Scottie Pippen made an appearance on ESPN's First Take today alongside Stephen A. Smith, so of course he was asked to weigh in on the never ending debate: LeBron James vs Michael Jordan.
In a surprise to most viewers, and Stephen A. Smith, Pippen noted that LeBron is "probably ahead of Jordan" when it comes to his stats.
In discussing LeBron's career numbers during the debate, Scottie said (h/t Andrew Joseph, USA Today),
"The numbers don't lie. He's right there," he said. "He probably will never catch him in terms of MVP, but in terms of statistics, LeBron is right there. And when you look across the board—not just scoring—check his assists, check his rebounds … he's probably ahead of Jordan."
MJ averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.3 steals during his 15 NBA seasons. Of course, he was also six for six in NBA Finals and was named Finals MVP every time.
LeBron, currently in his 15th season at age 33, is having one of the best statistical seasons of his career, averaging 28.2 points, 9 assists and 8.2 rebounds. For his career, he's averaging 27.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 1.6 steals.
Scottie didn't flat out say LeBron is the better player (although the internet is trying to twist his words that way), but the way Stephen A. reacted you would've thought he did.
Check out the clip below.
