The ultimate GOAT debate has provided fans with several startling perspectives, coming from unexpected voices. Similarly, Stephen A. Smith thinks the kind of season LeBron James has been having forms a strong case to favor him in this debate. 

On the March 24 episode of ESPN's First Take, the veteran analyst made a surprising declaration in the NBA world. Smith said, “The greatest case for LeBron James being the G.O.A.T., in my opinion, is being made by him this year.. The Lakers are in a better position than most people anticipated.” 

These statements fit perfectly with the Lakers' current season’s context. The team kicked off the season with humble expectations. Their current performance has surely exceeded them. The Lakers currently hold the 3rd place in the West, and the team’s success is tied to James active presence on the court at the age of 41. 

This season, in around  51 games, James is averaging 21 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per night. Apart from the stats, his evolution is a main factor for the team’s brilliant run. He’s no longer the primary scorer of the team. He willingly stepped back to become a 3rd option after Luka and Reaves. 

However, Smith also made it clear that his loyalty remains with MJ. “Obviously, Michael Jordan is my GOAT. Damn it, that ain’t changing,” he explained on the broadcast. “But having said all of that, the greatest case for LeBron James being the GOAT, in my opinion, is being made by him this year.”

Nevertheless, given how Smith usually rates James, this one might surprise many.

Why Smith’s Praise Hits Different Amid Steady Tension 

There is a long-standing friction between James and Smith. The history between them is filled with intense criticism and personal remarks from the analyst toward the Lakers' star. 

The heated conflicts reached the boiling point in 2025. Smith has publicly noted, “I don’t like his a**, not a little bit.” He has also blamed James for trying to ruin his ESPN career behind the scenes. 

Things then escalated in a courtside confrontation involving comments about Bronny James, which Smith took as a low blow. The clash became personal and highly public. 

Because this praise for LeBron comes from someone like Smith, it actually carries more weight. He is clearly keeping aside his personal feelings and grievances from his prime objective, which is analysis. 

Who, according to you, holds the genuine GOAT title? Does LeBron’s current season change your POV? 

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Written by

Utsav Sinha

Edited by

Souvik Roy