Deconstructing LeBron James

Patrick Gallen by Senior Analyst Written on February 26, 2008
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All because the feet do the talking.

 

ATHLETICISM: Julius Erving

Dr. J was in a class all his own in the 70’s as far as athletic ability. We say the same thing now about King James.

Few players could get to the rim, and do it with such grace, like Julius Erving. We say the same thing now about LeBron.

Dr. J would take flight from anywhere on the court and dunk it with authority. We say the same thing now about James.

Julius invented flight. He was steady in the air, and did it with an easiness few others have maintained. But LeBron James can do it as well.

He can keep up with the bigs on the glass, but can also scour the perimeter with the smaller players. His athleticism right now is unparalleled.

 

TAKE OVER ABILITY: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant

These three men share something that no other players had. The ability to take over a game at anytime, in any way.

If you need a clutch three pointer to send the game to overtime, LeBron, Kobe and Mike are it. How about a strong drive to the hole? A post up jumper from the wing?

All three possessed an uncanny ability to take over a game.

During last seasons Eastern Conference Finals, LeBron stepped into new territory, scoring the final 25 points for Cleveland, and 29 of the last 30.

Never witnessed something like that?

Probably because it happens once a decade.

Sure, LeBron has passed up some big shots. But more often than not, he will take over.

And it will be over.

 

When you piece it all together, it is easy to see where he comes from. A little bit Tiny, a smidge from Dr. J. He was born with instincts and an ability to play the game unlike anyone we have ever seen. The crazy thing is, we might just be seeing the beginning of what is to come. At just 23 years old, he hasn’t even hit his prime.

And when he does, we will still be saying…

“Half man, half amazing.”

 

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written on February 26, 2008 Sports

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