If numbers don't lie, then the gap between LeBron James and Stephen Curry is closer than it seems.

Using statistics from last season, James was over Curry with 27.1 points per game than the latter's 24.0. But a closer look at other aspects of the game, the numbers tell a different story, according to a report by the Washington Post.

Like Us on Facebook

Citing stats from Synergy Sports, LeBron James was ranked seventh overall with 1.12 points per possession. On the other hand, Curry is on the 63rd place with 1.01. James ruled Curry on almost everything aside from coming off screens and spot up shooting.

There is a possibility that the gap between these two competitors would not be that big if Curry had his own version of the "Big 3."  Numbers form John Hollinger's Game Score showed that the lineup supporting James had an average score of 9.8 points per game compared to 8.3 points per game for Golden State Warriors' frequently-used lineup.

Aside from the numbers, Miami Heat's offense without James does not show significant decline either. The Heat dropped from 113.7 points per 100 possessions to 104.7. For Golden State, the team's offense plummeted from 111.9 to just 95.8 without the aid of their star point guard.

Throughout their careers, teams with James in the lineup improved by 9.8 points per 100 possessions whereas Curry's team enhanced by 7.1.

It remains to be seen how James could complement his home team with his return to the Cleveland Cavaliers. With James playing alongside Kyrie Irving, the new-look Cavs could also benefit from the looming addition of Kevin Love to their lineup.

As for the Warriors, they continue to be a threat in the Western Conference despite their performance last season.

Perhaps the numbers are the reason why Curry thought he was a better offensive player in a recent interview with Dan Patrick.

TagsStephen Curry, Lebron James, Stats