Don’t Look Now, But the Knicks are Watchable Again (Maybe?)
By Cecilio's Scribe on Jan 28, 2009 with Comments 0
OK, I know better than to write this. I know much better. But I’m doing it anyway. For all you that haven’t been paying attention, the New York Knickerbockers are threatening to become…watchable.
Following the joys of the Isiah era, I’d pretty much stopped tuning in to watch this team — like ever. Admittedly, I abandoned them and promised to be back when they were relevant in a decade or so. When folks in the office sent around emails about Knicks tickets, I snickered at the very thought of attending a game in person.
Not that I’m heading out to the Garden anytime soon, but let’s just say my allergies to Knickdome are starting to dissipate. Tonight, for the fourth or fifth time in the last few weeks, I found myself at home of the couch voluntarily switching to MSG to watch D’Antoni’s crew. The crazy thing? I’ve actually enjoyed these experiences. Sure, part of it’s coach’s new run-and-gun gameplan, but it’s more than that.
The team isn’t supremely talented. There are no veterans of of particular consequence. Instead, it seems to be a bunch of young kids playing the game they love. What’s a bit different is that they’re playing hard – and they’re no doubt enjoying D’Antoni’s style. Tonight was another one of those games that was fun to watch. In the post-game, reporter after reporter asked about the little sparkplug who’s been such a big part of the Knicks going 7-3 over their past 10. Coach couldn’t help but smile and admit he’s played a big role in recent success.
And why not smile ? Lil’ Nate was huge again. One of my buddies can’t stand Robinson. Hates him. Thinks he’s an idiot, a clown and completely out of control. He’s absolutely right on all fronts. Me? I love him. For some of those same reasons…and because he also brings a level of energy to the floor that is different than I’m used to seeing. Add his freakish athleticism, hustle and all the fun he seems to be having, and I can’t help but have a little of that rub off on me as a fan.
So, what does it all mean? Are the Knicks going to the playoffs? Probably not. A run at 40 wins would be an accomplishment. All I know is things are looking up at least a little in Garden land. Enough so that I can even tolerate watching a game or two on TV. And that’s saying something considering this franchise’s recent past…
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