Stephen A. Questions LeBron James’ Absence from the Lakers Jimmy Butler Trade Talks Explained | First Take

The universe of basketball is not such to get the assemblance of discussion bodies, opposing opinions and big trades. In this week, all the attention was taken to two major headlines that were the main topics badging the NBA discussions: LeBron James unexpectedly not playing in the Lakers and the ongoing trades rumors related to Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler. Stephen A. Smith on ESPN First Take was true to his nature and never hesitated to express his opinion on the issues of these hot topics. Let’s make it all clear here.

LeBron James and His Absence from the Lakers

LeBron James is not just a basketball player only; he is a cultural figure, a source of inspiration, and a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. On the other hand, it seems to be the trend now that the veteran player has been away, thus bringing up many eyebrows, given ghow important LeBron’s role is during this period. Stephen A. Smith did not waste any time in bringing up the situation on First Take, when he wondered whether LeBron’s withdrawal was justified at this point.

As per the rumors, LeBron did not play the game since he has a minor foot injury. In the Lakers’ statement, they explained that the absence was mostly a precaution; however, Smith claimed that the timing could not have been any more painful. “You can’t lose the wings for who is your leader on the playground, mainly when the team is gelling up its chemistry at present times.”

Smith’s comment was understandable. The Lakers have hit the rocks and are struggling to find their footing in a league that is already so tight. He speculated that LeBron, who has this time as well, been willing to let the fact that he is in pain slip under the radar, may this time have been a touch too careful.Smith stressed. You have labeled it a train and we are stagnant without you.”

The Lakers’ Challenges Without LeBron

LeBron’s absence was the main trend the L.A. Lakers were on the court, as they couldn’t find their rhythm properly. Anthony Davis, the team’s other star, showed up but was not the lone one who could carry the burden. The backing ensemble, comprised of D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura, exhibited some truly brilliant plays. Nevertheless, they did not perform successfully overall.

Stephen A. underscored what the main weakness of the Lakers’ roster is the fact that they don’t have enough players who can perform without LeBron. The team is made up of a core of LeBron’s supporting cast, which means it’s very hard for them to play without him. Thus, as Stephen A. put it, they definitely cannot have a player like LeBron, who makes such a big impact on the court.

Smith furthered the argument by also mentioning the mental crisis owning to LeBron’s disappearance, and he adds, “It (is) not just about his points and assists when LeBron is there on the floor. Hence, each one among the Lakers has to remember that way that the leading guy plays the rest of the team. He pushes or encourages them. Therefore, they no longer are as recognizable as they used to be without him. They lost their sparkle.

Jimmy Butler Trade Talks: What’s Happening?

Stephen A., in an entirely different scenario, grabbed yet another headline story by speaking on Jimmy Butler trade rumors by the Miami Heat. Butler, who took the Heat to NBA Finals last season, things have gone bad this year as a result of trade rumors and the team without being able to repeat their earlier success.

As the season started, heat have been quite cold, the questions whether their current roster is championship caliper or not have surfaced. Although, Butler is the soul of the team, new critics point at him. His age and the Heat’s inability to upgrade their roster might call for changes in the Miami team.

Stephen A. last night on his radio show revealed that he can’t devalue Butler, but he also didn’t hold back to say some things might be a problem for them. Also, if Heat’s management is simply interested in a do-nothing squad, then, they are only wasting their sweet couple of years.” In the obvious troubles the club now is in.

Potential Trade Scenarios

What makes the Butler trade rumors one of the most compelling is that this is the list of teams that Butler might be traded to. Some of the teams that have been mentioned include the Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks and even the newly admitted Los Angeles Clippers. These three teams all have their own motives for coveting Butler but the deal would not be without its problems.

In Philadelphia’s case, adding Butler back could lead to a behemoth partnership involving Joel Embiid. Grunfeld though added that Philadelphia would have to give up quality assets, and potentially include Tyrese Maxey.

The Mavericks, on the other side, may use Butler’s defense and captaincy while playing alongside Luka Dončić. Still some doubts may be arisen about the possibility of Dallas having sufficient parts for a trade procedure.

The Clippers especially who have recently signed James Harden can also be a good team for this prediction. Signing Butler would make them a team of great players but it was not clear as to how the team would handle so many personalities.

The Heat’s Perspective

From the Miami Heat perspective, it would be a change of mentality to trade for Butler. It is especially worthy of remark that Pat Riley, the team’s president, has always claimed to win the championship ASAP. But if this remains the case in the Heat, then it risks being rebuilt around young talents such as Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro.

Stephen A specialised in timing and rightly pointed. “The Heat have to be careful,” he said.  Otherwise, they’ll remain average.”

What’s Next for LeBron and Butler?

In the course of the season, fans will be expecting lot of actions from LeBron James and Jimmy Butler. For LeBron it will be all about playing injury-free and getting the Lakers back to the promised land. His failure is expected to give some people much to chew on, plus the time he comes back on the field will actually determine if he is the best material to handle the team or not.

As with other players, it will be the same for Jimmy Butler and undoubtedly the trade rumors surrounding him will be much more frequent as the season progresses. Whether he plays in Miami or relocates to another team, much has been said about his influence to the league. Injured teams are aware that signing with Butler could mean the difference between winning a title and losing, but there is much on the line for both sides.

Final Thoughts

Stephen A. Smith expressed his enthusiastic break down on First Look touching on these incidents. LeBron James and Jimmy Butler are two of the NBA superstars such choices are bound to impact the league in a big way. While questions remain about LeBron’s absence and Butler’s future, one thing is clear: But, the NBA drama is not over yet.

As viewers all we can do is sit down, discuss and have some fun. Who knew basketball could be this exciting whether it’s LeBron bringing the Lakers another championship or Butler switching teams in the mid-season.