Why Cedric Maxwell drops mic on Lakers star LeBron James’ spot in all-time Top-5

Former Boston Celtics star Cedric Maxwell is not buying into the argument that Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James falls outside the top five players in NBA history.

During a recent appearance on FanDuel’s Run It Back, Maxwell explained why he believes James’ résumé, longevity and professionalism make him impossible to exclude from an all-time top-five discussion.

Maxwell acknowledged that some members of his generation remain hesitant to rank James among the game’s greatest players. However, the two-time NBA champion made it clear he disagrees with that position.

“LeBron James one of my favorite players because of the longevity and what he’s done.”

Maxwell then offered a strong endorsement of James’ place in basketball history.

“He is one of the top players of all-time. So, I don’t think that you can have five greater players in the NBA than LeBron James and what he’s done for the league and how he’s really handled himself.”

"LeBron is one of my favorite players."

Celtics legend @cedricmaxwell81 doesn't agree with others from his generation that don't have Bron in the top 5. pic.twitter.com/0bxPJYGxN1

— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) June 19, 2026

James has built one of the most accomplished careers the sport has ever seen. The four-time NBA champion, four-time MVP and four-time Finals MVP became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and has continued to perform at an elite level well into his 40s.

Celtics legend sees no case for leaving LeBron James outside top five

Maxwell also pointed to James’ reputation off the court as part of the reason he deserves such lofty status among the game’s legends.

“A guy who has been no trouble, won championships, and you think about the personnel that have been around him and other personnel that have been around him – you don’t have that with LeBron.”

The comments carry added significance given Maxwell’s Celtics roots. Historically, many debates surrounding James’ legacy have involved comparisons to players from previous eras, particularly among former players who competed during the NBA’s earlier generations.

Yet Maxwell’s perspective highlights one of the strongest arguments in James’ favor: sustained excellence. Across more than two decades, James has remained a centerpiece of championship contenders while adapting his game to different teammates, coaches and organizations.

As James potentially prepares for another season with the Lakers, discussions surrounding his place in basketball history continue to generate debate. Maxwell, however, appears to have little uncertainty.

For the Celtics legend, James’ combination of longevity, championships, production and professionalism leaves little room for any argument that places him outside the NBA’s all-time top five.

The post Why Cedric Maxwell drops mic on Lakers star LeBron James’ spot in all-time Top-5 appeared first on ClutchPoints.