Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is often willing to speak his mind, but rarely sits down for an extended interview on all-things NBA. James did just that Wednesday, addressing a number of topics during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show.”
During the hour-long sit down, James discussed his relationship with Michael Jordan, thoughts on ESPN journalist Brian Windhorst, the trade that brought Luka Dončić to the Lakers and James’ feud with Stephen A. Smith.
James’ affinity for Jordan is obvious at this point. The Lakers star originally wore No. 23 as a tribute to the Chicago Bulls legend. While James still has immense respect for Jordan, the pair don’t talk much these days.
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The Lakers star thinks that will change when he retires from the NBA.
(Warning: The videos below contain NSFW language.)
James cited Jordan’s intense competitive spirit as a reason the two don’t talk much now.
“We all know MJ. Even if you don’t know him personally, he’s one of the most ruthless competitors there is. And until I’m done, and he doesn’t have to look at me run up and down wearing the No. 23, and every time my name is mentioned, it’s mentioned with his, he’s like, ‘I don’t want to f***ing talk to you.'”
James never implied the pair had a bad relationship, still referring to Jordan as an inspiration.
LeBron James talks Stephen A. Smith feud
James also took a moment to discuss his feud with ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith. A verbal confrontation between James and Smith occurred on the court before the Lakers took on the New York Knicks on March 6.
The following day, Smith revealed the nature of that chat, saying James was upset about the way Smith talked about his son, Bronny James.
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LeBron spoke on that feud Wednesday. After saying Smith was “on a Taylor Swift tour run right now,” James said Smith missed the entire point of their conversation.
James also joked about how excited Smith would be when he hears James talked about their feud on television.
Given Smith’s persona, it’s likely his “Taylor Swift tour run” will continue following James’ comments Wednesday.
LeBron James discusses ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst
The Lakers’ star also took aim at another ESPN personality. James mocked reporter Brian Windhorst, saying, “This guy says he’s my best f***ing friend. These guys are just weird.”
Windhorst and James attended the same high school, St. Vincent–St. Mary High School, though not at the same time. Windhorst has covered James since the basketball star attended high school. The ESPN reporter has broken plenty of stories about James over their careers.
LeBron James speaks on Luka Dončić trade
Regarding the Dončić trade, James said that while he couldn’t put himself in Dončić’s shoes, the trade must have been a shock to his system. James also reiterated that Dončić needs to be himself for the Lakers to unlock their full potential.
Los Angeles has gone 12-9 since Dončić joined the team.
LeBron James takes shot at old NBA players who doubt his game
James also took a moment to call out older NBA players who claim James wouldn’t excel in previous NBA eras. James brushed off those comments, saying, “C’mon, I would be able to play in any era.”
Given James’ longevity, accolades and the fact that he holds the record for most career points, it’s safe to say his game would translate to any era.
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