam a fan of LBJ because of the talent and charisma that can be compared to MJ. MJ is the greatest and LBJ is what he is, heir apparent. I grew watching MJ and he was also denied and committed many mistakes that make him great. I hope LBJ will be on that direction.
A point guard with the likes of Bibby or Williams will add to the missing link and remove the obligation to LBJ.
Danny Ferry should make thinks work if he wants LBJ to be the King.
humenflash Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 5:46 am
ok ok lebron isn’t the king it would be but sorry
1/ is young and he is in play off one more time a lot of players like pierce, redd ect… aren’t
2/ he can improve and i think he can do that
3/ he have a “weak team” gooden and zydrunas aren’t productive as they would, eric snow is not the same “prolific snow” from the past
and please mj is still the best player in nba ok but he’s gone, and lebron is lebron not mj, where jordan was at 20 years old? not in play off !
lebron yes!
mj had pippen, kerr, kukoc, rodman ect… a lot of efficient and good players for the offense and others for defense, give james the same team mates and he will have a champion’s ring quickly
S Dot Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 6:51 am
This post makes very little sense to me. Lebron needs to continue working on his jump shot. To sit here and say that his shot is the same as it was in high school is ludicris. His shot has gotten better and better every year. Then we’ve got Kobe bryant listed as the best “Player” on the planet. HARDLY!!! Best “Scorer”. Without a doubt. 4 Playoff wins since Shaq left. Best “Player”, give me a break. The best player on the planet would in my opinion make the players around him a little better too. Lebron made the right decision to kick that ball to Donyell and he was not just fouled by Rip. He was hacked. That is poor officiating anyway you look at it. The blew two calls at the end of that game. I can remember being at game seven last year when the Cav’s beat my Wizards. (With a Lebron kickout to Damon Jones for three) Where was the media at that night complaining. That’s right they were all on King Jame’s jock strap. You media types are funny. I would think Eddie Johnson would have a better look on things since he played basketball. WRONG!!!
Milo Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 7:27 am
I def agree that lebron needs to work on his mid range jumper and aswell as his shot defects but you have to rememebr lebron thinks pass first. I feel that pass to marshall was a good pass and great decision rather than forcing the issue as he did in game 2. if yuou noticed that last play in game 2 lebron had MARSHALL again in the corner he could have passed it up then becaue marshall by that t ime had hit 2-3 3ptrs and I bet it would have been cash but both the leage the coaches kno that andy, and lebron were both hacked on the deciding plays. But dewling on that play or that series of events can cost them the series..Isay lebron needs to work on his mid range jumper and cleveland needs to tweak there rotation they have way to many pt guards, wesley,damon jones,gobson,hughs(playoff pt guard.
why not put lebron at point hed be more effective when the switches come of screens Im a cavs fan for life I was happy to see hughs come but I wouldnt be mad to see him part ith the cavs. great player dont get me wrong but HIS GAME DOESNT COMPLAMENT LEBRONS…great defensive player but as we all kno we NEED another player that complaments LBJ’s Game as pippin did MJ, and stocton did malone ect I think you get the idea
cmon cavs if miami can come back on the MAV’s to win the ship..you can come back vs the D-TROIT-BADDD BOYYYS…!
Kris Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 7:36 am
In the 1986-87 NBA season Michael Jordan was 23 years old. A year older than LeBron James is this season. His “airness” and the Chicago Bulls were 40-42, and a lowly 17 games behind the Central Division winning Atlanta Hawks. Somehow that was good enough for the eighth seed in the 1987 playoffs? They faced the number one seeded Boston Celtics in the opening round and were quickly sent to the golf course in just 3 games, having been swept in the 5 game series. Jordan averaged 35.7 ppg that short series; they were also swept the year before when Mike was 22 by those same Celtics. In all fairness that was the season Jordan was hurt and returned for the post-season.
Anyhow, we are now “witnessing” LeBron James in the Eastern Conference “finals” against the number one seeded Detroit Pistons. A year removed from taking these same Pistons to seven games in the Semis, also a year in which “The King” was still 21.
So just how is it that LeBron is overrated or might end up a “bust”? By my calculations he has already accomplished more playoff wins, and been through more NBA playoff “wars” than the anointed best player ever Jordan. It seems that he is rather on a pace to annihilate Mike’s records and feats having started so early and received his growing pains in a much tougher pro sports environment in this day and age.
Let’s all slow down and give some credit for a change to someone who is in fact living up to the hype placed on him while still a 16 year old in High School. Oh and by the way, the Cavs travel back to Cleveland for game three where perhaps they will be the beneficiaries of some calls from the referees for a change.
The 24 hour constant coverage that is our sports world today should take time to recognize a child who is living up to the pressure for a change, rather than being quick to bash him after only a few seasons of NBA playing time. The fact that we compare him to Michael and Kobe already should say it all for someone who was only able to enter a “Bar” last year with an ID.
Gods speed LeBron, thank you. For in time your name will be added to Larry, Michael, and Magic.
Leo Shepard Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 7:52 am
Great Article Eddie. I love the fact that you compared him to two other players who are great permieter players. Lebron has a great skill set and huge upside but he has to learn the finer points of the game. Alot of hype has been given to him and the expectation as well but when it’s all said and done what has he really accomplished. Yes his career has been great considering he only played highschool ball but I believe that is his problem. College would have prepared him to be a better player at the NBA level. That’s why college is so important it gives you the opportunity to play against best players from around the country. Lebron has a long way to go as a NBA player to reach the level of a Kobe Bryant. Kobe is great because he was a student of the game at a young age and his father was an NBA player. Kobe is the best highschool to NBA player. He had his ups and downs early but he quickly became better in a better conference. Lebron plays in the Eastern conference where the teams really don’t stack up to the West. Lebron has to not only learn and refine the “little” aspects of both offense and defense but he must develop the killer instinct the put Kobe, Jordan,Bird,and the great ones had. He will become a better player but he must want to. He can not settle. Very little has changed from the rookie Lebron to the year four Lebron. He must do the offseanson training that the great ones did and improve in the little things to achieve the higher level of play that will win a championship.
Milo Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 8:41 am
WHoah…Leo im gonan throw you back for a minute…KOBE and LEBRON are 2 different players…KOBE is great why because hew ca score 81 pts lebron is great because he can drop 25,10,10 Id rather haev the trip dub then 81 selfish points I WILL AGREE that hes th ebest player on the planet but kobe was drafter in what 96-97 there for he been in the league for what 10 yrs hes no spring chicken the only advantage kobe got on lebron is his mid range jumper and experence i mean if you think about it kobe got about 400+ games on lebron. that goes a long way in the NBA. I mean Kobe done alot for the NBA but lebron is the new generation I dont think there is gogin to be a next michael jordan, and there wil never be but were gogin to see whaich of the 2 players (lebron,Kobe) are gogin to make there own legacy. I mean kobe was a ghost out of high school where lebron had a H2 when he was 18 and had more air time than OJ in 98. so I mean there two different players so if lebron had a player that complaments his game in cleveland as kobe got lemar odom in LA there would be no comparison Ive seen defences shut kobe down plenty of times hes A SCORER. can a plater not score 81 and lose…I mean I dont liek comparing the two because realisticly there the next generation MAGIC AND JORDAN but who is who is the question…And college can ruin some higschool players games to be honest I mean jumpin into a mans game is better sometimes than playin with peers it elevates your play and you awareness i mean its hard to get use to your not gogin to score 35 a game in highschool then come to the league and drop 20 a nigth rarley happens(lebron did it) kobe couldnt because del harris didnt have that much faith in a 18 yr old. My point is stop comparing becuase it tarnishes a players game when you say kobe is like MJ and he does somethgin mj wouldnt/couldnt do we criticize. and as for that play in game one where lebron passed the ball./..MJ would have took the shot “YES” magic would have dissed it to byron scoot or james worthy. so because hes the NEXT MJ and done somethign MAGIC would have done we criticize. STOP IT…
Lebron will surpass kobe as a player before his carrer is done..!
lebron will get that MVP trophy beefore KOBE…lol
IM OUT LIKE THE JAZZ..peace
Daniel Bedford Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 9:16 am
“I think you have a chance to become one of it’s biggest failures.”!!!
Are you kidding. Eddie? Just because you were a better than average scorer and had a decent shot, you translate one of LeBron’s weaker area’s to mean he may become a failure!!! With all the other positives he has and overall impact he’s had on this team. For example, defensively this season, WAY improved - The greatly hyped Prince match-up (Tayshaun is 1 for 19!!!!) Look at LeBron’s match-up’s on 82games for the season. Lebron’s man scores 13 a game. Lower than EVERY other guard/forward superstar in the league, except McGrady.
I think this article smacks of the jealousy that permeates a lot of ex-NBA players who comment on LeBron. Yes, he is overhyped by the corporate machine, but the guy is remarkably humble. Yet, most of the press focus on the negatives, a lot of innuendo… You come across like you WANT to see him fail.
As a Cavs fan, yes, I hope he does take an off-season to work on that area. That’s one reason I hate these USA basketball commitments. He’ll struggle to get the individual work he needs. And I do think he needs a coach who isn’t a ‘yes’ man to take him aside and force him to work on those areas to elevate his game.
But your overall attitude and hype on Kobe is transparent.
You were a good player and were always classy, I thought, but now you’re a sportswriter that just needs controversy to get readers. You can do better, Eddie.
Here’s a suggestion, why don’t you contact him in the off-season and tell him you’d be glad to do some individual work with him to help him in that area? You are qualified. Be a bigger man and do something constructive and really impress us, Eddie. Instead of blasting the man and just becoming yet another sportswriter looking to garner up some controversy to get attention.
kgod Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 9:18 am
I am personally sick of all the complaints of Lebron. The fact that he has put up incredible numbers and have broken records at the age of 22 is being over looked I guess. Kobe is the best player in the NBA no doubt. But Kobe is in his prime, he is 6 years older then Lebron…6 years!!!! This is his first Eastern Conference Finals for heaven sakes and all the weight is on a 22 year old kid. Even if Lebron does not improve his jump shot, in my mind, he will be in the Hall of Fame if he continues to put up his current stats…but to think Lebron will not improve is rIdiculous. People try to compare him to the “greats” but its obvious he is not Jordan or a Magic, he is Lebron. For Lebron to really flourish he needs a point gaurd. If they had a legit point guard, he would average over 30 points a game…would that make people happy? The bottom line, there is not one team in the NBA who would not want Lebron on their team- ENOUGH SAID.
DAWA Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 9:28 am
Everyone is so quick to come down on Lebron because he has one deficiency or another…they seem to forget that despite these deficiencies, despite management surrounding him with decent help, specifically a power forward that can bang, defend, block, and score off the offensive boards, like Boozer, who they let get away because they tried to squeeze one more year out of him at minimum salary, to complement a soft center; despite management providing him with a decent point guard that has some sort of jump shot and the ability to penetrate and dish off or make a layup, like Andre Miller, who they traded away, he has taken them to the playoffs the past two years and has progressed each year.
They don’t want to accept the fact that Lebron is more in the mold of a Magic Johnson, than a Kobe or Michael and that he is going to have grow into that mold, which he is doing.
Typically, the media and the fans, build these players up, put them on top of the mountain before they should be there and then drag them down because they don’t live up to what they expect them to be.
I thought Eddie Johnson had more class and common sense than to say the things that he said in the open letter to Lebron…not that I have any doubts that Lebron really cares what Eddie Johnso, who himself was a great jump shooter, but little more, thinks about his game.
The point is, to say what Lebron will never be and talk in a manner that more degrading than advisory.
That might sound or read nice to his blog or column readers but, to someone who has watched the pro game since the fifties, has played and coached grown men…that was a sorry letter…
Dawa
Chris Yeh Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 9:31 am
EJ,
Great article. It’s good to see someone call out LeBron for the flaws in his game, though I have to agree, his upside is tremendous.
Incredible restraint as well to avoid mentioning the obvious–you made a living in the NBA with your incredible shooting.
I still hope that LeBron will tap into his incredible potential…my fear is that he simply doesn’t have the maniacal will to win that made guys like Jordan and Kobe such a pain in the ass for teammates as well as opponents. Every year, LeBron should be working on another aspect of his game. A similar player, Magic Johnson, always kept working, adding a 3-pointer, a junior skyhook, and incredible FT shooting to his all-around game. LeBron needs to step it up, and claim the mantle of King James.
–Chris Yeh
Eddie Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 9:39 am
listen guys this is not a comparison contest. i did not write this article to compare the three players. i wrote this article to allow you to see the growth Lebron still has to make. i am not surprised that he is not there yet. what i am saying if you guys will listen to me is that if he does not put in the hard work necessary. He will not reach their level. Right now looking at his mid range game he has not elevated at the rate he should have by now. Bottom line i love his game. Some of you guys who want to attack and complain have no clue where im coming from. Stop taking things personal. Every great player took his Lumps. thats hpw they become great. im hoping Lebron understands that. If he does not he will fail to reach where you guys expect him too.
Frank Davis Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 9:57 am
I agree with everything you have to say about Lebron. I’m a Lebron fan, so I hope he reads it and takes it to heart.
My only disagreement is the statement that Kobe is the best player in the game. Eddie, do you really believe that Kobe is a better player than Tim Duncan? If there were a draft of NBA players, would you draft Kobe over Tim? Kobe is an unstoppable ofensive force, but until a Kobe led team gets out of the first round, I’ll also refrain from making him king
Peace,
FBD
Arthur Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:15 am
Yeah, I agree Eddie. I don’t see this article as an attack on LeBron at all. I see this as constructive criticism. Part of the issue is that he, for all intents and purposes, owns the Cavs. I am not sure anyone on that team tells him anything about his jumper. LeBron needs a strong willed coach who is willing to tell LeBron how it is. Mike Brown, in my opinion, is a lackey of LBJ. Jordan needed Phil Jackson to get him to move to the next level as a player and LBJ needs the same.
Nico NT Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:24 am
Ok, but don’t forget the boy has only 22 years-old, and it’s only this second playoffs season. Give him some times!!!
hi Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:31 am
Lebron I thought was better last year and he did more last year, im not sure whether its the usa team that has slowed him down or what but he is not the same as he was before and its clear in his play all year long. Now lebron will be scoring sometimes on regularity only 16-20 poitns a night for a long span. There are other young players doing that too, but why aren’t they managed in the same sentence as lebron? Dwight howard does that usually, carmelo does that, monte ellis all these players score in that range and do something great in another catergory( i.e monte-assists, howard-boards, blocks, melo- rebounds, assists). Lebron in my opinion will always be in a lose-lose situtaion because people will always crtisize him because there has been so many expections placed on him at the start on his career and at such an early age. There is no way Lebron is the best player in the nba, he is a really good player-not great. He does not deserve the name the king either until he can conquer his 4th quater demons and get a ring on his finger..thats a big title to place on someone and to obtain it one has to be an exceptional player always. As well it doesn’t help lebron that his team is just flat out not good at all. There offence sets are terrible, there is no movement and it’s basically just watch Lebron go pick and roll with someone and everyone else get ready to shot. It is just no wrong in every sence of what a offensive set should look like. Danny ferry didn’t do anything to improve the team from last time they lost to the Pistons, all the players are back there are no exceptional shooters still, (including Damn Jones because he can’t on the court because of his defensive issues)the Cavs despertly need some shooters. I would go as far as getting maybe 3 solid shooters and not worry so much about the defensive end because they have to give something to get something and the Cavs are a decent defensive team so they can work on that aspect of their game. As far as the best player in the nba i think, the best talent who has the best skills in the nba has to be kobe bryant. He is a stunning player to watch he has accomplished so much in his career and his about half way threw it. There are other players though who are better winners and near his talent level. Tim Duncan in my opinion gets no respect at all this guy is honestly a once in a life time talent. He is just so good at everything its ludacris. He has the soft touch, can bank shots like its his day job, run the floor better then mostly any big man, can pass perfectly out of double teams, can block shots, defend, be a leader, a good role model. Anything you want Tim Duncan has it and he is the ideal player any coach would want on their roster he trutly plays for the word on the front on his jersey instead of the one on his back.
hi Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:34 am
P.S- I think Carmelo is on the same level as Lebron James and Dwayne Wade now. He really grew up a lot in the San Antinio series by leading his team fearlessly against one of maybe the greatest teams of all-time the San antinion spurs. Carmelo has improved massively over the last couple of years and he is back on the radar. Chris Bosh will be the next to join their elite level on that draft class a couple of years back.
Bo Diddley Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:45 am
Lebron is often too off-balance on his jumpers.
And his free throw troubles have been documented.
BUT LBJ also needs to work on his defense.
He did nicely challenge Sheed’s crazy baseline jumper.
But his on ball defense is below average.
He doesn’t have good balance when defending, and players can get around him.
MJ was stellar on defense. Kobe a very tough defender, though he brings it less frequently the past couple of seasons.
Michael Bennett Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:50 am
Eddie, LeBron James needs to work on his jumpshot like you need to work on your grammar and evaluation…
He has a jumpshot - a mid-range game. He only utilizes it when time is running out on the clock, which lessens the chances of the ball going in. Plus, he’s in a one-on-one/back-to-the-basket situation when he’s shooting those shots. He doesn’t have a point guard to allow him to do what Richard Hamilton does - little screen and curls to open him up for fifteen footers.
LeBron is a complete offensive package - driving to the bucket being his strong suit. But, he DOES have a mid-range game. Let’s not confuse that. There are many factors in opening up a mid-range game. Another factor is that Mike Brown has a stagnant offense that keeps LeBron on the weak side three line when he doesn’t have the ball in his hand. There’s no movement. It’s probably the worst (poorly structured) offense in the NBA… the Warriors have a loose structure, but THAT’s their offense - loose structure, run around, shoot when partially open.
So, to diminish LeBron’s skill set by simplifying things is to underevaluate and overlook the parts of the game that make it special. And, it takes away from Detroit’s brilliant play on defense. So, Eddie, next time, instead of writing the “easy” article, why not look further into it instead of just grazing the surface?
MB
Milo Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:51 am
I agree with you all Eddie I didnt post my comments in anger I was just commenting on leo’s post above me. I kno where your comming from a prime example of lebron believe it or not is. Yao when yao first came in he was a chinaman and was 7 feet + so the critis wer elike ohhh hes gonna be the next shaq hes gonna be a force ..yao had a good rookie campain but once he “wsnt a rookie” he struggled he had to find out how he could tweak his game to adjust to the NBA eg.Strength,mid range jumper and more importaintley(foul shots) yao will be great he just will need to grow as a player (BIG UPS TO THE DREAM SCHOOLING HIM AT A RECIENT ONE ON ONE SESSION) lebron is almost a mirror of that speculation lebron was told your gogin to be the next great one blah blah blah…hes 20 you tell a 20 yr old hes gonna be great hes gonna try his damndest to become or even surpass what you want him to be but I beleive that after watching this yrs series vs DET cavs management will adjust accordingly.Eddie you kno what your talkin about and LBJ is you peep this one…you keep doing what your doing…tell Mike Brown to put scott pollard on RASHEED game 3 cause he’l grind it out (until he gets fould out that is) TELL MIKE BROWN HES THE RIGHT PRESON TO MATCH UP CASUE RASHEED ISNT GOIGN TO PUSH HIM AROUND LIKE HE DID ANDY the other night
Michael Bennett Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 12:15 pm
Milo…
Chinaman is not the preferred nomanclature… Asian American, please.
Daniel Bedford Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 12:44 pm
Again, Eddie. Offer your services to LeBron. You were a great shooter, an intelligent man. Offer to work out LeBron a few times. I’m sure you can get through to Danny Ferry in the off-season. You understand shooting form and how to quickly get yourself into good shooting position. You were the one who criticized whatever shooting coach the Cavs use. Offer to help.
Henry Young Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 1:36 pm
The funniest thing about every article like these is I don’t ever recall LeBron going around saying he’s King. The King moniker is apart of a marketing campaign. Regardless to what happens in the series, LeBron will be one fo the top five players in the league. One thing all of us fail to acknowledge is that Jordan didn’t have a consistent jumper until his fifth or sixth season in the league…and neither did Kobe. The strange thing about comparing LeBron to Jordan and Kobe is that LeBron has always been a team oriented player. He KNOWS that a team win more games when they play as a team than with one man. Jordan and Kobe learned that…and Kobe is learning that NOW. Reggie Miller was one of the top shooters in the game but didn’t make the conference finals until his tenth year in the league. If Donyell Marshall hit the three point shot…think of how today’s conversation would have been different. LeBron was one assist away from a triple double. He was doing everything to help his team win and the negative comments is the thanks he get. In game two, if the officials call the Varajo FLOP a foul, the Cavs win…and think of the story lines then. If officiating was more consistent, outcomes would be more acceptable. A foul is a foul…I don’t care if it’s 1 minute into the game or five seconds left in the fourth quarter of a game. Finally, the most hilarious thing about former NBA players/particitpants criticizing Lebron is that MOST of them have NOT won or played in a championship game and NONE were even the second option on the teams they played on. So they don’t have any idea what a supestar thought process is.
the truth nothing more Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 1:47 pm
Lebron is a great talent,but to compare him to kobe is unfair. I think kobe is the most complete offensive player this game has ever seen. Once laker management gives kobe a decent supporting cast he might win two or three more rings. Lebron is still young he has alot of time to get his thing straight,but he needs to work on it now,because time flies by. He could get injured or anything can happen to derail his career. Even though kobe had shaq,he was still winning rings at 22. lebron has a good supporting cast. He is the one not stepping up. He is that teams leader. No way should he shy away from the big shots. He is paid more money for a reason. When the cavs lose it falls on him. If he doesn’t like that pressure then he needs to sign for the mle,and let the cavs sign someone that will improve their game and step up when needed.
Michael Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 2:16 pm
Give him TIme and he shall be re-crowned
ronnir Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 2:50 pm
This is stupid. Of course Lebron knows he still needs work on his jumper. You don’t need to write a book ripping him apart to tell him that. And I hate how this suggests Lebron hasn’t worked on his jumper when it has obviously improved significantly since his rookie season. Everyone expects every part of Lebron’s game to be perfect at 22 years old. He’s already one of the best all-around players in the league and one one of the most well-rounded players ever for his age. People need to stop putting him under a microscope and let him develop.
Matt Steinmetz Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 3:40 pm
Da wayne is not better than Steve Nash neither is Kevin Garnett. KG hasn’t hit a big shot in his career, he’s alot like LeBron James. Both are genetic freaks with loads of talent, they just can’t make jumpers consistently when it counts. I don’t think you are a “great” player unless you can win the game at the end by yourself.
Eddie Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 5:01 pm
Frank
yes Kobe is the best and here is why. Jordan, Magic and Kobe could do it all. Bring the ball up and run a offense, post up, drive and shoot the mid range shot and most importantly make free -throws. They had no weakness. Magics shot was not the best, but he became good enough to where you had to honor it.
Duncan needs shooters around him and he needs a solid point guard. Listen to the word need. yes he wins, but i am not talking about wins. I am talking about individual greatness. Don’t get the two mixed up. plus last i counted Kobe has 3 titles regardless if you think Shaq was the reason. I saw Kobe taking those last shots not Shaq.
Michael Bennett Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 6:40 pm
Kobe has no weaknesses?!? Are you kidding? Here’s a couple major weaknesses so we can move on…
1) Career 45% FG shooting - That’s pathetic. Name another great that shot that low from the field. Can’t? I thought so. MJ = 50%. Magic = 52%. Bird = 50%.
2) The ability to make his teammates better - Shaq made him better. Without Shaq, he’s been a greedy loser whose team has gone 121-125. That’s a losing record. He played with All-Star Caron Butler and Lamar Odom the year after Shaq left, and they only won 34 games. Why? Because he was (is) selfish and doesn’t know how to utilize his teammates to win.
3) Passing - He averages a career 4.5 APG. That’s atrocious. Again, name another backcourt great that averaged under 5 APG. Can’t? I thought so.
4) Finals MVPs = 0 - When it came down to it, he was not the reason the Lakers won 3 straight. He was a piece to the puzzle. Shaq won those rings with a great supporting cast.
That’s 3 MAJOR weaknesses and one fact… You simply CANNOT put Kobe in the same category as MJ, Magic and Bird. Kobe should be compared to players like Dominique Wilkins, Jerry West, Clyde Drexler, Julius Erving… players that were offensively great, and defensively sound, but never won championships with a team on their back - they needed a lot of support.
Everyone gets excited because Kobe’s playing now and they can see a lot of his games. But, rarely do these Kobe fans bring up his horrible games. And, if you watch the Lakers religiously, you’ll see quite a few games that are horrible. For example, Kobe shot under 30% FG in games a lot this year. He had games when he had 0 assists. The best player in the NBA doesn’t do that.
Stop comparing Kobe to the greats. The greatest player in the NBA always has his team in title contention. The greatest player in the NBA always makes his teammates better. And, the best player in the NBA at least sometimes wins an MVP trophy.
BJBMONEY Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 6:47 pm
Hey Lebron, I am one of your biggetst fans. I think you could be the best player ever to play the game but it comes down to how much you really want it. You need to practice on your jumper and just be aggressive like D-Wade. You need to go into the post more and make them double you so a shooter is wide open or score on them because no one can stop you down low. I want you and the CAVS to beat the PISTONS so bad but it will take you scoring 30+ points to do so no matter what it takes.
Ian W Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 6:59 pm
LeBron’s still developing. It’s too early to tell whether he’s ever going to show the work ethic that got the Jason Kidds of the world over the hump in their careers (Kidd being one example of a guy who worked like a dog on his shot). You’re right that the conspicuous flaws in his shot aren’t noticeably improving, which is a bad sign that he might be lost in the feedback loop of his premature fame.
….Which makes a nice segue to Kobe, doesn’t it? Most talented, most skilled, yes: but not “the best player.” When you describe being able to do it all, doesn’t that have to include the off-the-court stuff too? As in, not being such a conspicuous jerk that he causes the team to implode around him? Last I checked Tim Duncan hasn’t had that effect, which is one huge reason why his team’s still winning while Kobe’s been rebuilding for a few seasons now.
Eddie Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 9:02 pm
no it does not have to include off court stuff. don’t difference between anyone that has been caught doing something is they got caught. don’t judge away from job. we are surprised by peoples private life all the time.
to Mr Bennett we are done arguing about Kobe. thats for another article. you don’t like him and so anyones point is moot. Kobe i repeat won three straight titles. stop hating and think logically there is no player in the league that plays two ways better than him and this is coming from a guy who likes to see the Lakers lose! case closed on Kobe.
This is Lebrons page.
jay Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 10:25 pm
Its funny when the criticism is coming from you. Who are you? If it is was from MJ, Bird, or Magic, then I’ll take these comments more seriously. People need to realize that what made Lebron so intriguing as a 18 year old was his combination of size, strength, speed and his playmaking ability. People compared him to Jordan more so from a marketing standpoint and not his game. Eddie, you say he shouldn’t be called King, but its the media that hyped this kid up. He’s not the player that everyone wants him to be so lets just appreciate some of the highlights that this man gives. The expectations are too high for this kid. You say he can’t shoot, but neither could Kobe early during his career. He worked to get that point. Lets just let him play.
Carpe Diem Said,
May 26, 2007 @ 11:41 pm
Lebron is nice, but not that nice. I’ll give him about 3 more years to be in a position to win a few titles. Think about it, he should still be in college at his age. I agree with Eddie that he has a tremendous upside, but definitely needs to work on his shooting. At his age if shooting is the only thing he needs to work on, I would say he is in a great position to be one of the greatest if he puts in the work needed.
Good article Eddie, you usually don’t hear people calling out the super stars.
Alex Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 12:49 am
It saddens me that Kobe may become the greatest player to never get his full dues, due to the extreme opposition he inspires in many fans. I have watched nearly every game that Kobe or Magic have played, and very many the MJ has. IMHO, Kobe as an *individual* baskeball player, defined by the full panoply of his offensive and defensive skills, is better right now than either Magic or MJ ever was. As a *team* basketball player (which is even harder to conceptualize given different supporting casts, rules, etc), he’s comparable, but not ahead of either MJ or Magic. It will take him winning another title to erase the remaining cloud from his legacy. I hope he gets it, even if it doesn’t look good for him at this moment.
Carnell Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 1:01 am
Eddie,
Thank you for hitting the nail on the head. Kobe is the best player in the NBA, and he doesn’t have any weaknesses. If LeBron is ever going to get on Kobe’s level, LeBron has to start hitting free throws, develope a respectable jumpshot, some post moves, & a killer instinct.
Carnell Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 1:08 am
Ian W,
Take Tim Duncan off the Spurs, LeBron off the Cavs, Garnett off the T-Wolves & they will be rebuilding for a couple of years also. As Eddie said to another writer earlier, if you don’t like Kobe and you are a Kobe hater fine. Bottom line, Shaq leaving and LA not really getting true value in the trade, they have had a hard time rebuilding. Doesn’t take away from him being a three time champ, and as Eddie said I watched the three-peats, Kobe was shooting the key shots not Shaq. A lot of times Shaq was in foul trouble and Kobe held the fort til he could get back in the game. The guy is GREAT…..like him or not…..every team in the league would love to have him on their squad.
Ern-Ern Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 1:17 am
LeBron is just so complacent and overrated. In some computer games he can hit threes, but I think that game’s reputation got soiled when he showed he cannot hit threes, let alone clutch shots. He might have dunked over Tim Duncan, but he’s obviously not winning. LeBron’s got a great NBA body, and it’s such a waste if he cannot put an equilibrium to basketball skills, most especially the jumpshot, which is VERY fundamental to the game.
JR Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 2:15 am
My fondest memory of when Shaq and Kobe played together was Game 4 of the 2000 NBA Finals. Shaq fouls out in OT I believe it was and Kobe goes over to him and tells him “Don’t worry about it, I got it.” (May not be word for word, but that’s as best I remember what he said.) Kobe goes out and just about single-handedly wins that game for LA and in doing so it put the Lakers up 3-1. The ability to carry a team down the stretch like that is something Lebron is sorely lacking right now.
Lebron’s mid-range game is atrocious and his jumper needs a ton of work. He’s young though so he still has plenty of time to work on that shot. He’d do well to watch tape of some games from the 80’s and try and emulate how those guys could consistenly knock down jumper after jumper.
BectonD Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 2:28 am
GREAT ARTICLE! I have watched LeBron repeatedly go right when he had solid screens to the left. Where if he goes left he would have a wide open lane to the hoop for an easy bucket or a trip to the line, instead he will dribble away from the screen directly into a trap and then force a fade away off-balance 15 footer. Personally, I can’t watch the him or the Cav’s play due to the fact that in all honesty, the Cav’s are a complete mess chemistry wise. None of the pieces match and it takes them way too long to get into their sets due to the fact that Hughes is not a play-maker either, every basket the Cav’s make is a challenge, no basketball team should labor as hard as the Cav’s do for two points. This teams saving grace is rebounding and they owe their success to the former Magic front office:
For Trading Varejao and Gooden to the Cav’s for Tony Battie
other horrible Magic blunders include:
McGrady for Francis and Mobley
and drafted Hunter, Sasser, Ryan Humphrey, Reece Gaines and Fran Vazquez in the 1st round between 00-04
Excuse me for digressing, Lebron has bad mechanics and his shot selection and cognitive skills are questionable (cognitive meaning: will he remember on Friday what happened on Wednesday when he for seek a screen and dribbled aimlessly into a trip ) but he is also playing without another play-maker on his team. It is a miracle that this team has achieved as much as it has with so many misfitting parts. I admire LeBron’s success even if I can’t bare to watch him or his team play.
(P.S. Kobe does have a weakness. His krypotonite is his poor shot selection, the difference between MJ and Kobe is shot selection)
E Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 3:21 am
OKKKK…for all those who keep throwing the fact that Lebron is still in the playoffs and Kobe is at home need to check up on the NBA. last i checked the EASTERN CONFERENCE was in shambles. HALF of the teams that make the playoffs in the East have LOSING records. its no wonder Lebron is still playing. he only has to face the lowly and Gilbert/Caron-LESS wizards and losing record NETS. come on! what team cant make it to the conference finals in the east playing those teams? half the east wont even make the playoffs in the west. no doubt kobe would be in the conference finals too playing teams like those so gimme a break. Lebrons team is obviously getting what is expected when they face a REAL team like the pistons.
eddiesucks Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 5:34 am
td is the greatest player in the L. didnt you watch their series against your suns? td is the man on both ends of the floor.
back to the topic. LBJ got ugly shooting mechanics, and he’ll never be a great shooter, especially from mid range. he can clean up all those tendencies, but he still ain’t gonna be a great shooter. ft shooting is his main priority now if you ask me since he’s a slasher/playmaker. that j can follow, but he still needs a better supporting cast: better shooters, another scorer, another rebounder.
chuck Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 7:17 am
I agree with Wise. Lebron has taken a bunch of scribs to the eastern conference finals at 22. Kobe had Shaq and Michael had Scottie which cleared space to make that mid range jump shot easier. People need to embrace Lebron´s unselfish play. I remember when fans were upset the NBA gave selfish (young)players Millions. You need to mention Lebron is competing against maybe the best defensive team(Pistons) in the league next to the Spurs!!! Also,Cleveland has shut down a Pistons team defensively with 3 AllStars plus Prince. I think Cleveland is over achieving and we all need to appreciate what they have accomplished. You are right his jumpshot could get better. But it was certainly good enough to beat the Nets(with Half Man/Half Amazing and J.Kidd)!!!
dj kd Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 9:00 am
Lebron still has tremendous upside but he is not the best player in the game he 6 on ma list behind kobe, timmy d, kg, dwade .and nash. he not a great shooter and he doesn’t play d at all. kobe the best because of his shotting ability and his d even though it slacking. I see people ravin because he is in the ecf. well one the east was depleted by inujuries they played the wizards without there two best players, and the nets who lost their best center the cavs caught an break lets not forget.
Kobe don’t have any help and he plays in the west which is gonna get better. lamar odom, and luke walton are his teammates everybody beside bynum is a bums I wanna see lebron play with kwame brown
my point is lebron got all the hype he has to live up to at some point because wen u get hype it make u or breaks u. again he is an immense talent but he needs to put that team on his back and start taking games over or he would be looked at as a bust. not a sam bowie or a benoit benjamin bust but a guy wit a great talent neva reached hispotentel I think he will he also needs a point guard an abetter sidekick. larry hughes doesn’t fit , a better fit would have been joe johnson or michel redd because there shooting abilties johnson more because his all around play
Kris Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 9:02 am
Mid range game. How good are most 22 year olds mid range game? Rip Hamilton had it, but he was still in college. Hamilton still can’t run the point at which James did his rookie year at 18 years old. LeBron’s mid range will come with each new season as he adds new weapons to his arsenol to better himself as a player. Once again if he were 28 or 31 I’d totally agree with you, but at 22, I hope you can relate Eddie? It’s just not the first thing you work on. Jordan didn’t find it until later, and either did Kobe. It took Tim Duncan growing past the age of 22 to add the mid range bank shot that is now his best weapon. LeBron has the tools, work ethic, and desire or he would have faded away into Kwame Brown status already…
Pat Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 9:52 am
LeBron deserves a lot of credit for the success his team has had this year along with Mike Brown. The Cavs really don’t have many good players and are probably the most boring team in the NBA to watch.. so congrats to LeBron for getting them this far….
But…It is definately fair to criticize LeBron. This is his 4th year in the NBA. He showed growth between his rookie and sophmore year, but since then…what part of his game has gotten better? It’s scary to think how good LeBron could be if he spent his offseason working on his game instead of shooting commercials, going to meetings, etc. Did he take 500 jumpshots every day this past summer? Obviously not. LeBron still has so much he can improve on (shooting, ball handling, post game, standstill footwork). if he ever reaches his full potential (many players don’t), he will truly be the most special player in the nba.
Jeremy Martin Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 10:08 am
How many of you actually believe that the Cavs are better than the Pistons? Sure, the Cavs could of won either one of those first two games, but they are playing against one of the toughest , most playoff savvy teams in the NBA today. How society builds these players up then cuts them down is just beyond me. I’m a diehard Laker fan, but you continue to bring up Kobe’s name in comparison to LeBron when you can make a valid arguement that Kobe’s supporting cast is slightly better than LeBron’s yet Kobe can’t get out of the first round.
He’s only 22 years old with unlimited upside. Let’s let this kid develope before we start bringing the hammer down on him and his work ethic.
Jeremy Martin Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 10:12 am
p.s.
Fire Bunsen Honeydew aka Mike Brown
Manmade Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 12:44 pm
I can’t believe anybody would call LJ a flop. Ridiculous. Even without the jumpshot he averages for 27 points a game, with a better FG that all these other scorers mentioned. He did not claim himself the “King”, it was bestowed upon him…and neither is he claiming to be the best player in the NBA. Obviously he has to work on his jumpshot, and I’m sure he will. Comparing Kobe to LJ is like comparing MJ to Magic, two totally different styles. Stop hating all, after it’s said and done, he’ll bask in the glory like some of the other greats.
Aaron Ray Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 1:27 pm
Listen, Lebron is 22, he improves something in his game every year as he gets better every year, yeah he might have had better stats last year, teams focus on him more and more every year. He will improve his jump shot tremendously. Everyone alwasys say MJ MJ MJ but they forget about MJ’s early career. Oh and Kobe is the best in the league. He plays Defense unlike Dirk and Nash. Come on now first team All-NBA and First Team Defense. Anyways, Lebron’s 22 and will probably go down as the greatest of all time. If he can become as good of a shooter as Mike and Kobe. I hope he will.
Jim Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 4:44 pm
ppl get real.
The cavs have slim chance of making it to the 2nd round if they were in the western conference.
rob d Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 7:03 pm
for all the fools who seem to take this article as a slap in the face and start saying MJ didnt do this kobe didnt do that all EJ means is that lebron does’nt deserve to be called ‘King’ James…yet anyways..KB24 is GOHE
Carnell Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 7:20 pm
E,
Kobe is at home cause his team is in the Western Conference. Put the Cavs in the Western Conference & they’d be at home too. You guys are seeming to overlook the fact, LeBron and the Cavs are in the Eastern Conference where there really is only 2 really good teams. Calling Kobe out, when he got
his team to the playoffs with no help in the most difficult conference in the league is a joke….lol
Bottom line…..LeBron isn’t on Kobe’s level. He needs a lot of improvement to even be in his league. For those of you calling Kobe out for slacking a little on D, more than he has in the past. The guy has to score 50 points just to give his team a chance to win. He has to conserve some energy somewhere. Kobe is in a no win situation. He scores a much needed 50 he’s selfish. He tries to get teammates involved, scores 20-30 then he didn’t do enough. Same for the 62 in 3 quarters. Everyone wanted him to come back in the game to see how much he could score, he got criticized for not coming back in, in a game they won. Then he scores 81, in a game where no one could hit a shot on
his team and they were down 20, he scores 81 they win by 20 and he’s a ball hog for the # of shots he took, when he shot over 50% from the field.
People are haters……the guy is great, but everyone is always going to find the negative when it comes to him. It’s been that way since he’s been in the league. The guy scored 50points or more 10 of the 18 times it’s been done this year. Something not done since Wilt Chaimberlain. And you don’t think he’s great, cause he don’t get his team over the hump and you refuse to see the Lakers have no real talent besides him on the team…..lol
LeBron is good, may be great and a hall of famer before it’s all over. But to be on Magic, Bird, MJ, Kobe’s level…..he’s got a really long ways to go. He’ll get there if he gets a killer instinct & a respectable jumper.
JA Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 8:38 pm
For the poster Wise,
Your argument on Lebron’s playoff record vs. MJ’s is rather weak.
There’s absolutely no comparison between this wack ass Eastern Conference competetion Lebron faces, and the fierce Eastern Conference competition Jordan had to face year after year.
Michael Bennett Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 10:25 pm
How wrong did LeBron prove every stupid moron on this message board? 32 pts, 9 rbs, 9 asts against a GREAT Piston defense… You people have media blinders on.
Anyone who says that the East is weak -> 2 of the last 3 NBA Champions are from the East. Pistons in ‘04 and Heat in ‘06.
LeBron’s jump shot -> 2 for 3 from 3PT in Game 3… 13 ft. jumper to seal the win… Again, smart, everyone.
And, let’s not confuse anything. I think Kobe is a VERY GOOD player. But, he’s done nothing in his career to show that he’s GREAT. To be an NBA great, you have to do more than what he’s done. He has 0 NBA Finals MVPs. He has 0 MVPs. He has only 2 scoring titles. He has 0 DPOY awards. Comparing him to MJ, Magic and Bird is not fair. Those guys went through wars for their entire careers. They proved, year in and year out, that they were THE best in the game… or ever.
And, they just announced, Kobe is demanding a trade if they don’t bring in Jerry West and get some major players. If he gets is wish, he BETTER go to the Conference Finals… or, at least, the Semis. If not, what else do you want to prove he’s not a top tier player?!?
Let’s focus on how great LeBron is… especially, in the face of adversity. What a game tonight! What a young career! What will it take to prove to everyone that he’s better than Kobe?
Michael Bennett Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 10:29 pm
By the way…
I LOVE Jeremy Martin. The fellow has sense. I’ve been saying that the Lakers supporting cast is better than the Cavs supporting cast for the last two years. I love to hear/see people saying the same thing. It’s very true… if you really look hard. The problem is the media/hype likes to build up Kobe to offset their scrutiny on his rape case. If you haven’t noticed, he’s been a media darling ever since he was exonerated for the rape. A lot of media outlets were very harsh to him before the innocent finding, and not they feel like they have to make it up to him… or something. Just a theory…
Omar Aberilla Said,
May 27, 2007 @ 11:00 pm
Eddie, you’ll obviously get a lot of heat after what just transpired in game 3. It was probably too soon to make judgments on LeBron James’ abilities or the lack of it. I know you meant well, but it’s always unwise to chastise somebody in public who’s so young and who has probably even just tapped into the early stages of his full potential, not to mention that it is only the initial phase of the series. Let’s just allow LeBron to come into his own. It’s not too bad if he can’t play like MJ or Kobe. The fans appreciate him more for who he is and what he is about. And yes he has improved so let’s not be resigned into thinking that he’s not getting any better. Also, why see him as a probable failure if he can’t get his shot down pat (ok maybe it’s unorthodox, but what if it works for him). Jason Kidd struggled throughout his career shooting-wise although he’s improved a bit, but nobody chided him or took it a step further as to calling him a disappointment. He contributed in multiple other ways. Similarly, that’s what makes LeBron James special. He has his own unique style of play. Don’t get me wrong, shooting is a valuable aspect in basketball and this is not to say LeBron should not look into further developing that component of his game. But his stature shouldn’t be decided on the things he is not especially good at. He has carried his team to the conference finals and up until now their season is far from over. It’s the wins that matter and his impact to the team and the sport as a whole. That in itself is enough to solidify his greatness, for now.
maxwell Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 7:11 am
D-wade (with shaq and many others) out on the first round, kobe out in the first round, phoenix (nash, amare, marion, ……) out, and concerning the spurs, detroit or utah you have a complete basketball team, in cleveland less lebron what do you have ? iglauskas, huges, gooden .. no they are not players to have the ring .. lebron is the king ! at 22 years where was michael ? Where was kobe if shad didn’t here .. no man seriously lebron is the king !
Ricky - Sixers4guidos Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 8:30 am
Eddie I know it would easy now to come talking how you were wrong bla bla bla
I am not a great fan of LBJ and actually agree with many of your points, especially about Cavs’ inability to put the right players around him
a great shooting-shooting guard (lol) such as Ray Allen, Michael Redd etc would have been way better to pair with Lebron than a slasher like Hughes (who couldn’t knock down an open 10 footer in game 2 to win the game, BTW…)
but you were being really too tough on the guy, who is freaking 22 y/o and last year took the Cavs to game 7 against a Pistons team that was (and still is, to me) way better
also I liked his choice to dish the ball to Marshall in game 1, I don’t see this as a lack of personality or fear to take responsabilities,
I mean Vince Carter did the same with Nachbar few weeks ago, and Carter scored I-don’t-know-how-many buzzer beaters in his career, for sure he’s not shy. He simply found a teammate in a better position and gave him the ball. Same did Lebron. As a coach, I would like this, and I would want him to do it again. I mean, it’s not that he gave it to Eric Snow for a three (lol)
If he took a forced shot and missed it, we would have said “he’s selfish”, “he wanted to be the man instead of being a team player” bla bla bla
but yesterday night he showed something, took good shots when needed and dished it when it was better to dish. let’s see if he can go on like this
Ricky from Italy
Ricky - Sixers4guidos Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 8:38 am
lol I read now that with your previous article you suggested Cavs to get Ray Allen and Micheal Redd, exactly the same names I threw out there…
you know what they say about great minds, lol…
Fred Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 9:03 am
Lebrown owned the Pistons yesterday and his Jumper was on. Who said Lebron don’t have a jump shot.
Michael Bennett Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 11:21 am
A little LeBron vs. Kobe comparison…
1ST YEAR STATS
LeBron
20.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 5.9 apg, 1.6 spg, .417 FG, .754 FT
Kobe
7.6 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.7 spg, .417 FG, .819 FT
2ND YEAR STATS
LeBron
27.2 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 7.2 apg, 2.2 spg, .472 FG, .750 FT
Kobe
15.4 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.9 spg, .428 FG, .794 FT
BEST YEAR STATS
LeBron
31.4 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 6.6 apg, 1.6 spg, .480 FG, .738 FT
Kobe
35.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 4.5 apg, 1.8 spg, .450 FG, .850 FT
or
30.0 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 5.9 apg, 2.2 spg, .451 FG, .843 FT
CAREER STATS
LeBron (4 seasons)
26.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 6.4 apg, 1.8 spg, .463 FG, .733 FT
Kobe (11 seasons)
24.6 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 4.5 apg, 1.5 spg, .453 FG, .838 FT
PLAYOFF AVERAGES
LeBron (26 Games)
27.7 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 7.0 apg, 1.6 spg, .454 FG, .753 FT
Kobe (131 Games)
23.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 4.5 apg, 1.3 spg, .439 FG, .796 FT
As you can see, just judging off statistics, LeBron is clearly better than Kobe Bryant. Not only WAS he better at comparable ages, LeBron’s best year is better than Kobe’s best year. The ONLY category Kobe is better than LeBron at is FT%. I will admit all day long that Kobe is a better free throw shooter, and LeBron needs to get his FT numbers up over .750, preferably over.800.
Everyone thinks Kobe is a better scorer than anyone in history… or, at least, better than LeBron. But, LeBron’s career PPG is higher. He’s been more consistent fromt he beginning. It’s similar to Mark McGwire/Hank Aaron. Who’s a better homerun hitter? Aaron never hit over 50 homeruns in one year. Mark McGwire hit 70 homeruns one year. But, Aaron was consistent.
People get blinded by the Kobe 81 point game, because they saw it. It was the present. And, no one ever saw something like that. But, I think it’s tougher to score 30 pts night in and night out, like Michael Jordan, and be consistent. (Michael still holds the PPG record at 30.1 ppg)
LeBron is not only better than Kobe NOW, when all is said and done, he’ll be light years ahead of him.
Michael Bennett Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 11:30 am
Eddie - Please comment about LeBron’s jumper now.
And, next time, don’t jump the gun… 2 Ls against Detroit and you want LeBron to order Better Basketball Video. Man…
ken wagner Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 11:41 am
first off I am the biggest realist. Second off people have been hating on lebron all year nothing new eddie. Third he is quietly in the conference finals versus a team they should’nt beat anyways I mean drew vs rasheed, eric snow vs chauncey, and yes all he has to put up with is prince one of the best defenders in the L along with one of the best defensive teams. King James is doin his best passing is part of his game and frankly donyell is paid millions of dolars to hit that wide open three why else would he have been on the floor………so easy eddie easy
ken wagner Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 11:48 am
ps. i know bulls fans can remember at least two nobodys that could hit that wide open three…..use that history degree to find that info
Carnell Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 12:11 pm
Michael Bennet,
You think your #’s argument flies. LeBron came in to the Cavs as the main guy, he started right away. Kobe had to share the spot light with Shaq & didn’t start right away. Del Harris refused to start Kobe over Eddie Jones because of his rookie theory, it was only until Jones got hurt before they saw how good Kobe was and sent Jones packing. That happened in year 3 of Kobe’s career. Your #’s argument is weak.
Yeah LeBron hit some key shots yesterday, and even some jumpers. Problem is, LeBron doesn’t consistantly do it. Kobe does. Kobe is clutch, LeBron isn’t. Kobe again has a Odom and a bunch of guys who couldn’t hit a wide open jumper in a gym by themselves. Again, Your argument that the East won it 2 times recently. Karl Malone going down in the playoffs & Heat playing the weak minded soft Mavs had a lot to do with it. Plus I know you are not arguing the East is tougher. The West clearly is. The road to the title
much rougher in the West than the road from the East. The fact that the Lakers and Spurs combined for more championships than your Eastern Conference over the last ten years speaks volumes.
I think everyone here will agree that LeBron is good but he isn’t great….YET. He will be one day, he has to get a jumper, no doubt or he can forget it. Think about this also, since you are one of many Kobe haters who can’t admit that Kobe is the best player in the league. LeBron faces Eastern conf. teams 4 times a year, Kobe faces Western conf. teams 4 times a year. Clearly the competition is better in the West and Kobe is seeing double and triple teams every night, every play. A lot of teams play James straight up, they only double when he really gets it going. What’s that tell you? James has guys that can knock down shots, Kobe has to force up shots and take bad shots, cause his guys can’t make shots. Anyone who argues #’s should know before they do it, that you can really make #’s look any way you want, but it don’t necessarily tell the whole story. Stop hating on Kobe and actually watch 40 of his games next season then you’ll see why he’s the best in the league. People like you and the media is why
he’ll never win a MVP. This guy could average 40 points a game, 10rebounds, 10 assists, hold his oppenent to 5 points a game and lead his team to a 72 win season and the media would still find some reason not to give it to him. Think about that….cause you know it’s true!
Michael Bennett Said,
May 28, 2007 @ 12:36 pm
That’s the whole point! I lived in Los Angeles for five years. I saw over 20 live Kobe games. I watch about 80% of his regular season games… a lot more than “40″. You, obviously, watch his 40 good games, because you don’t realize that he’s horrible on some nights. You have to take the good with the bad. YOU have to see the whole picture.
Kobe can go out and score 50 one night on over 50% FG… then, the next night, he’ll score 16 while shooting under 30% from the field. I realize that when he’s on, he’s really good. But, when he’s off, he’s piss poor. BUT, when LeBron doesn’t score, he still gets boards and assists. He’s more than just a scorer.
I DO NOT HATE KOBE. Let’s get that really clear. I love the NBA and all of it’s stars. But, I realize who’s the best and wh