Stephen A. Smith calls Knicks' tabling of Towns, Hart talks 'very disrespectful'

Stephen A. Smith has launched a sharp critique at New York Knicks owner James Dolan, labeling the decision to table contract extension talks with Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart as "very disrespectful." The comments, made on Friday, October 9, come as the Knicks officially announced they will not engage in further negotiations with their key stars until later in the season.

According to a statement provided to ESPN's Shams Charania, the organization stated that its "entire focus is on preparing for the upcoming season and delivering another year for our fans to be proud of." The team explicitly noted that it will remain solely focused on the start of the season, effectively pausing all extension discussions for the time being.

The decision has created significant tension, particularly regarding Towns, who is eligible for a four-year deal worth over $276 million. Sources previously indicated that the Knicks' latest offer to Towns was approximately $200 million for four years. Towns has been vocal about his frustrations, stating on Monday that he wants a deal that keeps the team together and values him, noting that "none of those things have come close to happening."

Hart, who is also eligible for an extension, expressed similar concerns during media day last month, suggesting that a deal might not be reached due to a lack of movement. The Knicks, who won the NBA title last season in a five-game Finals series against the San Antonio Spurs, are currently the second-most favored team to repeat as champions according to DraftKings odds.

Owner James Dolan has previously indicated that the team will not enter the second spending apron, a constraint that has already led to tough roster decisions, such as the departure of backup center Mitchell Robinson to the Boston Celtics. Smith's criticism highlights the growing friction between the front office's financial strategy and the expectations of a newly crowned championship core.