LeBron James’ explanation for passing up a potential fast-break dunk continues to generate debate, and former NBA players Byron Scott and Olden Polynice aren’t exactly buying it.
The two former players burst out laughing while discussing James’ recent comments about making a “business decision” to avoid attacking the basket with a defender trailing him.
Their reaction came after James explained why he chose not to challenge Indiana Pacers forward Jalen Slawson during a fast-break opportunity.
James had intercepted a pass and appeared to have a clear path toward the basket. However, with Slawson closing in from behind, James opted for a layup attempt instead of going up for a dunk.
Slawson recovered and delivered a chasedown block.
James later explained on his Mind the Game podcast that he recognized the potential injury risk and didn’t believe risking two to four weeks on the sidelines was worth attempting the dunk.
At 41 years old and deep into his 24th NBA season, James acknowledged that his approach to those situations has changed.
Scott and Polynice, however, found humor in his explanation, joking that James barely had enough time to process all the considerations he described during those few seconds.
Byron Scott Brings Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant Into the Conversation
Scott took the discussion a step further by bringing up Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
The former Los Angeles Lakers guard believes neither superstar would have been concerned about a defender chasing them down in that situation.
“No way in hell they think about that dude back there blocking their shot. They thinking about dunking the sh*t out that ball,” Scott said.
Scott’s comments have reignited the familiar debate about the competitive mentality of Jordan, Bryant and James.
Would Jordan or Bryant have tried to finish the play with a dunk? Scott clearly believes so.
James, meanwhile, has a different perspective. After more than two decades in the league, protecting his body and remaining available for his team are legitimate considerations.
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Scott and Polynice’s reaction reflects the old-school competitive mentality that many fans associate with Jordan and Bryant.
James’ explanation seems more like a feeble attempt to cover and rationalise one of his less than stellar moments.
The play itself ended with Slawson getting the block, but the discussion has become much bigger than one defensive highlight.
