Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson came to the defense of LeBron James in terms of how James’ legacy has been critiqued compared to that of Michael Jordan and others.
On @SportsCenter with @stephenasmith, @MagicJohnson pinpoints an ace on LeBron's resume:
"Michael (Jordan) didn't have this type of pressure, I didn't have this type of pressure, Larry Bird didn't …"
Magic said only @kaj33 could relate to the expectations Young LeBron faced
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) October 9, 2020
While appearing on SportsCenter, Johnson made a very valid point. James lives in a digital age where every move he has made on and off the court has been put under a microscope. James has lived through his career tolerating naysayers of not living up to the greatness that was set forth by his predecessors.
After his first departure from the Cleveland Cavaliers, many retired legends struck down any accolades that he may achieve in the future, seeing as how a star of his caliber should stay with the same team until retiring. LBJ quickly shut down those notions years later, as he now looks obtain his fourth championship with the Lakers
Jordan, indeed, had one of the most talented supporting cast during his championship runs in the ’90s. The possible comparison Johnson makes to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar could be assumed from both players becoming high school standouts and having that same pressure to perform at high levels immediately after coming to the NBA.
James and the Lakers will look to close out the Finals against the Miami Heat on Game 5. They currently lead 3-1 and can complete a gentleman’s sweep, much like what they’ve done through the other rounds of the 2020 playoffs.
Throughout the playoffs in the NBA bubble, LeBron James has averaged 26.9 points, 10.5 rebounds and 8.8 assists. Though many expected Anthony Davis to walk away with the Finals MVP award, the King may have stolen the show from his co-star due to his enduring performances for the Lakers throughout the series.