Stephen A. Smith Questions Lakers’ Championship Ceiling With Unusual Take On Luka Doncic And His Teammates

Stephen A. Smith is not sold on the Lakers as title winners, even with Luka Doncic playing at an MVP level. Los Angeles is 10-2, the best record in the league, and has won six straight games heading into Wednesday's matchup with Milwaukee. Smith still expects a second-round exit this season, no matter the record. He made the call on his show and tied it to the race of the team's top three players, a point already drawing criticism. Doncic is averaging 39.3 points and 7.9 assists, yet Smith did not budge.

Why Does Stephen A. Smith Doubt Luka Doncic And The Lakers?

Smith opened with praise. He called coach JJ Redick exceptional and said new ownership led by Josh Kushner and Bob Iger has the franchise in good hands. “The bottom line is that, I think the Lakers are in good hands, and the future is going to be incredibly bright,” he said.

Then came the turn. “But with that being said, I do not think they're getting past the second round. I'd be shocked if they did. I'm on a world record being controversial because I've never seen an NBA team with its top three players being white deliver a championship.”

He did not stop there. “It's never happened. And I'm here to tell you I don't think it's going to happen this year.”

Luka Doncic has led his team to six straight wins. The 6-foot-6 guard is averaging 39.3 points and 7.9 assists. Austin Reaves adds 25.3 points per game, and Walker Kessler gives Los Angeles 10.8 rebounds and 2.3 blocks. Doncic is the hardest part of Smith's argument to wave away.

Smith Points To History And A Thinner Western Conference

Smith backed his call with a tour of past champions. Boston had Dennis Johnson beside Larry Bird and Kevin McHale. San Antonio had Duncan and Robinson. “I'm here to tell you it ain't going to happen. I can't see it coming.”

He sees an opening in the West, though. Oklahoma City is without Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace, who appear out for the season, and Minnesota will be missing Anthony Edwards for a couple of months after knee surgery. “The injuries to the Oklahoma City Thunder have not gone unnoticed,” Smith said.

“The Lakers have a chance,” he added. “I just don't think it's going to materialize into a championship.” Critics have pushed back on bringing race into a basketball breakdown, and the Lakers have depth too, with Collin Sexton and Ziaire Williams stepping up when needed.