ESPN Hot Taker Stephen A. Smith “selfishly” blows up LeBron James, stealing another player an All-Star Game roster spot, ruining the game's once-famous slam dunk contest.
James portrayed the rage of multiple NBA veterans until last weekend after announcing he would not play due to injuries until just a few hours in the All-Star Game. The delay in withdrawing from this game prevented the NBA from filling the location of his roster with another suitable player. It also robbed the NBA and perhaps viewers of the only reason to see what became an increasingly unwavering All-Star Game event.
Monday's episode Take it firstSmith blows up James – not only delayed the retreat, but also ruined what was once the highlight of the All-Star Game weekend: the Slam Dunk Contest.
“You're damn. LeBron was selfish!” Smith said he would co-host Sharp. “You were he! I mean, there's no way around this! You know, you're going to sit there and announce it before the game. [NBA commissioner] Adam Silver doesn't even have time to give it a replacement. [Green]Jalen Rose, Vince Carter. All three pointed it out. ”
Smith continued:
They said the exact same thing the moment it was discovered that LeBron James announced he was unavailable. Oh, you could have let people know before. There would have been some time for the roster to be filled. There are a few suitable All-Stars. And I love the fact that you raised Norman Powell. Because that was my choice. The brothers have been pounding the ball for the Clippers all year round. What a special season he had.
You are LeBron James. And, like I said before, we know how great he is. He knows he is on Mount Rushmore. Championship, MVP, you know, the fact that he doesn't fool the game knows the fact that he answers the phone. But this brings to some things he's done.
I personally have a responsibility to ruin LeBron James' slam dunk contest, so I'll work on it later. He has been directly responsible for the erosion of slam dunk contests over the past few years. There's no way around that! And I don't care, I don't care who would say otherwise. If you are fair and you are honest, it is with him.
It's hard to argue Smith's point. The biggest star decision to not join the game or the biggest weekend event removes “stars” from the All Stars.
