LeBron James Thrives Where Michael Jordan Would Struggle in Social Media Era, Says Former Reporter

Michael Jordan has not faced the in-depth scrutiny LeBron James has in this era of social media and accessibility.

LeBron James Thrives Where Michael Jordan Would Struggle in Social Media Era, Says Former Reporter

Michael Jordan and LeBron James (Image via FirstSportz)

In Short
  • LeBron James faces intense scrutiny on social media, unlike previous stars like Michael Jordan.
  • JA Adande suggests Jordan would struggle with modern public scrutiny, which LeBron has managed well.
  • Colin Cowherd emphasizes appreciating LeBron and Jordan's unique greatness without direct comparisons.

Whatever LeBron James does or says, he has his fans who will swoon over him. On the other hand, there are many more who are there to find something or the other to criticize him.

In this day and age of social media, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar is at the top of the list of most sports-related conversations. Even those who do not follow basketball as much know that something or the other is being said about him.

Even though some players, such as Stephen Curry, do not face extreme criticism, most athletes nowadays across all forms of sports are subjected to some form of ‘negative narrative that is spreading ‘hate’ online.

Critical topics trend, as they tend to draw more interest than any positive discussion. But then, they also tend to wreak havoc on the minds of these athletes.

I don’t think Michael Jordan would have held up as well as LeBron as has been able to if subject to the same public social media scrutiny.

JA Adande said on The Volume

This was JA Adande, who used to cover Michael Jordan during his time with the Chicago Bulls. He almost agreed to Colin Cowherd‘s question about whether His Airness’ popularity was because there was no social media, and that his personal life was mostly shielded.

Adande believes that the six-time champion would have also been picked apart had there been social media. At the same time, he is not sure if Jordan’s ego would have helped him handle negativity the way LeBron James has done throughout his career.

Colin Cowherd agrees with LeBron James on Michael Jordan GOAT debate

A few weeks ago, Michael Jordan had specifically mentioned that he does not appreciate the GOAT debate simply because it has brought animosity into the sport he loves.

Michael Jordan and LeBron James are different players
Michael Jordan and LeBron James are different players (Image via ESPN)

Fast-forward to now, and the conversations came up again after LeBron James made it clear that he and the five-time league MVP are different players, and should not be compared.

I always think that Michael and LeBron are sorta like Messi and Ronaldo. They’re both great, they’re totally different! Nadal and Federer – Both great, totally different!

Colin Cowherd said on The Herd

The longtime analyst agrees with the Akron native that the differences between the latter and Jordan’s game are enough evidence that they should be appreciated together.

If Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal can agree that they are pitted against equal all-time greats in Lionel Messi and Roger Federer, but with different games, so can fans.

Colin Cowherd believes that fans should appreciate LeBron James‘ greatness as it is, without trying to create a comparison to a vastly different player in Michael Jordan.

Stephen A. Smith thinks Lakers blowing 3-0 playoff lead will impact LeBron James’ legacy

While LeBron James tries to distance himself from the GOAT debate, he is currently battling with his Los Angeles Lakers teammates to avoid losing the first-round playoff series to the Houston Rockets.

No Luka, just got Austin Reaves back. Ain’t even supposed to be in this position. And at 41 years of age in his 23rd season, he’s been balling. He just looked flat last night. But what are we to make of it? Inquiring minds want to know. Because if you think for one second that’s not going to be held against his legacy, surrendering a 3-0 lead, y’all got your head in the sand.

Stephen A. Smith said on his namesake show

The ESPN analyst made it clear that even though he did not have Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, losing after building a 3-0 lead would indeed impact James’ legacy.

However, Stephen A. Smith does not believe that it will happen. Even though the Rockets have the momentum and will be at home, LeBron James and his teammates will ensure there is no Game 7.

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