It’s been talked about all throughout the NBA Finals, and with the series potentially ending tonight let’s just settle this. Should LeBron James be named Finals MVP regardless of the outcome? And what would doing that mean for his legacy?
Sportsnet NBA contributors Jeff Simmons and Steven Loung debate both topics.
Simmons: If the Cavaliers lose in six, I lean towards Andre Iguodala. For all the value LeBron is providing, it only adds up to two wins. Iguodala has defended LeBron as well any as anyone in recent memory — both the eye test and advanced metrics point to that. LeBron is minus-46 when Iguodala is on the court, and plus-13 when he’s off it. Iguodala’s play has totally shifted the series. However, James deserves much respect for carrying a New York Knicks-esque roster this far.
Loung: LeBron just deserves credit? Talk about an understatement. LeBron is the Finals MVP. The man is averaging 36.6 points, 12.4 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game. It’s a miracle that Cleveland is even able to stay competitive, let along win two games and it’s all because he’s been absolutely brilliant.
Simmons: No one is doubting LeBron’s brilliance, but that wasn’t the question posed to me. Iguodala has been the most consistent player on both ends of the floor for the team that’s likely going to win the NBA championship. And despite all the numbers, he’s made life far more difficult for LeBron. So now I ask you, what would a Finals loss, despite his monstrous numbers, do for LeBron’s legacy?
Loung: Good question. In my mind, LeBron’s legacy has been cemented as one of the five greatest players ever. You don’t make five straight Finals by fluke, after all. From a general perspective, I believe, win or lose, his reputation won’t change very much. What are your thoughts on this?
Simmons: His legacy, a term I’m not crazy about since his full body of work isn’t complete, should be enhanced in a sense. In Miami, he proved he can win with great players around him, just like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Tim Duncan, and Larry Bird did before him. But now, his roster is a pile of hot garbage. So he shouldn’t be held responsible because it is a team sport. You need a great team to win in this league. His so-called legacy shouldn’t be knocked down, which would be ridiculous, because his two best teammates are injured. Think they could’ve used Andrew Wiggins?
Loung: It’s undeniable that Wiggins looks really good, but I’d still do that Kevin Love trade again. Can you imagine how much more competitive this series would be if either him or Kyrie Irving would be able to play? You’re right when you say the roster around LeBron is garbage, thus proving my point that he should be Finals MVP, regardless. The man’s been nothing short of a basketball god this series.
