Why can t James become GOAT? The controversy and regrets behind the three most failed decisions in his career

LeBron James, one of the greatest players in NBA history and four-time champion, has always been accompanied by controversy. From "Son of Chosen" to "King of Decision", his career is full of glory and regrets. So, what is the most failure in James' career? Is it the public opinion storm caused by three decisions, or is it still unable to satisfy the high expectations of the outside world for him?

"Decision One": The turning point from a hero to a "traitor"

In the summer of 2010, James announced his departure from the Cavaliers to join the Heat through ESPN live broadcast, a move that completely changed his public image. Cleveland fans burned his jerseys, the media criticized him for "grouping" to win the championship, and even NBA celebrities expressed disappointment at his choice.

The reason why "Decision One" is regarded as a failure is not only because its high-profile announcement makes the Cavaliers and fans feel disrespected, but also because James, Wade and Bosh form the Big Three, and is questioned to win the championship through a shortcut. Despite winning two championships at the Heat, the negative impact of "Decision One" is still one of the biggest controversies in his career.

"Decision 2": Returning to the Cavaliers can't escape regret

In 2014, James announced his return to the Cavaliers and promised to bring a championship to his hometown. In 2016, he fulfilled his promise and led the team to reverse the Warriors to win the championship while falling behind 1-3. However, apart from this crown, the Cavaliers' second James era did not establish a true dynasty. In 2017 and 2018, the Cavaliers lost to the Warriors in the Finals for two consecutive years, especially in 2018, James almost carried the team forward alone, but was still unable to make the situation come true. Lineup issues, management decision-making mistakes, and the final second departure left irreparable regrets.

"Decision Three": Struggles and Controversies during the Lakers period

In 2018, James joined the Lakers, and this decision was considered a win-win choice between business and basketball. However, the first few years of the Lakers' career were not going well - they missed the playoffs in 2019 and after winning the championship in 2020, the team struggled due to injuries and management operational mistakes.

Although James won the fourth championship in the Lakers, the overall performance of the team failed to meet the expectations of the outside world. Westbrook's failure in the trade, multiple absences in the playoffs, and the impact of James' own age and injuries all make the "Decision Three" seem incomplete.

The most failure may not be the decision, but the expectation that cannot be escaped

Overall, the most failure in James' career may not be a decision once, but the fact that he has never been able to get rid of the high expectations of him from the outside world. Whether it is the battle with Jordan's historical status, the limitations of the team's management, or the troubles of age and injuries, his pursuit of perfection seems out of reach.

However, it is these controversies and setbacks that make James' career more real and moving. No one is perfect, even a genius like him will face challenges. But no matter what, he is still one of the greatest players of this era, and his legend continues to be written.