Stephen A. Smith knocks LA Lakers as stars sit courtside against Phoenix Suns: “Rob Pelinka, what's up?...This is what you have given Jeanie Buss”

The LA Lakers took on the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center in a highly anticipated rematch in prime time on Monday. The last time the teams met, a full scuffle nearly broke out as Patrick Beverley shoved Phoenix's Deandre Ayton from behind, sparking momentary chaos. Unfortunately for both teams and their fans, this game saw several notable players sidelined with injuries.

On the Phoenix side, the former Western Conference Champions were without Devin Booker, Cam Johnson and Cameron Payne. The Lakers were without their Big Three of Anthony Davis, LeBron James and Russell Westbrook. The team also was without Austin Reaves and Juan Toscano-Anderson, leaving them with an underwhelming starting five.

Unsurprisingly, the Beverley-Chris Paul feud was alive and well, with Beverley chirping at his longtime rival throughout the game, which Phoenix won 130-104. The way longtime analyst Stephen A. Smith sees things, the fact that the Lakers season has devolved into discussing the Beverley-Paul feud isn't good.

“This is the storyline that we have to talk about with the Los Angeles Lakers," Smith said. "It’s the most interesting storyline there is about the Los Angeles Lakers. Think about that! That’s how sad this is.

"Rob Pelinka, what's up, bro? I'm not like a lot of people that don't like (Lakers general manager) Rob Pelinka. I actually like Rob Pelinka. But damn. Damn. This is your starting lineup? This what you have given (owner) Jeanie Buss?"

You can catch his comments above on Tuesday's episode of First Take, with the conversation shifting at the 7:40 mark.

The state of the LA Lakers' season

This season has been an absolute roller coaster for the LA Lakers. After starting the season on a five-game losing streak and 2-10, the team began to show glimpses of potential. With Anthony Davis playing like an MVP-caliber player, LeBron James healthy and Russell Westbrook returning to form, the team found success.

(Suggested reading: James Worthy reflects on Lakers loss to Suns)

At one point they had an 8-2 stretch to improve to 10-12. However, it didn't last. The team lost some winnable games before Davis was sidelined on Sunday with an injury that will see him miss considerable time. As Stephen A Smith's "First Take" cohost, Tim Legler, pointed out, with 40% of the season over, the hope for the Lakers is dwindling.

According to reports, however, the team is eager to be one of the first to make trades. Although it could be several more weeks before they begin making trades, it sounds as though the team is targeting January to aggressively pursue trades.

If they do, it could be the Chicago Bulls who find themselves on the Lakers' radar. Rumors are that the Lakers are monitoring the availability of DeMar DeRozan, who they were linked to several seasons ago. Of course, the team wound up going with Anthony Davis instead, pairing him with LeBron James.

The Lakers are back in action Wednesday against the Sacramento Kings, who will be looking to light their now-famous beam after another win.

Below you can view highlights from the Lakers' loss to the Suns.