In an intriguing revelation, basketball legend Tracy McGrady has named his five greatest scorers of all time, but there’s a surprising omission: LeBron James, the player with the most points in NBA history. While LeBron’s scoring prowess has been unparalleled, McGrady, known for his own high-scoring ability, selected Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, himself, and Kevin Durant as the top five. This list is sure to spark debate among basketball fans, as many expected LeBron, given his monumental career achievements, to be included in the conversation for the greatest scorers of all time.
McGrady’s choices reflect a preference for players who defined their eras with incredible scoring performances and offensive versatility. Michael Jordan, regarded by many as the greatest basketball player of all time, tops McGrady’s list due to his combination of scoring titles, clutch performances, and overall impact on the game. Similarly, Kobe Bryant’s relentless scoring ability, particularly his iconic 81-point game, cements his place on the list, showcasing his capability to take over games in any situation. McGrady himself, known for his smooth offensive game and ability to explode for big points in short bursts, doesn’t shy away from placing himself in the company of these all-time greats.
Carmelo Anthony’s inclusion on the list might surprise some, but his status as one of the most gifted offensive players of his generation is unquestionable. With a career built on elite scoring, especially during his prime years with the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks, Anthony’s ability to score from anywhere on the court places him firmly in the conversation of the greatest scorers. Kevin Durant’s name is also unsurprising due to his unique combination of height, skill, and scoring consistency, making him one of the most difficult players to defend against. Durant’s ability to score at will from anywhere on the floor has earned him a place among the greatest of all time.
The omission of LeBron James, however, raises questions given his historic accomplishments. LeBron has the most career points in NBA history and has been a consistent and efficient scorer throughout his career. His ability to score in a variety of ways, combined with his longevity and high basketball IQ, makes it a surprise that McGrady would leave him off the list. LeBron has also been known for his unselfish play, often facilitating for teammates, which could be a factor in McGrady’s reasoning. However, many will argue that LeBron’s place in the top five scorers of all time is undeniable, regardless of McGrady’s perspective.
Ultimately, McGrady’s list serves as a subjective take on the players he believes are the greatest scorers based on his own criteria. While LeBron’s exclusion may be surprising to some, it’s clear that McGrady’s list reflects his admiration for players who could take over a game at any moment and showcase their scoring ability in an explosive fashion. The debate over who belongs in the top five scorers will continue to evolve, but for now, McGrady’s list stands as one man’s perspective on the best of the best in NBA scoring.