‘Not a negative word’: Stephen A. Smith promises not to criticize NBA team this season

Stephen A. Smith may be a diehard New York Knicks fan, but he’s not afraid to criticize the franchise. Even if it leads to him getting into a feud with one of the Knicks’ most popular players, which happened during last season.

However, don’t expect a repeat of that in 2026-27, Smith says. The longtime ESPN personality said on First Take Tuesday he intends on being nice to the Knicks all year after they won their first NBA title in more than five decades.

“This year, I will not say a negative word about my New York Knicks,” Smith began. “They erased a 53-year drought. They can do no wrong this year to me. They are the reigning, defending NBA champions until further notice, and they will be treated like that on this show by yours truly.”

“This year, I will not say a negative word about my New York Knicks.” @stephenasmith is making a promise to his New York Knicks this season 👀 pic.twitter.com/k0Kls5Fv5V

— First Take (@FirstTake) September 29, 2026

Title ‘hangover’ okay–with one exception

Smith’s colleagues Jeff Saturday, Shae Cornette and Chris Canty seem understandably skeptical of his ability to keep his promise for a full season, but the Bronx-born commentator insists that the Knicks are “a deity” to him.

Smith added that the team is “entitled” to a little bit of a title hangover, but can’t take it too far.

“You gotta make the playoffs. Can’t stink up the joint, gotta make the playoffs now. Can’t be getting bounced out in the first round,” he concluded.

Knicks not resting on laurels

We’re also dubious of Smith staying 100% positive about the Knicks for the entire year, but it would take a lot for the team to achieve that worst-case scenario of missing the postseason.

Widely-regarded as one of the top three teams in the NBA again, the Knicks have made it a point this offseason to insist they are hungrier than ever.

“To repeat is gonna take an even higher sense of discipline and execution,” said center Karl-Anthony Towns. “And we’re gonna have to be even better than what we showed in the playoffs. All of us are aware that we’re gonna have to bring a whole other level to the table if we expect to have a chance to repeat.”