It is tough to be a Knicks fan currently. I have been a fan for approximately 20 years now. I still remember sitting on my couch in New Jersey watching the games with my dad and yelling at the television. My mom would be asking in the background, "how much longer until it’s over?”
The teams of yesteryear were comprised by the likes of Patrick Ewing, Charles Oakley, Latrell Sprewell, Allan Houston, Larry Johnson, Chris Childs, Charlie Ward and Chris Dudley. Even though I was not afforded the privilege to watch the games in Madison Square Garden, there was definitely an energy in the place that was readily apparent even through the television screen.
Fast forward to present day, and it is difficult to stomach the lack of effort exerted by the present Knicks team. The perennial All-Star, Carmelo Anthony, is greatly scrutinized; however, true fans know what to expect from him. Anthony is an offensive purist; he can score from anywhere in a myriad number of ways. However, his defensive effort is, has been and always will be a liability.
The brightest spot on the Knicks roster is Kristaps Porzingis. The Knicks front office, in the past, has had a penchant for drafting players that amount to little or nothing in terms of productivity. Understandably, this drew the ire of long-suffering fans and Porzingis was booed when he was selected as the fourth pick in the 2015 NBA draft.
Phil Jackson is a legendary coach who has amassed 11 championship rings; however, his teams were usually stacked with the best players such as Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. With the Knicks, Jackson does not possess anywhere near the firepower he once had; as a result, his years with the Knicks have been marred by underachieving teams and disappointing seasons.
The one thing I miss most about the Knicks teams of old was their effort and tenacity. My Dad and I would be glued to the television as the Knicks took on teams such as the Heat and Pacers. It seemed most of these games would come down to the wire and sweat would develop on our brows due to the intensity.
When my Dad and I watch the games today, courtesy of NBA League Pass, the effort and tenacity are visibly absent. There seems to be no pride or fight left in the team for the most part. The team will win a game or two and then slide right back into mediocrity.
I miss the battles between the Miami Heat and the New York Knicks. The rivalry between Patrick Ewing and Alonzo Mourning was always a treat to watch. Furthermore, every game was hard fought even if it was merely an exhibition game.
As is the case with most things in life, the game of basketball has evolved. In some cases, it has improved for the better; however, there are some areas, in my opinion, where the game has lost some of its luster, so to speak. There is an abundance of stronger and more elite athletes floating around these days; with that being said, players seem to be less loyal and do not always play as hard as they could have.
I think the New York Knicks need to cast aside playoff aspirations for the time being and completely rebuild the roster. Porzingis is coming into his own and will be a superstar before long. The future should include building around him and putting players around him that can take some of the pressure off. All in all, it will be intriguing to see what direction the Knicks organization decides to take and, as a fan, I hope it is the right one.
