As the final buzzer sounded in Miami, the New York Knicks‘ season came to an end. They fought hard until the end. However, it wasn’t enough to fend off a Jimmy Butler-led Miami Heat. Jalen Brunson, who had 41 on the night, disappointedly glared into space after a crucial turnover late in the game. Fans had to be disappointed, but there was one who seemingly suffered more than the others. After taking a moment to himself, revered NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith let loose on the Knicks and made a strong demand to the organization.

The Knicks lost the series in six games, falling short of their first Conference Finals appearance in over two decades. The Miami Heat rallied from the eighth seed and are now the second team in the NBA to be one step away from the Finals.

Emotional NBA analyst goes on a rant over the Knicks after playoff heartbreak

Stephen. A. Smith, the face of ESPN, is known for his scorching takes and unapologetic demeanor. But there is one NBA team he has a soft spot for, the New York Knicks. The 55-year-old has been a fan of the franchise for decades. He remembers the glory days of Patrick Ewing to the worst phase when New York was the laughingstock of the league.

Only a few days prior, Smith sent out a rather chilling message to young RJ Barrett, who reportedly had issues with his criticism of the Knicks. “You have a problem with some of the things that I have said. I want to say this to the New York Knicks, I don’t give a damn. Not even a little bit,” said Smith on an episode of First Take. After absorbing today’s loss, an emotional Stephen. A. Smith let it all out. Showing he doesn’t really ‘give a damn’, he took turns to call out a few stars.

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“R.J Barrett 1-10 shooting from the field, really? Really!!? And you got the nerves to be sensitive about criticism? Julius Randle, Julius Randle, Julius Randle, 3 for 14. Once again playoffs arrive, once again you fold…. It’s time to trade Julius Randle. It’s time for him to go,” said an enraged Stephen. A. Smith.

The only man who Smith had good words for was Jalen Brunson. The former Dallas Mavericks star put his heart on the floor. He put the Knicks in a position to fight for the win going off for 41 points in the 92-96 loss. Both Barrett and Randle struggled, combining for just 26 points. At the end of his outburst, Smith made a bold demand. “I want Damian Lillard” he instructed the Knicks.

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The Portland Trail Blazers star has been linked with a move away from RipCity for years. However, the 32-year-old has stayed put, showing his loyalty. But with Lillard getting older and Portland not getting any better, he might finally look to leave and if he does, New York sounds a good place for Dame Dolla.

New York is certainly heading in the right direction as they continue to make the Playoffs year after year. But do they need a superstar to take the ultimate leap? Let us know in the comments below.