We're already almost at the end of January which means the NBA trade deadline is quickly approaching. The deadline will go down on February 6th and teams are gearing up for some pretty massive trades that could shake up the entire league, for better or for worse. Halfway through the season, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking like one of the best teams in the league for the first time in a very long while. Despite this, some pundits think the Lakers need at least one more piece in order to become a true title contender.
Recently, LeBron James was asked if the Lakers should make any trades at the deadline. LeBron has been known to play the role of general manager at times and the media is curious as to whether or not he thinks his team is good enough. According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, LeBron is taking a more diplomatic approach.
So there you have it, James thinks the Lakers are good enough right now. Of course, LeBron could be saying this simply to keep the team's chemistry together. Kyrie Irving recently said the Nets need more pieces and the team appears to be in shambles because of it. It's clear LeBron is taking a more savvy approach to this situation.
Do you think the Lakers need to make any trades and if so, who should they go out and get?
Stephen A. Smith Goes Scorched Earth On Kyrie Irving After Nets Loss
Smith almost lost his voice.
Kyrie Irving has always been incredibly vocal about his teammates and whether or not the people around him are good enough to win. During his stint in Boston, Irving was constantly criticized for being too vocal and alienating his team. After losing to the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night, Irving was subjected to even more criticism as he began to make bold statements about the status of his team. Irving claims the Nets still need more pieces in order to be better. Many would say KD is all they need but Kyrie meant the team needs more on top of Kevin Durant.
Stephen A. Smith wasn't having it with Kyrie this morning. The First Take host went on a lengthy rant about Irving and how he always seems to bring up these issues when they don't matter. In fact, Smith almost lost his voice as Max Kellerman tried to calm him down.
Smith went on to praise Kenny Atkinson who has been the backbone of this Nets team. Despite a depleted roster, Atkinson has coached the team to a record good enough to make the Eastern Conference playoffs with. For now, the team is far from being a contender although they certainly have a lot going on for them.
Do you think Smith is right for criticizing Kyrie or is he blowing his comments out of proportion?
