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Stephen A. Smith Predicts LeBron James’ 5th Championship, but Says Michael Jordan Is Still the GOAT

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LeBron James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers with one important goal in mind. James hopes to add one more Championship to his already immense legacy. He is among the very best to play the sport, and some even call him the Greatest of All-Time.

Stephen A. Smith Predicts LeBron James’ 5th Championship.

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith made his thoughts on the debate very clear. While he shared positive thoughts on James’ championship odds with the 76ers, Smith still doesn’t believe he is the basketball GOAT.

Stephen A. Smith Believes LeBron James Can Win It All in Philadelphia

Smith is confident that James can challenge for a championship before he retires. While speaking on ESPN’s First Take, he spoke glowingly about the 76ers squad and their title odds.

“I think that LeBron James is going to win a fifth NBA championship,” Smith said. “I think within the next two years.”

Speaking on the 76ers’ squad, Smith had nothing but praise for James’ new teammates. He said, “Jaylen Brown, a 28-point-per-game scorer, who’s a former NBA champion and Finals MVP. He’s a stud. Tyrese Maxey is that dude.”

However, despite predicting that James will win a 5th NBA championship, Smith still doesn’t believe he is the GOAT. He stated that it still falls short of Michael Jordan‘s 6 titles. “

“It still ain’t six, baby,” Smith exclaimed. “This man is the second greatest player of all time. He is not the GOAT.”

Smith highlighted Jordan’s numerous accolades, including his 6 championships, 10 scoring titles and 9 All-Defensive First Team selections. He added that Jordan is the “greatest closer in NBA history,” emphasizing his ability to deliver in clutch moments.

While the 76ers have some big unanswered questions about their roster, James has made his aspirations for the 2026-27 season clear.

LeBron James Wants to Win a Championship

LeBron James during first half

Philadelphia 76ers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Photo Credit: John Jones, Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

James has made his aim for the 2026-27 season clear; he wants to win an NBA championship. Choosing to join the 76ers meant that LBJ is spending time away from his family, and he doesn’t take it lightly. While speaking with the media, James said, “I didn’t leave my family to lose in the second round; I know that for sure.”

He highlighted how the 76ers have to become comfortable while doing uncomfortable things. James doesn’t want this talented team to look back at the 2026-27 season and wonder what could have been.

LeBron James Will Play a Completely New Role With the 76ers

With Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid ahead of him as scorers, James is in unfamiliar territory. He will likely serve primarily as a playmaker and could be the 76ers’ fourth option offensively. This is the first time in LBJ’s career that he won’t be the first or second option. However, he seems fully prepared to sacrifice his personal stats for one more deep title run.

In addition to being the fourth option, James might even have to play center due to the 76ers’ limited big-man rotation and Ariel Hukporti‘s torn Achilles tendon.

The Last Word

James has positioned himself well to challenge for one final Championship, and the 76ers have a strong squad with exceptional star power. Even if Embiid is sidelined for periods during the season, the 76ers have more than enough firepower to win games.

Additionally, although they lack frontcourt depth, their second unit is loaded with talented players. The 76ers have talked the talk, building a talented roster; however, it remains to be seen whether they can walk the walk and win a title.

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Photo Credit: John Jones, Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

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