The ever-growing rift between J.R Smith and Knicks coach Mike Woodson has developed so much so it’s starting to take a toll on the team.

Smith’s latest antics including untying his opponents shoelaces in addition to poor on court play has led to his benching by Woodson.  Mike has often said that Smith needs to grow up and act more professionally.  Woodson put Smith back in the lineup and over those last two games he shot 10-21 FG, 3-5 from three, 8 assists, 5 boards and only 1 TO.  The Knicks also were in the midst of a five-game win streak during that period.

On Tuesday night however as the Knicks lost to the Charlotte Bobcats, ending their streak, there was one player noticeably missing, J.R Smith.  He was suited up and ready to go but Woodson never called his name.  Once again he was lost and confused as were many fans who saw an increase in his production and wondered what happened.

Well today New York Daily News reporter Frank Isola shone some light on what caused the benching this time.

J.R. Smith’s benching in Charlotte Tuesday night may have been a direct result of Smith sitting most of the overtime in Monday’s win over Phoenix.

According to a source, Smith was vocal with coach Mike Woodson about not starting the extra session against Phoenix after missing what would have been a game-winning shot at the end of regulation.

Following the Bobcats game Smith said he had no idea why he was benched and that Woodson didn’t give him any warning or explanation afterwards.  Smith also said ”Communication, from my end, is over.”  While Woodson appears to be trying to gain control and hand out discipline, Smith’s resentment continues to grow.

“We need JR to play, but he’s got to grow up and improve his play… Nobody is bigger than the team,” Woodson said today while on ESPN NY Radio.  Smith on the other-hand continues to reiterate he doesn’t know about his future on the team and that he shouldn’t be here if he can’t help.

– Shaina Auxilly (@Shay_Marie)