Stephen A. Smith thought LeBron James would do well away from the LA Lakers, but their early form has made him rethink that view.
The Los Angeles Lakers have opened the season stronger than many anticipated, winning 13 of their first 17 games.
In their latest win over the LA Clippers, LeBron, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves combined for 99 points to lead the way.
This is likely the strongest group the 40-year-old has played with since his title-winning squad in Orlando back in 2020.
Few anticipated the Lakers’ level of success, even prompting Stephen A. Smith to confess his belief that LeBron James would have achieved greater triumphs in the Eastern Conference.
Stephen A. Smith once thought LeBron James would be better off in Cleveland, but Luka Doncic has changed his mind
Stephen A. Smith appeared on the Joe and Jada podcast, where Fat Joe asked whether LeBron James should leave the Los Angeles Lakers. Smith had an interesting take on the question.
He explained that he originally thought James would benefit more by joining the Cleveland Cavaliers, but Doncic’s strong start to the season with the Lakers made him reconsider.
“I believe, and I said this in the offseason before, I said LeBron should approve getting out and going to Cleveland and joining Donovan Mitchell.
“He would easily be in the Finals. Him and Donovan Mitchell, you’ve got to keep one of the bigs, Mobley, Allen, they’re going to the finals. Here’s the problem. That was before I saw Luka averaging 40.”
Luka Doncic and LeBron James: How far can they take the LA Lakers?
LeBron James has only played three games since returning to the LA Lakers, but his recent showing against the Clippers suggests he is quickly getting back into form.
And with LeBron, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves each scoring over 20 points, it is clear how important this trio will be if the Lakers are going to make any kind of impact in the playoffs.
Right now, though, it is hard to put them on the same level as OKC. The Thunder are off to a remarkable 18-1 start and look every bit like a team that could go down as one of the greats.
But with LeBron and Luka leading the way, there is reason for fans to believe they can make things interesting when it matters most.
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