Los Angeles Lakers: A real LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard comparison

For this discussion, it’s a no brainer, but whoever wins this column will probably lead their team to the Finals.

It’s no debate that defense wins championships. No matter what era, usually the better team in the Finals win. The Lakers and the Clippers both are running neck and neck on talent on their respective rosters.

Let’s talk about defense.

LeBron James:

Lake Show Life ruffled a lot of feathers talking about LeBron’s defense (or lack thereof!) at times during the season last year. Let’s look at some of the low-lights.

Joakim Noah looked like Shaquille O’Neal while LeBron James stood by like the rest of the crowd that paid to see the game. The video was played so many times on sports talks shows, it should have been a reality show.

Trae Young nutmegged him. Like twice. This was the game before the All-Star break and after Magic Johnson gave his man-up speech to the team in Philadelphia. Very few knew it at the time, but the Lakers were basically checked out. Both the season and the playoff race. Just not mathematically.

Then there was the push.

Let’s move on.

Kawhi Leonard:

Let’s make this short and sweet. LeBron’s defense has eroded since he left the accountability of Erik Spoelstra and Pat Riley in Miami. Defense is Kawhi Leonard’s calling card. It’s just that he became a superstar when his offense caught up.

He is known as the best perimeter defender in the NBA. Period. He is considered the best 2 way player in the world (Kevin Durant was the only one that gave him a run for his money!).

Leonard’s tenacity, skill, discipline and footwork make him a major problem for players 1-4. When Leonard is on his game defensively, he can completely shut down opponents and leave them helpless. The man can guard you on the ride to the arena.

Better Defender: Kawhi Leonard