Stephen A. Smith Backs LeBron James’ GOAT Case Based on Recent Performance

“I think that even though [Jordan] will always be my GOAT, LeBron James has made the greatest case for GOAT status this year,” Smith said on First Take after the Lakers’ Game 2 win over the Houston Rockets.

James joined the Lakers after missing the first month of the season with sciatica. Initially projected as the team’s second option behind Luka Doncic, James took a backseat as the third option after Austin Reaves emerged as a secondary ball-handler to Doncic.

“It’s about a guy that’s going to be on the Mount Rushmore of basketball for NBA annals, willing to defer himself and being a third option when necessary, a second option when necessary, a number one option when necessary, a center when necessary, a power forward when necessary, a point forward or a point guard.

“Whatever it is that you need LeBron James to do, he has done it this year.”

In 2020, his championship year with the Lakers, he took on the point guard’s role. In 2022, James played 50% of the season at center. 

LeBron James Changed His Plan in Game 1 and Game 2 Against the Rockets

James’ role has been different in the two games against the Rockets. In Game 1, despite shooting well over 50 percent from the field, James took himself out as the primary scorer, letting Luke Kennard and others handle that department. He had 19 points on 9-for-15 shooting from the field.

James turned into a facilitator, dropping eight assists in just the first quarter. He was also very active on the defensive end. He added 8 rebounds, 13 assists, 2 steals, and a block. 

When Kevin Durant rejoined his team in Game 2, LeBron quickly recognized the necessity of another scorer. He recorded a game-high 28 points, while not limiting his teammates’ scoring. Marcus Smart and Kennard also recorded 25 and 23 points. 

With Game 3 scheduled in Houston, the Lakers will travel to a hostile arena. How do you think LeBron James is going to adjust his role to help his team win?