LeBron James Compares Jalen Johnson to Scottie Pippen
Jan 3, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) moves the ball against Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
LeBron James had nothing but praise for Jalen Johnson on his « Mind The Game » podcast with Steve Nash. The Lakers player drew a striking parallel between the Atlanta Hawks forward and Bulls legend Scottie Pippen, Hall of Famer and six-time NBA champion.
« Obviously, he still has a long way to go, » the King tempers before continuing. « But as far as talent, when you see a guy with long arms, who’s 6’9″ or 6’10 », who runs like a deer and is super athletic… He’s also improved his outside touch. »
A versatility that impresses the four-time MVP
The comparison with Pippen doesn’t stop at physical attributes. LeBron James particularly emphasizes Johnson’s exceptional versatility, capable of impacting all areas of the game. « He puts pressure on the rim, he has that ability to grab rebounds, and he knows how to defend. He can defend positions 1 through 5, well, most point guards and centers, » analyzes the Lakers player.
This 2024-2025 season, Jalen Johnson confirms this praise with remarkable statistics: 23.7 points, 10.4 rebounds and 8.4 assists per game. The Hawks forward has particularly excelled from 3-point range with 36.7% shooting, his career high. Behind Nikola Jokic, he’s the player with the most triple-doubles this season with 7.
LeBron James sees in this progression the importance of context and confidence. « In our league, it’s all about confidence and opportunity. Once you seize that opportunity and your confidence grows, you start telling yourself: ‘I can do this every night,' » he explains.
The King is particularly optimistic about Johnson’s future: « I love his ceiling. I don’t know where it is exactly, but I know it’s not low. I think it’s very high and I can’t wait to see what’s next. He’s on track to be an All-Star in the East this year, that’s for sure. »
LeBron James likens Jalen Johnson to Scottie Pippen:
« As far as talent you look at the long arms, 6’9, runs like a deer. Super athletic, he’s improved his outside touch. His ability to guard 1-5. »
(via @mindthegamepod)pic.twitter.com/lcVLRK82hf
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 6, 2026
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