[Aran SmithKeymaster]

Durantula has become one of the greatest 21 year olds to ever play in the NBA. He appears on his way to numerous scoring titles, MVPs and potentially the top player in the league before long.

His outside shooting is a tremendous asset in international competitions.

My question: If you replaced Lebron for Durant, would team USA still have won gold in Turkey?

[McDunkin]

I would think so. Lebrons skillset at the 4 (where he would have seen alot of time) would be pretty hard for international teams to stop. Do you see Turkey trying Semih Erden on Lebron?

But thats just an opinion

[McDunkin]

I would think so. Lebrons skillset at the 4 (where he would have seen alot of time) would be pretty hard for international teams to stop. Do you see Turkey trying Semih Erden on Lebron?

But thats just an opinion

[Michael.S.Participant]

Yes. Durants offensive prowess came in handy in these WC’s but LeBron is just as good, if not better on the offensive end. He is not as good of a shooter but the FIBA 3-pt line is shorter anyways. He could put up 30 in FIBA but imagine how much better he would make everyone else if he had teammates like that. Because, unlike Durant, I think he actually makes his teammates better.

[Michael.S.Participant]

Yes. Durants offensive prowess came in handy in these WC’s but LeBron is just as good, if not better on the offensive end. He is not as good of a shooter but the FIBA 3-pt line is shorter anyways. He could put up 30 in FIBA but imagine how much better he would make everyone else if he had teammates like that. Because, unlike Durant, I think he actually makes his teammates better.

[JNixonParticipant]

Yeah I think they would’ve still won. Also, you have to add in the fact that Lebron can bring about the same scoring as Durant, but with more versatility and dimensions to his game (Lebron would’ve been able to legitimately play 5 positions effectively).

[JNixonParticipant]

Yeah I think they would’ve still won. Also, you have to add in the fact that Lebron can bring about the same scoring as Durant, but with more versatility and dimensions to his game (Lebron would’ve been able to legitimately play 5 positions effectively).

[stanford hoops]

Yea I think they still win. What durant has over lebron in shooting lebron has in blocks passing and steals

I also think
people forget lebron averaged 31 7 and 7 as a 21 year old

[stanford hoops]

Yea I think they still win. What durant has over lebron in shooting lebron has in blocks passing and steals

I also think
people forget lebron averaged 31 7 and 7 as a 21 year old

[RUDEBOY_Participant]

Cool it on Durant..USA wouldn’t have won without him..
But Checkout his Assist Totals during The World Games…He’s like a McGrady or Gervin…
And nobody has them among the top 10 players of alltime…
Durant is improving every year..1 of the 5 best players in the NBA..But he needs to learnhow to make his teammates better…

[RUDEBOY_Participant]

Cool it on Durant..USA wouldn’t have won without him..
But Checkout his Assist Totals during The World Games…He’s like a McGrady or Gervin…
And nobody has them among the top 10 players of alltime…
Durant is improving every year..1 of the 5 best players in the NBA..But he needs to learnhow to make his teammates better…

[RUDEBOY_Participant]

I think if Lebron had played instead of Durant..There might’ve been a different guy leading the team in scoring every game..

[RUDEBOY_Participant]

I think if Lebron had played instead of Durant..There might’ve been a different guy leading the team in scoring every game..

[Jlv2010]

Lebron would’ve complained about pain in his arm. USA would take silver.

[Jlv2010]

Lebron would’ve complained about pain in his arm. USA would take silver.

[NJHooper95Participant]

That is a tough call. I think the U.S may have still won Gold, but may have lost at least one game. Durant is more of a pure scorer than Lebron because of his ability to shoot the ball so well. I hear talk of Lebron would have made teams better, but how can you make subpar shooters better when teams are playing a tight zone. We have seen really every U.S player in this tournament struggle with their shooting outside of Durant. Lebron would have been just another subpar shooter i.e Derrick Rose, Lamar Odom, Andre Iguodala, Russell Westbook, to go along with an already undersize team. Even the decent shooters such as Billups, Gordon, and Gay struggled. Without Durant this team would have been in real trouble. Dont Know if Lebron with his lack of consistent shooting would have been as effective as Durant.

[NJHooper95Participant]

That is a tough call. I think the U.S may have still won Gold, but may have lost at least one game. Durant is more of a pure scorer than Lebron because of his ability to shoot the ball so well. I hear talk of Lebron would have made teams better, but how can you make subpar shooters better when teams are playing a tight zone. We have seen really every U.S player in this tournament struggle with their shooting outside of Durant. Lebron would have been just another subpar shooter i.e Derrick Rose, Lamar Odom, Andre Iguodala, Russell Westbook, to go along with an already undersize team. Even the decent shooters such as Billups, Gordon, and Gay struggled. Without Durant this team would have been in real trouble. Dont Know if Lebron with his lack of consistent shooting would have been as effective as Durant.

[JNixonParticipant]

“I think if Lebron had played instead of Durant..There might’ve been a different guy leading the team in scoring every game..”

I simply don’t agree with that statement. I don’t. Who would’ve been scoring more than Lebron on this team without Kevin Durant? One game maybe someone would’ve scored more, but EVERY game a different player would’ve led them in scoring? I don’t think that accurate. Not even close really

[JNixonParticipant]

“I think if Lebron had played instead of Durant..There might’ve been a different guy leading the team in scoring every game..”

I simply don’t agree with that statement. I don’t. Who would’ve been scoring more than Lebron on this team without Kevin Durant? One game maybe someone would’ve scored more, but EVERY game a different player would’ve led them in scoring? I don’t think that accurate. Not even close really

[OhCanada-Participant]

I say NO. The reason is because Lebron lacks the “modest” and “sincere” leadership that is necassary to instill confidence in your teammates. He would be a more dominate presence and even with his offseason situation would become somewhat of a distraction on the team. I think that this is the year he finally takes the crown of “best player” from Kobe. He can never be a leader the same magnitude of his talent thou.

[OhCanada-Participant]

I say NO. The reason is because Lebron lacks the “modest” and “sincere” leadership that is necassary to instill confidence in your teammates. He would be a more dominate presence and even with his offseason situation would become somewhat of a distraction on the team. I think that this is the year he finally takes the crown of “best player” from Kobe. He can never be a leader the same magnitude of his talent thou.

[Mr.Knick 32Participant]

say NO. The reason is because Lebron lacks the “modest” and “sincere” leadership that is necassary to instill confidence in your teammates.

That’s just hating now. The man was top 10 in assists. The Modesty? The Sincere? Come on now. OhCanada, I’m not trying to rip you but that’s weak.

[Mr.Knick 32Participant]

say NO. The reason is because Lebron lacks the “modest” and “sincere” leadership that is necassary to instill confidence in your teammates.

That’s just hating now. The man was top 10 in assists. The Modesty? The Sincere? Come on now. OhCanada, I’m not trying to rip you but that’s weak.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

I think Lebron would have been even more dominant. You guys act like Lebron is a bad shooter. He’s not, even slightly above average and well above average when he gets hot.

Team USA would have been better had Lebron replaced Durant, and the Thunder would be better as well.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

I think Lebron would have been even more dominant. You guys act like Lebron is a bad shooter. He’s not, even slightly above average and well above average when he gets hot.

Team USA would have been better had Lebron replaced Durant, and the Thunder would be better as well.

[FastAndFuriousParticipant]

I know people happy about Durants little coming out party, but come on man stop acting like Lebron isn’t the best small forward in the league. Durant when he was 21 30pts 7rbs 2ast, Lebron at 21 31pts 7rbs 6ast, wake up people Durant is damn good, but Lebron is something we’ve never seen

[FastAndFuriousParticipant]

I know people happy about Durants little coming out party, but come on man stop acting like Lebron isn’t the best small forward in the league. Durant when he was 21 30pts 7rbs 2ast, Lebron at 21 31pts 7rbs 6ast, wake up people Durant is damn good, but Lebron is something we’ve never seen

[Mr. 19134Participant]

How the Hell are people saying Durant needs to make his teammates better?….Let’s see what his team’s did this past year…They won gold at the WC, and his other team made it to the playoffs for the first time in quite awhile, and it was Oklahoma Cities first playoff birth period, then they took the Lakers to 7 games…Not only that everybody on the Thunder has steadily increased production and gotten better with Durant being the franchise partly because everyday even in the off season, Westbrook, Harden, Green, and Kyle Weaver are in the gym with Durant…I follow then on twitter and thats all they took about :)…But the US would of most certainly won with LeBron, he is still the best player in the world in my eyes. Lebron makes his teammates better by passing the ball, but I honestly believe that Durant cares about his teams more. As evidenced by him quietly signing an extension this offseason as compared to the “Decision”

I will agree that Durant needs to improve his passing ability, but thats neither here nor there when you make almost every shot you take anyway.

[Mr. 19134Participant]

How the Hell are people saying Durant needs to make his teammates better?….Let’s see what his team’s did this past year…They won gold at the WC, and his other team made it to the playoffs for the first time in quite awhile, and it was Oklahoma Cities first playoff birth period, then they took the Lakers to 7 games…Not only that everybody on the Thunder has steadily increased production and gotten better with Durant being the franchise partly because everyday even in the off season, Westbrook, Harden, Green, and Kyle Weaver are in the gym with Durant…I follow then on twitter and thats all they took about :)…But the US would of most certainly won with LeBron, he is still the best player in the world in my eyes. Lebron makes his teammates better by passing the ball, but I honestly believe that Durant cares about his teams more. As evidenced by him quietly signing an extension this offseason as compared to the “Decision”

I will agree that Durant needs to improve his passing ability, but thats neither here nor there when you make almost every shot you take anyway.

[OhCanada-Participant]

What do assists have to do with leadership?

[OhCanada-Participant]

What do assists have to do with leadership?

[JoeWolf1]

I think so, his versitility is just as valuable as Durant’s scoring and outside shooting. There are few guys in the NBA who can slow down Lebron James, and I’d think there are even fewer in FIBA play, especially since a lot of marquee players on other teams sat out as well. I think Rose at the 1, Gordon at the 2, Lebron at the 3, Odom at the 4 and Chandler at the 5 would be an absolutely insane lineup. Slashing, outside shooting, versitility and a 7 footer to guard the rim. No one could handle that.

[MBRHParticipant]

I dont think you watched the games at all, chandler was awful…
People on here think that by getting assists you are making your teammates better but that isn’t always the case…
I believe Durant makes his teammates better because of his attitude, and work ethic. I have played with guys who can pass the ball and find open teammates, but dont make them better. i have also played with guys who were average passers but there positive attitude had a bigger effect on there teammates than there skill at finding the open man.

[MBRHParticipant]

I dont think you watched the games at all, chandler was awful…
People on here think that by getting assists you are making your teammates better but that isn’t always the case…
I believe Durant makes his teammates better because of his attitude, and work ethic. I have played with guys who can pass the ball and find open teammates, but dont make them better. i have also played with guys who were average passers but there positive attitude had a bigger effect on there teammates than there skill at finding the open man.

[JoeWolf1]

I think so, his versitility is just as valuable as Durant’s scoring and outside shooting. There are few guys in the NBA who can slow down Lebron James, and I’d think there are even fewer in FIBA play, especially since a lot of marquee players on other teams sat out as well. I think Rose at the 1, Gordon at the 2, Lebron at the 3, Odom at the 4 and Chandler at the 5 would be an absolutely insane lineup. Slashing, outside shooting, versitility and a 7 footer to guard the rim. No one could handle that.

[sheltwon3Participant]

More Lebron James hate to the point of being unrealistic. Lebron is one of the top 3 players in the league so if he played on that team they would have still won. Lebron had all those shooter and also he is a power forward’s size with guard skills. Who would have guarded him seriously. Please don’t let hate confused you about how good a player is.

[sheltwon3Participant]

More Lebron James hate to the point of being unrealistic. Lebron is one of the top 3 players in the league so if he played on that team they would have still won. Lebron had all those shooter and also he is a power forward’s size with guard skills. Who would have guarded him seriously. Please don’t let hate confused you about how good a player is.

[sacphil_08Participant]

That wouldve been a tough call because with those guys around him, who are his shooters? Yes Gordon, gay, Chauncey, and curry but outside of them who will hit open jumpers? Also Lebron is ball dominant and in FIBA you need a more team oriented game. It’s still likely they’d Winnie durant brings a guy who can score without the ball in his hands up til the second he catches and shoots. Lebron would have to be surrounded with guys who can shoot really well and that particular group of guys besides te ones I mentioned aren’t great shooters

[sacphil_08Participant]

That wouldve been a tough call because with those guys around him, who are his shooters? Yes Gordon, gay, Chauncey, and curry but outside of them who will hit open jumpers? Also Lebron is ball dominant and in FIBA you need a more team oriented game. It’s still likely they’d Winnie durant brings a guy who can score without the ball in his hands up til the second he catches and shoots. Lebron would have to be surrounded with guys who can shoot really well and that particular group of guys besides te ones I mentioned aren’t great shooters

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

Lebron has been ball dominant, but I hate that argument. He’s been ball dominant because he’s need to be ball dominant. He’s never been on a team with a player good enough to warrant him not being ball dominant. Wade is ball dominant and he’s great in FIBA. Lebron in the Olympics was very good and he shot the ball 46 percent from 3. Most of the best players in the NBA are ball dominant, but they can adjust when they are sorrounded by other great players.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

Lebron has been ball dominant, but I hate that argument. He’s been ball dominant because he’s need to be ball dominant. He’s never been on a team with a player good enough to warrant him not being ball dominant. Wade is ball dominant and he’s great in FIBA. Lebron in the Olympics was very good and he shot the ball 46 percent from 3. Most of the best players in the NBA are ball dominant, but they can adjust when they are sorrounded by other great players.

[llperez]

i think team usa would still win but the games might have been a tad bit tougher. FIBA just doesnt have as many lanes opening up for slahers and there were a number of times the usa halfcourt offense looked stagnant and durant just shot them out of it. Lebron is better then durant in my book, but not nearly the shooter durant is which is exactly what usa needed the most. But team USA would have still gotten after it defensively so they would have grinded out the games.

[llperez]

i think team usa would still win but the games might have been a tad bit tougher. FIBA just doesnt have as many lanes opening up for slahers and there were a number of times the usa halfcourt offense looked stagnant and durant just shot them out of it. Lebron is better then durant in my book, but not nearly the shooter durant is which is exactly what usa needed the most. But team USA would have still gotten after it defensively so they would have grinded out the games.

[yaboymalParticipant]

they would have won gold and I think they would go undefeated to but I dont see lebron putting up the same scoring numbers durant did. I also disagree with the statement if lebron was playing someone different would lead the team in scoring everygame. Maybe one or 2 games someone else would lead in scoring but 2 is pushing it. Like I was mentioning earlier lebron wouldnt put up the same scoring numbers as durant he would have put up more all around numbers

[yaboymalParticipant]

they would have won gold and I think they would go undefeated to but I dont see lebron putting up the same scoring numbers durant did. I also disagree with the statement if lebron was playing someone different would lead the team in scoring everygame. Maybe one or 2 games someone else would lead in scoring but 2 is pushing it. Like I was mentioning earlier lebron wouldnt put up the same scoring numbers as durant he would have put up more all around numbers

[andxxxParticipant]

I think Lebron would have put up similar or even better scoring numbers, remember he was playin with the likes of CP3, Deron williams, Dwade, Kobe and others that could put the ball in the basket. Durant was unquestionably the best scorer on the team for this year.

[andxxxParticipant]

I think Lebron would have put up similar or even better scoring numbers, remember he was playin with the likes of CP3, Deron williams, Dwade, Kobe and others that could put the ball in the basket. Durant was unquestionably the best scorer on the team for this year.

[stanford hoops]

why are people acting like lebron isn’t that good anymore. Lebron has done the sane thing and more at 21 as durant let’s not forget that. And how can lebrons leadership be questioned. He’s lead a team ti the title game. Durante not in the dissvussion untill he gets out the first second third round. Right now he’s on the tmac path untill he leafs his team further. How about this for a idea. Let a player earn things before saying they are this or that or the best

[stanford hoops]

why are people acting like lebron isn’t that good anymore. Lebron has done the sane thing and more at 21 as durant let’s not forget that. And how can lebrons leadership be questioned. He’s lead a team ti the title game. Durante not in the dissvussion untill he gets out the first second third round. Right now he’s on the tmac path untill he leafs his team further. How about this for a idea. Let a player earn things before saying they are this or that or the best

[knicksfan7Participant]

Quincey and I have had our share of disagreements, but he is on point with his last point. The McGrady comparison is spot on, but Durant has shown us that he has much more upside to further him and his team in the playoffs than McGrady.

I think as for the the whole Lebron negativity is people have the standard so high for him that he has yet to fulfill it people are starting to be skeptical about him, which I believe is BS. I think Lebron will win multiple titles, and people will start talking about him with all the greats.

[knicksfan7Participant]

Quincey and I have had our share of disagreements, but he is on point with his last point. The McGrady comparison is spot on, but Durant has shown us that he has much more upside to further him and his team in the playoffs than McGrady.

I think as for the the whole Lebron negativity is people have the standard so high for him that he has yet to fulfill it people are starting to be skeptical about him, which I believe is BS. I think Lebron will win multiple titles, and people will start talking about him with all the greats.

[stanford hoops]

How has durant shown more upside. When tmac wad on top of his game he was one of the best in the NBA and was thought to go down as one of the best ever just like durant. He was thought to be able to lead his team with grant hill deep into the playoffs

[stanford hoops]

How has durant shown more upside. When tmac wad on top of his game he was one of the best in the NBA and was thought to go down as one of the best ever just like durant. He was thought to be able to lead his team with grant hill deep into the playoffs

[knicksfan7Participant]

Durant led his team to 50 wins at age 21.
T-Mac led his team to 43 wins at age 21.

Durant’s team won 2 games in the series
Mcgrady’s team won 1 (best of 5 series)

I think the way Durant has adjusted to the playoffs, and now with the FIBA games I think he is better fit to have greater post-season success than T-Mac IMO.

[knicksfan7Participant]

Durant led his team to 50 wins at age 21.
T-Mac led his team to 43 wins at age 21.

Durant’s team won 2 games in the series
Mcgrady’s team won 1 (best of 5 series)

I think the way Durant has adjusted to the playoffs, and now with the FIBA games I think he is better fit to have greater post-season success than T-Mac IMO.

[stanford hoops]

7 wins and one more win in the playoffs. Ut doesn’t matter how many u win if you still lose the series

right now he’s in the tmac boat untill ge proves other wise. I can say someone has better potential all day but untill they prove it or reach it it’s just talk

[stanford hoops]

7 wins and one more win in the playoffs. Ut doesn’t matter how many u win if you still lose the series

right now he’s in the tmac boat untill ge proves other wise. I can say someone has better potential all day but untill they prove it or reach it it’s just talk

[JoeWolf1]

Don’t forget when McGrady got the big contract and really blew up in Orlando he was playing 2nd fiddle to Vince Carter and had been for 3 years as he adjusted to the league. Durant has always been the man from high school to college to being the face of a rebuilding franchise. There was no adjusting for him as far as taking a front role, he seems to be fine with it and a very cool competitor. That is where I see the main difference between them and where I see more potential in Durant as a winner.

[JoeWolf1]

Don’t forget when McGrady got the big contract and really blew up in Orlando he was playing 2nd fiddle to Vince Carter and had been for 3 years as he adjusted to the league. Durant has always been the man from high school to college to being the face of a rebuilding franchise. There was no adjusting for him as far as taking a front role, he seems to be fine with it and a very cool competitor. That is where I see the main difference between them and where I see more potential in Durant as a winner.

[stanford hoops]

That’s because durant came to a team where there was no Vince and had a tear of college. He would have came in second fiddle to Vince as well at that time because Vince was the truth

[stanford hoops]

That’s because durant came to a team where there was no Vince and had a tear of college. He would have came in second fiddle to Vince as well at that time because Vince was the truth

[JNixonParticipant]

He also would’ve been more effective than McGrady was playing next to Vince too

[JNixonParticipant]

He also would’ve been more effective than McGrady was playing next to Vince too

[JoeWolf1]

I hear you man, thats not what I’m arguing. I’m just saying Durant had a more trial by fire experience when he came into the league. McGrady got to learn a lot from Vince as he came into the league, but he wasn’t the guy. He had a ton of success as an individual player later on in his career, but like I said, Durant has always had that role, and as a result I think he is more comfortable with all the weight on his shoulders

[JoeWolf1]

I hear you man, thats not what I’m arguing. I’m just saying Durant had a more trial by fire experience when he came into the league. McGrady got to learn a lot from Vince as he came into the league, but he wasn’t the guy. He had a ton of success as an individual player later on in his career, but like I said, Durant has always had that role, and as a result I think he is more comfortable with all the weight on his shoulders

[stanford hoops]

Once again. If if. We can’t prove if. Right now we know he has potential and has gotten as far as the first round. I like durant but I’m not hoping in wit everyone else untill he takes his team far in the playoffs like melo Wade Kobe lebron

I think he will but he hasn’t yet

[stanford hoops]

Once again. If if. We can’t prove if. Right now we know he has potential and has gotten as far as the first round. I like durant but I’m not hoping in wit everyone else untill he takes his team far in the playoffs like melo Wade Kobe lebron

I think he will but he hasn’t yet

[PurpleMonkeyDishwasherParticipant]

The fact is: Durant was into being in the fiba tournament so he was juiced and Lebron wasn’t. LeBron didn’t want to be there so they wouldn’t have won. They are 2 completely different players with 2 different goals. LeBron has stated that he wants to build his brand and become a billionaire…
Durant on the other hand is more driven and wants to win games, whether it’s in FIBA or the NBA. Durant is the more “selfless” person (not just player). Durant might give you the shirt off his back while LeBron would sell you his (forget about LeBron signing it for you though).

[PurpleMonkeyDishwasherParticipant]

The fact is: Durant was into being in the fiba tournament so he was juiced and Lebron wasn’t. LeBron didn’t want to be there so they wouldn’t have won. They are 2 completely different players with 2 different goals. LeBron has stated that he wants to build his brand and become a billionaire…
Durant on the other hand is more driven and wants to win games, whether it’s in FIBA or the NBA. Durant is the more “selfless” person (not just player). Durant might give you the shirt off his back while LeBron would sell you his (forget about LeBron signing it for you though).

[llperez]

as i said earlier, i do think it would have been a little more difficult for usa with lebron, but i still think they win becasue they would have been even more able to get after it on defense. But team usa really needed a guy who could just flat out shoot it to make up for poor half court offense. Durant is better suited for fiba ball imo although lebron is the still better player.

[llperez]

as i said earlier, i do think it would have been a little more difficult for usa with lebron, but i still think they win becasue they would have been even more able to get after it on defense. But team usa really needed a guy who could just flat out shoot it to make up for poor half court offense. Durant is better suited for fiba ball imo although lebron is the still better player.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

It is ridiculous to act as though you know the players, based on what you see on T.V. I would agree that Lebron has an enormous ego and that the “decision” was stupid. But he obviously wants to win rather than build his brand, otherwise he would have went to New York or stayed in Cleveland. You are making sweeping assumptions about players. By all accounts Lebron’s teammates like him and has his putting up 30 7 and 8 been his version of not trying to win games. Also I don’t know much about Durant or his personality, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been trying to portray himself in the media as the “anti-lebron.” You don’t think possibly Durant could have a huge ego too? Do you know him personally? Does his signing a multi million dollar contract quietly absolutely prove to you that he is a selfless human being?

In the end, all Superstars have huge egos, it’s part of what makes them great. Kobe comes off as a huge dick to me, almost as much of a dick as the Michael Jordan, the greatest player of all time. I actually think Lebron comes off as a relatively nice person, with an inflated ego. But the only reason no one else has pulled a move like the “decision,” is no other free agent in this media driven age has been that sought after.

[sheltwon3Participant]

Injuries happen, if Lebron James, Dwight Howard were to get career ending injuries or be put in the

Penny/ Grant Hill situation, would we still see them as great. I mean Penny Hardaway was a beast

before he got hurt same with Grant Hill. Grant Hill was doing stuff like get a lot of triple doubles and

collecting a bunch of all around stats before Lebron did it. Penny Hardway was on the level T Mac was

when he starting dominating. When you get hurt people forget how good you were. Also right now

with the hate, people are forget how good Lebron is. We live in a what have you done for me lately

society and people forget how skilled a player is when they don’t see them play that way for a while. I

doubt anyone could even say what they are saying now if Lebron was playing this summer or the

Miami Heat was playing. I want to tell yall something scary. The current Miami Heat could beat this

team USA and would have won gold metal as well. That is seriously up for debate but think about it.

[sheltwon3Participant]

Injuries happen, if Lebron James, Dwight Howard were to get career ending injuries or be put in the

Penny/ Grant Hill situation, would we still see them as great. I mean Penny Hardaway was a beast

before he got hurt same with Grant Hill. Grant Hill was doing stuff like get a lot of triple doubles and

collecting a bunch of all around stats before Lebron did it. Penny Hardway was on the level T Mac was

when he starting dominating. When you get hurt people forget how good you were. Also right now

with the hate, people are forget how good Lebron is. We live in a what have you done for me lately

society and people forget how skilled a player is when they don’t see them play that way for a while. I

doubt anyone could even say what they are saying now if Lebron was playing this summer or the

Miami Heat was playing. I want to tell yall something scary. The current Miami Heat could beat this

team USA and would have won gold metal as well. That is seriously up for debate but think about it.

[PurpleMonkeyDishwasherParticipant]

Never did I say that I knew Lebron personally from watching him on TV. You are the only one assuming things. That being said LeBron could have had a roster spot if he had wanted one. If LeBron had wanted to be in Turkey… he would’ve been. Since LeBron decided he didn’t want to play in the tournament. It’s not a stretch to think that Durant’s desire to win would’ve been greater than LeBron’s since he did care to be there.

Did you consider it a slam on LeBron when I stated that he (LeBron) wanted to “build his brand and become a billionaire”?

The fact that he (LeBron) wants to build his brand and become a billionaire has been widely reported.

And the fact you stated that “egos” make players great is laughable… basketball skill and desire is what makes players great.

[PurpleMonkeyDishwasherParticipant]

Never did I say that I knew Lebron personally from watching him on TV. You are the only one assuming things. That being said LeBron could have had a roster spot if he had wanted one. If LeBron had wanted to be in Turkey… he would’ve been. Since LeBron decided he didn’t want to play in the tournament. It’s not a stretch to think that Durant’s desire to win would’ve been greater than LeBron’s since he did care to be there.

Did you consider it a slam on LeBron when I stated that he (LeBron) wanted to “build his brand and become a billionaire”?

The fact that he (LeBron) wants to build his brand and become a billionaire has been widely reported.

And the fact you stated that “egos” make players great is laughable… basketball skill and desire is what makes players great.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

No but you did act as though you know Durant.

And I think having an ego is part of being a great player. The feeling that you are unquestionably the best and no one can stop you, that you will not allow your team to lose because it will some how diminish you, this is what gives players killer instinct.

[Im Your FatherParticipant]

No but you did act as though you know Durant.

And I think having an ego is part of being a great player. The feeling that you are unquestionably the best and no one can stop you, that you will not allow your team to lose because it will some how diminish you, this is what gives players killer instinct.

[M-DYMESParticipant]

Durant’s game is more built for international play than LBJs. He can play more of a perimeter style oriented basketball game where LBJ would be forced to attempt to drive the majority of the game which is less effective in international play. Not saying it wouldn’t work b/c he is a damn tank with a 40+ inch vert and hemi, but I think Durant game really shines in FIBA/Olympic style competition and it showed in his dominance.

[M-DYMESParticipant]

Durant’s game is more built for international play than LBJs. He can play more of a perimeter style oriented basketball game where LBJ would be forced to attempt to drive the majority of the game which is less effective in international play. Not saying it wouldn’t work b/c he is a damn tank with a 40+ inch vert and hemi, but I think Durant game really shines in FIBA/Olympic style competition and it showed in his dominance.

[PurpleMonkeyDishwasherParticipant]

I had seen Durant on TV and he said how important it was to win the tournament. Okay, so does that make it sound like he might have come over for dinner if I had invited him?

It’s confidence makes a player think others can’t stop them…. it’s ego that makes think they are some how entitled to borish behavior. Read what I write… just maybe you’ll understand what I meant instead of just what you thought I said.

[PurpleMonkeyDishwasherParticipant]

I had seen Durant on TV and he said how important it was to win the tournament. Okay, so does that make it sound like he might have come over for dinner if I had invited him?

It’s confidence makes a player think others can’t stop them…. it’s ego that makes think they are some how entitled to borish behavior. Read what I write… just maybe you’ll understand what I meant instead of just what you thought I said.

[sheltwon3Participant]

Jordan built his brand too and I am sure that he put a lot into it as well Lebron can do both but I would think that when you are dealing with free agency and moving your family from one place to the next and getting familiar with your new team, it limits other obligations. I was better for the young guys to play anyway since Lebron, Melo, and other will be playing I think next year. NBA has too much talent to have guys playing every year and wearing themselves down before the NBA season starts. It is good to let some of the younger guys get some action and experience to share the load. The best basketball player are competitive so if Lebron would have played, I am sure he would have brought his A plus game. Also Lebron was said to be nursing and injury.

[sheltwon3Participant]

Jordan built his brand too and I am sure that he put a lot into it as well Lebron can do both but I would think that when you are dealing with free agency and moving your family from one place to the next and getting familiar with your new team, it limits other obligations. I was better for the young guys to play anyway since Lebron, Melo, and other will be playing I think next year. NBA has too much talent to have guys playing every year and wearing themselves down before the NBA season starts. It is good to let some of the younger guys get some action and experience to share the load. The best basketball player are competitive so if Lebron would have played, I am sure he would have brought his A plus game. Also Lebron was said to be nursing and injury.

[IndianaBasketballParticipant]

“What durant has over lebron in shooting lebron has in blocks passing and steals”

You have to stop paying so much attention to the chase down blocks because Durant averaged more blocks than LeBron last season. LeBron averaged more steals, but not by a significant margin (1.6 to 1.37). Durant also averaged more rebounds than LeBron.

Durant is better and more consistent than LeBron at every single last aspect of shooting. Teams can’t play off of Durant and dare him to shoot. And unlike LeBron, Durant is a great free-throw shooter. Teams can’t rely on fouling Durant and putting him on the line because he shoots 88.2% compared to LeBron’s 76.7%. Durant makes them when they count too, while LeBron tends to choke at the line.

Team USA still would’ve won with their defense and getting out in transition, but they would’ve been even worse in the half-court with LeBron instead of Durant. They’d have had more trouble scoring. Those FIBA teams would’ve been packing the paint with that zone daring LeBron to shoot.

[IndianaBasketballParticipant]

“What durant has over lebron in shooting lebron has in blocks passing and steals”

You have to stop paying so much attention to the chase down blocks because Durant averaged more blocks than LeBron last season. LeBron averaged more steals, but not by a significant margin (1.6 to 1.37). Durant also averaged more rebounds than LeBron.

Durant is better and more consistent than LeBron at every single last aspect of shooting. Teams can’t play off of Durant and dare him to shoot. And unlike LeBron, Durant is a great free-throw shooter. Teams can’t rely on fouling Durant and putting him on the line because he shoots 88.2% compared to LeBron’s 76.7%. Durant makes them when they count too, while LeBron tends to choke at the line.

Team USA still would’ve won with their defense and getting out in transition, but they would’ve been even worse in the half-court with LeBron instead of Durant. They’d have had more trouble scoring. Those FIBA teams would’ve been packing the paint with that zone daring LeBron to shoot.

[IndianaBasketballParticipant]

Correction… Durant shot 90% from the line last season.

[IndianaBasketballParticipant]

Correction… Durant shot 90% from the line last season.

[apb540Participant]

Team USA still would probably still won but LeBron is not a better international player than Durant due to the fact that Durant is a sniper and LeBron is an inconsistent shooter with bad mechanics. And to everyone saying that Durant needs to make his teammates better: He is a MotherEffin scorer so he makes his teammates better by taking the pressure to score off of them!! You DO NOT need to average a large amount of assists to make your teammates better!
And nice call IndianaBball on the blocks stat.

[apb540Participant]

Team USA still would probably still won but LeBron is not a better international player than Durant due to the fact that Durant is a sniper and LeBron is an inconsistent shooter with bad mechanics. And to everyone saying that Durant needs to make his teammates better: He is a MotherEffin scorer so he makes his teammates better by taking the pressure to score off of them!! You DO NOT need to average a large amount of assists to make your teammates better!
And nice call IndianaBball on the blocks stat.

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