the idea that LBJ could have a better "career" statistically but not be the better player. that might be hard to wrap your brain around but basically...if i could pick one player in their prime for one game, or one series or one season it would be MJ. if MJ and LBJ squared off and my life depended on the outcome, i'd pick MJ to win.

LBJ is more of a physical freak (taller, stronger, amazingly durable) but MJ is, IMHO, more competitive. the dude was the UNQUESTIONED king of the NBA for over a decade. if not for his stupid baseball hiatus and the "we're-tired-for-voting-for-MJ" MVP to barkley (love ya chuck!) and malone he would have won 8 straight titles and 8 straight MVP's. not only was he the unquestioned best offensive player he also made 1st team all defense like 9-10 times in a row. the dude was a FREAK.

LBJ will probably pass him in most career stats (except per game ones) but i still think MJ is the GOAT.

comparison...haws is BYU's all-time leading scorer but that doesn't automatically mean he's the best scorer. i'd take jimmer any day. greatness + longevity doesn't always mean GOAT.