Why Lakers should only retire No. 23, not No. 6 for LeBron James

LeBron James has had a terrific 20-season career in the NBA. Although he said he will return for a 21st NBA season, his retirement from the league is likely to be soon.

When James retires, he will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. The teams that he played for will have the opportunity to retire his jersey. Recently, Lakers owner Jeanie Buss confirmed her intention to retire James' jersey once he is inducted into the Hall of Fame.

James has worn two jersey numbers as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers: 23 and 6. So which jersey number should be retired? Should both be retired?

While James has had impressive seasons in both jerseys, the only number that should be retired by the Lakers is his No. 23. He wore the jersey upon his arrival in Los Angeles. He helped deliver the 17th NBA championship for the Lakers, tying them with the Boston Celtics for the most in NBA history. That is the most important achievement he has accomplished as a member of the Lakers.

James' time with jersey No. 6 has been largely disappointing. Although James averaged nearly 30 points per game across three seasons wearing the number, the Lakers did not have as much success. One season, the team missed the playoffs entirely.

The greatest argument one could make for retiring No. 6 is that James broke the all-time scoring record wearing the number. However, out of respect for past NBA greats, it would make more sense to retire just No. 23, not 6.

NBA legend Bill Russell wore the No. 6 when he played. Out of respect for him, James decided that he would switch back to No. 23 next season. By making this change, James further cements the probability of No. 23 going into the rafters while detaching himself from No. 6.

Additionally, the only player to have two jersey numbers retired is Kobe Bryant. He is considered one of the greatest Lakers of all time, not only for his skill but also for his extreme work ethic and love of the game. While James is also one of the greatest Lakers of all time, he did not accomplish what Bryant did during his time as a Laker.

Kobe is the standard for having two jerseys retired. If a player cannot match or exceed the legacy that Bryant built in Los Angeles, then they should not have two jerseys retired. Therefore, James should only have one jersey retired, and No. 23 is the better choice.