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LeBron James sent stark warning by Stephen A. Smith amid Rockets series
TL;DR
The Lakers lead the series against the Rockets 3-2 after Houston's back-to-back wins. LeBron James faces increased scrutiny regarding his legacy if the Lakers fail to advance.
Key points
- Lakers lead series 3-2 against Rockets
- Rockets won back-to-back games
- LeBron James's legacy under scrutiny
Los Angeles LakersHouston Rockets
Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images
The Lakers-Rockets series once looked settled when Los Angeles surged into a 3-0 lead. Houston appeared short of options, especially with Kevin Durant sidelined through injury.
Momentum has shifted dramatically in recent days. The Rockets have claimed back-to-back wins and will now return home with a chance to force a Game 7.
That turnaround has sparked wider debate about the implications for LeBron James. If the Lakers fail to close out the series, some basketball fans believe that questions around his legacy will intensify.
Stephen A. Smith warns LeBron James over legacy impact of potential collapse
Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images
Stephen A. Smith addressed the situation on his YouTube channel, focusing on what a historic collapse could mean for LeBron’s standing in the game.
He said (via NBA Courtside): “What if LeBron James and his Lakers surrender this 3-0 lead and lose this series? What will we make of his legacy then?
“Do you believe it should even have an imprint on his legacy? Age 41, 23rd season in the NBA. No , just got back. Ain’t even supposed to be in this position.
Q&A
What is the current status of the Lakers vs. Rockets series?
The Lakers currently lead the series 3-2 after the Rockets won two consecutive games.
How could the outcome of the Lakers-Rockets series affect LeBron James's legacy?
If the Lakers do not close out the series, it may lead to intensified questions about LeBron James's legacy among fans.
What caused the momentum shift in the Lakers vs. Rockets series?
The momentum shifted after the Rockets secured back-to-back wins, changing the dynamics of the series.
