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Stephen A. Smith criticized NBA players for their fitness levels, highlighting 41-year-old LeBron James' ability to outperform younger stars. This comes amid injury issues for players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, sparking a debate about standards in the league.
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Stephen A. Smith has delivered a strong critique of NBA players after pointing to LeBron Jamesâ longevity, questioning how a 41-year-old continues to outperform younger stars in terms of fitness and availability.
The Los Angeles Lakers have dealt with injuries to key players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, even as LeBron continues to perform at a high level deep into his 23rd NBA season.
That contrast has become a major talking point, especially given the physical demands of the modern game. For Smith, it raises a bigger question about standards across the league.
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Smith addressed the issue in a segment shared on The Stephen A. Smith Show, where he compared LeBronâs durability with the struggles of younger players.
He said, âLet me tell you something people should be embarrassed about. Iâm sick and tired of watching this man at age 41, now in his 23rd year.
âHow the hell [is] he healthy and Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves ainât healthy? I mean, when does the shame kick in?â
The remarks highlight the stark contrast between LeBronâs condition and the injury concerns affecting other players, particularly within the same team. At a stage where most players have long retired, LeBron continues to set the benchmark for preparation and durability.
Smithâs frustration stems from that comparison, questioning how younger athletes with fewer miles on their bodies are unable to maintain similar levels of availability.
Smith continued by expanding his argument beyond the Lakers, pointing toward the financial and professional responsibilities that come with being an NBA player.
He added, âYouâre making enough money if youâre the average NBA player. The league average salary is over 10 million a year. Quite a few of yâall are getting paid 40, 50 million a year.
âHow come you canât take care of your body the way LeBron James takes care of his body? I mean, damn. Whereâs your pride? Whereâs your dignity? Iâm just wondering about that. Thatâs how I feel about it.â
The comments underline his belief that resources are not the issue, suggesting that discipline and commitment are what separate LeBron from many of his peers.
By framing it in those terms, Smith shifted the discussion from injuries alone to a question of accountability across the league.
Read more:
Stephen A. Smith questioned the fitness of NBA players after observing that 41-year-old LeBron James continues to excel while younger players struggle with injuries.
The Los Angeles Lakers are facing injuries to key players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, impacting their performance this season.
LeBron James, in his 23rd NBA season, continues to perform at a high level, raising concerns about the fitness and availability of younger stars in the league.

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