"Can't see the Lakers beating those teams": Stephen A. Smith casts major doubt on Luka Doncic & Co. to deliver against heavyweights

The LA Lakers have gone through a rebuild this offseason as they gear up for their first full season with Luka Doncic. Despite the roster overhaul, Stephen A. Smith casts serious doubt over their title hopes, arguing they don’t stand a chance against the league’s heavyweights.

During an appearance on the "Gil's Arena" podcast, Smith shared his take on the Lakers and, while optimistic, he said they wouldn't be able to compete with teams in the Western Conference.

"I think that the Lakers are title contenders. I do not think by any stretch they're favorites," Smith said (57:42 onwards). "Having said that, I don’t think they have the personnel to upend Oklahoma City, a healthy Dallas squad, or Kevin Durant in Houston now ... I can’t see the Lakers beating those teams."

The ESPN host expressed doubts about Luka Doncic and his team's title chances, questioning the Slovenian's defense despite his efforts to improve his fitness during the offseason.

"What I love about him being in shape is that okay, so can we ask you to play some defense now? I mean, people were blowing by you. I mean, hell, it looked like I could blow by you. I mean, damn. What would you going to play some defense? I mean, cuz you got to do that," Smith expressed (59:33 onwards).

Despite Smith’s doubts about the Lakers’ title chances, Los Angeles enters the season as one of the favorites. The team has built smartly around Doncic, adding Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart, while LeBron James remains a constant threat.

Stephen A. Smith skeptical over Luka Doncic's physique despite his massive offseason transformation

Former Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic has been working hard this offseason. The superstar faced criticism for his fitness levels last season and has made significant changes.

Although many praised the Slovenian for improving his physique, Stephen A. Smith remains skeptical, questioning whether he could maintain that level throughout the NBA season.

"There’s a difference between getting in shape in the offseason and staying in shape during the season," Smith said.

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Stephen A Smith on Luka’s new physique: “There’s a difference between getting in shape in the offseason and staying in shape during the season.”

Doncic's health was a major concern last term and was reportedly a main reason behind his trade from Dallas to Los Angeles. However, with the guard signing an extension with the Lakers, he seems to be committed to winning his first NBA title.