first take

Stephen A. Smith Delivers Surprising Lakers Hot Take

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Stephen A. Smith is someone who is known to deliver some wild hot takes from time to time. Overall, he is a joy to watch every day on First Take. However, it is clear that not everyone appreciates what he brings to the sports world. There are a lot of people out there who believe his opinion is worthless. Of course, this is a bit of a strong thing to say. This is mostly espoused by people who have no interest in punditry whatsoever. Although, for those who love these kinds of shows, Stephen A. is the absolute best.

This season, Smith has had to talk a lot about the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers have not been very good, but they do have LeBron James, which makes them noteworthy. Throughout the year, the Lakers have tried to improve the team. Recently, they did just that with a whole host of trades. Last night, the Lakers beat the New Orleans Pelicans in a blowout, and now, people are seeing the Lakers differently. Smith is among these people and he made a very interesting revelation today.

Stephen A. Makes A Prediction

Simply put, Smith believes the Lakers should be seen as a title contender of sorts. However, there are some caveats here. He doesn’t see them as better than the Phoenix Suns or the Denver Nuggets. However, if they can make the play-in, then there is a real chance that they give the top teams a run for their money. Stephen A. likes how the Lakers are built right now, and he is giving Rob Pelinka a ton of credit. For now, though, it remains to be seen if the Lakers can even sustain their play long enough for a playoff push.

No matter what, the purple and gold will be the team to watch over the coming months. Hopefully, they are able to show everyone what they are made of. As for Stephen A., he will continue to hold out hope that the Lakers will be part of his First Take NBA playoffs coverage. Let us know what you think of the Lakers’ future chances, in the comments down below.

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Stephen A. Smith Predicts The Super Bowl

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Stephen A. Smith and the entire First Take crew have been in Arizona for the Super Bowl. This year’s game is going to be between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs. Overall, this promises to be a truly fantastic matchup. The Chiefs come in as the underdogs even though they have the talents of Patrick Mahomes. On the other side, the Eagles have Jalen Hurts, who is beginning to get the superstar treatment. Regardless of who you are rooting for, it is clear that this will be an amazing game.

As for Smith, he has been able to give all sorts of hot takes as it pertains to the big game. Although he is mostly a basketball guy, he definitely knows a lot about football. Additionally, he has spent time in the Philadelphia market, which means he is the perfect person to talk about this Eagles team. On this morning’s episode of First Take, Smith was front and center on the panel. Overall, he was in a jovial mood, and he was ready to give his prediction on whom he believes will hoist the Lombardi trophy.

Stephen A. Makes His Pick

Earlier in the shoe, Stephen A. said that if it is a high-scoring affair, then the Kansas City Chiefs will take it. However, when it comes to his actual prediction of how things will play out, he is taking the Eagles. As you can see in the clip above, the majority of the panel is going with the Eagles as well. They were the best team in the NFL from the jump this year, and now is their time to finish it all off. Whether or not they will be able to overcome Mahomes is a completely different story.

The Super Bowl is set to go down on Sunday, and there is no doubt that this is one of those matchups for the ages. Hopefully, we get a good game, and not the stinker we got last time the Chiefs made the big game. Let us know who you think is going to win, down in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sports world.

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Stephen A. Smith Reacts To Kevin Durant Trade

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Times like the trade deadline are when people like Stephen A. Smith are truly able to shine. Of course, this is because his job is to talk about sports. Whenever the trade deadline rolls around, Smith is able to give his biggest and best hot takes pertaining to the NBA season. Overall, Stephen A. has been given a whole lot to talk about this year. This is because there have already been some truly massive trades. Whether it be Kyrie Irving earlier this week or Russell Westbrook last night, the narratives have been endless.

Additionally, Kevin Durant was also traded last night. The Phoenix Suns were able to acquire KD for Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, and even Mikal Bridges. Moreover, there were a ton of draft picks as part of this package deal. Either way, the Suns just got a whole lot better and it will be interesting to see where they are able to go from here. On First Take, Smith was able to give his reactions to this trade, and for the most part, he is very high on the Suns right now.

Stephen A. Speaks

As you can see in the clip above, he has the Suns as favorites to win everything right now. As he mentions, the Suns have Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and even Deandre Ayton. All of these pieces are fantastic, and he has a real belief that they can get it done and actually win it all. “This is the BEST chance that the Phoenix Suns have of winning the NBA championship in my lifetime,” Smith said emphatically. Overall, these are some loft expectations, although they are very well deserved. This is a team that is trying to make a big splash, and these pieces can certainly do just that.

For the rest of the day, fans will be paying close attention to the NBA world. Of course, this is because it is the trade deadline. This is always one of the best days of the entire year, and it should be incredibly fun to follow. Overall, it still remains to be seen if there will be any more blockbuster moves. Having said that, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news from the NBA world. Additionally, let us know which trades you want to see, in the comments below.

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Stephen A. Smith Reveals His Greatest Athlete Of All-Time

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Stephen A. Smith is someone who gets paid a whole lot of money to speak out about the wide world of sports. Typically, Smith has been known to give some pretty out-there hot takes. However, this is ultimately what makes him entertaining. Smith is well aware of how sports entertainment works, and he always does his best to be interesting. This has ultimately allowed him to enjoy a ton of success at ESPN. At this point, one could even say that Smith runs that network.

Over the past few weeks, Smith has been talking a lot about Tom Brady. This is because the legendary quarterback has decided to retire from the sport of football. Subsequently, many are debating his standing as the greatest player in the history of the NFL. Additionally, some are trying to debate whether or not he was a top-tier athlete. Of course, athleticism and talent are two very different things, and sometimes, they are conflated. During an appearance on Andrew Schultz Flagrant podcast, Smith had to navigate this conflation.

Stephen A. Speaks

In the clip up above, Smith was asked whether or not he thinks Brady is the greatest athlete of all-time. Immediately, Smith said no. Overall, he believes that you can’t really consider Brady to be a top-tier athlete. At the end of the day, he was never truly athletic. Instead, he was just someone who knew how to throw the football well, while also possessing a fantastic mind for the game. Consequently, Stephen A. was asked who he believes are the most athletic athletes of all-time. Smith went on to say that it would have to be Bo Jackson and Deion Sanders as they played both football and baseball at the highest level.

Jackson and Sanders are two people who have always found themselves on top of these lists. They both showcased incredible abilities in their respective sports, so it should come as no surprise that Stephen A. would pick them. As for Brady, he’s probably not too upset with Smith. Even Tom Brady would be the first to admit that he isn’t the most athletic guy in the world. Let us know what you think of Smith’s take, in the comments below.

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Stephen A. Smith & Jay Williams Get Heated Over Kyrie Irving: Watch

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When it comes to the likes of Kyrie Irving, Stephen A. has been very critical over the years. Overall, Smith believes that Kyrie is one of the most talented players in the league. However, Smith also believes that Irving has wasted his talent by doing some boneheaded things. Whenever Kyrie messes up, Smith is one of the first people to criticize him. Although that is Smith’s job, some fans have found it bizarre that Stephen A. seemingly goes after Kyrie harder than any other athlete in the sports world.

Recently, Kyrie has been a huge topic of conversation for Smith on First Take. Of course, this is because Kyrie demanded a trade from the Brooklyn Nets. Subsequently, the Nets were able to get rid of Kyrie as they sent him to the Dallas Mavericks. Now, Kyrie will get to play alongside Luka Doncic, and fans are curious as to how it will pan out. As for Stephen A., he got to talk about Kyrie on First Take this morning. However, it turned out to be a heated endeavor for Smith as he faced off against fellow analyst and former NBA star, Jay Williams.

Stephen A. Vs. Jay Williams

As you can see from the clip above, it appears as though Williams doesn’t have much love for Smith. He accused Stephen A. of going harder on Kyrie than he does any other athlete. Moreover, he felt as though Smith’s criticisms are hypocritical at times. Smith was not having any of this and got heated, telling Williams that he wasn’t saying anything of interest. This led to a highly-contentious back and forth in which Williams called Stephen A. “triggered.” Overall, it felt very personal, and even Molly Qerim noted it as such. Needless to say, Williams may not be coming back to the show, anytime soon.

Kyrie is someone who always seems to invite these kinds of hot takes. Smith is certainly not the first person to criticize Irving, and he will not be the last. Regardless, it is clear that Stephen A. has rubbed some the wrong way, and that was evident this morning. Having said that, let us know whose side you are taking, in the comments down below.

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Stephen A. Smith Reveals If LeBron Can Become The GOAT

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Over the years, Stephen A. has given his opinion on a whole plethora of topics from around the basketball world. Overall, he knows what he is talking about, even if some fans disagree. Throughout his career, he has been able to talk a whole lot about none other than LeBron James. James is about to hit a huge career milestone, which has ultimately turned him into one of the biggest stories in the sport. Consequently, men like Stephen A. have had to give their opinions on where James ranks amongst the all-time NBA greats.

When you reach a milestone like the all-time scoring record, people are going to herald you. For years, James has been considered a top-two player in NBA history. However, Michael Jordan has continued to stand in his way of NBA supremacy. Even with the scoring title at his fingertips, LeBron is still being seen as second-fiddle to Jordan. While some fans believe this is unfair, others think this is how it should be. After all, Jordan has six titles to his name while LeBron only has four.

Stephen A. Weighs In

On First Take today, Stephen A. was asked whether or not LeBron can do anything to get back into the GOAT conversation. Subsequently, Smith was very firm with his answer. Simply put, he believes that no matter what, Jordan will be the greatest ever. Although, Stephen A. did make sure to note that LeBron is firmly the second-greatest to ever play the sport. Considering how many people have stepped on an NBA court, this is still an amazing honor. However, we’re sure Bron would prefer to be recognized as the best.

In regards to the scoring record, it would appear as though James will be setting the new bar as of next week. This will likely take place on Thursday, against the Milwaukee Bucks. Although, it will be completely up to LeBron’s performances as to whether or not he manages to do it faster. No matter what, this will be one of James’ most impressive records yet. Let us know if you think James can ever be the GOAT, in the comments down below.

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Dan Orlovsky Destroyed Over His Bizarre Top 5 QBs List

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Dan Orlovsky has quickly become one of the best analysts on ESPN when it comes to football. Although Orlovsky didn’t have a great career in the NFL, there is no doubt that he understands the game. Through shows like NFL Live, Orlovsky has been able to teach the average fan about quarterbacking. He knows all of the Xs and Os, and always brings a unique perspective. Overall, he is a huge addition to shows like First Take, even if Stephen A. Smith is constantly disagreeing with him.

Unfortunately, just like everyone else, Orlovsky is susceptible to some pretty bad takes. Whenever you get in the habit of being on these shows that are made specifically for arguments, you are bound to say something ridiculous. Consequently, it is something that has happened to pretty well everyone. However, when it does happen, you can expect it to go viral in the worst way possible. Today, that is exactly what happened to the former Detroit Lion.

Dan Orlovsky Vs. Keyshawn Johnson

In the video above, Orlovsky was asked to give his top five quarterbacks of all time. Shockingly, his picks were almost nonsensical. Overall, he had Tom Brady in first, which is fine. However, he had Dan Marino fifth, Peyton Manning fourth, John Elway third, and Patrick Mahomes second. Yes, that’s right, Joe Montana wasn’t even on the list. Moreover, he put Mahomes in at second even though he has only been in the NFL for six seasons. Subsequently, Damien Woody and Keyshawn Johnson were absolutely shocked. This eventually led to a conversation in which Orlovsky had a very hard time explaining himself. Furthermore, it felt like Orlovsky couldn’t get out of the corner he put himself in, leading to a hilarious exchange from the First Take panelists.

Orlovsky’s list is now being scrutinized on Twitter. Fans are pretty shocked that someone who knows so much about football would make a list like this. It is very obvious that Montana belongs in anyone’s top 5, regardless of the era he played in. However, Orlovsky clearly did not get that painfully obvious message. Let us know what you think of his list, in the comments down below.

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Stephen A. Smith Comments On Tom Brady Retirement

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Stephen A. Smith is easily one of the biggest names in the world of sports television. He is always commenting on the biggest stories, and overall, fans love him quite a bit. Every single morning on First Take is a lot of fun, especially when there is a big story.

Commentator Stephen A. Smith looks on prior to Game Five between the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat in the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals at FTX Arena on May 25, 2022 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)

Luckily for Smith, he got a massive story this morning. Below, you can see that Tom Brady revealed that he would be retiring from football. Although some thought he would return, Brady ultimately decided to call it quits.

“I know the process was a pretty big deal last time, so when I woke up this morning, I figured I’d just press record and let you guys know first,” Brady said. “I won’t be longwinded. You only get one super emotional retirement essay, and I used mine up last year, so really thank you guys so much to every single one of you for supporting me.”

Stephen A. Reacts

Subsequently, Smith had to talk about this on First Take. After all, this is a massive story that requires a ton of attention. It also just so happened to coincide with Mike Francesa’s appearance on the show. Overall, Smith had nothing but good things to say about the seven-time Super Bowl champion.

“He’ll be remembered as the greatest ever. 
 You don’t just talk about him as a football player, you talk about him as a leader,” Smith said.

Brady will be eligible to become a Hall of Famer in 2028. He will likely get to go in alongside JJ Watt in what should be a very stacked class.

Let us know what your favorite Brady moment is, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sports world.

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Stephen A. Smith Can’t Keep It Together After Chris Russo Says “Booty”

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When Chris “Mad Dog” Russo joined Stephen A. on First Take last year, fans weren’t exactly sure what to make of it. Overall, it was a hit from the beginning as Russo and Smith showcased a ton of chemistry. Although they typically have opposing views, their personalities work perfectly together.

Furthermore, they both come from the old-school way of broadcasting. While the young kids may not respect “Mad Dog,” Smith knows what he’s about. He knows that Russo is someone who has thought quite a bit about his takes, although knows when to amp up the energy.

Stephen A. Smith attends Peacock’s “The Best Man: The Final Chapters” Premiere Event at Hollywood Athletic Club on December 07, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Unique Nicole/WireImage)

Stephen A. Won’t Hold Back

There are some segments where these two cannot contain their laughter. Of course, this happened last week as Russo yelled at Smith for going on a book tour. Subsequently, we got yet another gem this week that almost had Stephen A. rolling on the floor laughing.

In the video clip down below, Smith and Russo are debating with Mel Kiper about what to do with NFL draft capital. At one point, Russo was talking about draft assets, however, he used the word “Booty.” While he meant in the treasure sense, Smith couldn’t help but think of the other meaning. This led to some hilarious laughter, with Kiper and Molly Qerim joining in. Russo tried to move on, however, the laughter was just too overwhelming.

This was definitely one of the funnier moments of the Chris Russo tenure on this show. A lot of the younger fans have finally come around him, and it seems like he will be part of the show for years to come.

Let us know what you thought of the clip, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from the sports world.

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Jalen Rose Responds To Stephen A. Smith Speculation

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Jalen Rose is someone who has worked with ESPN for a very long time. Overall, he is one of their best people when it comes to basketball, and he will continue to be over the long haul. That being said, there are some people out there who believe he has beef with none other than Stephen A. Smith.

Much of this speculation comes from rumors that Stephen A. has slept with Rose’s ex, Molly Qerim. However, Rose has shut down these rumors in the past. Regardless, after making some interesting tweets about people who hate the Cowboys, some fans felt like Rose was taking shots at the First Take veteran.

With numerous Twitter accounts speaking about the supposed slight, Rose decided it was time to respond. After all, you don’t want to have some sort of public feud with one of the biggest fish in the pond. In the tweet down below, you can see that Rose believes this is all overblown. Additionally, he noted that he is mostly talking about Skip Bayless.

“He is my brother and this is not accurate. If anything it was for Mr 1.4ppg playing JV as a junior,” Rose said matter of factly. This is an interesting route to go when you consider how Bayless is actually a huge Cowboys fan. Although, some pointed out that he could simply be talking about Skip throwing his Dak jersey in the trash.

Overall, this is one of those frequent moments in which social media blows everything out of proportion. At this point, it is impossible to speak freely on Twitter unless you actually tag whomever you’re talking about. Otherwise, people are going to misinterpret you in the least charitable ways.

Hopefully, Smith and Rose are doing just fine amid all of this. Let us know what you think of the situation, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news from around the sports world.