The Los Angeles Lakers have had two of the best playmakers of all time play for the franchise. Magic Johnson, who won the Lakers 5 rings back in the 1980s, and LeBron James, who took them to a title this year.

Both of them are similar in some aspects of the game. Former Lakers Assistant Coach Bill Bertka recently spoke about this similarity between the two.

“Magic was a very unique athlete and basketball player,” Bertka said. “His intangibles were outstanding — his knowledge of the game and competitive spirit and leadership qualities, and what he was able to do as a 6-foot-9 and 215-pound point guard.

“But LeBron can also play point, or the two-guard, or the three, or four or even the five. He has great versatility as an athlete, but he also has those same intangibles as Magic.

“That was especially evident this season with the way his leadership and play and inspiration were key factors in our winning the championship.

“LeBron now may be considered the greatest to ever play the game. He’s getting some attention for that even over (Michael) Jordan.”

LeBron James: From scorer to dictator

When LeBron arrived in the NBA, he was a pure athletic beast. Despite barely having been 18 when he was drafted, he immediately settled in.

A high-flyer and explosive player, the main aspect of his game was driving in and scoring. But now while playing with Anthony Davis, this emphasis on scoring has changed.

Davis could be the best ever teammate he has played with, and LeBron knows how to unlock his full potential. Throughout his career with the Pelicans, Davis had to create his own shots.

He had to put in extra so that the team could come close to winning. But at LA, LeBron always knows where to find AD.

From a score-first mentality, LeBron has transitioned into a pass-first player and the best example of that was Game 5’s last shot.

A few years back, LeBron would have tried a fadeaway over the three defenders. But now he pulled the defense with him and created an excellent open look for his teammate.

Although Danny Green ended up missing it, it was still a good play orchestrated by James.

Magic is arguably the best passer the game has ever seen, but LeBron is a close second. Both of them have shown unsurpassable court vision and Lakers fans have been spoilt to have both of them don the purple and gold.

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