LeBron James Still Has Time to Become the Greatest Player
After failing not only to clinch NBA titles during multiple years, but to meet the expectations of championship-hungry fans in Miami, and finally losing the NBA Finals series to Dallas in 6 games, it may take LeBron more than a 4-month summer vacation to restore his confidence back to conference finals levels when the 2011-2012 season tips off in October.
LeBron's ring-less journey was extended another year last-night totaling 8 since his rookie debut in 2003, and after yesterday's huge blow it seemed at least that King James' legacy of being considered one of the greatest players of all time started to fade away.
However, that begs the question, "Does he still have time to become Basketball's greatest of all time?
The answer is yes.
Although MJ's 6 championships was still afar Bill Russell (player with most NBA titles in history)'s 11 by the time he retired, he is arguably considered the greatest player of all time today or at least the greatest conceivable player among popular culture today.
Not only do we value how MJ took basketball to a whole new level, but his garnering of 6 championships occurred during a more competitive NBA league in the 90's. Jordan finally retired after 13 seasons in 2003.
LeBron has played 8 seasons so far, and compared to Michael's career, he would still have 5 more years to earn rings. If he were to win all 5, he would still have less then Michael. But considering LeBron's widespread impact on the media (just like Mike), his memorable stats and feats, his reviews from commentators as already being the greatest player ever, and the ever-increasing competitive nature of the always maturing league, it wouldn't surprise me if LeBron's winning of 4 NBA titles would inherit him the "Greatest ever" title over MJ and become at least the greatest conceivable player among popular culture in the future.
Winning 4 titles in 5 seasons is highly improbable, but with his health, athleticism and strength, LeBron's career deems to reach at least Reggie Miller's 18 seasons or Shaq's 19.
The following is a list of NBA players with championships and the number of seasons they have played:
1. Bill Russell - 13 Years - 11 Championships
2. Robert Horry - 16 years - 7 Championships
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar - 20 years - 6 Championships
4. Michael Jordan - 13 years - 6 Championships
5. Kobe Bryant - 15 years - 5 Championships
6. Magic Johnson - 19 years - 5 Championships
7. Shaquille O'Neal - 19 years - 4 Championships
8. Larry Bird - 13 years - 3 Championships
9. LeBron James - 8 years- 0 Championships
