Stephen A. Smith Questions Lakers’ Roster Construction After Walker Kessler Deal

The Los Angeles Lakers made one of the biggest moves of the NBA offseason by acquiring center Walker Kessler in a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz. Kessler reportedly signed a four-year contract worth $130 million and is expected to become a key piece of the franchise alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

However, not everyone is convinced the Lakers’ latest roster overhaul will translate into championship success.

ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith strongly criticized the team’s construction during an episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, questioning whether the current core can lead Los Angeles back to the NBA Finals.

Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Lakers’ Direction

Smith expressed concerns about the Lakers building around Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler, arguing that the roster does not resemble the championship-caliber teams traditionally associated with the franchise.

“This is the Los Angeles Lakers we are talking about here, and Rob Pelinka has made this ‘white dude central,’” Smith said while discussing the team’s offseason strategy.

The veteran analyst referenced the Lakers’ rich history, pointing to legendary figures such as Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, all of whom played major roles in delivering championships to the franchise.

Can the Lakers Contend?

Despite his criticism, Smith acknowledged the talent of both Doncic and Reaves. He praised the duo for their accomplishments and impact but questioned whether adding Kessler to the mix significantly improves the Lakers’ championship outlook.

According to Smith, the trio alone is unlikely to intimidate rival contenders in an increasingly competitive Western Conference.

“Luka’s a superstar, and Austin Reaves has earned tremendous respect around the league, but that combination isn’t enough to scare anybody,” Smith argued.

Massive Financial Commitment

The Lakers have made a substantial financial investment in their new core. Reports indicate that the combined long-term commitments to Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler approach $475 million.

Following the latest transactions, ESPN salary-cap expert Bobby Marks projected Los Angeles’ payroll for the 2026–27 season to be approximately $195 million.

Lakers Betting on a New Era

With LeBron James entering the final stages of his legendary career, the Lakers appear focused on building around Doncic as the face of the franchise. The additions of Kessler and other offseason moves suggest general manager Rob Pelinka is attempting to create a younger core capable of competing for championships over the long term.

Whether that strategy pays off remains to be seen, but Smith’s comments have already sparked debate among NBA fans regarding the Lakers’ direction and their chances of returning to title contention.