Paul Pierce details what it will take for LeBron James to eclipse Michael Jordan as GOAT
Entering his record-tying 22nd NBA season, LA Lakers superstar forward LeBron James’ legacy appears to be nearly cemented. However, according to James’ former rival Paul Pierce, the four-time MVP still has an opportunity to solidify his GOAT case during the 2024-25 campaign.
Since his 2017 retirement, Pierce has frequently criticized James, seemingly cherry-picking his shortcomings to discredit his career. Just four years ago, the Boston Celtics legend controversially said James wasn’t a top-five player of all time despite most ranking him in their top two.
However, Pierce has seemingly come around on his ex-rival as of late, acknowledging his case for usurping Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan as the GOAT.
During Wednesday’s edition of FS1’s “Speak,” Pierce weighed in on James’ legacy entering Year 22. According to Pierce, the 20-time All-Star should be motivated to capture his fifth championship, as doing so would likely end the GOAT debate.
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“I think he does feel like he does have something to prove,” Pierce said. “… If LeBron wins one more championship, that will put him one behind Michael Jordan. I think there will probably be no more argument of who’s the GOAT.”
While James still trails Jordan’s title count by two, he has advantages in several accolades, such as All-Star and All-NBA appearances. He has also surpassed Jordan in numerous statistical categories, sitting as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer (40,474 career points).
However, Jordan only played 15 seasons, while James could reach 23 seasons if he completes his latest two-year, $101.4 million maximum contract. Thus, it’s unclear if a fifth championship would be enough to win over those who still rank Jordan ahead of him.
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LeBron James says it’s “unfair” to put championship expectations on Lakers entering 2024-25 NBA season
While Paul Pierce seemingly views LeBron James’ Lakers as 2025 title contenders, the latter tempered expectations.
Speaking from Day 1 of training camp on Tuesday, James touched on LA’s prospects for this season. He noted that his squad is focused on gradual improvement rather than having a championship-or-bust mentality.
“I don’t have any expectations,” James said. “And that’s unfair to put any expectations on us right now. The only thing that we can count on each other is how we come to practice and come to work every day.”
The Lakers are coming off a seventh-place Western Conference finish (47-35) and a first-round playoff exit. Meanwhile, they aren’t projected to be one of the West’s top teams in 2025. Thus, barring any unforeseen trades, James leading LA to another title appears highly improbable.
Also Read: Rob Parker tears into LeBron James for claiming he’s accomplished everything – “Why are you playing?”
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