Stephen A. Smith angers NBA fans over comments about Kawhi Leonard

Stephen A. Smith is one of the most recognizable names in sports journalism and for good reason. He has been a staple at ESPN for over a decade, where he has become one of their go-to experts when it comes to all things basketball-related. Smith always brings his A-game, whether breaking down the latest trades, discussing player performances, or predicting which team will come out on top in the playoffs.

However, Smith has drawn the anger of many in the NBA for his controversial comments about Clippers star Kawhi Leonard. “Steve Ballmer and the Los Angeles Clippers should force Kawhi Leonard to retire,” Smith said on ESPN’s First Take. “I’m done. He needs to go home. It’s over.

“He is the absolute the worst superstar you could possibly have on your team. He’s barely ever there, and on top of it all, he does nothing to market or promote your franchise. Absolutely, positively, nothing.”

Leonard missed the final three games for the Los Angeles Clippers in their Playoff series loss to the Phoenix Suns, which affected the team’s chances of advancing since many experts have recognized that the player was one of the most physically fit in the playoff round.

“I mean this in the nicest way possible to both of you (Smith and Chris Russo) – but listening to each of you right now, it’s very obvious that you’ve played zero high-level basketball, and you do not understand the requirements of doing that,” Redick said. “I mean this in the nicest way possible to both of you (Smith and Chris Russo) – but listening to each of you right now, it’s very obvious that you’ve played zero high-level basketball, and you do not understand the requirements of doing that,” Redick said.

NBA fans have taken to social media calling for Smith’s head for his comments and suggesting that he should be the one to retire.