Michael Jordan, Who Once Admitted He Was a LeBron James Fan, Openly Exposed Rare Flaw in His Game

Michael Jordan and LeBron James are two names that are in every NBA GOAT debate. While the two are very different styles of players who played in different eras, fans have never stopped comparing them. But the two have the utmost respect for each other. Like most players, Jordan was an idol for James and Jordan has multiple times praised James.

But the Bulls legend has also pointed out a flaw he found out in the Chosen One’s game. During an interview with Wright Thompson from ESPN magazine, Jordan revealed this. The interview was for the special occasion of MJ turning 50 and he had a candid discussion about a lot of things.

During the discussion, they were watching basketball games as well. And it was MJ’s Charlotte Bobcats playing against the Boston Celtics.

DIVE DEEPER

But the Bobcats lost the game, and Jordan was disappointed. He then changed the channel to the Miami Heat-Utah Jazz game.

Michael Jordan breaks down LeBron James’ game

While watching the game, MJ said, “I study him. When LeBron goes right, he usually drives; when he goes left, he usually shoots a jumper. It has to do with his mechanics and how he loads the ball for release. So if I have to guard him, I’m gonna push him left, so nine times out of 10, he’s gonna shoot a jump shot. If he goes right, he’s going to the hole and I can’t stop him. So I ain’t letting him go right.”

Jordan then proceeded to predict every move James made in the game. He also calls out fouls even if they aren’t given by the officials. It should be no surprise that MJ could find a flaw or pattern in someone’s game. 

He was not just about his offensive game, Jordan was one of the elite defenders during his time. MJ was a tenacious defender. And defense starts by analyzing your man and your opponent as a team. He won the Defensive Player of the year award in 1988 and has made the All-NBA Defensive First Team 9 times.

WATCH THIS STORY– Kobe Bryant Estate: How much is it worth today?

When asked who are the current players (at the time) that can be successful in his era, MJ said that he could only come up with four names and listed LeBron, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, and Dirk Nowitzki. His Airness also said that LeBron would be successful in his era, but wouldn’t be as successful as he is. 

Do you think LeBron James can be as successful as now in Michael Jordan’s era?

Source: | This article originally belongs to Essentially Sports