Overview

• Smith made the on-air prediction on ESPN's First Take, citing Achilles injuries to Jayson Tatum, Damian Lillard, and Tyrese Haliburton as the reason the path is open.
• The comments drew online criticism for appearing to celebrate injuries, though a widely shared clip omitted his follow-up, “I wish them all well.”
• New York shifts to head coach Mike Brown after Tom Thibodeau’s exit, with bench additions Jordan Clarkson, Malcolm Brogdon, and Guerschon Yabusele supporting Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
• Several analysts still rate Cleveland as the team to beat in the East, with Orlando mentioned as another threat after an active offseason.
• The Knicks open the 2025–26 season on October 22 against the Cavaliers following last season’s run to the Eastern Conference Finals.