The recent ESPN layoffs came as a shock to everyone. After letting go of 20 high profile on-air personalities, the broadcasting giant became the centre of attention. Stephen A. Smith, a veteran with the company, was not having it after this incident. Amid multiple verbal jibes regarding the layoffs, Smith also had an insane take on the future of the Dallas Mavericks guard, Luka Dončić.

Smith was asked his opinion on who would ask out of their respective teams first, Philadelphia 76ers center and reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid or the Mavericks All Star guard, Luka Doncic. His reply without hesitation was Luka Dončić. But why does the NBA analyst feel so strongly about this?

Stephen A. Smith has his say about ESPN and Luka Dončić

Stephen A. Smith is one of the only big contracts still remaining in the studio after the recent wave of layoffs. With big names like Max Kellerman, Jalen Rose and Jeff Van Gundy being shown the door, Smith had concerns regarding his own position with ESPN. Through his podcast, Smith mentioned that his role may also be at risk following the recent incidents. Moreover, he had some strong words for his critics as well.

Read More: “Kiss My A**, Twice”: 24 Hours After Hinting ESPN Exit, $20 Million Rich Stephen A. Smith Sends a Bold Message to All Critics

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Smith did not stop there. His recent take on the 4-time All Star Luka Dončić raised some eyebrows. On the ESPN show “First Take”, Smith stated that he believes that “if the Dallas Mavericks struggle this year, Luka Dončić will ask out of Dallas“. He further clarified that “that is not inside information. That is just my opinion“.

Smith also explained that “I believe that he will ask out if they continue to struggle because the West has gotten stronger“. He further added, “If you and Kyrie are together and for some reason, that doesn’t work, I think he’ll ask out“. Stephen A. Smith believes Luka will ask out of Dallas but how far can this be true?

Luka Dončić’s situation in Dallas

Luka Dončić has become a true superstar in the NBA within 5 years. He has elevated his game with each passing year achieving 4 consecutive All NBA First Team selections. The Slovenian has turned the fortunes of the Dallas Mavericks leading them to some great playoff runs. Last season, however, The Mavericks failed to even reach the playoffs.

Dončić lost his long time teammate Jalen Brunson to free agency in 2022 when the New York Knicks signed the 26 year old guard. The Mavericks tried to make up for him with trading for 8 time All Star Kyrie Irving. The duo that set the NBA fans ablaze had high expectations riding on them. However, they could not make the most out of their time in Dallas and watched the Mavericks slip from the 5th seed to eventually fall out of playoff contention.

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With this disappointment, the Slovenian would be expected to step up in the next season and lead the team back into a deep playoff run. Failing to do so might lead to multiple questions being raised about his future with the franchise.