A prominent critic of LeBron James has been completely convinced by his performance, acknowledging James as the greatest player in history.

Stephen A. Smith, who previously had verbal disputes with James and confronted him at the Lakers' court, surprisingly praised LeBron James on his show today. He said, "In my opinion, LeBron James' performance this year best proves he is the greatest player ever... The Lakers' situation is better than most people expected."

Five days ago, Stephen A. Smith also made similar remarks on his program, stating, "LeBron James is absolutely one of the most outstanding and greatest athletes we have seen in our lifetime... I would feel guilty if I spoke ill of him. His current condition is simply astonishing and outstanding."

Has he been convinced by James? I recall him saying before that he would never like James again.

Last August, he said, "It wouldn't affect me if I never spoke to James again in my life." During the 2024-25 season, after a game against Philadelphia, Smith specifically discussed Bronny's difficult performance and LeBron's parenting style on his TV show, sparking controversy.

During LeBron's Cavaliers era, Stephen A. Smith once interviewed James, and the atmosphere was quite relaxed. Smith asked him what it would be like to play in the NBA Finals against the Lakers and Kobe Bryant at Staples Center? James replied that it would be a dream-like feeling, expressing admiration for Kobe as a player he had always learned from, and that such an opportunity would be amazing. Time has passed, James has been with the Lakers for 8 years, winning a championship for them, while Stephen A. Smith and he have become estranged, with no further communication between them.

Stephen A. Smith is a well-known sports commentator in the United States, with an annual income approaching $40 million. Previously, he signed a 5-year contract with ESPN worth $105 million, and a new 3-year contract with SiriusXM for $36 million. Combined with revenue from his YouTube channel and podcast, these sources bring his annual income close to $40 million.

What is most important for a commentator? Exposure and the heat of topics. In reality, James hasn't convinced Stephen A. Smith; James' existence merely allows Smith to continue generating topics and public discourse, thereby creating income for himself.