LeBron James: Will he become the greatest ever? NBA Special Report (Part-1)
Miami Heat’s superstar forward LeBron aka ‘King’ James is one of the most gifted basketball specimens to ever grace the basketball court. His combination of athleticism, size, court vision, tenacity, hustle, leadership and instinct are a package we've never seen before.
However, as with every great being, there is always a flaw that comes along. In James’ case it all comes down to the skills; especially the skills which require more practice.
This is not to say that LeBron hasn't worked on his game. James has been one of the most committed players in the league. It’s only that he probably has lost his passion to improve with time.
When James emerged onto the scene in the colours of the Wine and the Gold, defense was the worst part of his game. But the once weak ball protector has now turned into one of the most elite defenders in the game. Ask, the reigning league MVP Derrick Rose, and he will let you know the first hand experience.
That though was a tale of a lovable, smiling and an immensely talented young player who everyone liked.
Now, perhaps the aura and the glitz of being the best basketball player in the world, has taken over the mind of the prolific small forward. Over the last three seasons his game hasn't improved much. The potential seems limitless though.
LeBron, who is only in his seventh professional year, already has stature worthy enough of being compared with the icons like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he can even move one step further. The major hurdles in his way though, are minor kinks in his shooting arsenal, ones that were brutally exposed by the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals.
The most blatant weakness in the two times reigning MVP’s road to glory is his step back jumper. In fact, James has virtually no step jumper. His footwork is all over the place when it comes to the most difficult shot in basketball. Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowitzki are great and successful because they live to fight in clutch situations and when these situations arise; great players like them rely on jumpers.
LeBron though, is not even close to being called a great if it is judged by the jumpshot prowess. He can tear apart the defense, break through the lanes like a monster, but as far as the outside shooting is concerned, he falls flat.
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