Stephen A. Smith doesn't think LA Lakers will turn their season around: "Keyshawn Johnson... He is lying to the American public"
The LA Lakers find themselves among the worst teams in the NBA this season with a 2-8 record. Several reasons have been listed for their poor performances, but ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith pointed out the primary cause on First Take.
The Lakers have been one of the most disappointing teams so far in the 2022-23 season. After an 0-5 start, the Purple and Gold appeared to have found a groove when they notched two wins in a row. However, this success was short-lived.
Following their two-game winning streak, the Lakeshow fell upon hard times once again and find themselves on a three-game losing slide.
While several causes could be attributed to their poor performances, Stephen A. Smith had a very clear idea of what plagued the LA Lakers.
He discussed the matter on First Take as well while addressing fellow panelist Keyshawn Johnson. He said:
"Keyshawn Johnson, ladies and gentlemen. For the first time, he's lying to the American public. He says he does not know. You know. They're [Lakers] are not going anywhere. You do know. You know that."
Smith then proceeded to explain why Johnson's belief in the Lakers was flawed.
"Ain't no hope. Here's the reason why. They can't shoot. Ladies and gentleman, knock out role players like a Matt Ryan or an Austin Reaves. Do you know who the best three-point shooter is on the Los Angeles Lakers is right now outside of those two? Russell Westbrook."
Smith clarified that he wasn't throwing any shade at Russell Westbrook and even gave him props for his tremendous performances off the bench. However, he added:
"They do have athletes. They do have dudes who can ball a little bit. The problem is, they can't shoot to save their damn life."
".@stephenasmith doesn't think the Lakers will turn around their season π€
"THEY CAN'T SHOOT. That's the problemβΌοΈ" https://t.co/YBfawaG0fq
Stephen A. practically broke into hysterics after a point as he tore into the Lakers' poor shooting. With only a handful of players who can make a few shots from beyond the arc, the Purple and Gold are truly limited as a perimeter shooting threat.
Given that the team isn't designed to dominate from the perimeter, the Lakers have restricted themselves in an era of basketball that focuses on shooting. To ail these concerns, the Lakers have also looked into possible trade options.
Stephen A. Smith also suggested that the Lakers should consider trading their superstars.
Also Read: Stephen A. Smith suggests LA Lakers trade Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook and sit LeBron James
The LA Lakers may pull the trigger on a trade soon
The LA Lakers have reportedly been in touch with several teams in trade talks involving Russell Westbrook and their two draft picks. While no potential has materialized just yet, NBA analyst Rob Perez suggested a move may happen soon.
Perez mentioned this prior to the Lakers' game against the Utah Jazz. Considering their poor start to the season, the analyst claimed that the team had already started putting feelers out for potential takers.
"The Lakers are putting feelers out there... If they lose [against the Jazz] tonight, you better keep your Woj bomb alerts on. I'll just say that much." π
β @WorldWideWob
h/t @Underdog__NBA
#NBATwitter #LakeShow https://t.co/dadHELq5Ue
The Lakers have been linked to teams such as the Indiana Pacers and the San Antonio Spurs as of late. With a desperate need for shooters to recharge their offense, the Purple and Gold may pull the trigger on a trade soon.
Also Read: NBA Rumors: LA Lakers targeting Josh Richardson and Doug McDermott in potential Russell Westbrook trade