Former NBA star explains why fans criticize LeBron James despite historic career

LeBron James has done it all — four championships, countless accolades, and the NBA’s all-time scoring record. At 40, the Los Angeles Lakers icon is still pushing forward, picking up his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season, which many believe could be his last.

But despite his legendary résumé and Olympic success with Team USA, the “King” continues to face criticism, especially when stacked against Chicago Bulls great Michael Jordan.

Former Milwaukee Bucks and Lakers guard Lester Conner recently broke down why on Cedric Maxwell’s podcast. According to Conner, two things put fans off: self-promotion and team control.

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“Some people don’t like him because of the fact that he named himself ‘The King,’” Conner said.

LeBron James isn’t defined by one era.

He’s defined by four dynasties within a single career.

In Cleveland, the first time, he was the chosen one who turned promise into dominance:

🔸 27.8 PPG
🔸 7.0 RPG
🔸 7.0 APG
🔸 2× MVP

In Miami, he transformed into the ultimate force, a… pic.twitter.com/J230gp6Miy

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 8, 2025

“Who is going to name himself ‘The King’ and then say they are the GOAT and the greatest of all time when somebody else should give you those accolades? So, I think that’s one of them. Then the way he does teams by handpicking certain guys that he wants — being the player, the general manager, the coach — I think that rubs some people the wrong way.”

LeBron has never shied away from shaping his own destiny. From teaming up with Dwyane Wade in Miami, reuniting with Kyrie Irving in Cleveland, to bringing Anthony Davis to Los Angeles, James has consistently leveraged his influence to build contenders.

Still, it’s hard to argue with the results. He’s managed his career on his own terms without ever breaking league rules, and his longevity continues to set new standards.

This season, LeBron is set to make history once again — becoming the first player in NBA history to play 23 seasons, surpassing Vince Carter’s mark of 22.

Love him or hate him, the debate over LeBron vs. Jordan isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

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