The one never-ending conversation in the NBA. Almost every fan, media member, and player has their list. And one that remains in flux at all times. But, the usual cases are usually agreed upon. However, an NBA legend turned analyst is looking to throw a wrench into those plans. With conventional wisdom pitting Michael Jordan and LeBron James against one another, the GOAT debate has become a two-man race.

However, not everyone thinks so. According to Jalen Rose, the conversation was never a two-person race. The Indiana Pacers legend isn’t sure LeBron even belongs in the discussion, ahead of greats from yesteryears like Bill Russell and Kareem Abdul Jabbar.

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“First and foremost, we can’t have a MJ vs LeBron conversation because LeBron gotta leapfrog some other people on the Mount Rushmore, everyone. There are some people that played basketball that accomplished some things and achieved a level of greatness that LeBron just has not been able to name a few…A guy named Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, you ever heard of a guy named Bill Russell? You ever heard of guy, Earvin “Magic” Johnson?”

That last name was a major point of contention for the man on the infamous end of the 81-point game. “When did LeBron pass Magic? Did I miss something? Did I miss something?” For most conversations, the 3 names Jalen brought up are the next 3 after the Michael-James discussion for people.

But, to each his own. Does Rose’s argument have any validity, though?

The GOAT case for LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Bill Russell

The case for the late, great Mr. Russell reads the easiest and simplest. A pioneer on and off the court, first player/coach, and 11 NBA Championships, Russell was the first “great” player to enter the league. However, his lack of offense and the league being a far smaller size hurt his case.

In the case of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson, the tale is a bit more complicated. Both represent the best of both worlds. Kareem with unparalleled longevity, not seen again till The King himself. And Magic, with the flash and a 12-year peak almost unfathomable in today’s league. From an accolades perspective, the argument is close.

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However, LeBron etches out these names due to a resume stacked with longevity and individually brilliant peaks throughout. Due to the combined magnitude of both, his ascension to the top of the all-time pyramid has him one step behind the throne, unless you are Jalen Rose or “Dr. J” Julius Erving.