Is LeBron James a Bad Defender? (OKC Defensive Leader Serge Ibaka Says Yes)

The Oklahoma City Thunder's defensive leader Serge Ibaka didn't win the Defense Player of The Year award, but he's the real winner in many fans' eyes. Ibaka, nicknamed “Iblocka,” is a blocking machine and an important part of the OKC Thunder Finals team this year. Unfortunately for the Thunder, Ibaka may have set off the wrong guy. In a recent interview, Ibaka said Miami Heat team leader and three-time MVP LeBron James was not a good defender.

For non-basketball fans, saying LeBron isn't a good defender is like saying Michael Jackson isn't a good performer or that Peyton Manning isn't a good thrower. LeBron is recognized as one of the NBA's best defensive players, although his response to Ibaka's claims could have been a bit more, original. He did take the high road—sort of. “I don't really care what he says,” said LeBron. “He's stupid.”

Stupid? LeBron doesn't care what Ibaka says, but he called him stupid? Something tells us this beef will get squashed soon, most likely after the closing game of the NBA Finals. For the Heat, the closing game could be their next -- Game 5 in Miami. The Heat lead the series 3-1 and with one more win, the franchise will secure its second NBA Championship. LeBron won't have to worry about anyone stupid if he wins a ring -- further silencing his critics. Do you think Lebron James is a bad defender? Or is Serge Ibaka starting beef for no reason?