LeBron James vs Luka Doncic: Full sophomore year comparison

#5 Defense

LeBron James attempts to block Maurice Williams' layup attempt

While Doncic's historic start to the season has earned a huge amount of admiration, his defense has received some deserved criticism. His effort on the defensive end has been questioned at times, and opposing teams have been able to enjoy success when isolating him. From a statistical standpoint, Doncic has been able to pull down 8.3 defensive rebounds per game, while also averaging 1.2 steals per contest - although he has managed just three blocks over his 25 appearances this season.

Meanwhile. James was already regarded as an excellent defender during his sophomore year, and he finished the season averaging 6.2 defensive rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 0.7 blocks. LeBron's sophomore season defensive win share of 4.6 also far surpasses Doncic's figure of 1.2, and while Doncic may one day develop into an elite defender - James was better on the defensive end at this stage of his career.

Winner - LeBron James

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Verdict

Both LeBron and Doncic are unique players in their own ways

There is no doubt that Doncic and LeBron are the best two 20-year-old's that we have ever seen in the NBA, and the Mavericks star appears well on course to establishing himself as the best player in the league over the next few years.

However, while Doncic is a better offensive player than James was at the same stage of his career, in terms of all-round talent and impact on the game, LeBron remains as the best sophomore to ever play the game.