LeBron after actually fouling out of a playoff game.
With the Celtics about to face LeBron James in the playoffs and the whole LeBron/Jordan debate getting hot again, here are some stats I gathered from NBAMiner. Unfortunately, the website only goes back to the 1996-1997 season.
Even if you aren't a huge basketball fan, you surely know the names Jordan, Kobe, and LeBron. As someone who grew up wanting to be like Mike, I of course think Jordan is the best of the three. While I definitely appreciate the skills of Kobe and LeBron, I just can't get over the calls LeBron gets.
Yes, I said it I can't get over the calls LeBron gets. While Jordan and Kobe got calls made in their favor, they were pretty much just getting the benefit of the doubt for 50/50 calls. LeBron has been getting away with running over guys and fouling opponents since his first day in the league.
Before we look at the foul stats from NBAMiner, here are some other quick comparisons to consider.
Jordan- 6'6" 216 lbs. 8.3 FTA 2.6 PF
Kobe- 6'6" 212 lbs. 7.4 FTA 2.5 PF
LeBron- 6'8" 250 lbs. 8.1 FTA 1.8 PF
If you google pictures of these three players driving to the hoop, you will notice Jordan and Kobe trying to avoid players, while LeBron just steamrolls over guys even if they are set outside of the restricted zone. The NBA added the restricted zone in 1997, so Jordan played most of his career without it.
As you look at the foul statistics, pay attention to offensive fouls and shooting fouls committed. This season 251 players have committed more shooting fouls than LeBron. Amazingly enough, most of them played significantly fewer games and minutes per game.
RSS Feed
