The Los Angeles Lakers have long been one of the most successful and storied franchises in NBA history, but this season, they have found themselves in the midst of a deep slump that has left fans and analysts scratching their heads. The latest embarrassment came in a 21-point loss to the Dallas Mavericks, who were without their two superstars, Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. On the popular NBA post-game show Inside the NBA, Hall of Famer Charles Barkley didn’t hold back when discussing the Lakers’ performance, famously declaring, “The Lakers stink.”

Barkley, known for his blunt and often humorous takes, did not mince words as he dissected the Lakers’ disappointing loss. For a team that boasts LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and several other talented players, the defeat to a Mavs team missing two of its best players was particularly baffling. Let’s break down what Chuck had to say and why the Lakers’ struggles are becoming a major concern as the season progresses.

A Shocking Loss to a Shorthanded Mavericks Team

Coming into the game, the Mavericks were already at a significant disadvantage. With Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving both sidelined due to injury, many expected the Lakers to easily take control of the game. After all, the Lakers still have LeBron James, one of the greatest players of all time, and Anthony Davis, one of the best defenders and rebounders in the NBA. However, the game unfolded in a way that shocked everyone.

The Mavericks, led by role players like Spencer Dinwiddie and Tim Hardaway Jr., executed their game plan with efficiency, playing fast and aggressive, while the Lakers appeared sluggish and out of sync. Despite having their stars, the Lakers couldn’t find their rhythm. Poor shooting, lackluster defense, and turnovers plagued the team throughout the game, ultimately leading to a demoralizing 21-point loss.

Charles Barkley’s Scathing Reaction

Barkley, never one to shy away from calling out teams or players, wasted no time in expressing his frustration with the Lakers’ performance. On Inside the NBA, Barkley’s reaction was simple and to the point: “The Lakers stink.” The former MVP went on to highlight how the Lakers’ inability to capitalize on a golden opportunity—facing a Mavericks team without their two biggest stars—was yet another example of how inconsistent and underwhelming the Lakers have been this season.

Chuck’s remarks were not just limited to the game itself but also the broader issues surrounding the team. While LeBron and Davis remain talented players, Barkley pointed out that the Lakers’ overall lack of depth and cohesion was starting to become a glaring issue. Despite the star power, the Lakers are still far from being a legitimate contender, and performances like this loss to a depleted Mavericks team only highlight their vulnerabilities.

Barkley also took aim at the Lakers’ inability to develop a solid offensive system and their struggles in critical moments. He pointed out that for all the talent on the roster, the team often lacks the necessary execution and discipline to get the job done. This loss to the Mavericks, missing two of their best players, served as yet another reminder that the Lakers have yet to find the right formula to return to championship contention.

The Bigger Picture for the Lakers

This game is just the latest in a series of disappointing performances for the Lakers, who continue to struggle with consistency and chemistry. For a team that was heavily favored to contend for a title this season, the Lakers’ poor start to the year has been frustrating for fans and analysts alike.

The issues with the Lakers go beyond just one game or one bad loss. The team has been plagued by injuries, inconsistent play, and a lack of offensive fluidity. While LeBron James has remained relatively healthy, and Anthony Davis has shown flashes of brilliance, the supporting cast has been far from reliable. The addition of new pieces hasn’t meshed well, and key players have struggled to find their roles within the system.

Defensively, the Lakers have also been inconsistent. Although they have moments of brilliance, particularly with Davis anchoring the defense, there are far too many lapses in execution, especially when the team needs to close out games or get critical stops. It’s these defensive breakdowns, paired with offensive inefficiencies, that have led to disappointing results.

Additionally, the Lakers’ front office has faced criticism for not making bold moves to improve the team’s depth. Despite the presence of LeBron and Davis, the team’s failure to add reliable role players and shooters has hindered their chances of competing with the league’s best. The lack of balance between star power and roster depth is starting to become a major issue that needs to be addressed.

The Frustration of LeBron James

For LeBron James, this loss to the Mavericks must have been especially frustrating. Having played for two decades, LeBron is still widely regarded as one of the most dominant players in the league. However, with his career winding down, time is running out for him to add to his championship legacy. LeBron has long prided himself on being a leader and elevating his teammates, but the inconsistencies surrounding the Lakers’ play must be taking a toll.

After the game, LeBron did not mince words in his frustration, expressing disappointment in the team’s lack of focus and execution. While LeBron continues to put up impressive individual numbers, the frustration of not being able to carry the team to victory in games that should be winnable is starting to show. The 21-point loss to the Mavericks, especially without Luka and Kyrie, is yet another example of the Lakers’ inability to seize opportunities.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

The Lakers have no time to dwell on this embarrassing loss. With the competitive nature of the Western Conference, every game matters, and the team will need to quickly regroup if they hope to turn their season around. With LeBron James aging and his window for winning titles narrowing, the pressure is on for the Lakers to get it together.

The team will need to make adjustments, particularly on the offensive end, to find more consistency. It’s clear that LeBron and Davis cannot carry the load alone. The Lakers need more contributions from their supporting cast, and the front office will need to consider moves to add depth to the roster, whether that’s through trades or free-agent signings.

Additionally, head coach Darvin Ham will need to find ways to improve the team’s defense and make adjustments to keep the players engaged and motivated. The loss to the Mavericks exposed the Lakers’ weaknesses, and it will be up to the coaching staff and front office to find solutions.

Conclusion: The Lakers’ Uphill Battle

Charles Barkley’s comments about the Lakers “stinking” after their 21-point loss to the Mavericks may be harsh, but they aren’t without merit. The Lakers continue to struggle with consistency, execution, and depth, despite having two of the best players in the world in LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While LeBron remains a transcendent talent, the team as a whole has failed to live up to expectations, and this loss to a shorthanded Mavericks team only adds to the growing frustration surrounding the Lakers.

As the season progresses, the Lakers need to make significant changes if they hope to turn things around and make a legitimate playoff push. Without improvement, their championship aspirations will continue to slip further out of reach. Barkley may have been blunt, but his words ring true—the Lakers need to find a way to stop “stinking” and start living up to the potential that has made them one of the most iconic franchises in NBA history.