Stephen A. Smith Blasts Lakers’ Defense After Loss to Suns, Calls Out Reaves and Doncic
Los Angeles Lakers fans and NBA observers were left buzzing after ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith delivered a stinging critique of the team’s defensive effort following Thursday night’s loss to the Phoenix Suns. Smith’s comments, broadcast in the wake of the Lakers’ defeat, focused on what he described as glaring defensive shortcomings—specifically singling out Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic as liabilities on that end of the floor.
Smith’s remarks came after the Lakers stumbled against the Suns, with defensive lapses playing a pivotal role in the outcome. While the Lakers have boasted offensive firepower throughout the season, their ability to get stops—especially against elite offensive teams like the Suns—has come under increasing scrutiny.
In his postgame analysis, Smith did not mince words, holding Reaves and Doncic directly accountable for the Lakers’ difficulties containing Phoenix’s dynamic scorers. The Suns, led by a balanced attack, exploited mismatches and breakdowns on the perimeter, repeatedly finding ways to score against the Lakers’ defensive sets.
The Lakers’ defensive metrics have reflected these concerns, with the team ranking in the middle of the pack in defensive efficiency against playoff-caliber opponents. Opposing guards and wings have found particular success attacking the Lakers’ perimeter defenders, leading to breakdowns that opposing offenses have capitalized upon.
With the playoffs looming, Smith’s comments echo a broader sentiment among analysts and fans: for the Lakers to make a deep run, they will need significant improvement from players like Reaves and Doncic on the defensive end. As the spotlight grows brighter, all eyes will be on whether the Lakers can tighten their defense and silence their doubters in the games that matter most.
Smith’s remarks came after the Lakers stumbled against the Suns, with defensive lapses playing a pivotal role in the outcome. While the Lakers have boasted offensive firepower throughout the season, their ability to get stops—especially against elite offensive teams like the Suns—has come under increasing scrutiny.
In his postgame analysis, Smith did not mince words, holding Reaves and Doncic directly accountable for the Lakers’ difficulties containing Phoenix’s dynamic scorers. The Suns, led by a balanced attack, exploited mismatches and breakdowns on the perimeter, repeatedly finding ways to score against the Lakers’ defensive sets.
- The Lakers have struggled against top-tier offenses this season, and Thursday’s loss accentuated their defensive vulnerabilities.
- Austin Reaves, often relied upon for his shooting and playmaking, was highlighted for his inability to slow down opposing guards.
- Luka Doncic, typically lauded for his offensive brilliance, also faced criticism for lapses in defensive focus and effort.
The Lakers’ defensive metrics have reflected these concerns, with the team ranking in the middle of the pack in defensive efficiency against playoff-caliber opponents. Opposing guards and wings have found particular success attacking the Lakers’ perimeter defenders, leading to breakdowns that opposing offenses have capitalized upon.
With the playoffs looming, Smith’s comments echo a broader sentiment among analysts and fans: for the Lakers to make a deep run, they will need significant improvement from players like Reaves and Doncic on the defensive end. As the spotlight grows brighter, all eyes will be on whether the Lakers can tighten their defense and silence their doubters in the games that matter most.
Sources
- [1]ESPN NBA