Anonymous
Years ago
Early LeBron was physically ready to go against men, Zion is another thing entirely. Give or take a few inches and pounds (LeBron could easily bulk up to Zion size), which is the best athlete?
Zion has way more injury risks, still too heavy
Zion more vertically explosive and quicker, but LeBron is quite a bit taller. The athleticism for size comparison is probably pretty close.
Ballerina athlete genius.
LeBron is a physical freak of nature with combination of size, speed, strength and agility. Would give Zion tick for size and strength. LeBron definitely had edge in terms of IQ, versatility, skills (ball handling, passing, shooting) at same stage as Zion, but Zion has that Shaq wow factor when he explodes for a dunk, or even when he gets ball near basket you're anticipating pure power.
Agree with the weight, the shoe blowout was an example of the stress his joints take. But he's a big guy, if he learns the veteran moves where he dousnt have to make sudden movements all the time to dominate, then there's less risk. And depends on his position in nba, not skilled for 3 yet, will give up inches to some 4s but his hops and body make up for it. I imagine he'll be like Larry Johnson when he first entered league without the post moves.
MACDUB
Years ago
In terms of a same-age comparision, Lebron..and its not even close.
Zion can jump out of the gym no doubt (but tends to favour the 2 foot jump); his strength largely comes from his already sizeable frame. I think those are Zion's two biggest "Athletic characteristics"
Lebron has him covered in just about every other area of athleticism. Lebron's athleticism went way beyond just being able to jump high. He was quick, and agile, flexible, amazing core strength, balance, body composition.
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