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Despite going at odds with LeBron James publicly, Stephen A. Smith does not hold any grudges with the LA Lakers. As a matter of fact, the famed analyst wants the side to make it to the finals and face a less formidable side than the Boston Celtics. When asked to tell which two teams he would like to see progress to the finals, Stephen A named the Lakers along with the Cavaliers.
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Stephen A. Smith Wants 'Box Office' Final Between Lakers and Cavaliers
A Lakers vs Cavaliers final would put the spotlight on LeBron James he would be up against his former team at the biggest stage. The dais will be perfect for him to deliver a standout performance and even if he falters, it will be mainstream development in either case.
Smith considers this “box office” with the viewership it would draw and caliber of play that would be on display. “Here’s the reason why I would put that above LA-Boston: I don’t believe the Lakers have a chance against the Boston Celtics… Cleveland is a different matter… I think that would be epic.” Stephen A said on Get Up.
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LeBron James' History with Cleveland Cavaliers
LeBron James’ history with the Cleveland Cavaliers spans two impactful stints. Drafted first overall in 2003 from Akron, Ohio, he debuted as a rookie averaging 20.9 points, leading the Cavs to the 2007 Finals, though they were swept by the Spurs. After seven seasons and two MVPs (2009, 2010), he left for Miami in 2010’s controversial “Decision,” leaving a 548-330 record. Returning in 2014, he joined Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love, reaching four straight Finals. The pinnacle came in 2016, overcoming a 3-1 deficit against the 73-win Warriors to win Cleveland’s first NBA title, earning Finals MVP with 29.7 points per game. After 255-97 in his second stint, he left for the Lakers in 2018. Averaging 27.2 points over 849 games, LeBron delivered the Cavs’ only championship, cementing his legacy as Cleveland’s hometown hero.
