The “GOAT” debate has raged in the NBA for decades, but in the modern era, the debate has narrowed down to two names: Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
As James continues to rewrite the record books in his 23rd season, the debate is getting louder, and now Lakers head coach JJ Redick is adding his perspective.
The Lakers are currently on a long road trip, one of which will be in Chicago, the city where Jordan created his legacy.
Ahead of that showdown, Redick talked about the two icons and explained why he doesn't think the debate needs a single winner.
“I always say the greatest players of any era will be great in any era. It's hard to compare eras and styles of play, and it's hard for me to even compare statistics,” Redick said in an interview with Spectrum SportsNet. “Jordan was 1, LeBron was 1, Jordan was 2, LeBron was 2. No matter how you want to do it, to me, they are the two greatest players of all time. I think the biggest thing is you hear stories about how LeBron prepares, but never being a teammate of his, so not experiencing it firsthand, but now being around him, the last year and a half he's been crazy. He's crazy with his approach and his preparation, and every day it's about, 'How do I prepare myself physically and mentally for the next game?' “I said that night, this is a perfect example to any NBA basketball player of how to approach their career and their craft, and that's why he's been able to do this for so long and reach such a high level.”
Jordan's dominance defined a generation, but James has continued excellence for more than two decades.
As far as Redick is concerned, the debate doesn't need to be resolved and both players have earned their spots.
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