What do you like in LeBron James as a player?

[elementally morale]

Serious question.

I personally have nothing against the guy. Don't really care either way. I can see he is a very good player, but he doesn't entertain me the way some inferior players do, hence I don't really like watching him play. When I do, I can appreciate a few things he does, but it is rare he impresses me. For me, his entertainment level as a player is low, even if I can clearly see him being really good.

So... honestly: What do you like in LeBron James, the basketball player? Why do you enjoy watching him play?

[TiagoSimoes]

im not a lebron fan, but like u, i can appreciate his greatness and the fact that he is definetly in an all time top-10.

he is not particularly pleasing to watch, most of the times he just makes use of his overwhelming physical attributes, but the one thing i really really like about him, is his vision and passing. only bird comes close(or better) regarding to passing fowards, lebron is really good at that

[nathanjizzle]

nothing

[KBaller33]

When he was younger his athleticism was out of this world.

Now that he's older his passing is really impressive

[GODbe]

I don't think anybody honestly likes anything about his game. The stat nerds are simply attracted to his stats and that's why he has a few fans.

[Ancient Legend]

I like most his speed and athleticism at his size. His elite ability to finish with contact, his bullet two handed passes. Skills wise he has very few weaknesses.
His weaknesses are mostly mental, lacks confidence in himself at times. That pisses me off.

[dannywpt]

I too can accept that he's a very good basketball player, but I really agree with OP. He doesn't hold much entertainment value. I'd much rather watch almost any other star in the league play.

In b4 Durant free throw jokes btw.

[elementally morale]

I admit I'm a Laker fan since 1980, and there is a chance it changes my perception on certain players. However, I really like watching lots and lots of players who were non-laker. I loved watching Hakeem. Dirk. Steve nash as a Sun. Under 30 Kevin Garnett. Young Vince Carter. Duncan. Ginobili. Etc.

Besides being a fan, my primary reason watching basketball is being entertained. Both on the court and off it. On the court it's skill and pure entertainment level. Off the court it is the process of aging and maturation, like in a soap opera.

The only real problem I have with LeBron is that he isn't really entertaining for my taste. He was... in his first 2 years or so. After that, he became boring to me to watch. Sure, he is a great player, an all-time great if you wish.

But do I enjoy watching him play the game? No, not really.

[played0ut]

It's because all the aspects of the game comes easily to him due to his size, speed, and strength.


Everything he does is really ****ing basic, but simply stronger/quicker/faster/daftpunk.


Think about the mismatches;

>He doesn't need to jump too high (taller than shorter guards)
>or run too fast (faster than forwards)
>or back down too hard (stronger than guards)

But it still goes in. Now that is efficiency and dominance. :applause: A little boring to watch though.




Bit off topic, but that's why I love Jordan so much. He was only slightly physically stronger and faster, but would bend the game to his favour by sheer force of will and skill. :applause:

[Ancient Legend]

I also like his ability to pull off a ridiculous game out of his ass in a critical game.
That's when it pisses me off that he could play like that every game, like Jordan did, and not revert to passiveness.
Dude is a Gohan to MJ's Goku and Kobe's Vegeta.

[NZStreetBaller]

I hate lebron but even though its getting old his one hand dunk from wades lob is still cool

[navy]

I also like his ability to pull off a ridiculous game out of his ass in a critical game.
That's when it pisses me off that he could play like that every game, like Jordan did, and not revert to passiveness.
Dude is a Gohan to MJ's Goku and Kobe's Vegeta.
:rolleyes:

[Kingwillball]

His dominance plain and simple knowing at any time he can take over a game and not be stopped. If he flips switch and goes into attack mode he is a joy to watch the game look easy.

[IMObjective]

Serious question.

I personally have nothing against the guy. Don't really care either way. I can see he is a very good player, but he doesn't entertain me the way some inferior players do, hence I don't really like watching him play. When I do, I can appreciate a few things he does, but it is rare he impresses me. For me, his entertainment level as a player is low, even if I can clearly see him being really good.

So... honestly: What do you like in LeBron James, the basketball player? Why do you enjoy watching him play?
First, do you think he's the best player in the game? Since most people believe he is, there'll be a lot of people who "enjoy" watching him play no matter what kind of game he had. I think some people just like watching him put up those amazing numbers. But personally I'm with you. Not the most entertaining.

[VengefulAngel]

His ability to take over the game on both sides of the floor.

[played0ut]

I also like his ability to pull off a ridiculous game out of his ass in a critical game.
That's when it pisses me off that he could play like that every game, like Jordan did, and not revert to passiveness.

I know. Ifs/ands/buts/, but imagine if he was driven to annihilate his opponents every single chance like Jordan did. Whoo that'd be scary to see.


God is fair and no one's perfect, but such a shame, such a shame...

[fpliii]

I like when he plays in the post, and puts a ton of effort in on defense. Dude's huge, would rather him play bigger than smaller.

[played0ut]

:rolleyes:

Lol any player with a complete enough set of skills can. But it's all a matter of mental fortitude and consistent razor sharp focus.

[navy]

Lol any player with a complete enough set of skills can. But it's all a matter of mental fortitude and consistent razor sharp focus.
To say MJ played like ridiculous Lebron every game is just silly. :confusedshrug:

[elementally morale]

I like when he plays in the post, and puts a ton of effort in on defense. Dude's huge, would rather him play bigger than smaller.

If anything, his post moves are pretty limited. Sure, he can do a few things but so could Shaq, and I wouldn't call either a post move genius like for example Kevin McHale.

[navy]

I like when he plays in the post, and puts a ton of effort in on defense. Dude's huge, would rather him play bigger than smaller.
Disagree. When Lebron is running down the court dunking, catching alley oops, making acrobatic layups, ridiculous chase down blocks and doing things nobody his size can is when he's exciting. In fact who else in the league does this stuff anymore?

I only thought his game became less exciting when he starts screening and post sealing off ball recently this year.

[fpliii]

If anything, his post moves are pretty limited. Sure, he can do a few things but so could Shaq, and I wouldn't call either a post move genius like for example Kevin McHale.
Oh I agree, not in terms of aesthetics, but in terms of effectiveness.

He's certainly not a post move genius. Just a ridiculous mismatch down there.

[elementally morale]

Oh I agree, not in terms of aesthetics, but in terms of effectiveness.

Effective and still looks lost down there. Scoring a bucket does not impress me on its own. It's like watching Shawn Bradley dunk the basketball. Yes, he scored... so?

[Ancient Legend]

To say MJ played like ridiculous Lebron every game is just silly. :confusedshrug:

Maybe not statwise, but MJ played every game like it was game 7, incredible will and drive. To be fair to LeBron, none comes close to MJ in matching that.

[fpliii]

Effective and still looks lost down there. Scoring a bucket does not impress me on its own. It's like watching Shawn Bradley dunk the basketball. Yes, he scored... so?
Bradley couldn't create his shot though. Disagree about LeBron looking lost.

I love watching Hakeem, but Shaq is my favorite player all-time, and lived off a jump hook, drop step, and occasional spin move. Still incredible to watch a guy do his thing.

Agree to disagree I guess.

[elementally morale]

First, do you think he's the best player in the game?

I have no other choice. He is. The gap is narrowing but yes, he still is the best player in the game. I.e.: If I want to win, he is probably the first player I'd take for next year.

Historically speaking: no, and it is not even close. LeBron's numbers are a bit decieving, showing him quite a bit better than he really is. If he had to play against prime Hakeem, prime Bird, prime Jordan, prime Magic or even against the Bad Boy Pistons...

It's a bit like Dwight Howard and You Ming competing for the best center title a few years back. The winner of that battle still stands no chance against a prime David Robinson, not speaking of prime Shaq, Hakeem, Kareem and so on.

[elementally morale]

Agree to disagree I guess.

I have zero problems with anybody loving a certain player. Just wanted to get some opinions, that's all. :cheers:

[Marlo_Stanfield]

his overall game.
deadley in the post cant be stopped one on one and if you double hell most likely find the open guy, often an open three point shooter:applause: :applause:
can attack from the perimeter like no other with size and speed.
top 3 passer in the league, arguably the best.
imrpoved shooting.
now a deadly 3 pt shooter when open and a good midrange shooter as well( dat turnaround fade:bowdown: :bowdown: )
best defender in the league when he turns it on and can defend 1 to 5:applause: :applause:
Also clutch as Phuck.
What i HATE is his passiveness sometimes that just doesnt make sense.
he goes for 49 against a good defensive team one game and the next game against the same team he suddenly stops attacking just because another teammate has a good game or sometimes without any reason.
for example he looked like a total retard the in game 5 till the 4th quater when he totally took over with passing and scoring 14 points.
you ask yourself:"why does he do that?":no:
it literally makes zero sense. Heat are at there best when he has around 35 points because it opens up the game for everyone else once they start throwing double and triple teams at him.
however i can live with that because it tells about his unselfishness and most of the time he shows up when it really matters.

[navy]

I have no other choice. He is. The gap is narrowing but yes, he still is the best player in the game. I.e.: If I want to win, he is probably the first player I'd take for next year.

Historically speaking: no, and it is not even close. LeBron's numbers are a bit decieving, showing him quite a bit better than he really is. If he had to play against prime Hakeem, prime Bird, prime Jordan, prime Magic or even against the Bad Boy Pistons...

It's a bit like Dwight Howard and You Ming competing for the best center title a few years back. The winner of that battle still stands no chance against a prime David Robinson, not speaking of prime Shaq, Hakeem, Kareem and so on.

This is just ridiculous. Lebron's stats in a higher pace no zone era would be even higher than they are today.

[Marlo_Stanfield]

Effective and still looks lost down there. Scoring a bucket does not impress me on its own. It's like watching Shawn Bradley dunk the basketball. Yes, he scored... so?
you are incredibly retarded.
you lost all credibility with your:LeBron is a good player but not a great one thread.
LeBron in takeover mode like vs the Nets Game 4, Game 6 and 7 last years finals and game 6 vs Celtics 2012 is more exiting than anything we ever saw in basketball history.
when LeBron is in that mode not even jordan comes remotely close:confusedshrug: :confusedshrug:

[elementally morale]

This is just ridiculous. Lebron's stats in a higher pace no zone era would be even higher than they are today.

You are talking about stats. Fine.

I have a question though. When did you start watching the NBA on the regular? Which year?

[jimmy77x]

his overall game.
deadley in the post cant be stopped one on one and if you double hell most likely find the open guy, often an open three point shooter:applause: :applause:
can attack from the perimeter like no other with size and speed.
top 3 passer in the league, arguably the best.
imrpoved shooting.
now a deadly 3 pt shooter when open and a good midrange shooter as well( dat turnaround fade:bowdown: :bowdown: )
best defender in the league when he turns it on and can defend 1 to 5:applause: :applause:
Also clutch as Phuck.
What i HATE is his passiveness sometimes that just doesnt make sense.
he goes for 49 against a good defensive team one game and the next game against the same team he suddenly stops attacking just because another teammate has a good game or sometimes without any reason.
for example he looked like a total retard the in game 5 till the 4th quater when he totally took over with passing and scoring 14 points.
you ask yourself:"why does he do that?":no:
it literally makes zero sense. Heat are at there best when he has around 35 points because it opens up the game for everyone else once they start throwing double and triple teams at him.
however i can live with that because it tells about his unselfishness and most of the time he shows up when it really matters.


http://www.thefumble.com/sites/captainwag.com/files/3664528-5059441657-78793.gif

[navy]

You are talking about stats. Fine.

I have a question though. When did you start watching the NBA on the regular? Which year?
Anyone with a brain can see even without stats that lebron is one of the greatest to ever play the game. :facepalm

I have a question: What is wrong with you?

[elementally morale]

you are incredibly retarded.

Possibly. But that's not the topic at hand. Sure, we can talk about who is a retard and who is not, but this thread is about what people enjoy in LeBron's game. Try talking about his game, not other posters. In other word: stay on topic.

[elementally morale]

Anyone with a brain can see even without stats that lebron is one of the greatest to ever play the game. :facepalm

I have a question: What is wrong with you?

You didn't answer the question. I started watching in 1980. When did you?

[navy]

You didn't answer the question. I started watching in 1980. When did you?
2000s.

[Marlo_Stanfield]

Possibly. But that's not the topic at hand. Sure, we can talk about who is a retard and who is not, but this thread is about what people enjoy in LeBron's game. Try talking about his game, not other posters. In other word: stay on topic.
its simply dumb that you made such an OP
you are clearly a lebron hater and kobe maniac.
if Lebron was on the lakers you would stan him hard.
but yeah i already posted what i like and dont like

[raprap]

Passing skills. Greatest passing forward since larry bird.

[elementally morale]

2000s.

That's what's wrong with me. :oldlol:

I'm quite a bit older and have seen more than you have. In no way this is an honor... it's just the way it is. You probably saw highlights of many former greats, but didn't have the opportunity to watch prime Jordan, Hakeem, Bird, Magic etc. play 'live'.

As you grow older, you'll find out the difference. It means nothing that as of now you think you already know it all. We, old farts were the same when we were younger. There will come a day, when guys who will have started watching in 2017 will tell you in 2030 that LeBron was not much to write home about.

And they will also ask: What's the problem with you? :oldlol:

[elementally morale]

its simply dumb that you made such an OP
you are clearly a lebron hater and kobe maniac.
if Lebron was on the lakers you would stan him hard.
but yeah i already posted what i like and dont like


Shaq was on the Lakers and I never really liked his game. I admit I loved him winning championships... but his game from a pure entertainment standpoint? Nope. Besides, I'm not really a stan of anyone.

But then again, the thread isn't about me.

[navy]

That's what's wrong with me. :oldlol:

I'm quite a bit older and have seen more than you have. In no way this is an honor... it's just the way it is. You probably saw highlights of many former greats, but didn't have the opportunity to watch prime Jordan, Hakeem, Bird, Magic etc. play 'live'.

As you grow older, you'll find out the difference. It means nothing that as of now you think you already know it all. We, old farts were the same when we were younger. There will come a day, when guys who will have started watching in 2017 will tell you in 2030 that LeBron was not much to write home about.

And they will also ask: What's the problem with you? :oldlol:

No, I've definitely seen enough full games of Jordan, Hakeem, Bird, and Magic play to have opinions on them, mind you their bad games were seldom saved to be the seen later. The only older players I never comment on for real are Wilt and Russel as I have no means to judge them.

My opinion wont change as I grow older, I've seen and know enough basketball to see that Lebron would be one of the best in any era on his physical attributes alone.

[elementally morale]

My opinion wont change as I grow older

Just wait.

[navy]

Just wait.
Just wait for what? Another once in a generation player to appear?

[VengefulAngel]

Just wait.

You do realise that your opinion isn't a fact?, or are you really that arrogant or delusional?

[HoopsFanNumero1]

Kobetards still trying to spread their propaganda :oldlol:

Lebron > Kobe. The sooner you accept it, the more you'll enjoy the game.

[elementally morale]

Just wait for what? Another once in a generation player to appear?

Everyone and their mothers thought once that aging does not change opinions on... you name it. It's not true, but the trick is (while simple) as of yet unavailable to you... it is called aging / experience.

It's perfectly OK to think when one is young that his/her opinion will not change with age. It will though. On the other hand, it would be very sad otherwise. Were you happy if you still possessed the same worldview you had 15 years ago? Now, you may think: OK, but back then I was a kid and now I'm an adult. Well, it may be so, but there is a difference between 25 and 45.

When you are 25 you don't get it. Nobody does. When you are 45, it's quite clear looking backwards.

[elementally morale]

You do realise that your opinion isn't a fact?, or are you really that arrogant?

Scientifically speaking, there are no faxs at all. Just opinions. Even the scientific view of the world changes every now and then. So the answer is an obvious yes. I do know that my opinion is nothing more than an opinion.

[navy]

Everyone and their mothers thought once that aging does not change opinions on... you name it. It's not true, but the trick is (while simple) as of yet unavailable to you... it is called aging / experience.

It's perfectly OK to think when one is young that his/her opinion will not change with age. It will though. On the other hand, it would be very sad otherwise. Were you happy if you still possessed the same worldview you had 15 years ago? Now, you may think: OK, but back then I was a kid and now I'm an adult. Well, it may be so, but there is a difference between 25 and 45.

When you are 25 you don't get it. Nobody does. When you are 45, it's quite clear looking backwards.

Worldview is one thing.

Basketball is another.

[elementally morale]

Kobetards still trying to spread their propaganda :oldlol:

Lebron > Kobe. The sooner you accept it, the more you'll enjoy the game.

This thread in no shape or form was intended to be about Kobe Bryant. Two people mentioned him, but I was neither of those two. However, I have to confes that Kobe is a lot more entertaning both on and off the court. Less flaws than LeBron? Most definitely not. Simply more entertaining due to his character.

But let's talk about LeBron's game and not Kobe, shall we?

[VengefulAngel]

Scientifically speaking, there are no faxs at all. Just opinions. Even the scientific view of the world changes every now and then. So the answer is an obvious yes. I do know that my opinion is nothing more than an opinion.

:facepalm :facepalm

There are no faxs, but there are facts.


Trying to turn my statement into a tautology. Something which is true by definition, I guess that's a fact then...

:roll: :roll:

[elementally morale]

Worldview is one thing.

Basketball is another.


I hated Michael Jordan when I was 18-25. I thought he was a ballhog and a chucker. Good player but not the best I saw play (Magic, Bird). Twenty years later I can see I was clearly wrong.

[navy]

This thread in no shape or form was intended to be about Kobe Bryant. Two people mentioned him, but I was neither of those two. However, I have to confes that Kobe is a lot more entertaning both on and off the court. Less flaws than LeBron? Most definitely not. Simply more entertaining due to his character.

But let's talk about LeBron's game and not Kobe, shall we?
Nothing I hate more than when people start discussing players outside of basketball. :facepalm

[navy]

I hated Michael Jordan when I was 18-25. I thought he was a ballhog and a chucker. Good player but not the best I saw play (Magic, Bird). Twenty years later I can see I was clearly wrong.

Well you look at character and not basketball ability, cant say I blame you. :confusedshrug:

[VengefulAngel]

This thread in no shape or form was intended to be about Kobe Bryant. Two people mentioned him, but I was neither of those two. However, I have to confes that Kobe is a lot more entertaning both on and off the court. Less flaws than LeBron? Most definitely not. Simply more entertaining due to his character.

But let's talk about LeBron's game and not Kobe, shall we?

You really need to proof-read what you write. There is an auto-correct for spelling mistakes for a reason. What is not so clear is how you believe you can judge a person's character without ever meeting the person, sure you can have some idea from an observation. But it's nothing like experiencing something in person.

[elementally morale]

:facepalm :facepalm

There are no faxs, but there are facts.


Trying to turn my statement into a tautology. Something which is true by definition, I guess that's a fact then...

:roll: :roll:

No, there are no facts. There are axioms that we decide not to question. Key word: decide. But axioms are not facts. You can build a totally different view of the world based on other axioms. Example: space and time are universal (Newtonian axiom), as opposed to the speed of light is universal, and neither space nor time are (Einstein's axiom).

[elementally morale]

You really need to proof-read what you write. There is an auto-correct for spelling mistakes for a reason. What is not so clear is how you believe you can judge a person's character without ever meeting the person, sure you can have some idea from an observation. But it's nothing like experiencing something in person.

You are right. The only thing I can judge is image. However, it is the image that entertains us, not the inner quality (something we can't even dream of discovering).

[elementally morale]

You really need to proof-read what you write.


Sorry. English is my third language.

[elementally morale]

Nothing I hate more than when people start discussing players outside of basketball. :facepalm

I'm speaking of entertainment value. On the court and off it. As I noted earlier, I watch the game to be entertained. BTW, back then I thought MJ was not the best player I have seen play, character notwithstanding. I was wrong. Looking back, he was the best player I saw play.

[VengefulAngel]

No, there are no facts. There are axioms that we decide not to question. Key word: decide. But axioms are not facts. You can build a totally different view of the world based on other axioms. Example: space and time are universal (Newtonian axiom), as opposed to the speed of light is universal, and neither space nor time are (Einstein's axiom).

Semantics...

I'll respond a little later with a more sound response, going to the Gym right now.

[elementally morale]

Semantics...

I'll respond a little later with a more sound response, going to the Gym right now.

Do so, if you please. But it is far from being semantics only. Totally different views of the world can be built based on very simple things you decide not to question (axioms). In case you have no axioms (you question everything) chances are you won't be able to build a coherent view of the world. (And you may be right.)

[KingBeasley08]

Great passer
Best finisher in the league
Has a really good post game now
Good midrange and 3 pt game

OP has to be the most passive aggressive LeBron hater ever. First, you had that "is LeBron really great" thread last year that disappeared after G7 of the Finals :facepalm and now this

LeBron >>> Kobe. It is what it is

[navy]

I'm speaking of entertainment value. On the court and off it. As I noted earlier, I watch the game to be entertained. BTW, back then I thought MJ was not the best player I have seen play, character notwithstanding. I was wrong. Looking back, he was the best player I saw play.
I dont follow off the court actions for my nba entertainment. It's irrelevant to the game and on the court production. The Court is where I get nba entertainment. Not the press conference and tmz news hour.

Everyone watches the game to be entertained.

If you saw Jordan throughout his prime and thought he wasn't the best only to change your mind means you weren't watching enough ability but letting something else cloud your mind. Whether it be blind nostalgia, character issues, emotions, team bias etc. Then again those could be very things that changed your mind now.

[Carbine]

I enjoy his effectiveness. He plays the game the right way. You can tell he wants and enjoys making the "right' play and not the 'me" play.

[elementally morale]

LeBron >>> Kobe. It is what it is

All right.
That was not the question though.

Peak Shaq was probably the most dominant and effective player I have ever seen. This does, however, not make him more entertaining than prime Hakeem to me.

[elementally morale]

I dont follow off the court actions for my nba entertainment.

I do. Even more entertainment.



It's irrelevant to the game and on the court production.

Agreed.



The Court is where I get nba entertainment. Not the press conference and tmz news hour.

I'm speaking of years and decades of following. I choose to follow some players who have retired long ago.




Everyone watches the game to be entertained.

I think most fans and especially most young fans watch the game to see their team win.



If you saw Jordan throughout his prime and thought he wasn't the best only to change your mind means you weren't watching enough ability but letting something else cloud your mind. Whether it be blind nostalgia, character issues, emotions, team bias etc. Then again those could be very things that changed your mind now.

Indeed. It was emotions and team bias.

[fpliii]

I have zero problems with anybody loving a certain player. Just wanted to get some opinions, that's all. :cheers:
:cheers:

Don't love LeBron, just a fan of guys who can put the ball in the hole in the low post, and play defense. I get that he's a good playmaker and ball-handler for his position, but I don't like bigs playing small. I also don't trust his jumper consistently. Not sure if we'll ever be able to, TBH.

[SCdac]

- elite passing skills
- ability to finish
- amazing athleticism
- explosiveness
- powerful dunker
- great defender
- improved post game
- improved range
- become very efficient

There was one play in the mid 2000's that always comes back to me for no particular reason, been skimming for it on youtube when I have time. Regular season game against the Pistons, Tayshaun is guarding him tight at the baseline, right of the basket, Lebron does this bad ass spin move wedging in between Tayshaun and the line and finishes with a smooth and seemingly effortless finger roll. Was like one fell swoop of a movement that might have taken other players 2-3 steps or stepped out of bounds. One play of many that got burned into the memory banks. Lebron is a sick player no doubt.

[elementally morale]

- elite passing skills
- ability to finish
- amazing athleticism
- explosiveness
- powerful dunker
- great defender
- improved post game
- improved range
- become very efficient

There was one play in the mid 2000's that always comes back to me for no particular reason, been skimming for it on youtube when I have time. Regular season game against the Pistons, Tayshaun is guarding him tight at the baseline, right of the basket, Lebron does this bad ass spin move wedging in between Tayshaun and the line and finishes with a smooth and seemingly effortless finger roll. Was like one fell swoop of a movement that might have taken other players 2-3 steps or stepped out of bounds. One play of many that got burned into the memory banks. Lebron is a sick player no doubt.


Fair enough.

[navy]

I do. Even more entertainment.

Agreed.

I'm speaking of years and decades of following. I choose to follow some players who have retired long ago.

I think most fans and especially most young fans watch the game to see their team win.

Indeed. It was emotions and team bias.

Well, I dont. Nope, no celebrity will ever get my time of day. I rarely know there personal problems of players until I come upon them by happen stance.

Entertained by winning I guess.

Sounds like a personal problem. :confusedshrug:

[elementally morale]

Sounds like a personal problem. :confusedshrug:

I don't have a problem with that.

Why do you think I'm posting on this site? Why have I been doing so since 2002 (the ezboards days)? Entertainment. I have more than 10 years of experience with generations of posters here. I saw lots and lost of character evolutions, changing of the guard, etc.

Changing your mind on anything for whatever reason is absolutely natural and a great human quality.

[navy]

I don't have a problem with that.

Why do you think I'm posting on this site? Why have I been doing so since 2002 (the ezboards days)? Entertainment. I have more than 10 years of experience with generations of posters here. I saw lots and lost of character evolutions, changing of the guard, etc.

Changing your mind on anything for whatever reason is absolutely natural and a great human quality.

Im talking about the emotions and team bias. Mind you, Im not saying that I dont have those things. I try my best to ignore such things when evaluating things players which is why I doubt my opinions will change much of players I see play.

[r0drig0lac]

it is closer to a "full perimeter player" you can find after jordan. Basically the guy is elite in all essentials, unfortunately he plays at a time when other big names are already older.

[elementally morale]

Im talking about the emotions and team bias. Mind you, Im not saying that I dont have those things. I try my best to ignore such things when evaluating things players which is why I doubt my opinions will change much of players I see play.


If you can accomplish what you are trying to, you are becoming a computer or at the very least, Hollinger. Are you sure it doesn't take anything away from your entertainment?

[navy]

If you can accomplish what you are trying to, you are becoming a computer or at the very least, Hollinger. Are you sure it doesn't take anything away from your entertainment?
Nope. My evaluation of players has never taken into account entertainment value nor affected my level of entertainment.

[elementally morale]

Nope. My evaluation of players has never taken into account entertainment value nor affected my level of entertainment.

Good for you.

[J Shuttlesworth]

His ability to take over the game on both sides of the floor.
This, and he makes it look easy too. He uses a lot of fundamentals and athleticism to get to the rim. I also love his defensive intensity and power on the fast break. It helps that he's on the Heat, which is a very fun fast break team to watch because they play very pestering defense and force a lot of turnovers. His dunks are powerful, and he's very crafty with putting in layups. When his jumper is on, it's like watching Kevin Durant. I find watching players who take it to the rim/dunk a lot more entertaining than guys who shoot jumpers all day.

[DCL]

lebron's shooting form is ugly, but who cares? it goes in. splaaaaaaash. do you want him to do fadeaway kicks all the time? he doesn't need to. why make it harder if doing it easy can be done? maybe lebron just makes everything look too easy. he doesn't need to put on a dozen moves before going to the basket. if he wants to go to the basket, he just goes to the basket.

[sd3035]

His flopping is the most entertaining part of his game

[SilkkTheShocker]

LeBron>>>>Kobe all time.


Move on, dude.

[Leftimage]

Serious question.

I personally have nothing against the guy. Don't really care either way. I can see he is a very good player, but he doesn't entertain me the way some inferior players do, hence I don't really like watching him play. When I do, I can appreciate a few things he does, but it is rare he impresses me. For me, his entertainment level as a player is low, even if I can clearly see him being really good.

So... honestly: What do you like in LeBron James, the basketball player? Why do you enjoy watching him play?

I like the fact the hype was insane and he lived up to it.
I like the fact his storyline of biblical proportions.
I like the fact he is the first truly positionless player in basketball. Magic, Jordan, Shaq, rolled into one.
I like the fact his is a one-of-a-kind defender. Again - truly positionless. He's the anchor and the gambler all at once. :applause: :applause:
I like his on-court demeanor. Hardly even looks at his opponents in the eyes. Adresses only the audience and his teammates. Zero regard for the other players during the game. Must be terrifying at times when he's beasting.

[BoutPractice]

At his best, the all-around mastery and "control" of what happens on the court,
coupled with the sense of momentum that goes with this huge mass moving so fast, especially when he decides to drive aggressively... it's the famous freight train metaphor.

I personally think almost all of the superstars have something interesting or entertaining about their game... the mere fact that they play at such a high level, but each in their own peculiar way, is fascinating to watch. Kobe is so unbelievably skilled and confident in himself he makes sure to raise the difficulty of his own shots as much as possible, just to see if he can make them... and he'll do that in a playoffs game, Finals game, whatever. This way he has of playing HORSE in the middle of a competitive game is what makes him so entertaining. Duncan is pure boss. He reminds me of that famous scene from Indiana Jones, where he just picks up the gun and shoots the guy. Why bother? There's something almost humiliating about this game. Dirk is even worse in that department, shooting off one foot as if making a mockery of the sport, and literally laughing as he throws the ball up in the air. Few players bore me...

[elementally morale]

I personally think almost all of the superstars have something interesting or entertaining about their game... the mere fact that they play at such a high level, but each in their own peculiar way, is fascinating to watch.


Very good idea.

[knicksman]

players that like stats lacks confidence. And thats because they dont have idea how to win so they go for what fans wants. Its the same reason why players like wilt and robertson are overrated.

[knicksman]

I prefer players who arent in between because inbetween are the cancerous type like robertson/wilt. I prefer players who are either pure scorer(2nd 3peat MJ) or pure pg(magic).

[BoutPractice]

Yes, because Wilt was such a "cancer" in 1967, where he was perfectly "in between" as you say.

[Solefade]

people who think lebrons game is boring simply arent true basketball fans...he's a once in a lifetime talent that plays the game like it should be played..none of that hero ball shit (only when he needs to)

[zoom17]

Great passer
Best finisher in the league
Has a really good post game now
Good midrange and 3 pt game

OP has to be the most passive aggressive LeBron hater ever. First, you had that "is LeBron really great" thread last year that disappeared after G7 of the Finals :facepalm and now this

LeBron >>> Kobe. It is what it is

:applause:

[Relinquish]

Maybe not statwise, but MJ played every game like it was game 7, incredible will and drive. To be fair to LeBron, none comes close to MJ in matching that.

You sound so dumb saying that. MJ had hundreds of games where he played awfully and seemingly without energy, as has every player. :confusedshrug:

[WindmiLL]

Only on ISH one of the best athletes in sports history is not entertaining to watch...

[CelticBaller]

Only on ISH one of the best athletes in sports history is not entertaining to watch...
Because everybody shares the same opinion?

I don't find LeBron entertaining because of his passive play, but when he decides to go ham it's another thing. I remember being awed by his play when he destroyed my team two years ago, definitely earned my respect right there .

[sdot_thadon]

He's not quite as entertaining as he was just a few years back, think last couple of cleveland years/1st miami season or 2. The thing that entertained me most in watching him was the sheer unpredictability. You have a ball player capable of almost any basketball play or statistic imaginable at any given time. Chase downs, heat check shooting streaks, guarding the hot man regardless of position, 29 of the last 30 etc. The ones that stand out most are the stretches of total domination where he's killing both ends of the floor at the same time. Very few players to ever lace em up can do stuff like that.

[nathanjizzle]

nothing really. hes not really an exciting player, he has a role player vibe to him. in the clutch hes not really spectacular because hes not aggressive enough nor has an array of moves in his repertoire

[SilkkTheShocker]

It was exciting watching him carry the worst players in the league to the finals and 60 win seasons

[sd3035]

nothing really. hes not really an exciting player, he has a role player vibe to him. in the clutch hes not really spectacular because hes not aggressive enough.

He's a role player for Silver and the refs :applause::applause:

[russwest0]

nothing is aesthetically pleasing about his game except the transition dunks

[Mr Exlax]

I like the way he can still impact the game without scoring. That's something every basketball player should strive for in all honesty.

[sammichoffate]

His versatility. Passing, shooting, defending, rebounding, and the ability to run an offense like a PG. It's incredible to watch even if his game isn't as aesthetically pleasing as players like Kobe or MJ. Lebron is the definition of efficiency on both ends when he commits to it, even if his fans can get irritating to deal with sometimes.

[Magic 32]

Like:

- Court vision and passing

Dislike:

- A Lack of fluidity and sophistication in his skill set.

- A constant feeling that he is calculating his every move for statistical "greatness".

- Fear of not being perfect, which can lead him to be paralysed in big moments.

- Fake good guy (and for a long time fake modesty)

[NumberSix]

Chips

[J Shuttlesworth]

Like:

- Court vision and passing

Dislike:

- A Lack of fluidity and sophistication in his skill set.

- A constant feeling that he is calculating his every move for statistical "greatness".

- Fear of not being perfect, which can lead him to be paralysed in big moments.

- Fake good guy (and for a long time fake modesty)

I like how there is nothing objective on your dislike list :lol

[Fudge]

He's great. But I don't like anything about his game, to be honest, except maybe his playmaking. His vision and IQ is just top notch.

[Magic 32]

I like how there is nothing objective on your dislike list :lol

Let me translate into stupid.


-Basic and ugly skill set, overthinks the game and sprinkle it with epic choke jobs.

And he flops.

[HoopsFanNumero1]

Let me translate into stupid.


-Basic and ugly skill set, calculating game sprinkled with epic choke jobs.

And he flops.

This is about Lebron, not Kobe.

[ThePhantomCreep]

It was exciting watching him carry the worst players in the league to the finals and 60 win seasons

...and then fold the second they ran into a 50-win team in the playoffs.

[Magic 32]

This is about Lebron, not Kobe.

Enjoy

http://i.minus.com/iWbLod2ld5YKM.gif

[WindmiLL]

When he's chucking jumpers it ain't pretty or entertaining in any case..


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esmDUkRSSUc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyd4NPvzKQg

[HoopsFanNumero1]

Enjoy

http://i.minus.com/iWbLod2ld5YKM.gif

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6161Cb6GB3E

[Magic 32]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6161Cb6GB3E

Better than just stop playing when you start 4-4:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p46sHr6RMoA

[HoopsFanNumero1]

Better than just stop playing when you start 4-4:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p46sHr6RMoA

That performance >>> Kobe's game 7 :oldlol:

[Magic 32]

That performance >>> Kobe's game 7 :oldlol:

14th season with a drained knee, 10 points in the 4th (attacking on an off night).

>

Giving up.

[Eye Test]

i rather watch grass grow. miss kobe so much alrdy..

[HoopsFanNumero1]

14th season with a drained knee, 10 points in the 4th (attacking on an off night).

>

Giving up.

Mostly off gifted free throws after flailing his arms. You can't re-write history.

[SilkkTheShocker]

14th season with a drained knee, 10 points in the 4th (attacking on an off night).

>

Giving up.
Kobe quit in 06 playoffs.

[BasedTom]

He wears a Heat jersey, scores points, gets rebounds, and makes good passes.

[VengefulAngel]

He wears a Heat jersey, scores points, gets rebounds, and makes good passes.
:bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown: :applause: :applause:

[Magic 32]

Kobe quit in 06 playoffs.

Not as the favourites, at home, in an elimination game in the finals.

He gave in the second half of a first round series, down 15 with 23 points in the first half.

Not all quit jobs are created equal.

[SilkkTheShocker]

Not as the favourites, at home, in an elimination game in the finals.

He gave in the second half of a first round series, down 15 with 23 points in the first half.
He quit. Kobe stans do the same thing sugar coating his trade demand.

[Magic 32]

He quit. Kobe stans do the same thing sugar coating his trade demand.

Again, not all quit jobs are created equal.

And he did not demand a trade. He said he would like to be traded in a weak moment on a local LA radio show. Then took it back in his very same interview.

[NumberSix]

Kobe quit in 06 playoffs.
This. Quit in a very winnable game 7.

[ArbitraryWater]

I really don't get how people can feel about him this way... I mean, they aren't entertained? Aesthetically? This ain't a damn diving contest... Poop the ball in the basket if you want to, counts just as much...

And quite frankly I wouldn't understand it from the "aesthetic" standpoint either.

[Marlo_Stanfield]

Again, not all quit jobs are created equal.

And he did not demand a trade. He said he would like to be traded in a weak moment on a local LA radio show. Then took it back in his very same interview.
reported

[dannysc305]

Dunks and alley oops!

[Eye Test]

when people need to convince you he is fun to watch you know for a fact he is not :applause:

eye test: failed.

[Fudge]

when people need to convince you he is fun to watch you know for a fact he is not :applause:

eye test: failed.
:oldlol:

[Clifton]

The passing.

Since I've been watching basketball (~2001), I have never seen anyone pass so well, so creatively, and so perfectly, as Lebron - with one exception: Jason Kidd.

It's not just that he always makes the right pass at the right time.

First, it's that he delivers bullet passes, right at the chest, every time; so that players don't have to reach or adjust to catch it. This is very important for hitting shooters; the split-second adjustment that teammates of Rajon Rondo or John Wall have to make to catch the pass adds up to a big difference over a whole season and playoff series. Scoring off a Lebron James assist is automatic, and that builds confidence. Lebron would have no rings right now if guys like Shane Battier hadn't gradually built up that three-off-a-pass rhythm.

Second, and more importantly, it's the "ethic of passing" he creates in his whole team. Magic and Bird had this, too; Iverson and Kobe, who are as skilled at passing as any player ever, and who frequently put up 6-8 assists in a game like Lebron does, did not have it. Making the right pass - even if it's not an assist, even if it doesn't even lead to a bucket that possession - becomes a goal in itself.

Does anyone remember the Knicks the first half of last season? Beautiful, effective team they were. It was because of Rasheed Wallace and Jason Kidd. As soon as the team start to put all its eggs in the Melo basket, rather than in the beautiful, flowing basketball those two enabled (the Sheed injury ended their season, honestly), they started to really suck.

It's this ethic of passing that sets the Heat apart from the rest of the league; not talent. If the Pacers had it, they would have won the title last year and this year. If the 00s Kings hadn't had it, they wouldn't have even been competitive. It's a very underrated quality in a team.

The same thing sets Bird and Magic apart, and above other players who were their equals in every other respect. They infected their whole team with passing. Lebron does the same thing.

Other players and teams do this too, at a lower level. Consider the 00s Pistons, who had zero legit all-star level players. Or, consider the Grizzlies after they replaced Rudy Gay with Tayshaun Prince, a much inferior talent: removing Gay allowed their team-game, which centered around Marc Gasol's passing from the high post (to shooters and to set up Randolph on the low block), to flourish uninterrupted.

Everyone has a vague sense of this dynamic. This is why Iverson and Arenas couldn't land roster spots when they were still in shape. For all the contribution they could have made scoring, GMs and coaches knew that the tradeoff in chemistry would have made it a net loss.

It's the passing. That's it. I don't find Lebron "entertaining"; Lance Stephenson is much more entertaining. I don't know that anyone finds Lebron all that exciting, honestly; but the Heat sure are exciting, why? Because Lebron makes them exciting as a team. That's why I like him. People are used to thinking in terms of the "hero-ball" of the 00s, and of cheering for the best player, and ascribing all the team's success and failure to that one player, so they consider Lebron "entertaining"; but really it's the Heat that are entertaining, and Lebron who makes them so.

[Trollsmasher]

I think that I kinda understand the people that don't find him that exciting. He has become very methodical over the years (especially over the last couple) and hardly ever shows the flashy side of him, prefering to go with the basic, yet effective stuff. Still, his passing and finishing are extraordinary and when his jumper is on, it is a sight to behold.

[SwayDizzle]

I loooooveee Lebronzeeee

[Clifton]

He has become very methodical over the years (especially over the last couple) and hardly ever shows the flashy side of him, prefering to go with the basic, yet effective stuff.
He has always been methodical.

It wasn't as obvious when he was with Cleveland, because nothing else about that team's offense was methodical. Their coach had no sense for offense at all. But he was always a bit of a robot on offense: a robot forced to be 50% of his team's offense, so sometimes he would have to force things a bit more, but I still found him very mechanical / methodical even then.

[Marlo_Stanfield]

I think that I kinda understand the people that don't find him that exciting. He has become very methodical over the years (especially over the last couple) and hardly ever shows the flashy side of him, prefering to go with the basic, yet effective stuff. Still, his passing and finishing are extraordinary and when his jumper is on, it is a sight to behold.
this
he shows his flash often enough, mostly with passing but sometimes with shots he swishes that others could barely get up:applause:

[Im so nba'd out]

He is so consistent.I love his vision and willingness to pass.He tries on both ends and he does more than just score.

[Marlo_Stanfield]

He has always been methodical.

It wasn't as obvious when he was with Cleveland, because nothing else about that team's offense was methodical. Their coach had no sense for offense at all. But he was always a bit of a robot on offense: a robot forced to be 50% of his team's offense, so sometimes he would have to force things a bit more, but I still found him very mechanical / methodical even then.
i actually like his mechanical appearance. thats what sets him apart from anyone inn history imo. he makes it look to easy.
i only hate it when he overthinks it, becomes to mechanical and sucks at times where his team needs him to takeover.
im glad that doesnt happen as often anymore

[leMVP]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnFWhYHvoWQ

stretches like this, he's the most complete bball player ever and when he goes on a stretches like that, you feel like he 's playing in his own universe.

[Graviton]

He methodically takes apart the opposing team's defense. He is the only player in the league that is a danger AT ALL TIMES every second he is on the court. He can beat you with passing, with post scoring, with perimeter scoring, with defense/rebounding or on the fastbreak, he just controls the flow of the game. No one else can be so scary in the playoffs.

Durant? Useless if he isn't scoring at a high clip and good efficiency.

Paul? Useless when his shot is off, usually gets too passive, doesn't
have much impact defensively or rebounding wise.

Howard? Can't make free throws, useless outside the paint.

Harden? LOL

Westbrook? Possibly the only one that impacts the game in multiple ways like Lebron, but he is much smaller and his decision making is suspect.

Melo? Same as Durant

Parker? Same as Paul

Duncan? In his prime he could match Lebron's impact but he is too old now to stay as consistent.

[tmacattack33]

It's simple: A combo of a top 5 scorer and top 5 passer.

That sh*t is entertaining as fukk to me.

And that's what i heard about him from day one. Back in 2003, that's what they were saying about him when he was a senior in high school and that's why i started following him.

Not surprisingly, some of my other all-time favorite players to watch are similar...Chris Paul, T-mac, and Penny Hardaway.

[Ancient Legend]

He methodically takes apart the opposing team's defense. He is the only player in the league that is a danger AT ALL TIMES every second he is on the court. He can beat you with passing, with post scoring, with perimeter scoring, with defense/rebounding or on the fastbreak, he just controls the flow of the game. No one else can be so scary in the playoffs.

Durant? Useless if he isn't scoring at a high clip and good efficiency.

Paul? Useless when his shot is off, usually gets too passive, doesn't
have much impact defensively or rebounding wise.

Howard? Can't make free throws, useless outside the paint.

Harden? LOL

Westbrook? Possibly the only one that impacts the game in multiple ways like Lebron, but he is much smaller and his decision making is suspect.

Melo? Same as Durant

Parker? Same as Paul

Duncan? In his prime he could match Lebron's impact but he is too old now to stay as consistent.

CP3 isn't useless when his shot is off, if anything he can control games without scoring too much. Tony Parker I would agree is useless if not scoring.

[knicksman]

the best players are entertaining to watch. Jordan/Magic/Kobe.. goes to show lebron is just manufactured.

[Paul George 24]

Nothing .............

[Eye Test]

seriously, whos watching his highlights on youtube once he retires? we're talking about fast break transition dunks here

put this man in a half-court setup and he is a poor mans steve blake