LeBron James would do better on the Mavericks with Anthony Davis, according to Stephen A. Smith.
In a recent discussion, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith addressed the impact of the February 2025 trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers and Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks. Smith suggested that this trade has positively influenced LeBron James’s performance by allowing him to operate more effectively in his natural position.
Trade Overview
The mid-season trade, which exchanged two All-NBA players, was unprecedented and took the NBA community by surprise. The Lakers acquired Luka Dončić, while the Mavericks received Anthony Davis, guard Max Christie, and a future draft pick. This move was notable not only for the caliber of players involved but also for its potential to reshape both teams’ dynamics.
Stephen A. Smith’s Analysis
Stephen A. Smith concurred with NBA veteran Marcus Morris’s assessment that Anthony Davis’s presence on the Lakers may have inadvertently hindered LeBron James’s ability to play his optimal position. Smith elaborated that with Dončić drawing defensive attention, LeBron now has more freedom to operate, either by playing “bully ball” inside or by taking advantage of improved spacing to shoot from the perimeter. This adjustment has allowed LeBron to leverage his versatility and physicality more effectively.
Impact on LeBron James and the Lakers
Since the trade, the Lakers have experienced a surge in performance. In the 11 games that LeBron and Dončić have played together, the team achieved an 8-3 record, indicating a strong on-court synergy between the two stars. This partnership has enabled LeBron to transition into a role that maximizes his strengths, contributing to the team’s overall success.
Reactions and Criticisms
The trade has elicited mixed reactions. While some analysts, like Smith, view the move as beneficial for LeBron and the Lakers, others question the Mavericks’ decision to part with a young talent like Dončić. Critics argue that the Mavericks may have compromised their future by trading away a generational player, despite acquiring a proven star in Davis.
