stephen a smith is publicly applauding LeBron James right now, putting past tension aside as the Los Angeles Lakers surge late in the season. The shift comes as the Lakers string together seven straight wins and climb into the third spot in the Western Conference. The moment is being framed around James’ willingness to embrace a different role and lead as the team peaks at a critical time in the schedule.
What changed in the Lakers’ late-season push
The Lakers’ recent form has flipped the mood around one of the league’s most scrutinized teams, driven by a seven-game winning streak and a rise to third in the West. The stretch has included major statements, with improved offensive cohesion and defensive intensity described as key elements of the turnaround.
LeBron James remains an All-Star-caliber player, though his production has decreased compared with his usual level. Even so, he has adapted, stepping into a more pronounced leadership lane this season as the Lakers refined how their stars fit together. The team’s approach was shaped by the reality that James could not be asked to carry the same heavy offensive burden, which fueled the push to sign Luka Doncic, while last season was described as a period of sorting out roles.
On the floor, James’ ability to complement the offense without demanding a high usage rate has been presented as a reason the unit can flourish offensively. The Lakers’ recent victory over the Houston Rockets was highlighted as a clear example of him “stepping up, ” producing 30 points on 13-of-14 shooting from the field. At the same time, the team has played through pressure and outside noise about James and his future, yet continued to win.
Stephen A Smith’s on-air praise and the debate it sparked
stephen a smith used ’s First Take to deliver unusually strong praise for James’ leadership and winning impact, characterizing him as an “exceptional leader” and emphasizing that he is showing it “as we speak. ” Smith also pointed to the way James has contributed amid the swirl of commentary around the team, saying, “All of this noise has been made, and all they’ve been doing is winning. [LeBron] has been an incredible contributor to their winning ways. He has stepped up when he has needed to step up. ”
In the broader debate, not every prominent voice is sold on the streak as proof of true contention. Charles Barkley voiced skepticism, warning against overreacting to the run and saying, “My worst nightmare is the Lakers winning… and I have to listen to all the talk about how they’re contenders. ” Smith pushed back directly, defending the Lakers’ position by pointing to their place in the standings: “A top-three seed in a conference is a contender. You know this. ”
Quick context: a role shift, new fits, and rising stakes
James has been described as adjusting his role in multiple ways, including focusing more on facilitating teammates and anchoring defensive efforts. That shift has been framed as opening space for other players to thrive offensively while strengthening the team’s overall balance.
What’s next as the Lakers try to hold form
The Lakers now face the challenge of sustaining this level of play as the postseason approaches, with upcoming matchups against top Western teams including the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs serving as key tests. Even with acknowledged flaws and imperfections, the current run has moved the conversation from doubt to belief in some corners—especially with stephen a smith now spotlighting James’ leadership role as a central reason the Lakers keep winning.
