The New York Knicks managed to edge out the Golden State Warriors 110-107 on Sunday, even with the Warriors missing key players like Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. While a win is a win, some fans and analysts are raising eyebrows at the close scoreline, given the Warriors' depleted roster.
"The person I'm blaming most for all of this is Jalen Brunson... I had the Knicks going to the Finals... & it's because of what will go down as an absolutely horrific trade if Mikal Bridges continues to look the way that he's looking."
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 16, 2026
—Stephen A. Smithpic.twitter.com/6Jmuzb1985
Stephen A. Smith has been vocal about the Knicks' recent challenges, pointing fingers not at Jalen Brunson’s on-court performance-after all, he dropped 30 points in the game-but rather at the trade that brought Mikal Bridges to New York. Bridges has struggled lately, scoring in single digits in five of the last six games, which has fueled the debate.
Smith argues that Brunson played a pivotal role in the Knicks' decision to trade for Bridges. This move cost the Knicks four first-round picks, a hefty price that hasn’t yet delivered the expected returns.
“Why did they do that?” Smith questioned.
“Instead of waiting a year to sign a five-year, $270 million max extension, Brunson signed a four-year, $156 million deal, saving the Knicks around $113 million. That financial flexibility was used to acquire Bridges, Brunson’s close friend.”
Smith acknowledges that Bridges isn’t lacking talent, but he believes the trade has hampered the Knicks’ ability to build a championship-caliber roster. “You can't allow your organization to give up that much for a player who ultimately limits your roster-building capabilities,” Smith remarked.
Despite the controversy, the Knicks hold a solid 44-25 record, sitting third in the Eastern Conference. They’re set to face the Indiana Pacers next, aiming to continue their push towards the playoffs.