One thing you’ve got to respect about Stephen A. Smith is that he’s never one to hold his tongue. Whenever he senses something fishy, he calls it out, regardless of whether he’s right or wrong. That’s why the whole Bronny James situation is currently on his radar.
Bronny James recently climbed up ESPN‘s big board for the NBA Draft, now ranked as the No. 54 prospect available after the NBA Draft Combine. This ranking is intriguingly close to where the Los Angeles Lakers are picking at No. 55 this year. It’s no secret that LeBron James has expressed a strong desire to play with his son, adding a layer of suspicion to the ranking.
Stephen A. Smith, known for his outspoken nature, voiced his concerns on First Take. While he’s not directly accusing LeBron of manipulating the situation, he’s not dismissing the possibility either. Smith’s comments reflect his skepticism about the timing and circumstances surrounding Bronny’s rise in the draft rankings.
“So much of what’s transpiring seems so transparent, it’s insulting. You have a situation here where Bronny James is projected as ranked 98th in the talent pool. He goes to the NBA combine and drops 44 slots to 54, and the Lakers have the 55th pick in the second round. I mean, really? … At some point, it’s like too much looks too damn obvious. And so I look at Bronny James and I’m like, man, I’m rooting for this kid… But when stuff like this happens, it just invites cynicism and skepticism. And that’s totally unfair to this kid.”
While it’s easy to see why Smith is skeptical, it’s important to consider a few key points. LeBron James has made it no secret that he wants to play with Bronny. It’s only natural to expect that desire to influence the Lakers’ decision-making with the 55th pick. However, the rankings on ESPN’s big board are determined by ESPN analysts, not LeBron or the Lakers.
If Stephen A. Smith wants to blame anyone for the perceived manipulation of the rankings, perhaps he should start with his own employer. ESPN is responsible for the rankings, not LeBron. The convenience of Bronny’s rise in the rankings aligning with the Lakers’ draft position might be coincidental, but it doesn’t necessarily imply foul play.
It’s fair to question the influence LeBron has on team decisions. Smith’s skepticism about the potential hiring of JJ Redick as the Lakers’ head coach after appearing on LeBron’s podcast is a valid point. However, it’s essential to separate healthy skepticism from baseless accusations.
LeBron’s desire to play with his son is well-documented, and it’s expected to impact decisions. But suggesting that LeBron is directly manipulating ESPN’s rankings without concrete evidence seems like a stretch. The skepticism should be directed towards understanding the decision-making process at ESPN rather than blaming LeBron for wanting to fulfill a personal dream.
Stephen A. Smith’s critique of Bronny James’ draft ranking raises important questions about transparency and fairness. While it’s natural to be skeptical, it’s crucial to focus on the right targets. LeBron’s influence is undeniable, but the rankings are ultimately an ESPN decision.
As the draft approaches, it will be interesting to see how this narrative unfolds and whether Bronny James’ draft position truly reflects his talent or external influences. Until then, the debate sparked by Stephen A. Smith reminds us of the complexities and politics within professional sports.
