5 legends who got owned by LeBron James
During his 20-year NBA career, LeBron James has dominated some of the best talents ever to grace the league. The veteran forward has overcome dynasties and future Hall of Famers in his search to be viewed as the greatest player in the history of the NBA.
There have been countless moments when LeBron has upped his game to lead his team to victory. NBA history is littered with fallen giants that have tried and failed in their bid to slow down "King James," such has been his dominance since entering the NBA in 2003.
Here's a look at five future Hall of Famers who have been dominated by LeBron James at one stage of his career or another:
5 NBA legends who got owned by LeBron James
#1. Kevin Garnett
During LeBron James' first tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Boston Celtics had a dominant big three of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. The Celtics were a consistent thorn in LeBron's side and were a roadblock in his search for a championship.
However, once LeBron moved to the Miami Heat, he dominated the Celtics, outshining Garnett at almost every turn. LeBron defeated Garnett in three out of four playoff runs before the veteran big man succumbed to the aging process.
#2. Paul George
Paul George is widely regarded as one of the most talented wings of his generation. A true two-way player with elite offensive upside. However, George has never been able to find an answer for LeBron.
According to StatMuse, LeBron has averaged 27.6 points, 8.3 rebounds and 6.2 assists in the 29 games he's played against George and has seldom struggled to dominate the matchup.
#3. Chauncey Billups
Now the head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, Chauncey Billups continues to be dominated by LeBron. The former point guard had serious battles during his time with the Detroit Pistons in the early 2000s. However, it was always LeBron that shone the brightest.
In 26 career games against Billups, LeBron averaged 25.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 6.5 assists, showing his versatility and dominance against one of the stronger teams in the East at the time. Billups is another future Hall of Fame candidate who had no answer on how to slow down or get the better of "King James".
Given the strength of the Los Angeles Lakers roster for the upcoming season, Billups will likely continue to struggle when facing his former foe, especially since LeBron is showing no signs of slowing down with age.
#4. DeMar DeRozan
There was a time when the Toronto Raptors were among the best teams in the Eastern Conference. DeMar DeRozan, Kyle Lowry, Jonas Valanciunas and a young Fred VanVleet meant that the Raptors were always in the mix for a deep playoff run.
Yet, LeBron's presence was a constant roadblock. DeMar DeRozan has struggled to out-match the 6-foot-9 superstar during their meetings despite his exceptional mid-range scoring game.
LeBron's versatile offensive game has exposed DeRozan's defensive weaknesses on multiple occasions and led to some amazing performances from LeBron over the years.
#5. Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James entered the NBA together. They're good friends. Yet, Carmelo was unable to have the success his immense talent deserved. Throughout his career, Carmelo was always a secondary star behind LeBron James.
During his time with the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks, Anthony discovered how difficult it is to stop LeBron, especially when your team isn't as deep.
LeBron played 36 regular-season games against him, averaging 25.8 points, 7.7 assists, and 7.1 rebounds, as he got the better of his close friend throughout their careers.
The pair ended up playing together with the LA Lakers, but LeBron was unable to help Anthony land a championship ring before he called time on his career.