There’s been a hot debate brewing in and around the NBA recently. That is who should be the ‘face of the league‘. The debate earlier gained traction, but recently exploded when Minnesota superstar Anthony Edwards downplayed the importance of the title. And now, LeBron James has stepped into his conversation, not to claim the title but to call out the NBA media for scrutinizing young players in the league.

For years, James has been the face of the NBA, but with him now reaching the finale of his saga, who will take the mantle next? On Friday, the four-time NBA champion discussed this with Scott Van Pelt. The 40-year-old veteran pointed out that it’s the media’s constant discouragement of the up-and-coming players that has held them back from embracing the role. This conversation caught the attention of Stephen A. Smith, who had a different view on the matter.

According to Smith, the media’s criticism and player comparison are part and parcel of sports coverage and not an attack on the game. “No disagreement here from @KingJames. He’s right about that. What’s messed up is the other b.s. He’s been spewing that folks who cover the game are (bleeping) on the game. Critiquing the game, and pointing out who’s doing and who’s not doing is NOT (bleeping) on the game. It’s covering the damn game.” Smith wrote on X.

Well, James has also been at the center of media criticism and comparison. He’s frequently brought up in comparison debates alongside Michael Jordan—something that might be a factor leading the veteran star to sympathize with the upcoming generation. As believes that his generation is trying their best to carry the tradition and what’s more important is the fact the younger generation should hoop for the love of the game.

Meanwhile, another NBA legend has joined in to urge people to stop the LeBron James-Michael Jordan GOAT debate.

Charles Barkley calls the LeBron James-Michael Jordan GOAT debate ‘stupid’

In the world of NBA, one topic has been ever-present. That is, who’s the greatest player of all time? Fans frequently find themselves arguing between Michael Jordan and LeBron James. In the midst of all the debates going on around the league at the moment, former NBA star Charles Barkley expressed his thoughts during an episode of his podcast, ‘Steam Room.‘

While talking about WNBA icon Diana Taurasi’s retirement, Barkley, and co-host Ernie Johnson expressed their admiration for her remarkable career. However, they were annoyed by the GOAT debate that followed her retirement. While Johnson urged his listeners to appreciate the legends of the game rather than getting caught up in comparisons, Barkley was more straight up. “There are guys on television and radio with no talent who want to cash in on clicks from internet fools and call-in shows. It’s simply ridiculous,” said the 11-time All-Star.

He suggested that these conversations are driven by media people and podcasters who have no knowledge of the game. Moreover, Barkley stated that it’s a strategy to grab the attention of the people. “I believe that people engaging in the Michael vs. LeBron debate are just wasting their time. The audience is misguided for listening to this nonsense.”

Well, he has a great point. As a fan of the sport, one must be able to appreciate the greatness of both the players. Whether Barkley’s rant will make an impact remains to be seen. Let’s wait and watch.