Josh Hart Blames Knicks’ Loss to Lakers on Stephen A. Smith’s Courtside Banter with LeBron James
The New York Knicks suffered a tough loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, and Knicks guard Josh Hart has hilariously placed the blame on an unlikely source: ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith. In a post-game interview, Hart jokingly suggested that Smith’s courtside interaction with LeBron James midgame might have tipped the scales in the Lakers’ favor.
Stephen A. Smith’s Courtside Exchange with LeBron James
During the game at Crypto.com Arena, Stephen A. Smith, a well-known Lakers critic and Knicks supporter, was seen engaging in a lively courtside discussion with LeBron James. The exchange appeared lighthearted, but according to Hart, it might have provided LeBron with an extra boost of motivation to lead the Lakers to victory.
“Pressing somebody midgame is crazy,” Hart said with a laugh when addressing the media after the game. “We’re out here trying to get a win, and Stephen A. is over there giving LeBron extra fuel?That’s not what we need, man.”
LeBron James Responds in Dominant Fashion
LeBron James, who has never shied away from responding to critics through his play, turned in a vintage performance against the Knicks. The 40-year-old superstar posted 28 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds, leading the Lakers to a crucial 112-104 victory.
While James didn’t directly address the courtside interaction with Smith, he did flash a few smiles and nods in Smith’s direction after knocking down key shots. Whether or not Smith’s presence played a role, LeBron’s dominance on the court was undeniable.
Josh Hart’s Lighthearted Take
Josh Hart’s comments were clearly meant in jest, as the Knicks guard has a strong relationship with Smith. The Knicks were in the game until the closing moments, but a late surge by the Lakers sealed their fate.
Knicks fans took to social media to react to Hart’s playful comments, with some humorously calling for Smith to stay away from courtside seats during important games.
Looking Ahead
The Knicks, who are still battling for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, will need to regroup quickly after the loss. Meanwhile, the Lakers continue to push toward the postseason, with LeBron James showing no signs of slowing down.
As for Stephen A. Smith, he will undoubtedly have plenty to say about the game on his next ESPN segment. Whether or not he truly impacted the outcome, his courtside presence certainly became one of the game’s mostentertaining storylines.
