LeBron James Surprisingly Earns Stephen A. Smith’s Praise Amidst Lakers’ Title Chase

LeBron James made his 23rd season debut against the Utah Jazz after sitting out the first month of the 2025-26 season with an injury.

LeBron James Surprisingly Earns Stephen A. Smith’s Praise Amidst Lakers’ Title Chase

LeBron James gets praise from Stephen A. Smith (Image via FirstSportz)

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LeBron James finally made his debut and extended the record for most seasons played at 23 against the Utah Jazz. At the age of 40, among two breakout stars, the superstar managed to hold his own.

James attempted 7 shots, making 4 of them, which helped him amass 11 points. That was enough, as Luka Doncic dominated proceedings with a 37-point, 10-assist performance.

Austin Reaves also chimed in with 26, which was enough to keep the Jazz at bay. But where the all-time leading scorer excelled was setting up teammates, particularly the new additions of this offseason.

James ended up with 12 assists, as the Lakers finished the game with an impressive 140-126 win. What impressed longtime ‘hater’ Stephen A. Smith was what his foe brought to the team in purple and gold.

The man knows basketball, he’s a savant. When you look at it from that standpoint, in terms of looking at the Lakers, and knowing what they are doing… LeBron will figure it out. I think the Lakers, their ceiling could be the Conference Finals.

Stephen A. Smith on First Take

The longtime analyst pointed out that LeBron James was efficient and willing to set his teammates up than trying to force himself into the offense.

Smith understands that with time, those roles might change, but he does not deny the fact that the oldest player in the league can figure out. That is why he can see the Lakers running to the Conference Finals.

Colin Cowherd is not sure LeBron James will be happy with 7 shot attempts

Stephen A. Smith‘s opinion suggested that he saw something in LeBron James that could help the Los Angeles Lakers become a title contender. On the other hand, Colin Cowherd wondered if the superstar would be happy with his performance.

LeBron James during his debut
LeBron James during his debut (Image via NBA)

LeBron’s never been a true Robin. He’s always been Batman on almost every night of his career. He’s not setting for 7 shots.

Colin Cowherd said on The Herd

After stating the above, the 61-year-old then went on to say that he would prefer if the 4-time league MVP would stick to a maximum of 20-22% usage rate.

However, Cowherd is not sure if LeBron James will be happy with his current usage rate. Since he has been the alpha throughout his career, it would not surprise the analyst if the superstar demands to see the ball more.

That, though, could upset the fluidity with which the Lakers currently play. If James sticks to the schemes and plans the coaching staff lays out, they could become championship contenders.

Former Lakers star believes LeBron James’ performance against Jazz makes him best-ever player

After watching LeBron James play the way he did in his 23rd season debut, many have come to believe that the manner in which he is playing makes him the best-ever player.

Looking at LeBron last night, being a Jordan and Kobe fan, it’s hard not to put LeBron as the greatest ever.

Nick Young said on Gil’s Arena

This was Nick Young, who reiterated that Kobe Bryant, whom he played alongside, was his favorite player. But James’ performances at this age and after enduring that many miles on his body put him over the top.

Young believes the way James has adjusted to still contribute and make his teammates exploit their abilities is what has distanced him from Bryant and Michael Jordan.

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