Two of the best players of this generation have put together their career-high scoring outputs in a single game this season. Both LeBron and Melo have the capability to put their teams on their backs and carry the offensive load. They displayed that in full force in their 60+ point performances this season, where you saw everything from step-back jumpers, ferocious dunks and long-distance three-pointers that were made to look easy by these two compatriots. You knew early on in the games that each man was locked in and was ready to put forth a super-human effort in order to make history. Melo broke Bernard King's Madison Square Garden point total of 60 when he reigned in 62 against the Charlotte Bobcats on January 25th, 2014, and LeBron broke Glenn Rice's Heat record of 57 when he put in 61 points of his own against the same foe on March 4th, 2014. Both were impressive displays of basketball talent, but which one was a better individual performance? It is ironic that the only 60+ point games of the season came against the same opponent (poor 'Cats), but which warrants more praise? Melo is perhaps one of the only men at the small forward position in the NBA that can compare to LeBron from a strength and stamina standpoint. LeBron is more explosive and dynamic off the dribble and driving to the basket, while Melo is definitely a better pure shooter. Melo's performance included a halftime, half-court buzzer-beater, while LeBron's included several acrobatic finishes around the rim. They are both masters at using the ball-fake in order to create space from their defenders while shooting the basketball. From an entire season perspective, there is no question who is in better shape in terms of the standing of their team and potential for an NBA championship, but who had the best single-game performance of the season? And neither of these men are considered the front-runner in the MVP race. Something to think about.
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