American Stephen A Smith: Lakers will be swept by Rockets, can only last up to 5 games; James will definitely produce impressive stats.

On April 13 Beijing time, the well-known commentator nicknamed "American Stephen A Smith," Stephen A. Smith, expressed his views on the Rockets vs. Lakers series in a program. He believes the Lakers are likely to be swept, lasting no more than 5 games, but James will definitely output impressive data. Here are his remarks—

“Are you talking about stats? Or about winning?James will definitely produce impressive stats. He is one of the greatest players in the history of this sport, and it's truly astonishing that at age 41, in his 23rd season, he can still display such dominance. James can deliver stats; with the ball in his hands, he can dictate matchups and game tempo, especially since he no longer needs to accommodate Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, so his stats will definitely be plentiful.”

Then, A-Smith shifted his tone. “But let me be very clear.The Lakers will exit early, lasting no more than five games; I even think they might be swept. They simply aren't strong enough. It's really unfortunate because one of my favorite things is the atmosphere in Los Angeles when the Lakers win—I love that feeling. But I'm not even sure if we'll hear that kind of spectacle this weekend.”

“To be honest, without Reaves and Doncic, what do the Lakers have to match up against Houston's Kevin Durant and the Rockets' entire lineup? I know the Rockets get a bit shaky in the fourth quarter because they don't have a proper point guard this year.”

“Sheppard must step up and control the team better to some extent. He's a decent player, but in terms of managing tempo, controlling the game, directing teammates, and putting everyone in the right positions, he hasn't shown what a top point guard should look like, even though he's skilled and I like him.”

“Ultimately, it boils down to one sentence: the Lakers aren't strong enough. Ayton must perform beyond expectations; good luck to him. And players like Rui Hachimura must also deliver better performances than before. I don't know if they can do it. That's my view. This Rockets team can even start four players over 2.11 meters tall, all five over 2.03 meters, and they have extremely strong defense. I think this Rockets team is something the Lakers simply can't withstand.”

“The only reason I didn't directly say a sweep is, like when I commented on Allen Iverson in 2001. Back then I said Iverson could steal one game. I'm also willing to believe the great James can do the same, but that's it; the Lakers will last no more than five games and then go home.This series won't drag on long unless Doncic and Reaves can return.”

A-Smith acknowledged that the injuries to Doncic and Reaves completely changed his view on this series. “If they could play, I might even directly favor the Lakers to win this series, but their absence is too impactful. Both missing at the same time creates a fatal gap in strength; expecting James alone to fill it is asking too much. I don't think he can do it, nor do I believe he can carry it. Without Doncic and Reaves, the Lakers won't last five games; they might even be swept outright.”

The NBA official website previously predicted the Rockets would eliminate the Lakers 4-1, essentially aligning with A-Smith's view. What do you think the outcome of this series will be? Feel free to share your opinions and predictions in the comments section.