LeBron James Hit With Isiah Thomas Reality Check on Michael Jordan Having Harder Path Than Him

Published 02/23/2022, 8:30 PM EST

One of the most heated debates in the world of sports is the issue of LeBron James and Michael Jordan. The two players are arguably the best players of their eras and are always in the mix when talking about the best players in the world.

During the NBA All-Star Weekend of 2022, the world got to witness greatness. During the All-Star match, the two GOATs LeBron James and Michael Jordan took a moment to embrace each other. Although it is unfair to compare two players who belong to different generations, the debate is highly complicated.

One of the biggest arguments put forth while comparing the two is that LeBron had it easier. Many retired players and analysts believe that the rules have changed drastically. Popular analyst Stephen A. Smith gives LeBron a reality check regarding the issue.

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Stephen A. Smith gives a reality check to LeBron James

Initially, the debate involving who had it tougher started with LeBron James‘ agent Rich Paul. Long-time friend and agent Paul commented, “The road for LeBron was just as hard, if not harder than the road was for Michael.”

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Talking on the popular First Take Show, eminent analyst Stephen A. Smith addressed the issue. He said, “I think about the road to prosperity that Michael Jordan had to travel. NBA rule changes had changed drastically. From the ‘Bad Boy’ Pistons to the New York Knicks with Anthony Mason.”

Smith further adds, “I look at it from that perspective and think about what Michael Jordan had to endure because of the physicality of the game. The rules that were allowed, some of the things they did. LeBron didn’t have that issue.”

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How has the game changed since the 90s?

Any old-school fan would agree that the NBA has changed since the 80s and the 90s. With the new rules, players’ defense has become a lot less aggressive compared to the past. The players did not get to the hoops with ease compared to the players of today.

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There is also an emergence of individual plays rather than team games. The perfect example is LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers as he led the Cavs to a final in 2007 almost single-handedly.

What is your opinion regarding the LeBron James and Michael Jordan debate? Let us know in the comments below.

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Abhinava is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication. Abhinava has been following NBA for the past 6 years and is a huge fan of the Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry.

LeBron James Hit With Isiah Thomas Reality Check on Michael Jordan Having Harder Path Than Him

Stephen A. Smith gives a reality check to LeBron James

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How has the game changed since the 90s?