The Stephen A. Smith Show – Episode Summary: "Stephen A's Take: Lebron and Steph teammates! No way! Let me tell you why!" Release Date: December 12, 2024
In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves deep into the tantalizing yet controversial topic of whether NBA superstars LeBron James and Steph Curry should become teammates. With his trademark candor and insightful analysis, Smith explores the implications of such a pairing, the current state of the Los Angeles Lakers, and the broader impact on the NBA landscape.
1. Introduction to the Main Topic
Timestamp: [01:05]
Stephen A. Smith opens the discussion by highlighting the allure of a potential LeBron James and Steph Curry collaboration on the court. He reminisces about their impressive performances during the Olympics, emphasizing their individual prowess:
Stephen A. Smith [03:02]: “LeBron James was the best player for Team USA from start to finish. And Steph Curry was clearly the best player for the semifinals and the finals when he hit 17 three-pointers in two games. It was absolutely sensational to see.”
He acknowledges the excitement fans have about witnessing two of basketball's greatest players joining forces but immediately introduces his reservations.
2. The Current State of LeBron James and the Lakers
Timestamp: [01:05] - [03:02]
Smith provides a critical overview of the Lakers' recent performance under LeBron James' leadership. He points out that despite LeBron's individual excellence, the team has underperformed:
Stephen A. Smith [02:30]: “The Lakers are not going to do anything. The Lakers are not any good. You have AD and LeBron playing 90% of the games and they're a seventh and eighth seed at best in the West.”
He attributes part of the Lakers' struggles to strategic missteps, particularly the acquisition of Russell Westbrook, which Smith believes did not align with the team's needs.
3. Criticism of LeBron's Role in Lakers' Performance
Timestamp: [03:02] - [07:14]
Transitioning from team performance to leadership, Smith critiques LeBron James' influence on the Lakers' management decisions. He questions why LeBron hasn't maneuvered the team differently to achieve better results:
Stephen A. Smith [04:15]: “LeBron got him [Russell Westbrook] there. Now, LeBron isn't responsible for every decision, every bad decision that has perplexed Laker fans all over the place. Rob Palinka owns that. ... But we can't ignore what role LeBron played in as well.”
Smith underscores that while general manager Rob Pelinka is chiefly responsible for roster decisions, LeBron's influence and choices have significantly impacted the team's trajectory. He suggests that LeBron should take more decisive action to build a competitive roster.
4. Potential Move to Golden State: LeBron and Steph Curry Teammates
Timestamp: [07:14] - [10:38]
Smith entertainingly speculates on the feasibility and desirability of LeBron joining Steph Curry at the Golden State Warriors. He acknowledges the chemistry and complementary skill sets both players bring:
Stephen A. Smith [09:00]: “It would be nice to see LeBron James with Steph Curry. It would be nice to see one of the top three players in the history of basketball playing with unquestionably the greatest shooter God has ever created.”
However, Smith remains skeptical about whether such a move would be beneficial or even possible, considering the current state of the Lakers and LeBron's potential motivations. He questions whether LeBron deserves such an opportunity, given the existing issues in Los Angeles:
Stephen A. Smith [09:45]: “LeBron doesn't deserve it ... because of the mess that exists in L.A. And it's primarily because of him.”
Smith argues that instead of seeking a supernatural partnership to salvage his legacy, LeBron should focus on addressing and improving the Lakers' current shortcomings.
5. Comparison with Michael Jordan's Career Stability
Timestamp: [07:14] - [10:38]
Drawing a stark contrast between LeBron James and Michael Jordan, Smith praises Jordan's loyalty and consistent performance with a single team:
Stephen A. Smith [09:30]: “Michael Jordan played and starred on one team in his hall of fame career. LeBron has been in Cleveland, Miami, back to Cleveland, then to LA.”
Smith points out that Michael Jordan remained with the Chicago Bulls throughout his career, fostering a stable and winning environment. In contrast, LeBron's multiple team changes are portrayed as a lack of commitment to building a lasting dynasty, further questioning LeBron's suitability for a potential move to Golden State.
6. Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Timestamp: [10:38] - [10:38]
Wrapping up the episode, Smith reiterates his skepticism about the LeBron-Curry teammate scenario. He emphasizes that while the idea is fascinating, the underlying issues within the Lakers and LeBron's role in them make such a move unlikely and unearned:
Stephen A. Smith [10:30]: “Nah, if LA made these decisions all by themselves, that would be different. But you gonna get them to make decisions. They stink up to join and then you skip town. Nah, I ain't down for that.”
Smith closes by expressing his continued support for the NBA's evolving dynamics but remains critical of decisions that undermine team cohesion and long-term success.
Notable Quotes:
- “LeBron doesn't deserve it.” – Stephen A. Smith [03:02]
- “Michael Jordan played and starred on one team in his hall of fame career.” – Stephen A. Smith [09:30]
- “Nah, I ain't down for that.” – Stephen A. Smith [10:30]
Conclusion
In this episode, Stephen A. Smith offers a blend of admiration and critique, celebrating the individual talents of LeBron James and Steph Curry while scrutinizing the strategic and leadership decisions surrounding them. His analysis provides listeners with a thought-provoking perspective on team dynamics, player influence, and the broader implications of potential superstar collaborations in the NBA.