LeBron James is entering his 20th season with the 2022-23 season, and that is an achievement in itself. The consistency and the reliability that the four-time NBA champion has shown over the course of his career are nearly unattainable. Last season was a rough one for the Lakers while LeBron kept on scoring and breaking new grounds in hopes of turning his team\’s fortunes around. Apart from coming within touching distance to the scoring title and scoring at an average of 30.3 PPG, the 37-year-old also surpassed the Utah Jazz legend Karl Malone to become the second highest scorer in the history of the NBA.
Karl Malone is one of the greatest players in the league has seen, and getting greenlight for the mailman is an achievement in itself. Malone spent most of his 19-season-long career and led them to the finals twice against Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. However, the 14-time All-Star could not get the better of Jordan in the moments when it meant the most. With a height of 6\”9\’ and 269lbs weight, Malone averaged 25.0 points and 10.1 rebounds per game, shooting 51.9% from the field.
The two-time MVP also reached the finals in his final and only stint with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, the legendary power forward finished his career without a ring under his name. But, that does not affect his Hall of Famer in the league. Malone played against veteran players like Shaquille O\’Neal, Kobe Bryant, and Jordan. They have been undoubtedly the most talented players in the league. However, the Jazz superstar believes that LeBron James is the most skilled NBA player.
Malone Reckons NBA Will Never See A Player Like LeBron James Again
In an interview with Dan Patrick, Karl Malone expressed his appreciation for the dedication and skills LeBron James has showcased in his long career. Even before he made it to the NBA, the four-time finals MVP was considered the most exciting young talent. He won his first championship with Miami after debuting for Cleveland in 2003. The Lakers legend returned to the Cavs and helped his home team win their first-ever championship in NBA. Malone stated, \”I think LeBron James is the most talented player that I have ever seen.\”
Karl stated the reason why he considered James the most skilled. He pointed out that many players make big statements and fail to back up their words with performances. However, LeBron is 6\”8\’ tall and about 260-75 pounds. Thus, the third-highest NBA scorer thought that the things LeBron does would not be seen by any player in the league again. He concluded, \”All of those haters out there sit back and enjoy.\”