The following article first appeared on BasketballNetwork.net:

Michael Jordan and LeBron James each have a strong case in the greatest-of-all-time debate. But there’s one area where LeBron is obviously better, and it’s the one that may swing the argument in his favor: longevity.

Almost all of the points in LeBron’s favor start with “total” – total minutes played, total number of points, total number of assists, total Finals appearances, etc. James’ unbelievable longevity will be his calling card and path to GOAT status.

The King of basketball (and PR) also understands a lot of this is about storylines and narrative. Knowing this, what would be the best way to end his legendary career? Playing on the same team as his son.

As Bronny James continues to grow as a basketball player, and as his dad continues to play at a high level, the idea of the two playing on the same team is looking more realistic by the day.

Bronny was showin' off the NBA RANGE in the first half against his dad’s alma mater 👀🪣 pic.twitter.com/LApCUIoGgy

— ESPN (@espn) December 5, 2021

It’s very rare for LeBron to address something like this without any caveats, and that tells us this is a serious goal for James.

Asked about watching his son play in Saturday’s showcase, LeBron said he still thinks about playing w/him one day. He said Bronny’s dream is to play in NBA:

“He has my support and my blueprint. With health and a little bit of luck, that would be the ultimate thing.”

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 6, 2021

LeBron previously opened up about how naming his son LeBron James Jr. (AKA "Bronny") is one of his biggest mistakes in life; MJ’s sons can tell you a thing or two about the pressure that comes with being a legend's kid. Giving your son your own name just amplifies that, and that’s why LeBron has been very reserved about this topic in the past.

LeBron is a dad first, and the most important thing to him is to let his kids find their own path in life. But as the reality of Bronny being a good player is becoming more apparent — we're all expecting him to play ball at the next level — LeBron has allowed himself to daydream just a little bit.

It’s not just the potential historic achievement that’s fascinating. Every father's dream is to see his kids succeed and achieve something special. Making the NBA would definitely be a shining example of that. But being there with them on the court itself? It’s insane to think LeBron, the dad, might get that with Bronny, the son.

Father Time

LeBron’s ability to evade Father Time has been as impressive as we've seen in the history of the NBA (and possibly sports altogether), but over the last few years, James has been injured more than any time in his entire career. LeBron hasn’t played four consecutive games once this season, so for the first time, we have proof he’s human.

“I feel decent physically. I’m still getting back to where I was before the (initial abdominal strain),” LeBron said recently.

The chain of injuries started with a pulled groin, and now he’s been nursing an abdominal strain. Soft tissue injuries signal fatigue and a need to rest. That would mean that, even though James invests millions into his body and is very disciplined about his lifestyle, he can’t recover as well and as quickly as he did for almost 18 years.

If he is serious about playing with Bronny — and, of course, winning a championship — we might see more DNPs on LeBron's log than before.

You can’t escape Father Time — only postpone his visit.

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