When LeBron James joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018, the team was struggling to make the playoffs and needed a transformative leader to bring back championship hopes. Since his arrival, LeBron has significantly changed the franchise, fueling the ongoing LeBron James Lakers statue debate among fans who believe he deserves a statue in Los Angeles similar to Dwyane Wade‘s in Miami.
Recently, Lakers legend Derek Fisher added fuel to this debate by suggesting that if the Lakers honor LeBron with one statue, then two statues would be warranted for the superstar. Fisher’s comments have stirred conversations throughout the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA community and beyond.
If LeBron gets a statue, I better get two of them,
Fisher said.
LeBron’s Impact and Championship Legacy with the Lakers
LeBron James cemented his legacy with the Lakers in 2020 by leading the team to the NBA Championship inside the Orlando bubble, securing the franchise’s 17th title. He also won his fourth Finals MVP that year, highlighting his enduring dominance even late in his career. This achievement directly supports the argument in favor of commemorating him with a statue in Los Angeles.
Derek Fisher’s career with the Lakers also carries substantial weight; he helped the franchise capture five NBA titles during two distinct eras. He was a key member of the Lakers’ historic three-peat from 2000 to 2002 and later contributed alongside Kobe Bryant during the 2009 and 2010 championship runs. Fisher’s claim for multiple statues reflects his sense of accomplishment and loyalty to the Lakers’ storied history.
Insight from Former Teammate Larry Nance Jr. on LeBron’s Work Ethic
Larry Nance Jr., a former Cleveland teammate of LeBron James, weighed in on what distinguishes LeBron from other players in the league. In a recent interview with The Miz, Nance praised LeBron’s unparalleled commitment to training and preparation, underlining why he continues to perform at an elite level.
He’s the best on the team. He’s the best in the league but he’s still the first one in the gym and the last one to leave. He doesn’t skip days. It doesn’t matter if it’s an off day or not an off day,
Nance Jr. said.
This relentless dedication helps LeBron maintain his physical condition and leadership qualities, supporting his case for receiving permanent recognition from the Lakers organization and its fanbase.
Why the Statue Debate Matters for Lakers Fans and the Franchise
The discussion over whether LeBron James deserves one or more statues in Los Angeles reflects broader questions about legacy, respect, and the standards for honoring NBA greats. As the Lakers look to preserve their history and inspire future generations, deciding how to celebrate players like LeBron has become a significant topic among fans, analysts, and former players alike.
The controversy sparked by Derek Fisher’s remarks adds an extra layer of complexity, reminding everyone that honoring legends is often intertwined with personal and historical perspectives within a franchise. The Lakers’ eventual decision could set an important precedent for how the team acknowledges unparalleled contributions on and off the court.