LeBron James Just Set a Record Michael Jordan Never Could
LA Lakers star forward LeBron James has continued to prove that he’s still arguably the game’s best player. James’ performance in his 17th campaign has proven that as he’s guided the Lakers toward an opportunity to compete for an NBA title. That quest has also earned him an NBA record that Michael Jordan never accomplished.
LeBron James’ impressive 2019-20 season
Following an injury-plagued first campaign with the Lakers, LeBron James bounced back significantly this season.
James took on the challenge of being LA’s primary ball-handler that helped him put together another MVP worthy year. The 35-year-old demonstrated no drop off in his game as he led the league with a career-high 10.2 assists per contest along with 25.3 points on 49.3% shooting from the floor and 7.8 rebounds.
The Lakers, led by James and offseason addition Anthony Davis, guided their way to the Western Conference’s top record. It marked the first time in a decade that the franchise captured the West’s top overall playoff spot. LA put together an impressive campaign that earned them recognition as one of the best teams in the league behind their stout defense and highly efficient offense.
Beyond that, James’ performance in his 17th campaign also helped him garner an NBA record that Michael Jordan never came close to adding to his resume.
LeBron James set an NBA record for most All-NBA team selections
If the 2019-20 season has proven anything, LeBron James is still at the top of his game.
James’ MVP-caliber campaign has earned him his 13th All-NBA First Team nod, his 16th overall All-NBA selection in 17 seasons. The latest honor has put him ahead of Hall of Famers Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Tim Duncan for the all-time mark.
It’s an incredible feat that has placed him above some of the game’s greatest players. What is most remarkable about that is that he accomplished it in his 17th season. James has continually proven that he’s a one-of-a-kind talent that the NBA has never seen before.
Given what he’s accomplished during his career, the comparisons to Michael Jordan will always remain. However, it’s another individual record that he holds over the former Chicago Bulls great (11 All-NBA team selections). The further along that James moves in his career playing at an elite level, it’s hard not to put him in the conversation as potentially the greatest NBA player with Jordan, Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Kobe Bryant.
LeBron James eyeing guiding the Lakers to an NBA title
Throughout his illustrious career, LeBron James has taken the time to recognize the magnitude of historical moments.
However, James’ focus at this juncture remains on guiding the Lakers toward an NBA title. LA has pushed their way to the Western Conference Finals after closing out the Houston Rockets in five games. A tough challenge ahead awaits against the Denver Nuggets, who have become the first team in NBA history to come back from two 3-1 series deficits in the same postseason.
The Nuggets have proven to be a battle-tested team in the playoffs over the last two seasons. Their two stars in Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic, have continued to take the next steps forward with their play. Murray has showcased an elite scoring ability with four games with at least 40 points in the playoffs, which he capped the Nuggets’ Game 7 win over the LA Clippers with 40 points.
Jokic has showcased his all-around offensive skill set that has created matchup problems for opposing teams. Meanwhile, the Lakers have come into form in the playoffs behind their stout defense and star power. Denver will present some unique challenges beyond their two stars, which should set the stage for an entertaining series that begins on Friday night.
