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Lamar Odom responds to Stephen A. Smith's crack claim

Michelle R. Martinelli

While ranting against New York Knicks president Phil Jackson this week, Stephen A. Smith said this on ESPN's First Take: "His first move as the executive of the New York Knicks was to sign Lamar Odom, who was on crack!"

Needless to say, Odom was not happy with what Smith said, and, along with #slander, he tweeted a photo of the letter his lawyer, Saam Zangeneh, sent to ESPN asking people at the network to "actively voice their disdain for Mr. Smith's inappropriate statement".

A portion of the letter reads:

"Let's put aside the fact that Lamar passed all the required physicals and medical tests necessary to play in the league. Let's put aside the fact that Mr. Smith attempted to qualify his statement by saying how much he likes Lamar, and wishes him well in his recovery. Let us look at what this statement does, not only to Lamar, but to any and all professional athletes that are struggling with addiction.

"The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) has defined addition as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking, and use, despite harmful consequences. Mr. Smith chose to jokingly disparaged Lamar for having a disease. Mr. Smith chose to shout out the fact that Lamar was sick, and to use his disease as the butt of a joke. To say that his conduct was outrageous and unacceptable does not scratch the surface. Think about the others that are battling addiction. Those that have not had the strength or opportunity to share their struggle like Lamar. Imagine the effect this grotesque statement would have on any young athlete who is privately fighting this disease."

According to Deadspin, Smith clarified his comments from First Take, saying Odom was not the target of his attacks, calling the former NBA player "one of the nicest athletes" and a gentleman.

Via Deadspin:

"That's why it's worth repeating: Lamar Odom was not the focus of my ire. My comments were entirely, totally, meant for Phil Jackson. Anyone who loves the NY Knicks, who've witnessed what has been transpiring over the last three years, know exactly who I was directing my comments to."

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