"If some of your teammates were rough riders" — Stephen A. Smith takes aim at CJ McCollum's Pelicans teammates in "First Take" segment on Knicks 

With a lot of buzz surrounding the New York Knicks as of late, Pelicans star CJ McCollum isn't all into the idea that they are a major threat to the entire league, more so to come out of the Eastern Conference. However, NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith was not too fond of McCollum's comments, considering the offseason moves from the Knicks.

It started with the acquisition of Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for four unprotected first-round picks, a 2025 protected first-round pick, a pick swap and an additional two second-round picks. Additionally, the Knicks ensured that OG Anunoby would remain part of the team with a five-year, $212.5 million contract.

With the potential to further strengthen the Knicks' defensive unit, while also providing scoring options alongside Jalen Brunson, Stephen A. Smith feels strongly about his team's potential. However, he wanted to make sure that the Pelicans' CJ McCollum understood this vision while sharing some interesting critiques on the star's team.

"When you look at the New York Knicks right now," Smith said, "the way they defend. The rough riders that they are. ... But if some of your teammates were rough riders, I mean, who knows what New Orleans will be? If they had that intesninal fortitude, if they was as committed at the defensive side of the ball ... who knows what New Orleans could do? ..."

It was all friendly banter on the "First Take" segment. The Pelicans had a promising season that was capped off with a Zion Williamson injury in the Play-In Tournament and a first-round exit at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

However, make no mistake about it — New Orleans was one of the most prominent defensive teams last season as they ranked sixth in the league.

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Pelicans guard's future is viewed to be a valuable veteran piece to a young squad

During a "HoopsHype" podcast episode in May, NBA insider Michael Scotto reported that CJ McCollum remains a valuable locker-room presence to a young team. While it's not certain that the front office won't move him in a possible trade package, they are well aware of what he brings to the table.

"While he's not untouchable, he's viewed as the grown-up in the room for a young Pelicans squad, providing stability on the court and a good locker-room presence for the team," Scotto said. "I think that's going to be a guy whose name you'll hear come up in trade talks, but for those reasons I mentioned, I don't know if they will move him."

New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum

After being one of the primary scorers in Portland, McCollum has thrived in his veteran role with the Pelicans. His level of maturity and willingness to be the seasoned leader of a young and electric New Orleans squad is also a testament to the kind of player he is.