Stephen A. Smith Addresses Rumors He ‘Dislikes’ Max Kellerman & Pushed Him Off First Take (VIDEO)

Max Kellerman is expected to be moved from First Take as First Office Sports mentioned earlier this week. ESPN is exploring moving Kellerman to its morning radio show as they tried last year, but the original plans fell through.

While Kellerman’s future will get the attention right now, Stephen A. Smith’s backstage politics appear to be the real story as he reportedly has ‘disdain’ for Kellerman.

Kellerman’s removal was even a topic in Smith’s 2019 contract negotiations as he fought to get ESPN to hire Skip Bayless back from Fox Sports.

After the news of Kellerman’s impending departure, Smith was finally able to address the many rumors of him not liking Kellerman.

Stephen A. Smith on Max Kellerman leaving ESPN's First Take: "Those reports of me disliking Max are an absolute lie. I actually got a lot of love for the guy.

"If he stays on the show, so be it. If he departs, it will be because they have other things they want him to do." pic.twitter.com/OLb5ec991f
— ? Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson (@ScoopB) August 19, 2021

While nothing is reportedly finalized, Kellerman’s spot on First Take isn’t expected to be filled. Instead, Smith will be alone with Molly Qerim Rose while other ESPN reporters, hosts and guests make appearances.

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