LeBron James has cemented his legacy over 22 NBA seasons. In 2023, he broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record. He also made a lasting impact with every franchise he played for. However, former NBA star Dennis Rodman remains unconvinced by LeBron’s greatness. In an interview, Rodman compared James’ scoring ability to Michael Jordan’s, highlighting what he sees as a clear gap between the two.

“It’s very easy when they define greatness…Michael Jordan did it when it was tough. What did he do? He led the league in scoring 10 years. That was hard back then, now it’s easy,” Rodman said in 2017, via UPI. The Bulls legend led the league in scoring during one of the most competitive eras in NBA history. By contrast, LeBron has topped the scoring charts just once, in the 2007-08 season.

Despite not leading the league in scoring every year, he holds the all-time scoring record with 42,184 points. He combines elite scoring efficiency with unmatched durability and physical dominance. Beyond points, he impacts the game through rebounds, assists, and leadership. Even at age 40, he remains one of the league’s most complete and influential players.

Not everything is criticism, as Dennis Rodman acknowledged something LeBron achieved that Michael Jordan did not. “You know what, LeBron is doing one thing that I always said that Michael Jordan never did…Never rested. He played every game. He played every game. LeBron has the position to do this now because they need him. The league needs him and that’s why he’s doing all this crazy,” affirmed Rodman on Reiter Than You show.

Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan and Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James.

Who could stop LeBron James if he had played in the 1990s? Dennis Rodman gives an unfiltered answer

Defending in the NBA has become much tougher in recent years. Changes to league rules have played a major role. Several former players, including Shaquille O’Neal, share this belief. They argue that defenders can no longer use physicality without risking a foul. As a result, defense has shifted from physicality to tactics. Players now rely more on positioning, timing, and anticipation.

This shift has also fueled comparisons between eras. In a 2019 interview with Overtime, Dennis Rodman was asked how LeBron James would fare in his era. His answer was even more direct and brutally honest.

“Do you know who can lock up LeBron? Me, Mike and Scottie could. Scottie Pippen could shut his f******g a** down quick before I get to him. LeBron is so easy to play. He is so f****g easy to play. He doesn’t have any moves. His game is so simple, he is just big. The only thing he has is that he is 6’8″ and 260 pounds, and I’ve guarded guys bigger than him,” Rodman said.