Fans who had tickets for the Lakers-Spurs game on Tuesday night were disappointed not just by the score, but by the absence of star players in Los Angeles’ lineup.
On Wednesday’s “First Take,” Stephen A. Smith criticized JJ Redick heavily for sidelining LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reeves, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart all at once.
“If you’re going to bench LeBron, then at least let someone else step in… but seriously, guys? That feels like a slap in the face to those who came to watch,” Smith expressed.
He remarked, “I walked into this venue in Tinseltown, and not one of the purple and gold stars was ready to play.”
“That’s just disgraceful.”
The Lakers’ decision comes after managing a tough game against the Thunder the previous night, which might explain the choice to rest some key players due to ongoing injuries.
In their place, the Lakers started Kobe Bufkin, Luke Kennard, Jackson Hayes, Jake LaRabia, and Rui Hachimura, ultimately losing 136-108 at Crypto.com Arena.
Smith conveyed that he’d understand resting a couple of starters, but all five felt excessive. “Guys? That’s really disrespectful and just unfair to the fans. Someone needs to voice this, and I’m stepping up,” he said on the show.
He clarified he wasn’t singling out the Lakers alone, mentioning frustration with Steve Kerr for similar choices in Golden State, emphasizing that this trend in the NBA is a significant issue that needs to change.
“This is what makes people uneasy, especially the traditionalists and die-hard fans,” he noted. “It complicates things, forcing us to think creatively about how to engage with what’s happening.”
“You should be showing up ready to play.”
The Lakers have one more game before the All-Star break, facing the Mavericks at home on Thursday night, but it remains uncertain which starters will actually suit up.
