“He studied them before he actually went at them…” Kobe Bryant is Batman and LeBron James is Thanos, according to ex-teammate Dwight Howard

LeBron James and Kobe Bryant have both created a LA Lakers legacy for themselves.

“He studied them before he actually went at them…” Kobe Bryant is Batman and LeBron James is Thanos, according to ex-teammate Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard's analogy on both Kobe Bryant (Batman) and LeBron James (Thanos) (Image via Open Source, X)

Dwight Howard‘s legacy as an NBA legend is one that will forever be acknowledged by fans. From his championship wins to dominating performances on the court, his career is one of those that many aspiring players would only dream of. However, one of the most special moments of his career would definitely be playing alongside two basketball icons, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

In a recent episode of the All-Stars podcast, Dwight Howard made a rather interesting analogy for both Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. Howard compared both the players to fictional superheroes.

I looked at him (Kobe Bryant) as if he was a superhero, like Batman. He's (LeBron James) Thor to me or Thanos.
YouTube video

It was a rather surprising yet meaningful analogy based on the information he gave on both of them. Starting from Kobe Bryant, who he played alongside in the Los Angeles Lakers, Dwight described him as a “Batman” based on his smartness, being a millionaire, and the fact that he observed his opponents very well before initiating any move.

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As for LeBron James, with whom Dwight Howard shared courts in the latter stages of his career, the terms “Thor” and “Thanos” were used. His reasoning? Dwight glorified LeBron’s athleticism, passing skills, and dunks, which in his eyes are still godly. And Thor being a Mythical God himself, Howard felt LeBron had every quality to be compared to the two characters, with respect to the NBA world.

LeBron and Kobe’s legacy as a LA Lakers legend

There is no doubt in our minds that when the term “Los Angeles Lakers” is mentioned, our minds come to a common ground of two names – LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. Two bonafide icons of the game who have shaped the game of basketball for the millions who see it as more than a game. But what’s each of their legacy like in the colors of purple and yellow?

Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, two icons of the LA Lakers franchise (Via Basketball Network)
Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, two icons of the LA Lakers franchise (Via Basketball Network)

Both LeBron and Kobe, who entered the NBA straight out of high school, displayed dominance and skill from the very beginning of their careers. But with the weight of the shirts and franchise came responsibilities, which they didn’t take for granted.

And while the 5 title wins for Kobe with the Lakers may give him an edge, LeBron has also made himself a popular figure in the city of Los Angeles. While his 1 NBA title win and the newly inaugurated In-Season tournament aren’t enough to match Kobe’s legacy, it’s what he has brought to the court that sets him apart. Hunger, dominance, and spirit, in a similar fashion to Kobe.

But the debate is still open and alive for enthusiasts to give their opinions. And while both sides may not come to one conclusion, they might share a similar feeling that both have etched their names as the GOATs in the books of the Los Angeles Lakers.

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