NBA analyst Kenny Smith isn't buying the idea that the Los Angeles Lakers have failed to appreciate LeBron James during his tenure with the team. Appearing on ESPN's First Take, Smith fired back at critics who claim the Lakers have taken the four-time MVP for granted, arguing that the franchise has gone above and beyond to support its superstar.
Smith drew on his own experiences playing alongside Michael Jordan in college and Hakeem Olajuwon in the NBA. He noted that neither Jordan nor Olajuwon ever publicly complained about being undervalued or treated poorly by their respective organizations. According to Smith, the Lakers have consistently fulfilled LeBron's wishes, whether it was trading for Anthony Davis, swinging a deal for Luka Doncic, or drafting his son Bronny James in the second round.
“Never in their tenure did I hear the word ‘my team’ or ‘taken for granted,’” Smith said. “The things they worried about were not cookies, or seats on the plane, or seats in the stands. Did the Lakers take him for granted? I would say no. When he wanted AD to be there, they went out and figured out a way to get him. When they needed to make a trade for Luka, they did it. When they needed to draft your son, they did it!”
Smith's comments come amid ongoing debates about LeBron's legacy and his relationship with the Lakers front office. Some fans have argued that the organization has catered to LeBron's every demand, while others contend that the team has not done enough to build a championship contender around him. The acquisition of Luka Doncic, in particular, has sparked discussion about whether the move was made to benefit LeBron or to position the franchise for the future.
Social media reactions to Smith's remarks were mixed. One user on X wrote, “Luka wasn’t brought in to be a second fiddle to LBJ… he was brought in to be the NEW #1 franchise player, unseating LBJ.” Another countered, “Exactly… Every time LeBron wanted something, it happened. AD, Westbrook, JJ Redick, Bronny.” A third user added, “Why he mention Luka like that was for him? If anything that was in spite of him lol.”
The debate over LeBron's treatment by the Lakers is unlikely to fade anytime soon, especially as the team navigates its current season. Questions about LeBron's future with the franchise have also surfaced, with some analysts speculating about his free agency and potential moves. Meanwhile, recent critiques of LeBron's legacy have included lists that place other legends ahead of him.
Smith's defense of the Lakers may resonate with fans who see the team's willingness to accommodate LeBron's requests as evidence of respect, not neglect. However, as long as LeBron remains an active player, the narrative will continue to evolve. For now, Smith has made it clear where he stands: the Lakers have done right by their star.
