Stephen A. Smith critiques Lakers' new roster composition after LeBron leaves
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 11:00 PM
Last updated Jul 1, 2026
The Los Angeles Lakers are in the process of rebuilding their roster following LeBron James' decision to depart. Stephen A. Smith has raised concerns about the team's new core, which consists of Austin Reaves, Walker Kessler, and Luka Dončić, all of whom are white. On his show, Smith expressed skepticism about their ability to compete in the Western Conference, stating that a roster with three predominantly white players is unlikely to succeed in today's NBA. As the Lakers adjust to this new lineup, the potential impact of this decision on their championship aspirations remains uncertain.
- •LeBron James is leaving the Lakers, prompting a roster overhaul.
- •Stephen A. Smith criticizes the team for its lack of racial diversity.
- •The Lakers acquired Walker Kessler and re-signed Austin Reaves.
- •Smith questions the effectiveness of three white players leading the team.
- •The Lakers aim to compete in a tough Western Conference.
- 8:30 PMYahoo Sports — Stephen A. Smith says Lakers can’t win big with best players being white: ‘This ain’t golf’
- 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Stephen A. Smith questions Lakers loading up on white stars: ‘This ain’t golf’
"The Los Angeles Lakers are going through a franchise revamp with LeBron James deciding he is taking his talents elsewhere to close out his incredible NBA career. And Stephen A. Smith isn’t shying away from the one common denominator surrounding the new core trio in the City of Angels. It’s a bunch of white guys.…
"ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith understands LeBron James leaving the Lakers as the team builds around white players.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 2, 2026, 8:30 PMStephen A. Smith says Lakers can’t win big with best players being white: ‘This ain’t golf’
ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith understands LeBron James leaving the Lakers as the team builds around white players.
- Yahoo SportsJul 1, 2026, 11:00 PMStephen A. Smith questions Lakers loading up on white stars: ‘This ain’t golf’
The Los Angeles Lakers are going through a franchise revamp with LeBron James deciding he is taking his talents elsewhere to close out his incredible NBA career. And Stephen A. Smith isn’t shying away from the one common denominator surrounding the new core trio in the City of Angels. It’s a bunch of white guys.…
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