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Stephen A. Smith Has Guaranteed Bold Michael Jordan Prediction
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Stephen A. Smith has high expectations for Michael Jordan's new media assignment.

NBC announced last month that Jordan will join the network's returning NBA coverage as a "special contributor." The former Chicago Bulls legend may not replicate Smith's affinity for hot takes, but the ESPN personality doesn't think Jordan will hold back.

During last week's PBD Podcast, via Front Office Sports, Smith insisted that Jordan will be a straight-shooter as an analyst.

"Let me tell you something about Michael Jordan: He's going to be brutally honest. Oh, I can assure you that," Smith said. "He's not going to be somebody who's going to be passive. … The Michael Jordan I know, when talking basketball, he is as candid as it gets. He ain't trying to hurt nobody's feelings. He ain't trying to be insulting, but he's going to tell you what's going on."

Smith is "proud" of Jordan for taking on the new challenge despite obviously not needing the money. Having fielded many calls from MJ about his First Take commentary, Smith felt it was about time Jordan offered his own basketball insight to the masses.

"Stop acting like you have nothing to say about basketball now that you're retired," Smith told Jordan. "You talk about it all the damn time!"

If Jordan doesn't meet those standards, Smith is prepared to hold the 62-year-old accountable and urge him to be more authentic on TV.

"I don't think he's going to be shy about saying what he sees, at all," Smith concluded. "As a matter of fact, if he is, he's going to have to deal with me because I'm going to be in his ear telling him, 'You're getting shy now. That's what we're doing? That ain't the MJ I know!'"

Smith's expectations may not align with Jordan's new role. Last month, CNBC's Alex Sherman reported that the six-time NBA champion is expected to appear in taped segments during NBC's pre-game and halftime shows.

Front Office Sports also said a rumor that NBC is paying Jordan $40 million annually is "inaccurate."

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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