### Stephen A. Smith on Knicks’ lost opportunity with Giannis
Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith reflected on a major "what-if" for the New York Knicks, suggesting that the franchise may have missed a chance to land Giannis Antetokounmpo due to their commitment to another player.
> "Looking back, the only reason Giannis isn’t wearing a Knicks uniform today is because the team overpaid for Mikal Bridges," Smith said, according to ESPN colleague Shams Charania.
Smith implied that the Knicks' aggressive financial pursuit of Mikal Bridges ultimately closed the door on an opportunity to attract the two-time MVP to New York. The franchise’s salary allocation left them with little flexibility to make a serious run for Giannis, especially as rumors circulated that he was exploring new team options before re-signing with Milwaukee.
Analysts have long debated the Knicks’ strategy, balancing their current rebuild momentum with the prospect of adding a superstar. Bridges has contributed solid defense and reliable scoring since his arrival, but Smith argues that the deal limited broader possibilities in the free-agent market.
> "Bridges is a great player, but you don't pass on a once-in-a-generation talent because of contractual commitments," Smith added.
### Franchise implications and public reactions
Fans and commentators have been quick to react, with some agreeing that Knicks management was short-sighted, while others defend the decision, noting that Giannis never strongly signaled interest in New York. The debate highlights the challenges of timing and cap management in constructing a championship-contending roster.
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*Author’s summary: Stephen A. Smith criticized the Knicks for overpaying Mikal Bridges, arguing the move cost them a real chance to bring Giannis Antetokounmpo to New York.*
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BasketballNetwork.net on MSN — 2025-11-28