Most millenials and Gen Z-ers would argue that players in the 1960's wouldn't survive in this era of basketball. Given the advancement in knowledge and technology, most players are definitely more skilled now. However, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James believes that won't matter with the great Jerry West.
James took to Twitter his thoughts on how many points The Logo would average in today's NBA. He also added that West was a walking bucket and could also impact the game offensively in multiple ways.
Yes he was! Straight Bucket Getter. Also could pass the hell out of it too. I mean he could play off the ball(c&s) and on the ball(pull ups), get to the basket and make free-throws. I’d say 24-27PPG/8assist. https://t.co/bt97HUAvY9
— LeBron James (@KingJames) May 9, 2020
For all the kids out there, before Jerry West became one of the best executives in the league, he was lighting up the league ala Stephen Curry.
In his heyday, West averaged over 25 points for 11 straight seasons. He also had four campaigns in which he averaged at least 30 points, which includes a scoring title in 1969-70, where he averaged 31.2 points per game.
As the Lakers superstar mentioned, West could score from anywhere he wants. He could create his own and also doesn't have an issue playing off the ball. Moreover, he is great at finishing around the basket and could pull up from anywhere on the floor.
For his career, though, West averaged 27.0 points to go along with 5.8 rebounds, and 6.7 assists. And lest we forget, the three-point line didn't exist at that point. West didn't have the luxury of using his elite shooting ability to put up more points on the board.
With those averages, considering the fact that the three-point shot didn't exist at that point, it almost seems like LeBron is underestimating Jerry West a bit here. I mean, that is 27 points in an era with no threes. So, just imagine if he played in this trigger-happy era. Mr. West would probably average at least 30 points.
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