ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith recently voiced his strong opposition to the idea of LeBron James joining the Golden State Warriors to play alongside Stephen Curry. During an episode of “First Take,” Smith argued that LeBron doesn’t deserve to be Curry’s teammate due to the influence he’s had on the Los Angeles Lakers’ roster decisions.
Smith pointed out that LeBron’s influence led to the Lakers trading away key players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Kyle Kuzma, and Montrezl Harrell to acquire Russell Westbrook, which he believes has hurt the team.
“You let all those cats go away because you wanted your boy Russell Westbrook,” Smith said.
He emphasized that LeBron should stay in Los Angeles and figure things out with Anthony Davis instead of joining the Warriors.
The Lakers have faced a rocky season, currently holding a 13-11 record and sitting eighth in the Western Conference standings. Smith believes that LeBron’s power to influence personnel moves has derailed the franchise.
“We get so caught up in the greatness of LeBron James, the individual player, that we don’t pay attention to the power of his influence and the moves that he compels to make that serve to derail a franchise like he did in Los Angeles,” Smith added.
Stephen A. Smith addresses LeBron James to Golden State Warriors rumors: “Stay yo ass right there in LA” pic.twitter.com/LYGuKkVupc
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) December 10, 2024
While trade rumors have resurfaced about LeBron potentially joining the Warriors, Smith dismissed the idea, calling it a ticket-selling plan rather than a championship-focused maneuver. He argued that the Warriors should not trade their assets for LeBron, who is nearing the end of his career.
LeBron has not publicly responded to Smith’s comments, but it’s clear that the Lakers’ struggles have put him under scrutiny. Despite the criticism, LeBron continues to perform at a high level, averaging 23 points, 9.1 assists, and eight rebounds per game.
