Stephen A. Smith claims the Lakers could part ways with LeBron James due to his age and impact on the game

Stephen A. Smith warns about LeBron James’ future with the Lakers, sparking debate over veteran leadership and team rebuilding.

Stephen A. Smith has captured attention with his recent comments on LeBron James and his role with the Los Angeles Lakers. At 41, James is still performing at a high level, but the arrival of Luka Doncic and the rise of Austin Reaves have shifted the team’s dynamics.

Smith highlights that LeBron’s age and Doncic’s youth could lead the franchise to consider a trade—not due to lack of talent, but as a long-term strategy.

The Lakers’ dilemma and LeBron’s veteran status according to Stephen A. Smith

The ESPN analyst emphasized that James, despite his experience and ability to score over 20 points per game, is no longer the centerpiece of the team.

“Luka is 26, and you want the young players to be the face of the franchise, not someone who is 41 and still aiming to succeed next year,” Stephen A. Smith noted.

This warning has sparked intrigue across the NBA, as few expected LeBron’s tenure in Los Angeles to be questioned while he remains active and productive.

Balancing the present with a look at the future

Stephen A. Smith also pointed out that LeBron’s injuries and load management could play a decisive role in his Lakers future.

James has already missed several games as a precaution, and Smith suggests the franchise could consider trading him if they see Doncic and Reaves as the present and future of the team.

The Lakers’ 15-4 record, combined with Doncic stellar performance since his arrival, reinforces Smith perspective on the potential transition.

According to the analyst, this is not a critique of LeBron’s level of play but a recognition of the reality of his age and the franchise’s strategy in a league where teams aim to rejuvenate their rosters without sacrificing competitiveness.

In the midst of the 2025-26 season, Stephen A. Smith comments have fueled speculation over whether LeBron will remain the Lakers’ leader or if his legacy in Los Angeles could end sooner than expected, leaving fans and NBA experts with plenty of questions and debates.