Stephen A. Smith Sounds the Alarm: Knicks Are “One Star Away” — But Running Out of Time
Stephen A. Smith Sounds the Alarm: Knicks Are “One Star Away” — But Running Out of Time
Stephen A. Smith has never been one to hold back when it comes to his beloved New York Knicks — and his latest warning might be his most urgent yet. In a fiery segment on
For a franchise haunted by decades of near-misses and rebuilds, the message cut deep. The Knicks have built a tough, disciplined core under Tom Thibodeau — anchored by Jalen Brunson’s leadership, Julius Randle’s physicality, and Josh Hart’s relentless hustle. But as the Eastern Conference grows more competitive, Smith argues that grit alone won’t carry New York to the promised land.
“You’ve got the chemistry. You’ve got the heart. But in today’s NBA, you need that second superstar to close games, to draw double teams, to scare defenses,” Smith emphasized. “
His comments come amid swirling speculation that New York could pursue a blockbuster trade before the midseason deadline. Names like Donovan Mitchell, Paul George, and even Karl-Anthony Towns have been whispered in league circles — but so far, no deal has materialized. The Knicks’ front office has preached patience, citing the importance of maintaining depth and future flexibility.
Yet, the reality is clear: the NBA doesn’t wait. Brunson’s prime is now. The team’s chemistry is peaking. Madison Square Garden is hungry for playoff redemption — not just another second-round exit.
Analysts across the league echo Smith’s urgency. The Knicks have found identity and consistency, but without a true co-star to elevate Brunson and relieve offensive pressure, they risk plateauing in a brutal conference dominated by Boston, Milwaukee, and Philadelphia.
For fans, the frustration is bittersweet. The progress is undeniable, the culture finally restored — but the missing piece still looms large. As Stephen A. put it: “This city deserves a parade down 7th Avenue. Don’t waste what you’ve built. Find that star, and do it before the clock strikes midnight.
Vancouver Canucks Emerge as Contender for Top Remaining NHL Free Agent and Former Winnipeg Jet
A report from NHL insider Frank Seravalli reveals that the top remaining NHL free agent and former Winnipeg Jet, Jack Roslovic, is linked to the Canucks.
The clock is ticking for former Winnipeg Jet Jack Roslovic to choose where he will play next year.
The alignment is natural, as Vancouver might require another middle-six forward, and Roslovic's flexibility allows him to slide in as a second or third-line center.
He could find himself playing with newcomers like Evander Kane or Jake DeBrusk, or with Conor Garland, Nils Höglander, or Kiefer Sherwood.
The Canucks Will Need to Free up a bit of Salary to Sign Roslovic
The Canucks have $3.2 million of cap space, and that could potentially be too little to fit Roslovic in. However, his last contract carried an average annual value of $4 million, so Vancouver could need to cut some space depending on his price.
A nine-year NHL veteran, Roslovic has played 526 games during his career with 102 goals, 158 assists, and 260 points. He has three goals and 14 assists in 45 playoff games.
With training camps around the corner, interest in Roslovic's skills is about to heat up. The rumor mill as to where he's headed is about to unfold, and Vancouver appears to be highly in the mix.
