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Stephen A. Smith Rejects Danhausen ‘Curse’ Demand as Knicks Fall Behind Hawks

The ESPN host frames the 2–1 deficit as an accountability test with jobs on the line.

Overview

  • Smith, who replied Friday on X, refused to apologize or pay Danhausen and said superstition would not decide the New York Knicks’ playoff fate.
  • Danhausen had offered to consider lifting his tongue‑in‑cheek “curse” if Smith apologized and sent “human money,” referencing a WWE gimmick he introduced on First Take on April 17.
  • The Knicks trail the Atlanta Hawks 2–1 after a 109–108 Game 3 loss, putting focus back on execution as the first‑round series turns to Game 4.
  • Smith escalated his critique by saying that if New York loses the series then leadership, the coach, and players should face consequences, even name‑checking the dance team.
  • Danhausen kept the bit going on WWE SmackDown by toting a giant photo of Smith’s head, while Game 4 is set to air on NBC and Peacock with Hawks wing Jalen Johnson expected to play.