Tracy McGrady believes LeBron James could have removed all doubt in the GOAT conversation if he had been introduced to one of basketballs most famous systems early in his career.
If Bron got introduced to the triangle at an early age, Bron would have expanded his game tremendously Hes not as fast or uber athletic like he once was, McGrady said on Gils Arena. But if we take Bron who he is now, with the athleticism, speed, and everything, agility, and put him in that triangle, learning that, I dont think theres any question who the greatest player would be.
The triangle, popularized by Phil Jacksons Bulls and Lakers, thrived on spacing and constant outlets.
It helped unlock Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant as dominant scorers while also allowing them to extend their careers by relying on skill and footwork. For the NBAs all-time leading scorer, McGrady believes the impact would have been enormous.
In a triangle, it grows, right? Now he becomes a complete player because you have to be the closer in the triangle, McGrady continued. And it gives you the clearance and space to operate because of all the other s**t thats going on. I think he wouldve learned the footwork, play with his back to the basket because thats where he didnt master.
James has often been critiqued for making the right play in late-game moments rather than forcing shots himself. McGrady suggested that the triangle would have forced LeBron into that closer role, balancing his elite passing instincts with a scorers mindset.
Even without that system, James rsum remains unparalleled. A four-time champion, four-time MVP, and the leagues all-time scoring leader, the 40-year-old forward is set to begin his 23rd NBA season alongside Luka Doncic in Los Angeles.
McGradys point highlights a what-if scenario in basketball history: the most intelligent player of his era learning the most intricate offense of its time. If LeBron had mastered the triangle, McGrady is convinced, I dont think theres any question who the greatest player would be.
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