The GOAT debate isn’t slowing down anytime soon, especially after LeBron James made a comment that got NBA fans talking again.
On a recent episode of the Mind the Game podcast, hosted by James himself alongside Steve Nash, LeBron spoke about how different the league feels now compared to earlier eras. Specifically, he touched on how difficult it is to get through all 82 games in today’s NBA versus the 80s or 90s.
“The way we play now, with the place and speed of the game, it’s completely different,” said James. “There are a lot more soft-tissue injuries because of it. When I first came into the league, the biggest concern was a high ankle sprain. Now the new ‘high ankle sprain’ is the calf.”
It didn’t take long for fans to jump in. As usual, the reactions went in completely different directions.
@BellKnowerSquad agreed with LeBron and said, “So true king, mj wouldn’t last 10 games in today’s league.”
So true king, mj wouldn’t last 10 games in today’s league
— Ball Knowers (@BallKnowerSquad) January 27, 2026
Others weren’t impressed.
@heero_yuy2 downplayed James, replying, “Proves Leflop is not a GOAT that weak. Should be called a bench player.”
And @says_me1 added, “MJ has more 82 game seasons than guys from his era… eras before and after… after a broken foot… at age 40… whatever soft tissue merchant.”
Comparing eras has never been simple, and this didn’t make it any easier. Fans continue to talk past each other, digging into injuries, pace, rules, and durability, all while chasing the idea of one true GOAT — something the league has never really settled on.
“Y’all gonna miss this once he retires”: NBA fans react to standing ovation for LeBron James’ throwdown against the Chicago Bulls
Despite the constant GOAT arguments involving Michael Jordan, LeBron James still gets love in places you wouldn’t expect — including Chicago.
During the Lakers’ 129–118 win over the Bulls on Monday, James threw down a fast-break dunk that brought the United Center crowd to its feet. The reaction caught plenty of fans off guard.
@Nicholas42094 summed it up, saying, “Y’all gonna miss this once he retires, just enjoy a great player and great career.”
@DoctorDisney joked, “Especially when he’s hanging out at half court or beyond so he can get another fast break basket.”
While @illBetOnThat added, “Steph literally gets mvp chants in away arenas.”
Between the debates and moments like that dunk, LeBron continues to sit at the center of NBA conversation — whether fans like it or not.
