Ex-Lakers coach names his GOAT and LeBron James isn’t even a close second

Former Lakers HC Mike Dunleavy Sr. revealed his top players of all time, notably excluding Lakers star LeBron James.

Ex-Lakers coach names his GOAT and LeBron James isn’t even a close second

Mike Dunleavy Jr. snubbed LeBron James from his GOAT list

The NBA’s Greatest of All Time (GOAT) debate has fueled countless conversations over the years. Fans and analysts passionately weighs in on the legacies of Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and other all-time greats. Former Los Angeles Lakers head coach Mike Dunleavy Sr. recently entered the discussion with a particularly hot take.

During an appearance on the Run It Back show on FanDuel TV, Dunleavy Sr. revealed who his GOAT basketball player was. He also left no room for doubt about his pick. For Dunleavy Sr., Michael Jordan is unequivocally the greatest player to ever step onto the court, with a Lose Angeles Lakers legend as the closest comparison.

Michael is Michael. I mean, obviously in my mind, the best player to ever play… Other than Michael, and then maybe Kobe…as far as competitors, workers…I mean, both those guys, I don’t know how they did it.

Mike Dunleavy Sr. said on Run It Back
YouTube video

LeBron James, despite his unprecedented career achievements, didn’t make the cut as a serious contender. The legendary coach elaborated on the intense schedules Jordan and Kobe Bryant maintained, which included early morning workouts and an unwavering focus on improvement. Although James didn’t make Dunleavy Sr.’s list, he still has a solid case when it comes to the numbers.

For Michael Jordan, his 6 NBA championships and undefeated record in the Finals symbolize his dominance. Kobe Bryant, though trailing Jordan in accolades, mirrored the same competitive fire and became a legend in his own right. Dunleavy Sr. believes these traits are essential in defining the greatest, and they’re areas where he feels LeBron James falls short despite his incredible career.

LeBron James finds support in GOAT argument from De’Aaron Fox

While Dunleavy Sr.’s view may resonate with fans of the Jordan-Kobe era, Sacramento Kings star De’Aaron Fox offers a modern perspective. Fox, who grew up watching LeBron James, recently argued that LeBron James’ longevity and consistent dominance make a compelling case for his inclusion in the GOAT conversation.

What MJ did in 15 years is crazy. But what LeBron’s done in his career and is still doing is nuts. I would say Bron. I didn’t watch Michael Jordan play, so I’m not going to pick somebody I didn’t watch play.

De’Aaron Fox via HoopsHype

Fox’s reasoning reflects a generational divide in how fans and players perceive greatness. While Jordan’s six championships, five MVPs, and six Finals MVPs are benchmarks of excellence, James’ unprecedented career longevity is what makes him a possible GOAT.

This is especially as he continues to defy ‘Father Time’ following league-wide celebrations for his 40th birthday. ‘King James’ may have two seasons left according to various reports. If he can win one more ring, the conversation surrounding the GOAT might change forever.