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After Stealing “Jr Smith’s Moment”, LeBron James’ Mental Comparison to Michael Jordan Gets Thrown Out by Former Cavaliers Teammate

Published 07/28/2023, 12:42 PM EDT

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In the world of basketball, there are 2 names that are at the pinnacle of the sport. The two players are often a victim of comparison of achievements, gameplay, and mentality. These players are Michael Jordan and LeBron James. While both players possess extraordinary skills on the court, one aspect has always sparked intense debates in the NBA world: “the killer instinct.”

As Jordan has a reputation for being a brutal, cold-blooded competitor, we know James for making the correct plays at the right moment. But are these set narratives apt for the athletes? A former teammate of James’s spoke about this in an interview and gave a player’s perspective on this.

Comparison between Jordan & LeBron

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Fans know Michael Jordan for his tenacity and competitiveness on the court. It didn’t matter if it was a regular season shot or a final buzzer shot, Jordan wanted the ball. And due to this confidence and belief in his game, he is regarded as one of the greatest clutch players in the NBA. But it was a little different with James. As he plays the game as it is meant to be, like a team. He would also take matters into his own hands only when necessary, otherwise, he would form gameplay and create opportunities.

When the game is on the line and the team only requires making one basket, that is when the player’s true testament is proven. And Jordan used to shine brightly during times like this, proving his killer instinct. His memorable game-winning shots and unwavering confidence earned him the nickname “His Airness.” Whereas when it comes to James, they criticize him for passing the ball to open teammates during clutch shots.

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In response, James’ former Cavaliers teammate Brendan Haywood noted on a podcast that people had a false narrative about LeBron not attempting clutch shots.

He said, “We’re down two, David Blatt draws a play for J.R. Smith and Bron said absolutely not. He grabs the clipboard, erases the play, and drew up his own play. Bron said imma fake this way, pop to the corner, you give me the ball right there and imma hit the shot.”

He further added to make his point by saying, “I have never seen somebody draw up their own game win”. LeBron made that clutch shot and won the 4th game of the semi-finals against the Chicago Bulls.

Who is better out of the two?

While both the players had different game styles, they possessed different personalities too. Jordan was the kind of leader who used to have endless demands from his teammates, which in turn pushed their limits.

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Whereas LeBron, on the hand, empowers his teammates by building strong partnerships with them. Even he brings out the best in his players by showing them their value in his team.

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Answering your burning question, both players have completely opposite game styles and senses. One comes with a ruthless approach and determination, winning 6 championships and retiring. The other one is still at it! He has won 4 championships already with calculated decision-making skills. He’s also the player to score the most points in NBA history.

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So it is up to you as to who you prefer, Michael Jordan or LeBron James?

Watch This Story: Treated Like “Dog SH*T” by Michael Jordan, Bulls Members Brutal Conspiracy Was Ruined With “Life-Threatening” Response

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Written by:

Dhruv Shastry

720Articles

One take at a time

Dhruv is an NBA writer at ES with years of playing experience to name. Despite the ankle injury barring him from playing further, he never lost touch with the sport. He loves the swag and the attitude basketball players possess.
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Edited by:

Saumya Khanduja