I wanted to touch on something Peaceman mentioned in one of his comments. It's actually a good topic that maybe most fans don't understand or realize.
The Knicks play at The Garden, but they practice at the MSG Training Center in Greenburgh. The Knicks also hold their morning shoot-arounds at the TC, not the Garden. Many fans - and some media - wonder why the Knicks don't practice more at the Garden to get used to the place, the rims, the floor and the angles.
Actually, most teams rarely practice on their actual arena floor. In the new arenas, teams have practice courts built in the facility and spend most of their time there. The courts are build to resemble the arena court, colors and all. The Knicks have that too. One benefit of practices at a facility instead of an arena is that there are more baskets available. More shooting gets done.
The main reason, of course, is that the Garden has too many events going on during the winter to have the basketball floor down long enough to allow the Knicks to practice their during a homestand. If the Rangers are playing, you have to get the court up so the ice can be prepared. There are also concerts and the circus, etc.
The MSG TC is gorgeous. The training facilities and locker room area are five-star, compared to the cramped and quite basic set-up at the Garden (other than new carpet and a nice flat scren TV, the Knicks locker room at the Garden is very dated...circa mid-1990s at least). But that's because the Knicks spend most of their time up at the TC.
When Isiah Thomas first came in as team president, he wanted the Knicks to get more familiar with the Garden. So he attempted to have the team hold its morning shoot-around at the Garden on home game days (Opponents often shoot there if the schedule allows, if not, they find a Manhattan-based gym). But Isiah realized the trouble with holding shoot-arounds at the Garden - most of the players lived in Westchester and, therefore, it was a long commute back and forth only to return again for the game (players usually arrive between 4:30 and 5 p.m.). He could have the team stay at a hotel, but that isn't cost-effective, nor does it fly with guys who have families they are away from enough when the road trips come.
So back to the TC the Knicks went for the morning shoots. And the question still remains: is the Garden really a home-court for the Knicks if they only get to shoot there for about an hour before games?
This is nothing new. Back in the championship era, the players used to grumble about making the commute out to Queens to practice at an ancient armory. Hot showers were scarce, so the players would often dress in their gear to and from practice.
You would think, however, that the Knicks should try to take advantage of any days they can use the Garden for practice. There aren't many "dark" nights (nothing scheduled) on the Garden schedule in the wintertime, but the ones that are should allow the Knicks to leave the court down and get some shooting in on the rims that matter most.
* *
- Saw the tsn.ca NBA preview on the Knicks. Some of you might not get why the author wrote "centre" instead of "center." That's just how Canadians spell it. The King's English. It's why the SkyDome is called "Rogers Centre" and where the Raptors play is "Air Canada Centre." They also spell color like this: colour. And they smoke. A lot. Seven years on the hockey beat and that's what I come away with. That and I really, really, really wish David Stern would put an NBA team in Montreal. Really.
Comments (74)
Alan,
We know you're our "Johnny-on-the-spot". We're sending positive vibes your way too! I went through a major reno last year and it almost caused me to have a coronary.
KFL
Alan,
Big Points for explaining to the uninitiated why building is not available for practice sessions. Arena's are booked throughout the year and Basketball and Hockey teams are but anchor tenants. That is why Lakers always have long road trip in February to make room for Grammy's, Bulls have a long road trip early in season to make room for circus, KNicks leave in March for Big East Tourney etc.
Fixers,
Did that TSN Dude hit da nail on da head or what, with that EC analysis? Right as he may be, I'm still loving him (no homo) until IT says/does otherwise by moving him. Let's hope he worked on those things this summer. The "mean streak" or warrior-not-to-be-denied arrogance (a la The Big Fella) can't be taught. You either have it or go play in West Coast.
KFL
Alan,
Thank you for expounding on Peaceman's post and for crystalizing why we don't practice or do more shoot-arounds in MSG.
I see you know a little something, something about Canadians. I love Toronto and visit quite often for business purposes (My Family I vactioned there last Summer). Shopping is off the hook up there and so are the Dimes. As a matter of fact, I am headed to Whistler, BC, right outside of Vancouver on business Friday. Now that is a beautiful city.
In regards to EC, last year was a break-out season, and this year will definitely be a Make it or Break it season for ECITY...I am hopeful that the big fella has worked on his game feverishly, and that the unfortunate break-in and robbery of his humble abode and FAMILY has taught ECITY a very valuable lesson.
TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED; LIVE IN THE MOMENT; ACCEPT NOTHING IS GUARANTEED; MAKE EVERY MOMENT COUNT. UNDERSTANDING HE MUST PLAY AT THE OPTIMUM LEVEL for himself, for his family, for his teammates, and for the NYK organization he represents.
I believe he will!!!!!
Hey Alan,
This is great - it's the little details, the behind the scenes stuff that none of the other writers covering the Knicks talk about, that makes this blog such a change of pace from the rest.
Alan, Any truth to the rumor that the Knicks keep a soft/loose rim to allow for more scoring at the Garden? Not sure where I heard this, but it makes for some interesting talk!
I bought so many knicks tickets last year, I was invited to a one day mini-camp late last season at the practice facility. "A day with the knicks." You have to drive way north on the west side highway to get to this place up around Yonkers. It is pretty far from midtown, you're right about that. not many showed up, probably because it is not easy to get there except by car.
We got to meet and do drills with Jared Jeffries, Eddy Curry, Q, D Lee, and we saw but did not meet Nate. It was after the brawl, nate might have still been suspended, not sure. All the guys were were very nice and friendly. No attitudes. Some of the Knicks City Dancers were there as they stood underneath each basket. The practice facility was top-notch. It looked like two full courts but they had six baskets for the drills, which were pretty basic. I did not see the media, steph, crawford, isiah or dolan there, of course. They gave us a small bag of knicks stuff and some quick food afterwards. very classy move by the organization.
Alan,
I totally get the French Canadian thing, what was interesting to me was that they used the spelling "centre" for the position, and then went against that with "centerpiece" to describe the main option of the offense.
Montreal kicks major ass btw. I've never been to Europe, but I believe what they say, that Montreal is the most European city in the Americas, because it feels so different there. I've only been once, but it was amazing, can't wait to go back. Its not that far from the NYC, perhaps 8 hours, depending on the velocity of choice. And I like cutting through upstate NY to see the unpolluted NY mountains. Clean air is good stuff that I no longer take for granted since moving here.
Strictly bloggin' but it may be that Stern is punishing Montréal for what happened to the Expos. I can't imagine that the owners of Les Canadadiens could not put together an investment team and the coins/Bennies required to get an NBA franchise in Montréal.
Starburyfan, if it took you 8 hrs. to drive up there, then you must have stopped several times to admire the reds and oranges along the way. If you go via the NE states you get the violets and purples (only place to do that in the NE). Those sights, burning pine, skunk road kill--all indicators that the Orange-n-Blue are about to groove.
KFL
Cool catch up read this morning to start the week off. Lives, Cooley, Peace, StarburyFan, Steady, States...Good reads as usual. Hope everyone else had a good long weekend.
Nice lead topic Alan.
Haven't had a chance to scour the web much but here's a couple of joints I found interesting:
Yi Jianlin already has a commercial
Brandon Wright may have just what the Warriors are looking for. Speed, Length and athleticism in a big man's body. I called him Channing Frye-lite when the J-Rich trade went down. He may well still be but it may be exactly what they need from their big position.
ERROR POST
insert "Canadiens" after "Les" strike "Canadadiens".
KFL
Thanks for that info Alan!
I hope that they somehow make more time to practice at the Garden this year, with free throws being the priority!
Cooley, FYI
I realize your new to this blog, but, Kevin Harewood's the man we all refer to as the "General".. he gives us all something to chew on! The bro's a true historian of the Hoop game!
Monteral is breath takeing!
The people are friendly and I have never seen a cleaner subway system in my life! You can literally eat off the floors....it's that clean! If you go, use your Mastercard/Visa for everything as it automatically converts the money difference! I remember last time there I paid $159.oo per night at the Hyatt, and when my Visa bill came it was converted to like $88.00 a night! I slapped myself for all the resterants I paid cash in American money! They got one hell of a tip by accident from me! LOL ... Keep Da good stuff coming...and Hoz I'm with you on the Ron Ron statement!
@ Cooley,
Dude, you speaking with so much fire and brimstone you got me ready to lace em' up myself!!! I feel your passion bro, and I feel the same.
@ Peace,
As much as I'd love to acquire Ron Ron, the fact remains that he's currently a King, and no amount of "wishin' and a hopin'" is gonna get him here any quicker. If it's meant for him to be a Knick, he'll be one. Until then, I stand firm on my statement of going to war with what we have.
We don't really have alot of choice. Besides, I like what we have.
The Mavs should thank their lucky stars they don't play for a city like NYC. After GS handed Nowitzki's ass back to them, somehow, they have escaped national scrutiny. Here, this dude writes about them being "under the radar".
Andray Blatche goes to "John" School for prostitute solicitors. Never knew there was such a thing.
Atlanta Hawks Shelden Williams has a new Q&A at the AJC. The East is definitely tougher from top to bottom. All the high picks of previous years are maturing. The Hawks are primed for plucking. They are a few trades away from something serious.
Wilbon breaks down the USA Team from a FIBA perspective.
Another one of those Conference breakdowns. This time, this one is of the Southwest Division.
Garnett a hard-working leader/player? Tell me something I don't know. Dude's a beast. Check this out for the "foot prints in the sand" quote.
BARF
That "school for prostitute soliciters" had me laughing too! Just like Fox News had a ..get this, "Apoligy expert?" Rate Vick's public apoligy! Gotta run, can't miss my mandatory school for for thinking the Female clerks at White Castle are Hot at 3AM after a few drinks!
Few Drinks? My ass. How drunk do you have to be to even go inside Shite Castle for sh!t burgers? I guess the answer to that is: Drunk enough to think a chick working the graveyard shift @ Shite Castle is cute. LoL.
Jorge Garbajosa is suiting up for Spain's national team despite Toronto Raptor's doctors saying that he needs surgery. As a human being (especially one of Spanish descent), I wish him well in his pursuit of a life long dream to represent for his country. As a Knicks fan, I hope he injures himself and is sorely missed next season...leaving an open playoff spot for the Knicks.
@BARF
Come on man...we want to beat the Raptors at their best,so they won't have any excuses.
Yo DLT, I hear you. Still, there will be plenty of other teams to beat at full strength. Toronto is a tough match up and they are in our conference. Garby's taking a chance by going against doctors and his teams wishes. If Garbajosa goes down, he'll have to deal with the repercussions. (maybe I should have thrown a warning out before I wished him bodily harm...oh well) Still, if he's injured, they still have Kapono. I know he's not much of a ball handler and distributor like Garb but he's a deadlier shooter. Losing Garb won't exactly knock Toronto out of competition but it may open up a chance for the Knicks to make the playoffs. As it stands now, the Knicks making the playoffs is not a given. They will have to scratch, kick and claw their way in. I don't know if they can or will do that but I do think they have it in them.
================
Christie's at it again:
"Or at least he sort of joined the Clippers. Christie signed a 10-day contract, then another, and then bailed on them a few days before the deal expired in a bizarre sequence in which his publicist informed the media before the team."
Here's the article.
@BARF
I just hate that NOBODY is mentioning the Knicks to make the playoffs. In the weak east!!!I think we have a good chance ,BUT are we real,or dreamin'. Maybe we need to make "that trade" to get IN!
DLT.
The East is no longer that weak. Free agents have all migrated East and the Eastern teams retained their free agents. Boston will be better (barring injury). Atlanta will be better. Orlando will be better. Milwaukee and Charlotte will be better. And then there are the teams that made the playoffs last year.
I think the Knicks have it in them. I think their potential is through the roof. But since they did not make the playoffs, I can't gung-ho my predictions. I gotsa keep them conservative. I see maturity improving JC, Steph, ZR and Nate. I see the players who have "something to prove" as JJames, Rose, Mardy, Balkman, Lee and (most of all) Jeffries. Q-Rich just needs to stay healthy.
If the stars align and the Earth spins just right next season, we should be in the playoffs and scaring some of the teams that are considered the cream of the East.
Nate and Jeffries coming back healthy and mentally sound help. Malik Rose wanting to get more minutes help. Steph keeping his mind right helps. David Lee and Jamal Crawford (who I haven't heard any news about) coming back from their injuries help.
But, to me, they are not the keys. If ECity was a lock to work on his weaknesses this summer, I'd be more happy. If ECity was more of a force on defense, he'd make the rest of the game easier for everyone else. I'm not saying he needs to be Mutombo with the blocks and Rodman on the boards. He just needs to learn to occupy the space he should and alter the shots he can.
Its weird. He's great on offense. Beside the lazy screens or too-slow picks, there isn't much to complain about on offense. But when he's on the defensive end, he looks like he's always playing catch-up. He's always looks he's trying to figure something out when he should be reacting instinctively.
To me, he's the key.
A healthy, uber-leader Q-Rich could be a second key but the biggest key next year is Curry. Of course, Zach's big body in a mostly zone defense should help EC. It should shrink the amount of court EC is responsible for thereby giving him a smaller area to focus on. That should help although it's a subtle thing.
Not every team has a stifling media policy.
The Blazers put together a clip of practice time. In this edition, Travis Outlaw wets the mid-range jumper while fading away. Oden blocks Brandon Roy's floater attempt and later throws down a vicious two-hand tomahawk dunk on no one in particular. Roy puts a pull-up J in someone's eye. McRoberts shoulder fakes his way into the lane for a score. Plus, other stuff.
BARF
Got ya back on that, I think EC is a big key. He had a good season last year,but still has to step his game up. There really aren't too many centers that match up with EC.
Zach could make us crazy if he brings it all. I like that Zeke has many options with the line up. Lee,Balk,Jefferies,Collins,N8,and I hope Jones coming off the bench.Not to talk the trade in to the ground,but RonRon could really help us put teams on lock down. We may have to get in the playoffs with our "D".Q does play good "D". Crawford,EC will need to put some work in. Hope they got started this summer.I think Jefferies could really make or break this team. If you have a starting front line of JJ,Zach and EC...all 6'10-6'11...WOW!We won't need Artest.I think we got a great team,BUT
David Loves Thoses Knicks
Even though his team got their butt spanked worse DVJ comparing the original Dream Team to this year's lot, . That goes to show why the Houston Rockets are the team to watch in the West. They've added Adelman and his run and gun styled offense. Bonzi Wells is back from injury (bruised ego) and the return of Mike James and Steve Francis should make things interesting for the PG position. Add Scola to the mix at the PF slot next to Yao and you have the makings of a powerhouse.
excerpt:
"The US handled Scola with many different defenses. They tried to clog the middle with a zone, and for the first time in this competition the zone was actually working well for the Americans. It forced Argentina to use the wings instead of the inside, and it took away clear passing zones to the post."
=========
David Loves Those Knicks, cool. I've beaten the RonRon trade to death myself. I'm actually curious to see what this team can do without another addition. For the sake of the GM, I'd like to dump a contract or two on some other team in exchange for an upgrade at the SF position. But other than saving Isiah from having to explain why he had to cut a player with years left on their contract, I couldn't care less. Artest would make a big difference but at the price of what? I don't care much to find out.
I just have to say that I messed up the formatting on the last post and it obviously killed it.
I'm too lazy and want to get out of here too much to re-write. Just be sure that it was the most thought-provoking and eloquent message in the history of the English language and basketball literature. Be sure of that.
:)
BARF,
You and we know what's good.
KFL
BARF
This team could be interesting as it is. HOWEVER, I think we have the assets now to use to get us NOT ONLY IN THE PLAYOFFS, but to go deep in the post season. We need it...us Knicks fans....we have been waiting too long.You mentioned SF...Q's back and Balk does not have the experience...more reasons to do the trade. We don't have many guys with playoff experience....another reason for the trade. I just want us to see late May or June this year!!!!
Miss a few weeks miss a lifetime. Gosh I couldn't even debrief myself on all the content on this site. I have a question for the fellow bloggers where can I get a hold of tsn.ca NBA preview on the Knicks that AH referred to? Is it only in print or is there an online version of the material MH referenced.
I see DJ is the auto pilot here when Hahn is off working on his home and getting us insider information. Shout out to all of the crew here. Good to be back at the numero uno Knick booster joint.
Orange and Blue,
You did not miss much. Basically we are still paying for those words in 99' that went like this:"With the 15th pick in the 1999 N-B-A draft, THE NEW YORK KNICKS select FREDRIC WEIS OF LIMOGES,FRANCE".....of course Artest was number 16.
Orange and Blue:
http://www.tsn.ca/nba/news_story/?ID=217526&hubname=nba
cheers
is anyone else having sporadic problems accessing the blog today?
It was nice when the Knicks had training camp at SUNY Purchase; they would open a practice to the public. Tickets were $5, and the money was given to charity. The gym was the size of a high school gym. It was great sitting that close to the action. It would be nice if the Knicks opened up the T.C., but they appear to have a closed door policy to all.
Fellas,
Missing the point about Montreal. Yeah, it's a pretty city, but for my US dollar the finest looking women in North America.
As you were...
Since we are all still talking Shyt, with nothing concrete...I just read Ken Berger's article today. He stated that If Bibby is traded Artest may be included. Pure speculation here, but you think that Zeke may have Plans for a Marbury at 2, Bibby at 1. Atrest 3. Zach at 4. Curry at 5.? Interesting thought,very Bostonesque, but Nahhh! It's just a conversation post, just something to consider because you never Know what Zeke has up his sleeve!
@Peaceman
It would be interesting to hear who would be included in an Bibby/Artest package.Guessing DD,FJ,Rose for cap room, Nate, and maybe one other.
Who would you give up for the 2 SAC Guys?
Gents,
Welcome back and nice to meet you BARF and Orange * Blue...
Barf thanks for the SI link and update on the SW Division, and real astute observation on the reduction of space via the use of the zone w/our 2 wide bodies...Slick
BX in MD just trying to keep it on the one and play it straight. Only way I roll...lol
IT has been real quiet and for good reason. He's got some chips to play with or he could load up the bus today and go the War with what he's got...Still, a penny for his thoughts...
Man what's the deal with Dickua and Jones are they staying are they going? Are we signing D-Nice? Are they're any plans to go after Artest? What's up?
hey alan,
since you are 6'6" (according to your blog), and you interview these guys face to face, are some NBA players shorter than their listed heights?
I always hear clyde on MSG saying nate is 5'6" or stephon is 6'0" or curry is 6'10", is it that he's trying to be honest about their real heights or is not aware of the stat sheet in front of him?
When I saw Q I didn't think he was that much taller than myself, and I'm 6'3" in shoes.
The reason I ask is because of Wilson Chandler. nba draft websites say he's 6'6", while nba.com has him at 6'8". that's a big difference when you have to guard Caron Butler one night, LeBron the next and Tayshaun Prince the night after that.
i like the package of
B.Miller/Artest in exchange for Q,Dickau,JJAmes and D.Lee
everyone except Lee,sub Balk and N8 for DLEE.
Fixers,
I don't know about you guys but I'm not into this gauging my fate as a KFL on the pre-season predictions and media pundits. Pundits pontificate and talk smack. I read somewhere today a "fan" saying, "I don't see us making the playoffs unless we make a trade". I so wished Peaceman was around to crown the SOFA KING typing that statement.
Noone has laced nary a one shoe and the balls have not even been rolled out on the racks. Here's my promise to you all (and I wish many others edging to get in on the double-dutch bus that this blog has pleasantly become to do the same): I will pass over any comments about OTPs or how they could fit on the NYK until IT says they fit with a transaction. I'm loving (no homo) the ones we've got. We're packing the bus and bringing along both Nice and Nasty. At the end, with a shared vision, we're talking about 48 minutes of holy hell with slashing, running and heavy wood/wallop at both posts. Until/Unless a trade is made, this is the last time I will type Kobe, Ron Ron or Bibby as part of my post. And please don't goad me into doing so. Steady as IT goes.
KFL
Yea, we need to wait and see, just getting excited about what could/may happen.We know Zeke needs to dump at least 2 bodies.Hope he just does not release without getting an asset.......waiting.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "We expect to make the playoffs, and we expect to make a run this year." -- Knicks forward David Lee, expressing ["unusual"] optimism during a recent interview with MSG network.
I quoted the folks from FoxSports. DLee made the point and I'm loving him and his comrades until they get there. Waiting with you DLT.
KFL
DITTO...Keep it STEADY and on the DLT!!! LOL
Yah Steady I agree, F all trades. I wanna see our young kids kick ass. Just imagine Balkman and Collins defend the perimeter stealing and blocking shots with Lee getting bounds and sparking the fast break with Mighty Nate raining threes. This is whats in store for us this season. Lets go Knicks.
Jerome James needs to get kicked off the team.
Just like Zeke's savvy with young talent, stupid dumb signing of Jerome James.
Let's face it, the guy steals money and COMPOUNDS it by having the audacity to show up in previous camps grossly out of shape. What the hell was he doing all summer? We'll see this year. He is owed roughly $18MM on his contract. I say we buy him out: talk about building chemistry: and sign Nichols. We stop pipe dreaming for Kobe and give the young nucleus a shot.
The Knicks have not had the appetite for the most part to develop homegrown talent . Certainly the Yankees and Mets and other franchises have shown us that the fan base loyalty will increase appreciably along with team chemistry when there is a connection to draft picks emerging into star or good complementary status. I say we kick JJ's sorry ass out of town tomorrow. We have plenty of depth, plus don't forget the addition by subtraction value. Look at the Knick roster without any deep analysis. Who doesn't belong and why? JJ heads the list.
Had to get that off my chest.
Starbury fan
Thanks for the link the tsn article.
Because I saw alot of back and forth in the previous post regarding the "dream team" v. the current crop of NBA olympians I figured I'd attach the following link to an espn article on that topic.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=sheridan_chris&id=3002943
Also it appears that were not not the only group of guys rallying our players in the pre pre season in order to make a good run at the regular season and the playoffs. Our Rivals to the north Boston also has at least one of its key members putting forth the effort to make a run at a strong regular season. See the link below.
http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2007/09/04/garnett_sweating_details/
i think you're on to something Orange and Blue.
this could be the year of the rivals for NYK fans.
Boston fans have been dying for something to cheer about just like we have. It's interesting, who was in the playoffs more recently, the Celtics or the Knicks? I think the last time we made it was 2001. The Celtics must have been more recently in the playoffs, no?
You know the Celtics will be there this year, and New Jersey will always be a rival with Kidd and Carter and Jefferson (2 of the 3 talk smack on the knicks regularly). I'd say orlando is a rival because we might be battling them for playoff positioning. Toronto has to be on our radar because they won the division last year and are considered favorites to win it again this year.
All the preview stories will be coming out this month before training camp starts. I'm thinking the TSN preview will be one of the kinder stories the media will print on the knicks, because there are many haters out there when it comes to Isiah, Eddy Curry, Stephon, Nate, Jeffries... A lot of people want to see this team fail, and it will show in some of these articles that are to come out in upcoming weeks.
I could ignore them, but as a ritual, I always buy street and smith's pro basketball and athlon's pro basketball. I like to balk at their playoff predictions, lets see if NYK is even on the map this year according to them...
(Rick Kamla says congrats on going back to the lottery and keeping our pick this time).
It has been a long time since Boston and NYK had a rivalry going.
A Little Night Cap
Wow, this was a great reading day at the FixerUpper Chateau. Great finds as usual BARF. And a thank you on those Olympic Team finds by ORANGE AND BLUE. Bump ESPN the Magazine and Slam Magazine. If you guys are going to drop it like this and I’ve got to make hard choices about how to spend my b-ball reading time, the Fixers win, hands down.
COOLEYHIGH. I now know, that you know, what time it is. Yeah baby, it’s the MOMENT that counts most. Thank you for that provocative question about teamwork. It got me worked up almost as much as your Orange and Blue sermonettes rallying the parishoners. Powerful words. And STEADY. What is there to say? Nice Burn, especially dug the 9/3 9:33pm joint? I wonder if there is some SUPERnatural significance in those numbers.
Great info ALAN. It's great to get some of the inside info.
DLT bump the pundits dissing the Knicks. I put this crew of posters up against any of those pundits in terms of B-ball knowledge and ability to make observations and picks two months before the first meaningful ball goes up and a full month before training camp and the rosters are settled. No one ever has any accountability for their early pre-season picks. Plus, I’m putting the Knicks in the playoffs in my analysis. Not only is it my perogative, I am right. I wouldn’t put the Knicks in the playoffs unless I was right. And I’m right until I’m proven wrong.
The East is going to be very competitive. Here I go, saying something totally out the box again, but hear me out. The West was not that much better than the east last year when you look at all 30 squads. The difference was that the number and level of top tier teams was greater in the Western Conference. The West had five legitimate contenders for the crown (Dallas, Phoenix, San Antonio, Utah and Houston). The East had two and a half (Detroit, Cleveland and Miami). The rest of the league runs from mediocre to horrible. Last season 42 wins got you into the second season in the west and 40 wins got you into the second season in the east. This season 40 wins should not be sufficient to get into the Eastern Conference Playoffs.
Watch the transformation of the EAST back to a big man’s Conference, starting with the emergence of Curry and Howard. What does that mean in terms of the playoffs this year? I don’t know yet, but I’m thinking about it.
GENERAL, you know I’m with you on the JJ tip. He may be lazy about getting into shape but he has pulled off one of the biggest heist in New York history. It may have looked good at the time because he knew he needed a big man, but Zeke is going to need to do a mea culpa and take a financial hit. I’ve got to look at it more closely, but his choices are really limited from what I see since D-Nice won’t play hide and seek in Europe for GM/Coach. What pieces does Zeke want to hold until February in order to trade for other value? Somebody will want JJ.
This Blog is going to be scary this upcoming season. This summer is our team workout. Nice.
too bad the Vancouver grizz had to move, Vancouver is a great city
Good morning Fixers,
Was I the only one who heard the EC reaction to the Z trade? When asked how or if he was going to make it work since both players utilize the same real estate for daily bread (the post). EC allegedly responded: "It's not up to me to make it work, it's up to IT to make it work." That comment stuck in my craw. Could someone spin/Fix that for me? The supposed "arrogance" that Z plays with at the post reminds me of the Captain (the original Big Fella). We now have option at the 5 as I see. Come hungry or wait on line for a meal ticket.
KFL
Like every year, the key to the season is Marbury. Never mind trades, draft picks, etc... this is his team until he is gone. I expect everyone to be better than last year, but even if everyone gives what they did last year (and are on the court, Lee, Crawford), the Knicks can be a mid-pack playoff team. But only if Marbury continues his mental development. If he continues on the course of becoming a true point, the team will mesh and we can get after it. If he does not, the Knicks are still just a bunch of guys with potential. Put a great point gaurd on this team and there are more than enough tools to win. Marbury needs to be a leader now and drill down with each guy and get him playing the way Zeke wants that player to play. He needs to do whatever it takes to make the system work and to work with the guys to make it happen. Its no longer about his individual performance. He can be a mismatch every night still, still one of the best athletes at the point. So's Crawford on any given night, EC, Randolph too. But that's just the price of admission to winning. All that does is create opportunities to execute your game plan - if Marbury strays, and just gets his, the rest of the team will follow. We can count on Q to the right thing, Lee and Balkman to make the right play. Rose of course, and I see Collins being a good player. But games are lost on the 3 turnover, 1 personal foul meltdowns that Crawford is prone to; the Nate Robinson circus show that breaks out in the middle of the third quarter when he's loving himself and scores 6 points and the team is still down 15. These cats think they can do it; after all, they can come back from 25 down in the fourth (har har), but the jury's out on if they will do what it takes to win. And that means, never going down 25 to begin with, imposing your will on the other team when they try to make that run to blow open the game, taking care of the ball, executing the offense to get a quality shot or draw a foul and force the other team to react, adjust, bend what they are trying to do offensively, defensively, take them out of their comfort zone, take away their best plays, best players. Is this team ready for that? Is Marbury ready for that? That's the central question for me. I want Marbury to get it done, but if he doesn't he can't be on this team. And if Zeke can't solve that, he really will go down in flames, joined at the hip to Coney Stylin' Starbury. Here's hoping.
Just for clarification. PLease note that I would never tag my posts as "The General". The General is a name that some on the News blog gave me largely because I was one of the first ones to write on there. I always sign my take with my real government name. The person writing here as "The General" while he may be insightful is not me.
Kevin Harewood
@ Willis..
Keen observations, strong post.
I concur on all counts. Nothing left to be said.
Why is Nene playing international ball considering how injury prone he's been? Last season was his first full season in a long while and he had a good one next to Camby. Now in a game for Brazil he was "wheeled off the court" with what "was later diagnosed as a calf strain"? Why can't he leave well enough alone? Put a couple of injury-free years down before you start pounding your flimsy legs all year round.
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Nice to see 2 of our Knicks make a top ten list. Not the best list...but a list nonetheless.
Kevin,
I am a new poster, the one who DVJ and other's took friendly advice from on a particularly intense posting day recently, to go get a piece of ass.
Knick fan, seacon ticket holder. From now on for clarity will now simply be General.
At ease.
You called me out, so I came, Thanks Steady…I really don’t mind visiting once in a while, that is if you’ll have me?Why visiting?Well, maybe it’s just me, but I went through the Dodgers, Giants, football Giants, and Jets leaving the Apple, and it left a very bad taste in my mouth.Alan, much respect and your spot is tight!but I gotta be me..so stamp my passport Lives in NYC, Loves NYC, and I’ll visit, hopefully, a lot.A while back I posted on the KK, write whenever and wherever you want because that’s the beauty of America, but I’m also an old head and if you aren’t located in the 5 b’s, your dollars, ka-ching! don’t support NYC, and that’s a big piece to someone born and bred in the Bx. But again, that’s just the way I roll.Last thing,the censorship thing seems oppresive.Hell, I’m a grown assed man, and men should be able to speak their minds on things they feel are related to the game.We should also be able to deal with our own problems.Hey, again, that’s just some input.
On the Knick tip, I’m as excited as you guys, my KK buds here are all over the possibilities, but wary too.The D is just not there yet.I’m not gonna go there right now because its all been said, but I am a huge believer in Big Eddie.If he “Does the Right Thing”! Loses 10-12 lb. and sharpens his D and rebounding, the sky is the limit.Everyone else’s game will improve dramatically because they can play off his improvement.They are all pieces, although Steph and Q are great pieces, but again suspect, due to age and injury.Eddie is THE PIECE!We’ll find out soon enough.
Last thing, We lack on-the- floor leadership.On the Legendary Knicks, yeah, legendary! Willis was the Captain and held EVERYONE accountable, “Frazier, are you going to guard your man tonight?”.Ask Clyde.Eddie is too nice, not ready yet?.Steph must Steph-up, and hold people accountable.Q is also a possibility, but I don’t believe Steph will buy into Q.It has to be Steph.It’s definitely Eddie’s team, but Steph has to lead.If “he builds it they will come”.That could be his legacy, like Rick Barry and the “no-name” Warriors.By the way Alan, I’m okay with “Do the Right Thing.” (C’mon, Steph”!) Jerry McGuire??…I don’t think so!Field of Dreams was much better, even better yet, The Natural.Ooops, are we allowed to talk about baseball movies? Sorry, that was a cheap shot!Stamp my passport Alan.and ”I’ll be back.” (What def movie?)LGK
General,
That was FUNNY when it came that day. DVJ was like the little brother with a SuperSoaker on a hot day. You want him to stop but you don't want to take his joy away like a "Killjoy". This lil' snafu will teach you to be more regular with your witty posts. We all missed ya (no homo).
KFL
The company has improved Tman. Picture this, the PG takes the inbounds from the C. He dribbles twice heading upcourt. The score is tied 99s with .13 left on the clock. He looks over his right shoulder to the bench. There you are Tman. No TO, play on young fella. That's why I called, Tman. There you are. I dare the censors...You tell on yourself by the company that you keep. You know what's good.
KFL
It's, up...up, and it's.. goood!Fire away youngbloods!We got your back!!! LGK!
Tman,
Good to see ya, bruh. Nice post.
Don't stay away so long next time. Your input and passion (no homo) was missed.
Shaq's back on the open market. He's lost some weight this summer, marketed the fact on TV and is ready to put the new look to work next season. Women across America: LOOK OUT!!!
"The past is history; tomorrow is a mystery; the greatest gift is this MOMENT, that is why it is called the PRESENT."
by Ralph Waldo Emerson
Just checking in to get my Wednesday afternoon FIX and Pa-Pow, you brothers are droppings some dynamite stuff...My man Willis your observations and critque was on the ONE. But I posted the quote above for you just to agitate your fertile Mental Soil, and to reply, this crew surely understands they can't have a repeat of their playing behaviors from last year (Turnovers, Lethargic Starts, not giving the MAXIMUN EFFORT on D, and poor free-throw shooting) because they did not accomplished their ultimate goal. PLAYOFF B-BALL...To repeat the same behavior and expect a different result is called INZANITY...lol And Willis, I agree with you, this is ECITY'S team, but Stephon has got to show leadership by sacrificing for the betterment of all and holding himself accountable... Some of US like two straws in our drink and he is defintely ONE.
General, I am with you too on JJames, but unfortunately it might be impossible to eat those dollars, and you always need extra bigs due to injuries, but we can hope JJames has wised up and realizes he is not guaranteed a spot.
What's up Tman! Another BX Brother in the house. I'm digging your Economic Development platform; but you can bet NYC is counting on US non-residents to drop some change because they don't have to provide US with any services, just more you and yours TMAN...Elimanting the value of 6 million+ daily is a lot of, how did you say it "KA-CHING"..."Hey again, that's just some input.Glad you checked in TMAN...
By the way, General, I want to welcome you on behalf of the crew; this crew is off the hook, and I am just reciprocating based on the welcome that was extended to me...The fellas are truly B-BALL Scholars and Gents.
Lives and BX in MD, Willis was slamming wasn't he? Steady's moving and grooving and dropping pearl after pearl, BARF, Orange & Blue, and Starbury have given us access to the rest of the bball world and the reading has been interesting...
Prognisticators & Pundits have their job to do, and they are detached, but I agree with you LIVES in NJ, LOVES NYC, THE FIXERS are weighing in heavily and I have yet to find this kind of passion anywhere else for OUR BELOVED KNICKS...Bruhs, Keep it POPPIN.
Cooleyhigh with the Emerson!
Very nice. We can see now how Phil Jackson ends up assigning philosphy and poetry to his team - talk about this stuff long enough, and you have to address the metaphysical. Once you're done with X's and O's, you're left trying to understand the men who have to move those letters on the chalkboard.
Cooleyhigh and fellow Fix elders,
Thanks for the kind welcome to the best sports blog in the country. I am constantly amazed by the knowledge and writing skilz, starting from Alan on down. Still down on JJ though even if it means choking on the $18MM. Cough, cough.
Over...
Just thought this little excerpt from one of yesterday's articles (the link is further up) was hilarious.
Here it is:
San Antonio Spurs
What Went Wrong:
• They lost P.J. Carlesimo.
It was with Gregg Popovich's blessing, of course, that Carlesimo will get his third chance as an NBA head coach and first since he attacked Latrell Sprewell's hands with his neck. But Carlesimo gave the Spurs a second head coach, as needed, and the pecking order of Popovich's staff will shake out over the first month or two.
Jerry West and dem are making something happen in Memphis. Iavaroni seems amped up to get started in his new head coaching spot in Memphis. Here's an interview in SI where he talks about his kids, iPods, Memphis, Navarro, Gasol, the PG spot and his dream of bringing a little European culture to the NBA.
I'm feeling like Damon Stoudamire is on the trading block.
Someone call Sacramento or Atlanta and get them hooked up.