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“This Can’t Be Real”: Renowned NBA Analyst Shocks Fans With Bizarre Claim of Sacrificing Entire Knicks Roster for Russell Westbrook

Published 06/10/2022, 9:15 AM EDT

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Stephen A. Smith has carved out a legendary media career by debating some of the hottest takes ever seen by a sports analyst. It’s not solely the takes though, that set him apart from his counterparts; it’s also the manner he justifies them. Those who follow his renowned show, First Take, are aware of his eternal love for the New York Knicks.

Season after season, he has urged his team to chase star players, but to no avail. Russell Westbrook is the most recent example.

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Smith has witnessed his team stay buried in the mud for years. But despite all the controversies and poor performances, he has remained loyal to his beloved team. He was not always treated justly by the Knicks, but never did his commitment to the team dwindle.

The analyst might be tired of his enthusiasm being met with indifference, but he wants those sensations to be replaced by a project centered around Russell Westbrook. The point guard fell victim to a myriad of criticism this season. Failure to establish a foothold in Los Angeles, as well as the Lakers’ failure to even make the Play-in, fueled the backlash.

Darvin Ham, however, as the new Los Angeles Lakers coach, has already discussed the matter surrounding Westbrook. He confirmed that the Lakers want to bring him back for next season.

But here’s Stephen A. Smith, who wants his beloved Knicks to do everything in their power to acquire Westbrook’s talents.

Stephen A. Smith wants the Knicks to move heaven and earth for Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook wasn’t a good fit for the LA Lakers this season. But, with Darvin Ham at the helm, he believes the star-studded trifecta of Russell Westbrook, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis can work wonders.

But his work ethic and confidence are well known, as he was there at a recent press conference to support the appointment of their new head coach.

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Smith stated the following in response to Westbrook’s excitement for new head coach Darvin Ham.

“I’m gonna tell Russell Westbrook now on national television. I’m gonna show my support for Russell Westbrook. I am gonna validate it right in front of y’all. I’d give up everybody for him with the Knicks. LA might not be the ideal for him but somewhere else where that energy, that tenacity, that athleticism. I’d take Russell Westbrook in a Knicks uniform today.”  

Stephen A. Smith later confessed that he was being a touch selfish, as he desires something on the Knicks to sing and cheer about. But Westbrook on the Knicks won’t be that bad of an idea.

Trade rumors centered around Russell Westbrook have flown since the Lakers fell out of playoff contention. The New York Knicks are a young team consisting of players with elephantine potential. While unlocking the potential of these young players will be the Knicks’ top priority, Westbrook is “must-see-TV”.

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After the atrocities of this season, he desperately needs some fresh air. Mr Triple Double mode will be triggered yet again and Westbrook will get the opportunity to be that monster. And the Knicks will benefit enormously from having a superstar alongside their promising young core.

The team, however, must be cautious about the weapons they surrender for a $47 million contract for a player who will enter free agency next season.

Stephen A. Smith’s desire left fans on Twitter puzzled

Many fans on Twitter were caught off guard by the NBA analyst’s above-mentioned desire.

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Written by:

Ritvik Malhotra

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Ritvik is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. Having completed his Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Ritvik has finally got his foot in the door as a professional sports writer. He previously interned at another media house where he authored over 150 soccer articles, but he is now writing about his primary obsession, basketball.
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Edited by:

Veer Badani