Because the Knicks coach shot down the private discussion that happened with Bridges, Smith would take the star's side, saying the incident is a “bad sign” for the team. In the win over the Trail Blazers, Bridges finished with 33 points in 41 minutes.

After Mikal Bridges claimed he asked Tom Thibodeau to reduce his minutes, the coach denied such a conversation took place as controversy emerged Wednesday in Knicks world over playing time.