NBA Truth or Myth: Is the excitement around Knicks basketball justified?

Throughout the 2023-24 NBA season, we will delve into prominent storylines every week, aiming to analyze whether these trends are grounded in reality or mere fiction as we move forward.

This week’s focus centers on the resurgence of excitement surrounding the New York Knicks. Despite the historical challenges of creating an entertaining basketball team in Manhattan, team owner James Dolan’s decisions have often hindered the process. The Knicks’ prolonged struggles have led their fans to celebrate even achieving a fourth seed, emphasizing the significance of basic competence from the front office.

Under the leadership of Leon Rose, who took over four years ago, the team has adopted a new approach focused on acquiring talented, young players. This contrasts with previous strategies that involved investing in aging, injury-prone, or disinterested former stars, such as Eddy Curry. Rose’s tenure has seen the drafting of players like Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, and Deuce McBride, as well as key signings like Jalen Brunson, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Donte DiVincenzo. Trades have brought in contributors like OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Josh Hart. Notable successes include Brunson and Anunoby, with several other solid additions, overshadowing moves like giving away Obi Toppin and acquiring Evan Fournier.

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Despite the team’s improved performance and being situated in the world’s largest market, Rose has not held a media availability since a virtual conference during the height of the pandemic. Speculations arise, suggesting he might be avoiding questions related to allegations against the team owner or simply aiming to focus on his job.

Regardless of the reasons, the leadership in New York appears to be downplaying the significance of the team’s first-round victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers last season, a feat that equaled the franchise’s total series wins over the previous 22 years. Surprisingly, this approach might be beneficial. In a departure from past practices under Dolan’s tenure, the Knicks are allowing their current successful basketball team to speak for itself, rather than the underwhelming rosters of the past.

Contrary to historical tendencies, where the Knicks might have made risky moves like trading valuable assets for players like Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls, they’ve chosen a different path under Rose’s leadership. The focus has been on landing players like OG Anunoby while keeping enough assets to continue pursuing upgrades. The strategy seems to be a departure from a more impulsive era, opting for incremental improvements rather than all-or-nothing gambles.

The results speak for themselves, with the Knicks securing 11 wins in 13 outings, boasting a league-best net rating of plus-15 points per 100 possessions during that stretch. Notable victories over the West-leading Minnesota Timberwolves and the defending champion Denver Nuggets highlight their impressive run. With a record of 28-17, the team is positioned for a home playoff seed. Their top-rated defense, allowing only 103.3 points per 100 possessions in the last 13 games, ranks as the best since the 2019-20 Milwaukee Bucks, a team that made a championship push after adding Jrue Holiday.

The New York Knicks are on the verge of legitimate title contention, with just one key piece missing. While they haven’t reached that level yet, relying heavily on Julius Randle for 18 shots a night raises concerns about complete offensive trustworthiness. Potential additions like Dejounte Murray or Zach LaVine may not be the perfect solutions, and Donovan Mitchell, a New York native, could pose compatibility challenges alongside Jalen Brunson.

Although the ideal piece might not be available before the trade deadline, numerous stars could become discontented by the summer. Potential scenarios include the Philadelphia 76ers hitting a ceiling in the second round (courtesy of the Knicks), cost-cutting measures for the Minnesota Timberwolves, uncertainty surrounding Zion Williamson’s future with the New Orleans Pelicans, and the potential implosion of the Phoenix Suns. Playoff hopes may be dashed for many.

Despite uncertainties, the Knicks have successfully established a solid foundation, sparking excitement in New York. It’s intriguing how the mere presence of a foundational structure has brought renewed enthusiasm. Even the All-Star starter snub of Jalen Brunson, who arguably deserved Damian Lillard’s spot, couldn’t overshadow the positive vibes generated by a convincing 38-point win over Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets on Thursday.

In summary, there’s a palpable sense of excitement and rejuvenation in Manhattan as the Knicks emerge as a genuinely enjoyable and competitive team once again.

Conclusion: Verified. The New York Knicks have indeed become enjoyable once again, or perhaps, for the first time.