Stephen A. Smith has been in the media industry for about 30 years. Today, he is part of the A-team of ESPN’s analysts and one of the most famous ones when it comes to heated debates. However, there are numerous names within the organization that have an uncertain future following this summer. While Shannon Sharpe recently signed a multi-year deal with ESPN, another beloved analyst might be preparing for his exit this summer.

Tim Legler, the former shooting guard has his contract expiring this summer. Legler and Scott Van Pelt have covered post-game and halftime coverages for quite some time. Van Pelt expressed how Legler’s absence will be felt. “I don’t want to lose you, but if we lose you some because you’re out there doing games, then that will be cool with me. Because you’re not good at this man, you’re great at this. Nobody’s better at talking basketball than Tim Legler. And I think everybody out there gets it and we’re just lucky that we get to sit here with you and do it.”, said Van Pelt.

Legler’s relationship with ESPN began in 2000, wherein he worked as an analyst across various programs like First Take, SportsCenter, and others. He is indeed one of the most insightful personalities in the media industry and if he does end up calling games instead of talking on post-game shows, his supporters will be relieved to a certain degree. The 57-year-old is getting close to retirement age but still has a lot left in him.

On the other hand, JJ Redick is expected to become the Lakers’ next head coach. He has expressed his desire to draw plays and might as well jump at the opportunity if he gets it. Redick was part of ESPN’s broadcast team, commentating alongside Doris Burke in the NBA Finals. Following his retirement, Redick did not waste any time talking about the game as he saw it. From podcasts to First Take, his journey in the media industry speaks volumes. How does this affect ESPN for the upcoming season?

Stephen A might lose his worthy competitor

Legler and Redick both hold quite some weight to their name. As a former NBA player, JJ had a more player-oriented perspective of the game. Of course, the viewers were all for the honest and realistic answers to certain takes. Stephen A. and Redick have talked on multiple takes and fans have loved their heated debates. Inclined more towards the former NBA player, if JJ leaves this summer, it will affect the show’s viewership.

It will be interesting to see how things play out for both Legler and Redick this summer. JJ on the Lakers will be a combination worth watching, coaching LeBron and company. Meanwhile, there will be a void in ESPN’s analyst team. What are your thoughts on ESPN’s future? Let us know in the comments.

And before leaving, be sure to check out some insights that Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, shared about WNBA stars, Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark.