LeBron James being in the NBA Finals surely is not a shock to anyone. The last decade (2010-19) saw James appear in eight of ten possible NBA Finals. But does that mean LeBron's legacy will define the 2010s?
Not according to NBC Sports NBA Insider Tom Haberstroh.
"I'm going to go with Steph Curry's Warriors in the 2010s simply because they went 73-9, they kind of revolutionized the sport in terms of the 3-point shooting," Haberstroh told NBC Sports Bay Area. "that Stephen Curry kind of took over the NBA as unanimous MVP, and changed the game."
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"And then you throw in adding Kevin Durant, I just think that the legacy of the 2010's Warriors is going to be greater."
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In Haberstroh's eyes, the way the Warriors changed the style of play and pace of the NBA not only adjusted the way fans enjoyed watching the game, but also how the game was played everywhere else.
Golden State Warriors
"Stephen Curry kind of revolutionized the kid culture in America and the ability to shoot 3's and not have your coach yell at you," Haberstroh quipped.
James clearly was the best player of the decade, leading many to argue that he even could be considered the greatest or second-greatest player of all time. That is no small feat, and Haberstroh understands the argument that can be made for LeBron in the 2010s.
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However, he also believes there was a significant detractor going against LeBron.
"It does not mean that LeBron James has not had a ridiculous run here. But I also think that the 2011 Dallas Mavericks upset of LeBron is a larger tarnish in his legacy, than the 2016 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors where they lost in seven games," Haberstroh explained. "I think that they put up a much better fight, and there were injury and suspension concerns there, whereas in 2011 versus the Dallas Mavericks, that low point is lower than any of Steph Curry's low points."
Seeing as it is 2020 and a new decade, LeBron is off to a great start closing in on yet another title. At 35 years old, though, one only can wonder when he will finally start slowing down. Curry, on the other hand, might have a few years left in his prime, and if the Warriors are able to rebound from a terrible season, and become title contenders yet again, who knows what is in store for the Warriors in the 2020s.