Stephen A. Smith Revises MVP Take as Doncic’s Dominance Fuels Lakers Surge

The Los Angeles Lakers are surging at the right time, and Luka Doncic is at the center of it. Following a dominant stretch that included a 60-point performance, the All-Star guard has reignited conversations about his place in the NBA’s Most Valuable Player race.

That momentum has not gone unnoticed—even by those who initially overlooked him. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith publicly admitted he had failed to include Doncic among his top MVP candidates earlier, calling the omission a mistake he was quick to correct.

The Lakers extended their winning streak to eight games with a 134-126 victory over the Miami Heat, further strengthening their case as one of the hottest teams in the league. Doncic’s scoring outburst played a pivotal role in sustaining that run.

As the regular season winds down, both team success and individual brilliance are converging for Doncic, placing him firmly in the spotlight as one of the league’s most impactful players.

1. Doncic’s Scoring Surge Commands Attention

Doncic’s recent performances have been nothing short of remarkable. His 60-point outing marked a season high and capped a stretch in which he has consistently delivered elite scoring numbers. Over his last two games, Doncic combined for 100 points, showcasing not only volume scoring but also efficiency and control. During the Lakers’ winning streak, he has routinely surpassed the 30-point mark, anchoring the offense night after night. Smith, reflecting on this production, acknowledged that Doncic’s impact could no longer be ignored. He emphasized that the guard’s consistency and leadership have been central to the Lakers’ rise in the standings. The numbers support that claim. As one of the league’s leading scorers, Doncic has combined individual excellence with team success—two key factors that often define MVP consideration.

2. Smith’s Admission and MVP Debate

Smith’s public reversal added a notable dimension to the MVP conversation. Known for his strong opinions, the analyst admitted he was “ashamed” for not previously including Doncic among his top candidates. His reasoning was straightforward: Doncic’s recent performances have elevated him into undeniable contention. With the Lakers winning consistently and climbing into the top tier of the Western Conference, Smith argued that Doncic deserves recognition. He also pointed to the broader context of the Lakers’ roster, highlighting the presence of LeBron James. Even alongside one of the greatest players in NBA history, Doncic has emerged as the driving force behind the team’s success. Smith’s comments reflect a shifting narrative as the season approaches its conclusion. With each standout performance, Doncic is strengthening his case, forcing analysts and fans alike to reassess where he stands among the league’s elite.

3. Lakers’ Momentum and Championship Outlook

The Lakers’ recent run extends beyond individual accolades. With wins in 12 of their last 13 games, the team has positioned itself as a legitimate contender in a competitive Western Conference. Veteran forward Draymond Green weighed in on the Lakers’ rise, noting the transformative effect Doncic has on those around him. According to Green, Doncic’s playmaking and scoring elevate teammates and create a more cohesive unit. The combination of Doncic and James presents a formidable challenge for opponents. Their ability to control the tempo and execute in high-pressure moments gives the Lakers a foundation for postseason success. Still, questions remain about how far that momentum can carry them, particularly with strong competition from teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder. Yet, as Green suggested, having two elite players on the court ensures the Lakers will always have a chance.