LeBron James: The Most Versatile Weapon in the NBA

When LeBron James entered the NBA, experts argued over which position he should play and how he should be used. Is he a small forward or a point guard? Should he pattern his game after Michael Jordan or Magic Johnson?

With the biggest hype that ever faced a rookie, LeBron James has somehow incredibly surpassed it all. With an unmatched combination of size, strength and skills, James has also shown the ability to add on to his game.

Now, what has become evident is that he can just be deployed wherever his team needs help. Showing an ever-expanding game, James has improved his shooting, his ball-handling and his defense. This has allowed him to dominate the game in different facets and has allowed his team to use him in a multitude of ways. Thus, he has become a superstar Swiss Army knife that can function for his team's every need.

The following slides show how the NBA's most versatile weapon can be used.

As a Scoring Machine Like Michael Jordan

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10 Jun 1998: Michael Jordan #23 of the Chicago Bulls in action against Jeff Hornasek of the Utah Jazz during the NBA Finals Game 4 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Jazz 86-82. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel /Allsport

LeBron James has continually improved his mid-range and perimeter game. With his ability to drive, his fadeaway jumper as difficult to block as Michael Jordan's. LeBron James has consistently finished among the tops in the league in scoring despite being a playmaker at the same time.

As a Playmaker Like Magic Johnson

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INGLEWOOD -1987: Allan Leavell #30 of the Houston Rockets guards Magic Johnson #32 of the Los Angeles Lakers during a game in the 1987-88 season at the Forum in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by download

With superior vision, ball-handling and size, LeBron James creates scoring opportunities for his teammates the way Magic Johnson did. His joy in getting teammates easy baskets is also reminiscent of the Lakers legend.

As a Defensive Stopper Like Scottie Pippen

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26 Apr 1996: Point guard Tim Hardaway #10 of the Miami Heat dribbles up court while receiving defensive pressure by forward Scottie Pippen #33 of the Chicago Bulls during the Bulls first round playoff game against the Heat at the Ubited Center in Chicago

Similar to Jordan's tag-team partner Scottie Pippen, LeBron James is one of the few players who can defend multiple positions with his superior combination of size, strength and quickness. Coupled with awareness and anticipation, James is one of the most fearsome defenders when focused.

As a Help Defender Like Josh Smith

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ATLANTA, GA - MAY 12: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls shoots against Josh Smith #5 of the Atlanta Hawks in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Phillips Arena on May 12, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: U

Smith is one of the best in the NBA as a weakside shot-blocker and in playing the passing lanes. LeBron James is one of the few who can match Smith on this combination.

As a Powerful Fast-Break Finisher Like Karl Malone

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10 Jul 1996: Forward Karl Malone of Dream Team III goes up for the dunk during the USA's 119-58 victory over China at the America West Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Credit: Jed Jacobsohn /Allsport

It is amazing to realize that LeBron James is the same size as Utah Jazz legend Karl Malone. However, they both possess the ability to run their lanes on the break and finish strong.