Stephen A. Smith Says LeBron’s Only Path to a Fifth Ring Runs Through Cleveland

LeBron James is gearing up for his 23rd NBA season, but Stephen A. Smith believes his title chances in Los Angeles are over. On First Take, Smith dropped a bold claim: if LeBron wants ring No. 5, he must return to Cleveland.

“If LeBron came back to Cleveland, you’re the favorites in the East,” Smith argued. “Win four more games, bring the chip home, say goodbye as a five-time champ. That ain’t happening in L.A.”

The case is clear — the Eastern Conference is less brutal, and Cleveland’s core of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland is ready now. The Cavs just posted a 64-18 season, and LeBron’s history in the East includes eight straight Finals runs.

The West? Too stacked. The Lakers were bounced in Round 1 last year, despite LeBron’s brilliance at 40.

For Smith, the message is simple: “Go home, chase the crown, end the story.”