Stephen A. Smith has been drawing a lot of attention for the rejuvenated First Take in recent weeks. But he's also a big part of the revamped NBA Countdown studio show accompanying ESPN's national NBA telecasts. Wednesday night, he reminded viewers why.

Following the New York Knicks' 111-106 loss to a Brooklyn Nets team without Kyrie Irving, the injured Kevin Durant, recently traded James Harden, or recently acquired Ben Simmons in its lineup, Stephen A. could not withhold his disdain for what is arguably the NBA's most disappointing team this season.

Smith began by relaying a text message he received from a friend: "We as Knicks fans deserve better than this." And that spurred on a larger Stephen A. rant.

"The New York Knicks are a national disgrace, ladies and gentlemen," said Smith. "They're horrible.

"Tibbs, we're hearing that the New York Knicks as an organization ain't too fond of him these days. He might be out. I don't give a damn if he was going tonight. Julius Randle, I'm done with him. Leon Rose, I mean we've got inmates in state penitentaries more visible than this man. He's the president of basketball operations. We can't find this man!"

Smith continued ripping the Knicks for another two minutes, but I think you get the point. If not, he punctuated his rant with "They are trash! Horrible!"

Wait, let's check back in. But before that, remember when the Knicks finished fourth in the Eastern Conference (41-31 record), made the playoffs, and seemed to be a team on the rise. Right now, they're in 12th place with a 25-34 mark going into the All-Star break. OK -- carry on, Stephen A.

"Spike Lee shouldn't even show up for the rest of the season!," he said. "Tracy Morgan, don't go! Don't go! Nobody go!"

It got louder. If Stephen A.'s doctors told him to dial it down after he was hospitalized with COVID, he might have gotten a phone call of concern after this segment. Or maybe he was asked to stop in on Thursday for a check-up.

"I'm so done with this team! You just stink! I am officially embarrassed that there is video out of me last season, talking about 'New York, stand up'!"

Jalen Rose tried to interject, but was blasted down with an "I'm not finished, Jalen!" (Mike Greenberg should make t-shirts with that on the front for after the NBA All-Star break.) Greenberg and Michael Wilbon could only laugh at the outrage, fury, and indignation on display.

It was a classic Stephen A. Smith rant. And ESPN might finally have a reason for fans to tune in for NBA Countdown besides just happening to watch before, during, and after their game broadcasts.