New York Knicks, Knicks, NBA

Celtics Embarrass Knicks, Look like the Team to Beat

October 18, 2007 – 6:31 am

allan houstonknicksbeforetheinbound.jpgchandlerhoustonjjlee.jpgdoc riversdefense.jpgpaul piercejamal.jpgeddy currystephon marburykevin garnettsilly stringn8knicks-vs-celtics-pre-season-10172007-086.JPG

Of course I knew when Kevin Mchale gave KG/the big ticket/Kevin Garnett away to pal Danny Ainge, I knew that Boston had just got arguably the best player in the game today, not to mention having already previously picked up one of the best shooters in the game, Ray Allen just a bit earlier.

Yet, I’m a scientific guy, I want to see the results before I go jumping to conclusions and handing this team the Atlantic or Eastern titles like so many have already. I went to Boston to see for myself. When I got there, everywhere you look, Garnett #5 jerseys in green. And then the game started. I did not see a team this strong in the east last season.

The Celtics looked polished and poised. Everyone shared the ball and moved the ball. They’re a great transition team with Pierce on the break. He’s fast and strong. I have a lot of respect for KG, Ray Allen and even some respect for Pierce. Although we have some ballers on the Knicks, they basically looked like they’re still figuring out how to play together. The Celtics just played.

Early on, I thought we’d make a game of it. First touch of the game went down on the block to Curry, he delivered with his patented jump hook from about 8 feet out. Money. Stephon hit a three pointer and things looked interesting. Then Q turned over the ball, which was followed with a fantastic assist by KG and the crowd roared like it was a playoff game. Much like New York, the city of Boston has been waiting for something to cheer about. Tonight their prayers were answered.

And that was as close as it got, basically. Even though Marbury was killing Boston’s point guard, it didn’t seem to make a difference in the grand scheme of things; the Celtics kept building their lead. Boston was getting easy looks at the basket early on, the Knicks looked sluggish, uncoordinated. It was like watching a PRO team go up against a pickup team from the hard courts at the park. My girlfriend pointed out that they didn’t seem to be running any plays, and she may have been right, because there was a lot of holding the ball and standing. They were confused. It seems like Isiah has spent so much time concentrating on defense, the guys forgot how to score the ball with any effectiveness.

KG has at least 3 inches of height on Zbo.

Curry looked graceful with his soft touch right hook, but he got into foul trouble early and had to sit. Either that, or Isiah was trying to ease his way back into things with the previous shoulder injury.

The Celtics continued to get near the basket at will.

Then, a small glimmer of hope: Zbo finally makes his first bucket–a lefty jump hook, and the knicks follow that up with a great defensive play by Nate Robinson, who is able to draw a charge pretty close to the basket.

But the Celtics were just too good tonight. The big three was a three-headed monster, and the other Celtics were the icing on the cake. Our second unit, famous for staging combacks, was neutralized by their relatively unknown second unit.

Isiah kept shuffling the lineup, particularly the guards, who were not fast enough tonight to slow the Celtics’ attack: Stephon, Collins, Jones, Jamal, Nate, somebody get out there and do something. I heard “my bad” out there more than once. Isiah didn’t seem to be experimenting with the lineup in a pre-season game, Isiah seemed to be frantically searching for a combination of players that could keep up with the Celtics.

Allan Houston looks like he can still help this team. By the time Isiah put him in the game, it was already over, but he did not look slow, he stayed with his man and his jumper had good form. a few of his shots were the in-and-out kind, but you got to think with more time on the floor they’d become the swishes Allan is famous for. Allan fed Eddy the ball in the post very well. Allan Houston is not the problem on this team. AH7 got an ovation from the Boston crowd when he first entered the game, they know what’s up. Respect.

Jeffries had a nice dunk on the fast break that oohed the crowd at the TD Banknorth Garden. He has yet to find his jump shot, however.

Jared Jordan looked to push the ball on the break, and he did setup somebody with an open shot at the rim, but they missed the easy lay-in.

When Isiah put D-nice in, AH7 came right out.

The garbage time 5 for the knicks was Jared Jordan, Mardy Collins, Randolph Morris, Wilson Chandler, and Demetris Nichols.

Chandler could not find any range at first, but he did have three very nice blocks. He seemed to be the only shot blocker on the knicks. Then Chandler hit a jumper from outside. He showed good form. he is one of the knick players that seems to be the right size for his position.

Randolph Morris had some nice back-to-the-basket post moves in garbage time.

Jared Jordan showed some good dribbling skills, but it didn’t really get him anywhere.

Nichols was shooting bricks.

Mardy Collins looks to be slowly regaining his athleticism, but he was shooting bricks from the field like the rest of the team.

The knicks did not shoot the basketball well tonight. The big guns, the up-and-comers, the old-schoolers, nobody. It could be Boston’s defense or it could be New York’s inability to run a play, but they had trouble scoring throughout. It was a brick mason’s convention out there. Boston coasted to domination.

I’d say the first attempt at the Zbo-Eddy experiment was a misfire.

The guy playing in the #11 jersey for the knicks was an impostor.

Isiah needs to find a system for this team, fast.

>>>

Note: I was going to wear my orange and blue, but I decided not to. The Celtics’ mascot came over and silly-stringed two representing Knicks fans to the delight of the Boston crowd.

>>>

You guys kidding me? 300 posts? I have some reading to catch up on!

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  1. 218 Responses to “Celtics Embarrass Knicks, Look like the Team to Beat”

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    By Syd on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:02 am

  3. Ha! I bet you won’t be drivin’ to Boston again anytime soon…

    Thanks for the courtside appraisal and the pictures Starburyfan.
    Obviously this game was the ‘perfect storm’, and the Knicks were the boat in the wrong place at the wrong time.

    Its a good wake-up call.

    How did Q look physically? How did Crawford look guarding Allen?

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:19 am

  4. Starburyfan

    I admire your intestinal fortitude for having to sit throught the dabacle. To some up yesterdays 300 hit marathon on your previous post there appear to be two camps.

    One camp says blow up the Knicks trade every player get Kobe and Artest or Kobe or Artest. This camp perhaps seems to see the debacle as a sign of another terrible season that should be avoided by a rub of the magic trade for a superstar wand.

    The other camp, which I tend to gravatate towards, acknowledges the debacle, some welcome it b/c the feeling is the team needed to be pimped slapped into a sense of competitive reality for games down the road, and see it as just being one game what’s more in the preseason at a time when roles and time amongst the players on the team are still being apportioned.

    All that said I will note that what was disturbing was that the Knicks failed to raised their intensity level. Ok it’s preseason, ok things are still being felt out and Thomas is trying to figure which players will play where and for how long but when one team is challenged to bring it by another team and they wilt its a pretty sad testimony about the team that wilted instead of fought back. Just bloggin.

    I’m still a Knicks fan for life and I’m not jumping ship for just one loss. However, Artest’s alpha dog toughness would be welcomed and as BARF said he fits our game plan more than Kobe and will cost far less.

    Thanks again starburyfan!

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:13 am

  5. Fellas

    Jerome James may actually have to go under the knife, meaning that an additional roster spot might be available. Here’s the link in the event the one above doesn’t work.

    http://www.nypost.com/seven/10182007/sports/knicks/fear_jerome_may_need_knife.htm

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:24 am

  6. On the bright side, the Knicks need a little ass whoopin’ to get them to really buy into defense. Four out of the 5 starters are offense first players. IT has built a roster with great talent but perhaps not enough role players (at least in the starting 5). The players are going to have to dig deep and look in the mirror and then change the way the play. This will take time but I believe in Zeke.

    On the dark side, KG is a monster and will have a monster year. I’ve watched him his whole career. He plays the right way and has an intensity that never wavers. He makes everyone better and my guess is he will average 17ppg, 12reb, and 7(!)asst per. Boston are the team to beat and will be for the next few years (in the East). I also think Doc Rivers has gotten a bad rap and is a smart coach.

    That said, I think it’s going to take about 20-30 games, but then we will be really tough.

    I’m keeping the faith.

    By Minnesota Knicks Fan on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:41 am

  7. Hey Minnesota Knicks Fan

    Me too keepin the faith. Do you think putting Balkman in at the three, with his tenacity and slashing ability, would help kick start the Knicks? How about Q Rich playing the two, since he ought to be able to muscle through the screens? Perhaps Crawford coming in free range off the bench, and more minutes to lee spread out so he’ll want to remain in NY.

    Get back to me on that

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:46 am

  8. STARBURY:
    Nice job dude. Keep up the great work.

    By MAK on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:49 am

  9. Yes, it’s one preseason game. But everyone has to admit that this was a disturbing trend last year. These guys just don’t have the desire or energy to win. We’ve all heard that these guys love playing for Isiah, thats dandy but when it comes to winning and playing hard for him, they don’t show up.

    I say we keep the team as is for now. But if we start the season 2-10 or some other ridiculous number, then it’s time to start over with Kobe. Hell, if we’re going to lose, might as well be with someone who wants to win than with a bunch of guys day dreaming through out the game.

    By DNM on Oct 18, 2007 at 9:06 am

  10. Starburyfan,
    We need a name change for you. That’s all I will say on that. Otherwise, BIG-ups for the invaluable service and expression of fanaticism by going to the game and bringing back this report. I hope the traffic back on the blog is a small consolation for you as a ROI for your good offices and will. I was very interested by your observation of AH7. Still early but you know I’ve got a friendly riding on the AH7 outcomes ;-)

    O & B,
    Good find on the JJ outcome. That script is begining to play itself out. If not medical retirement, then OFTS translates to the same thing–insurance pays for the salary (in this case, 1 year). Then again, one would have to consider the source as he is wrong in this article saying that JJ did not play. He must have already filed his article and gone to his other business (busting boils off his back). As we all know, JJ played 2 minutes and even scored 2 points. One Defender even quipped that it would be great if he could play 40 minutes.

    Also, you recall that we all gave good reasons for Q to start at the 2, and Jeffries or Lee at the 3 thereby allowing J-C(huck) and Balk to come off the bench for energy and scoring on the second wave. I’m also concerned about all that bulk Crawford put on. Like I said, it looks like extra helpings to me. Funny that he should be going towards bulk and Kobe went towards sleek/slim for more efficacy. So much drama in the NBA. One would go crazy if this is taken too seriously.

    KFL

    By Steady on Oct 18, 2007 at 9:18 am

  11. Yo Steady

    “Busting boils of his back!” LMFAO!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Yeah I heard that story about Kobe getting leaner, perhaps J-C(huck) should loose about 5 pounds. Extra muscle isn’t bad too much may mess with your flow. I hear you about Jefferies or Lee perhaps at the three though Lee’s strong suit is more rebounding than perimeter D. Well Either Jefferies or Balkman at the three cause although Q can D up size wise he ain’t matching up to well against the bigger and more prominent threes in the East.

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 9:31 am

  12. It’s been stated previously but you’re hearing it from me….

    I will not panic and abandon ship!!

    And we call ourselves DEFENDERS…..smh…

    Some of us are PRETENDER DEFENDERS!!!

    This season is sure to be a roller-coaster ride, full us twists and turns. My suggestion to the faint of heart would be to turn around at the gate and go get some cotton candy.

    We’ll see what some of these “Shaky Jakes” have to say after tonites game. They’ll probably be professing what a great team the Knicks will be this year….

    Till the next fuggin’ loss.

    Man up fellas.

    By Bronxboy in Md on Oct 18, 2007 at 9:46 am

  13. This just in…

    James Dolan is reaching out to Latrell Sprewell to see if he wants to try a comeback!

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 9:46 am

  14. @ LGM..

    What!!!!

    Ha!!

    Oh, so now his “character” is no longer an issue, huh?

    We can sure use his grit, leadership, and intensity on the defensive end.

    Plus he can run some PG.

    Hot diggity!!!

    By Bronxboy in Md on Oct 18, 2007 at 9:49 am

  15. @Bronxboy…

    I think Dolan’s plan is to have Sprewell come back and joke Zeke to death during practice…maybe Joe Torre too.

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:11 am

  16. The thing that really ticks me off about last nights game, is when we were down by 30 or so, it was a perfect opportunity to send Mardy Collins out to break KG’s legs…Zeke is really goin’ soft.

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:14 am

  17. Hey…I just had another great idea…

    How about we trade all our guards, except for Nichols, Houston, and that white kid from Marist, for Bruce Bowen?

    It certainly gets us under the cap in a hurry…

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:20 am

  18. Uhhhh…in post #13…Sprewell is supposed to CHOKE…not ‘joke’…Zeke.

    I’m sure Freud could explain what caused that slip-up…

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:23 am

  19. Q at the 2 and Balkman at the 3 and we don’t have this problem. The starting line has enough firepower allowing us to bring the defensively defficient Crawford off the bench. I think I said this months ago.

    By JohnQ on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:32 am

  20. DVJ,

    Take a look at Bergers blog tday. It has a link to a hollinger article and a fake pic of Kobe in a Knicks uni. Just to make you salivate.

    By JohnQ on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:34 am

  21. “I say we keep the team as is for now. But if we start the season 2-10 or some other ridiculous number, then it’s time to start over with Kobe.”—DNM(7)

    If the Knicks start out 2-10 it’s wrap for Isiah—and it’s hard for to us to be Knicks defenders with a start like that. But I don’t see that happening—I like like to think—as they do on paper, the Knicks is a good team. I say top of the Atlantic for them. You heard it from me first. Over Boston. I’m not giving these clown nothing yet. Beat the Knicks next week—then maybe.

    Anyway, the Knicks are going to beat Boston next week. They have to. They will. They have to show some pride—and be men, and represent us true Knick fans, b/c we have their back in regards to how the media treats them, they have to make us look good in winning their games—or if losing, not get blown out by 40 points.

    I hearing it from my co-workers already—not a good feeling. Tonight the Knicks gotta beat the Kiddless Nets. They better win too. Blowing the Nets out by 40 pts would be nice and welcomed.

    LGM, your Top Ten things to help Davonn and Peaceman make it thru the season

    was some funny stuff. WriteOn!!!

    By Anti-NYSportsNews on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:38 am

  22. P-R-E-S-E-A-S-O-N, Yes, we’re talking P-R-E-S-E-A-S-O-N.

    Defenders after reading some of the blogs from last night I thought I was hanging out w/ Isola or at Hahn’s house. The first loss of the preseason, and people are jumping ship, demanding trades, requesting Artest as the new lesder. Now that is WACKY. As Post-up stated this is a marathon not a sprint. As a marathoner, I know you work your kinks out in training and you do not want to peak before the race. P-R-E-S-E-A-S-O-N!!! I believe that we will in the end view this game as a blessing. It is better to expose your weaknesses before it counts.

    Thoughts on the Game- Lack of Balance. Isiah will realize that you can’t start five offensive players. The reason for the early deficit is the team can’t stop anyone. You need 1-2 guys w/ defensive intensity to get some stops. Team plays defensive similar to Suns, but lack Suns offensive efficiency.
    2)Chemistry-You have 5 guys that need the ball to be effective starting, this will never work. Steph needs to play off the ball where he can concentrate on scoring in this offense, this fits his strength. In the first quarter Zach had 1 shot(a 3pt. attempt), while the guards had 9. I previously advocated Mardy at the point because he does not need to score, and his size would would allow him to match up on defense against bigger off guards, while Steph guarded the point. If not Mardy, someone else but certaintly not N8. You can’t become a point guard at this level. N8 thinks shot first, he is a 2, in a 1’s body. Q, has to work himself back in shape. Pierce’s size was not the issue, he’s 1-2 inches taller, he just ran Q. Q has to start(and start hitting jumpers from the wing. Jeffrey & Balkman’s lack of shot would allow the defenders to pack it in on Curry & Zach. If you start Lee, you would have the slowest frontcourt in the World!!, not a good idea. Could you image Lee guarding Pierce? Also do not fret, it will take the team longer to incorporate Zach successively then Celts w/ Allen and KG. It is a bigger adjustment adding a low-post player then a wing and a face-up forward. There is very little if anything to change w/ the latter.

    Bright Spots- Zach had 8 boards in 1st half alone. Team is humbled and realize that it will take dedication. Coming off 33 wins does not allow room for EGO. Guys that thought they earned the right to start will now see that it may not be in team’s best interest for them to start,(Crawford). Zeke can now justify sitting players down.

    Expectations-Fans will now understand that it is a struggle to build a good team. This isn’t fantasy basketball. Predicting the team would jump from 33 to 57 wins and the Eastern Conference final is unrealistic. It will easily take 12-15 games to get the kinks out. Will some of you still be Defenders or as BRX stated Pretenders?

    Peace & Blessings

    By STATESMAN on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:46 am

  23. Damn, well I wasn’t expecting that. Nobody wins in this league shooting 25% during a game. I guess they really do have a leperchaun for luck. Damn! Good thing it’s a game tonight, gotta get this taste out my mouth.

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:46 am

  24. LGM,

    I agree with your take on having Zeke order a mugging on KG or one of Boston’s Big Three. I’m tired of this soft stiff take as is goes approach. Just remeber Isiah’s hit on Denver got the team motivated lets trying breaking some Green Frog Legs!

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:47 am

  25. It’s only pre-season fellas we gotta work the kinks out. No need to over react just yet.

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:53 am

  26. Statesman

    Interesting take on having Mardy starting at the point and gaurding the big off gaurds on D. I’ll take a wait and see approach on having Q at the 3, I know he provides more Offense than the other 3s we currently have and that there are questions about him handling the rock as a two. So let me wait and see on that. I’m with the consensus that unless J-Chuck proves he can defend, he ought to come off the bench.

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 10:55 am

  27. WOW!
    What a great day for the haters! Mak is so excited at this moment. Mark is doing cartwheels. Dross is probably repeating the same thing over and over as usual.
    The score! Starbury - 350, Alan Cohn - 30. Starbury by a landslide.
    Guys:
    I saw the game, and that was an old fashion ass wupping.
    Who is it that said Rondo is not a true point? Rondo is a a really smooth operator. He was twisting Steph.
    The problem is (an I hope Zeke has seen that) we’re way too undersized and defensively deficient with this starting line-up.
    I repeat to Lives and others. Crawford is too much of a defensive liability to start any game. Ray Allen didn’t even break a sweat. He was just coasting.
    Q, though a good defender, is way, way too small for the modern day typical NBA three. Pierce was having him for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even snack time. He took him outside, took him inside and even on the metro. Everything started with Pierce, and he made the game real simple for the entire team. Even the scrubs.
    Garnett was a beast. Intense as usual and was even cheering on the side lines in garbage time. There is no other like KG. He will these scrubs to over achieve.
    Houston in my opion looked a bit gimpy, a little slow especially against this 21 yr old rookie. He was getting beat to the hole repeatedly.
    A sad day for the Defenders, but with a little adjustment, we’ll be fine. Start Jeffries, and play Q at the two. Bring Craw from the bench.
    The sky is not falling!
    LGM, you were so funny last night. I had a blast!

    By African on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:03 am

  28. Starburyfan

    Great photos! The game was fun & I loved seeing our guys in action again. It has been a long summer & I’m ready for our rides to the pub to watch the game to begin again.

    Thanks for driving 4 hours to and from. The seats, the company and the game made for a great time.

    GO KNICKS!

    By Robin on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:18 am

  29. First, multitudinous ups to Starburyfan for your deep Knick love!Loved your sharing, pictures and game webbing.Knowing it’s from the heart makes it even better.You definitely deserve all those hits, 300+.Do believe the whole world is watching.One of the problems here is understanding the difference between love and passion.Passion flares up and rocks your world, then it subsides and it is gone.Love is forever.Ask a Brooklyn Dodger fan.Nothing wrong with love or passion.It chooses you, but you can’t let it rule you.If you love the Knicks, it’s in sickness and in health, till…..and If they are your passion,well,hockey is coming up soon.
    Last night was rough, but not totally unexpected.Our defense was bad last year, it will be better this year.The real question is how much better?Everyone screaming for an Artest trade this summer knew the problem.Why the big shock?The trade, the trial,Isiah’s training camp absence,Eddie’s injury,the roster problems,all these things are not imaginary.They take their toll.IT is just going to have to take the situation in hand and do what he had to do in training camp.The defense has to get better.Distractions need to go.Cut your rotation down to something reasonable and get to work.Red Holzman said it’s a simple game.You score at one end, then run down and play defense on the other.We can do that.But it may take a minute.

    LGM,very funny stuff!Your ten best list definitely lightened the moment!Good stuff.Keepitcoming!

    And now a word from our sponsor, the other King James,
    from the NY Post

    October 17, 2007 — “Cablevision boss James Dolan has a message for investors who think that his family’s $10.6 billion bid to take the cable and entertainment company private is too low: Take it or leave it.
    Dolan late yesterday released a statement insisting that the family has no intention of upping its cash offer of $32.26 per share.
    “On behalf of my parents, brothers and sisters, I want to state emphatically that there will be no modification of the family’s accepted offer to acquire Cablevision,” he said.

    “We are looking forward to next week’s vote and hope that the transaction is approved, but I’d underscore that I am completely prepared to continue to lead the company into the future as a public company if the transaction is not approved.”
    Meanwhile ISS, an adviser to institutional investors, issued a recent report that said the company is worth between is $42.82 and $50 per share.”

    The last thing anyone should be worried about is Sunny Jim’s money.

    Enjoy the game tonight, win or lose!Of course, winning is better!LGK!

    By Tman on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:19 am

  30. DEFENDERS, DEFENDERS!

    I am probably the last DUDE you want ot hear from today because I must admit I am little shocked by the responses on DEFENDER NATION last evening. For clarafication, I am not acting Paternal or Holier Than Thou or sanctimonious. Let me paint this picture for ALL YOU!

    As I sat on my couch watching the Orlando vs. Cleveland, and Denver vs. Detroit, I sat nervously wondering what our score was, and at the sametime trying to occupy my mind with the talent on display in the two games I could see. The FIRST score I saw was Boston 32 & Knciks 12, and that was very disconcerting, which ratcheted up my angst and nervous energy, as I sat alone wondering (WHAT IT TELLING OUR TROOPS, DID THEY PUT TOO MUCH PRESSURE ON THEMSELVES, WTF is going ON). Finally, near the end of the Denver/Detroit game I saw a 3rd quarter score of Bos. 77 & Knicks 44, and I knew at that very moment that game was over, but more importantly, I worried about ALL OF YOU! My desktop at home is down and I did dare to pull out laptop, because I knew the DEFENDER’S COACHING STAFF (DVJ, Peaceman, Orange & Blue, were having a fit and were extremely displeased, possibly horrfied, but I knew our DEFENDER’S Defensive Specialist and Coaches (BX & HARLEM IN MD) would see the game for what it was and do all that they could to calm down the coaching staff and the rest of the DEFENDER TEAM, because A GOOD TEAM MIRRORS THE DEMEANOR of it’s COACH’S. This morning I knew StarburyFAN would look at his site and say WTF (I COULD VISUALIZE THE NUMBER HITS AND POSTS AND PEEPERS FROM KF)…When I logged on and saw 335 posts this mormning, I was like WHEW and Hot DAMN, sensing MY BOYS AND SISTAS would probably be all over the MAP, but because WE ARE THE DEFENDER TEAM (TOGETHER EVERYONE ACHIEVES MORE) I read each and every post, trying to empathize, feel my Brothers & Sisters (if any are reading or posting under an alias) pain, understand YOUR CONCERN, listen to RANTS AND RAVES, because when you care about PEOPLE that’s what YOU DO.

    DEFENDERS, I will make two more points and I will get of your hairs…STAY WITH ME NOW

    “FAITH IS THE SUBSTANCE OF THINGS HOPED FOR, AND THE EVIDENCE OF THINGS NOT SEEN.” Hebrews, Chapter 11, Verse 1 (when and if the spirit moves you, read the whole chapter it will inspire you…)

    “YESTERDAY IS HISTORY, TOMORROW IS A MYSTERY, THE GREATEST GIFT IS THIS MOMENT, THAT IS WHY IT IS CALLED THE PRESENT.”
    Ralph Waldo Emerson ( I beleived I posted this quote awhile back, but it beared repeating for all of you DEFENDERS that want to predict tonight’s outcome, or get lost it the results of past years and seasons, or past games, and hopefully bring some Balance and Equilibrium to my BROTHERS & SISTERS WHO HAVE THIS PASSION FOR OUR BELOVED KNCIKS AND VALUE THE GIFT.)

    It’s just a game DEFENDERS…ONE PRESEASON GAME AT THAT…I SUPPORT YOU RIGHT TO VENT, BE DISAPPOINTED, EVEN BE DISGUSTED, but we CANNOT AND WILL NOT throw in the towel to early, and demand wholesale changes, THOSE ACTIONS WILL MAKE US ALL HYPOCRITES, because each of US here have had DAYS and NIGHTS and periods like this. As my Momma use to sing when I got down as a little boy, “MOMMA SAID THEY”LL BE DAYS LIKE THIS, THEY”LL BE DAYS LIKE THIS MY MOMMA SAID.” If this is the worst thing that happen TO DEFENDER NATION or OUR BELOVED KNICKS, IT WAS A GREAT DAY….

    STRABURYFAN, I want to personally thank you for taking the trip (I know you did that for your own consumption)and I am thankful you were able to return to your humble abode safe and sound and find everything in order. I also want ot thank you for your balanced reporting and assessment of the TEAMS play last evening and for all of your keen and thoughtful observations. I have posted it the last two days and I will say it again. THIS IS A JOURNEY DEFENDERS! THIS IS A MOVEMENT DEFENDERS NOT A MONUMENT! We will have setback, combacks, wins, losses, shallow victories, exhilirating victories, throw in some HEARTBREAKING DEFEATS; we will EXPERIENCE THE FULL GAMMUT OF EMOTIONS considering WE DEFENDERS Can’t play the games or have any input into the OUTCOME. THAT IS THE THRILL AND CHILLS OF FANDOM…

    It is a NEW DAY, ONE MORE OPPORTUNITY for the TEAM to get it right…Remember DEFENDERS failure is not the anithesis of SUCCESS it is the STAIRWAY…THESE ARE LESSONS FOR FANDOM and LESSON FOR PRODUCTIVE LIVING…

    I also want to shout out BX & HARLEM in MD, Bumrush, SHAMGOD, STEADY, AFRICAN, LGM, and (residetn Scholar) MODI for trying to hold it together in the midst of the STORM. I have not lost that SPECIAL IN MY GUT, because I AM A TRUE BELIEVER, that the RACE IS NOT GIVEN TO THE SWIFT, NEITHER TO THE STRONG, BUT TO THOSE THAT ENDURETH UNTIL THE END.

    Words I live by DEFENDERS! LEARN TO ENJOY THE JOURNEY DEFENDERS!

    GO KNICKS! BEAT THE NETS!

    Peace, Love, Longevity, and PROSPERITY IS MY PRAYER FOR ALL OF YOU!

    Keep it POPPIN

    By cooleyhigh on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:25 am

  31. I didn’t see the game and I want san opinion outside off a Celtics fan, after wacthing this game, Do you think Pierce was a chance of winning the MVP? cause i think he is the one who runs this team.

    By Sean, Celtics fan on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:34 am

  32. Missed ya Coach ;-), permission to use that anecdote.

    poster #26, read post #27. You’ve got a keeper there–loyal, passionate, committed and not afraid to take on a challenge. The love part is up to ya’ll. ;-) Not in yo biz, just bloggin’.

    KFLL–I do declare that I love the Knicks (Knicks Fan and Lover for Life).

    By Steady on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:42 am

  33. DEFENDERS, just a little something, something, for your LUNCH consumption….

    FOOD FOR THOUGHT!

    GOD WANTED ME TO TELL YOU

    Everything that is going wrong in your life today shall be well with you this year. You have been destined to make it and you shall surely achieve all your goals this year. For the remaining months of this year (2007), all your agonies will be diverted and victory and prosperity will be incoming in abundance. Today God has confirmed the end of your sufferings, sorrows, and pains because HE that sits on the throne has remembered you. He has taken away the hardships and given you JOY. He will never let you down.
    I knocked at heaven’s door this morning, God as ked me… My child! What can I do for you? And I said, ‘Father, please protect and bless the person reading this message’… God smiled and answered… Request granted .

    GOD MUST BE A KNCIK FAN!

    Keep it POPPIN

    By cooleyhigh on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:49 am

  34. Celtics fan

    I heard the game over NBA audio league pass. I’m glad I didn’t see it. Put to answer your question from what I heard Garnett is the engine that is making your team hum. Thanks for not sticking it to us. Just remember we’ll be back!

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:51 am

  35. ;-) in #30 is for Tman in #27 (my sage in blogsphere). You are great company.
    So, it looks like JD’s efforts to run down the value of the Cablevision stock did not pan out. I submitted a “mini” to MODI’s site about that. Now, he’s resorting to Yankees-Cashman-esque tactics of negotiating through the media. I own no stocks, too late in the game for me at 50 bucks. With a team worth $592 million, the sooner that issue is resolved, the sooner we can see about any additional financial burden IT can take on. So much is at play here. Amused however by those consumed/overwhelmed by the W/Ls. And here we are in PRE-season. Also looks like JD will be passing on JJ’s bill for this year to the insurance company. Nice script–well conceived. IT knows what’s good.

    Cooleyhigh, You went metaphisical this AM. Useful. Very useful post.

    KFLL

    By Steady on Oct 18, 2007 at 11:59 am

  36. Robin’s sweet. A keeper?

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:03 pm

  37. Where’s Lives? Did he commit suicide?
    C’mon man, you’ve got to check in. After a night like last night, we got to have a roll call to make sure all the Defenders are AOK.

    By African on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:08 pm

  38. O & B,
    You’re a gentleperson in #32 and definitely great company.

    Sean,
    Thanks for the visit and comaraderie in sports fanaticism. I did not see the game but I read analyses suggesting that Pierce was bringing it last night and making others better (even the second unit) in the process. There are some merits in O & B’s response in that KG’s presence may dim P2’s light as MVP. For a more interesting read on gauging the whole MVP process, I suggest http://www.cossellout.com where MODI–(a resident Defender) delves into the process of selecting an MVP. Following his logic, we may have an MVP script with Dirk Nowitzki crowned next. But you can be a part of making sure P2 at least stays in the conversation. Good luck to your side (except when you play us, of course). Come back anytime.

    KFLL

    By Steady on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:09 pm

  39. Cooley, that’s the joint right there. You can safely put me in the chillaminute camp. The goal this year is just to make the playoffs. That’d be a significant improvement over what’s been going on and sets a nice standard for the team to build on. It’s early, kinks and roles still have to be worked out.

    That said.

    What do you guys think of this admittedly “out there” idea: Trade E. Munster for Artest. I don’t know how the salaries might work out, but if that could be done, I think it’d be a world of good for the team overall.

    PG Starbury/N8/JJordan
    SG Q/Craw/Jones
    SF Artest/Balkman/Chandler/DNice
    PF Zbo/DLee (/Rose)
    C Morris/JJ/Rose

    I like it cuz Starbury would now have some guys he can *rely on* to score and make his assist numbers look shiny if he’s being asked to defer scoring to Zbo and RonRon. And at the same time, the team overall improves defensively. It’s about roles, folks. The second unit would have their designated scorers (N8 and Craw and the rest defend/rebound like crazy). The centers just need to be halfway decent or at least take up space well (use their fouls), learn to pass and don’t get in the way on offense.

    Think about it, guys. This is a pretty balanced team, starters through bench…

    By Charles Follymacher on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:13 pm

  40. Some random thoughts…

    This team hasn’t been the same since Dan Dickau left…

    In hindsight, I wonder how much of a cut in pay Malik Rose would have taken, to stay with the Spurs instead of coming here?

    Ya think Dolan Sr. gets embarrassed when he’s at a cocktail party, and all the other parents start braggin’ about their grown children, and how successful they are?

    Ya think Clyde smokes a doob before some games?

    How many times this year is Breen gonna point out that when a player dives on the floor for the ball, everyone else can dive on top of him, and no foul is ever called?

    Houston obviously isn’t praying to the right gods.

    Any chance Kevin Garnett is into dog fighting?

    Any chance we can get that Isreali team to replace Boston in the Atlantic?

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:16 pm

  41. Charles:
    You’re making a folly with that scenario. Curry is the lone player we cannot trade. Period. That’s the big advantage we have over other teams, when the offense is stagnated. Curry is a load and the whole league knows it.
    The Celtics last night were using all sorts of dirty tactics to guard Curry, resulting in two double fouls called. That was the lone bright spot last night. Even the biased Celts announcers had to admit.
    What is Chicago looking for right now? Let me give you a hint. Low post scoring!
    Glad you’re not our GM.

    By African on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:23 pm

  42. Hey, I hear you African. It’s just that Curry doesn’t really do a whole lot else than score and now that Zbo’s installed, we have an “unstoppable force” in the lineup. We can afford to cut Curry only in this instance. Artest certainly is capable of scoring, plus he brings some real shutdown capabilities on the defensive end, too. *On balance* I’m thinkin this can work better for the team as roles can be more clearly defined.

    By Charles Follymacher on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:32 pm

  43. STARBURY:
    Very nice job in this site. More “powa” to you.

    By MAK on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:36 pm

  44. Steady

    Thanks for the compliment. As African puts it I’m a diplomat. African is our War Chief and darn good at it.

    Where’s DaVonn I hope he’s ok seemed like he was on the brink of a stroke. Hope he wasn’t hospitalized after yesterdays results with the Celtics.

    I really hope James gets that season ending surgery on his knee or is placed on the IR so Nichols can start.

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:46 pm

  45. There is no way Curry gets traded…so stop dreaming.

    Some combo of Balkman, Jeffries and Chandler should be all this team needs at the 3 for the next few years.

    Of course they all need to step up. I’m not worried about Balkman, and Chandler is an incredible, raw athlete with Artest potential. Jeffries just needs to get his head out of his ass and realize his role…it ain’t shooting the rock.

    This teams offense is going thru the front line, and the guards better learn to get them the ball via entry passes, penetration and dish, backdoor, alley-oop or Fed-ex.

    Crawford better figure out his value is gettin’ assists with Curry, and some wide open looks on kick outs.

    By LGM on Oct 18, 2007 at 12:52 pm

  46. you’re doing a teriffic job with this site Starbury…Knicks will be fine, the sky is not falling…Zeke the coach will make Zeke the GM look good when it’s all said and done…

    By kandiman on Oct 18, 2007 at 1:16 pm

  47. I think Jamal is getting adjusted to his new muscels because he was 0-8 last night. The homer in me wants to say last night was just used to see what all Boston had to throw at us and we’ll get at them next time. The realist in me says we need more chemistry and a defensive minded shooting guard while Jamal comes off the bench with the Brigade to turn the tide. I say start Jared Jeffries at sf and bring jamal off the bench with Nate, Lee, Renaldo and Morris.

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 1:17 pm

  48. Starbury i’m going to steal some of your pics and post them on realgm, hope you don’t mind.

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 1:19 pm

  49. Pal,
    I appreciate the effort, but your a hack, you spelled Ray Allen’s name wrong and you even have “some” respect for Paul Pierce. Do you realize he’s made 5 All Star teams on a pathetic team. How many 5 time allstars do the Knicks have on their pathetic team? BTW, was Isaiah overheard calling anyone a black bitch last night?
    TR

    By Tom on Oct 18, 2007 at 1:51 pm

  50. @ Steady….

    “Where’s DaVonn I hope he’s ok seemed like he was on the brink of a stroke. Hope he wasn’t hospitalized after yesterdays results with the Celtics.”

    LMAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO….

    Quick, check all the bridges and tunnels for DaVonn AND Peaceman. I’d help, but I’m in, err, Maryland…:)

    They weren’t in the best mental state after the game last night, but they’ll be fine.

    And so will our Knicks.

    By Bronxboy in Md on Oct 18, 2007 at 1:53 pm

  51. Roach alert!
    Tom AKA Mak is at it again!
    Why wouldn’t some folks just go the haters site to spew?
    I guess some punks just love to jump up to get beat down!

    By African on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:02 pm

  52. Hi Tom, thanks for visiting the blog, be sure to bookmark it and tell all your friends now that you’ve consumed all the content. Thanks for pointing that out about the spelling error, made the change in the spelling of that sentence where I called Ray Allen “one of the best shooters in the game.” I’m not sure you have a case for your perceived slight against Ray, but I’ll be damned if I can control any thoughts you have floating around up there in your skull. Having drove 4 hours to and from to watch that game, I typed without editing, and it was also the return of Knicks guard Allan Houston last night, a former big time scorer in his own right to his Knicks team, but I don’t expect you to understand any of that. The Celtics fans at the garden seemed to know that, but I don’t expect you to. You’re calling bloggers hacks when the term quite frankly does not apply. This site is done out of love, I get paid jack sh*t to write it, so I make no apologies to you or any other cyber flamer that wants to come here and try and start something out of nothing. perception is reality for some. you felt insulted by what I wrote, some may read this same blog and see that I had all kinds of compliments for the Celtics team.
    And Tom, since we’re making editorial suggestions, please make sure you punctuate questions with a question mark at the end of a sentence, and not a period. You also misspelled Isiah Thomas’ name. Kind of makes you look like a hack.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:11 pm

  53. Tom

    We’ll all chat amicably once your done wiping Paul Pierce’s jizz off your mouth. Show some respect like that other Celtics fan if that’s what you are. If not go back to blowin up Pierce and wasting your time hating!

    By Orange & Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:12 pm

  54. Let the kool-aid downpour commense in 3, 2, 1:

    “Even in the loss, some players stood out for the Knicks, as their play on the defensive interior, especially, showed what is to come. Wilson Chandler, the team’s first-round pick last June provided consistent energy. In less than 15 minutes of action, he grabbed seven boards and swatted three shots. The blocks, especially, were a welcome sight for the Knicks, as Chandler demonstrated that he could stake claim to real minutes on this team, even after Renaldo Balkman returns from injury.

    Chandler’s great work on the boards went along with a strong effort from David Lee. The star sixth-man hauled in eight rebounds in just under 17 minutes, with an impressive four on the offensive boards. Throw in seven points and his 50 percent shooting, and it was evident that Lee is already approaching his midseason form. “

    How about some “sun will come out tomorrow” to go along with all this “thunger and lightning”.

    As Steady said last night, “CHIN UP” defenders.

    When Peaceman and DVJ get tired of posting “Trade for Artest” and “Knicks need Kobe” posters throughout Manhattan, they’ll realize they watched a Boston team that was completely overhauled smash our beloved Knicks to bits.

    Peace and DVJ, all joking aside. Where do you guys see Boston in terms of talent?

    I don’t want to hear how you guys think the Knicks matchup…I want to know how you perceive the Celtic’s talent?

    Is it a surprise that they (the Big3) are that good. That dominating?

    Don’t answer as Knick fans either. Answer as avid NBA watchers…that I know you guys are.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:18 pm

  55. By the way, I remember how you guys completely smashed me when the KG trade went down and I got worried. I remember you 2 taking turns on me like I was a cheap slut, horny drunk and high off skunk. You really messed me up.

    HaHa.

    You guys said their bench was balls.

    It is. But the Big3 will play lots of minutes.

    The only thing you have to look forward to is an injury to one of their main guys. Not exactly a polite thing to say…but as a fan, it’s the only thing you got left. Boston’s the real deal. They have enough talent to win the chip…the only question is, do they have enough gas to make it to the finish line?

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:27 pm

  56. Barf

    That is some really bitter tasting Koolaid considering under what circumstances it came. But nice point about Chandler and Lee’s play out there. Chandler may get burn in the regular season if he continues to show like he’s been doing so far.

    I think we need to send out EMT’s to help out poor old DVJ and Peaceman. We should fill up their electrolyte and fluid containers with the koolaid you just put out and give them altered photos of Kobe and Artest in Knicks uniform. That ought to get their spirits up again.

    DVJ Peaceman

    Please step away from the ledge of the Empire State Building things will get better.

    By Orange & Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:29 pm

  57. SLAM covered the Knicks-Celtics game too

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:31 pm

  58. More PRO KNICKS Kool-Aid (criticisms cut out as I’m sure ya’ll have gotten enough of that…cuz you know…this is a FAN SITE):

    - Zach Randolph trots out and this he’s lost a ton of weight. He’s bouncy and looks – dare I say – wiry. ”

    - Eddie House is the World’s most affected point guard. He has some court vision and is definitely the right size for it, but Marbury presses him full-court and all of his hair falls out. He’s Rondo’s only backup, so they have to figure this thing out before he develops an ulcer.

    - We talk about David Lee. We agree on these three things and it should be written in stone: 1) He’s one of the three best players on that team. 2) We have no idea if he can last 40 minutes a game with the type of punishment he takes from helpside defending alone. 3) He deserves the chance to try it anyway, and it’s not going to come as a Knick.

    That’s it. Pro-Knicks news is slim pickens and that is not surprising.
    - Brian Scalabrine is immune to foul calls all of a sudden. This should help his career tremendously. Either that or Eddy Curry is developing the implicit, unwritten Shaq Full-Contact No-Foul rule, which sucks because he’s never going to be on that level.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 2:45 pm

  59. PRO KNICKS ALERT:

    (uber-”objective” KnickFans- close your eyes)

    Hey folks,
    I live in VT now and suffered through some of the poorest coverage of a basketball game I have seen. Forget about knowing who’s in the game. Even finding out who scored, if it was a Knick, was not possible on a number of occasions (and they scored so rarely, it would have been nice). Inept game calling and missed shots by the cameras all night. Tom Heinsohn is completely hateful as well. He gets mad at calls that go against the Cs like Nate Robinson does.

    As to the game, they found Curry in the post on the first play and pretty much did not try again. They hardly seemed to run any sets at all.

    On D, by early in the third quarter, Curry was so winded that Garnett ran full court and beat him down the floor like Paxico beat Lawyer Milloy on Monday. So embarrassing.

    No one made any shots tonight as the ghastly percentages will bear out. I figure that’s likely to get better. We do have scorers. they, also, made more shots than they normally would make. The forty point spread was a statistical anomaly, I think, but the lack of creativity on offense and the horrible perimeter defense did not help matters. I figure, on a normal night, they lose this game by 15 or so. That doesn’t exactly get them in the playoffs though.

    In my heart I can’t believe it’s going to be as bad as last year, but, I had a familiar lump in my throat watching this game. They were done before the first quarter was over.

    Allan Houston missed all his shots and got a quick hook. He tried to funnel Ray Allen to help that was late in coming and gave up an easy layup.

    Randolph Morris had two nice turn around jumpers. One from each side of the baseline.

    Nichols has a sweet looking stroke, though he almost cracked the back of the rim with a three point attempt. He had a nice finish on the break, though, and has a veteran presence about him.

    Chandler showed good range on his shot.

    Fred Jones is a good defender

    Basically all units got severely outplayed tonight. They were better 1-15.

    Here’s the link

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:06 pm

  60. If Monta Ellis can , the Knicks can come back from a 40 point ass-pounding courtesy of our neighbors up in Boston.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:12 pm

  61. Here’s the correct link…I hope

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:13 pm

  62. Kobe talk:

    It is, of course, our job in the media to blow things out of proportion, and we’re doing a splendid job of that with this story. Bryant has missed a few days of practice and he supposedly cleaned out his locker, though Bryant later said, no, he cleaned up his locker. Some preseason practice absences and poorly timed tidiness have now been contorted into an impending trade.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:25 pm

  63. Image three sums up the evening pretty well.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:38 pm

  64. at least the knicks kept down the turnovers. hopefully that will continue as the regular season nears.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:39 pm

  65. There were few turnovers, because Craw was taking ill-advsed shots.
    I don’t think he has learnt anything from last year.
    That’s the most frustrating player on the roster. He needs to come off the bench.

    By African on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:43 pm

  66. Modi,congrats

    and Defenders, talking about recognition, Sports Illustrated website written by Jack McCallum

    The Nash dilemma
    Race not an issue when it comes to MVP voting by Jack McCallum

    http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jack_mccallum/10/18/mvp.race/index.html

    By Anti-NYSportsNews on Oct 18, 2007 at 3:52 pm

  67. I see Nash in lower Manhattan this summern waiting on a cab. I have him on video, after I asked him is going to be MVP this year on he paused and then said “I just wanna have fun.” I don’t know how telling that is—but you first here from Anti-NYSportsNews.

    Sorry for the interruption—Now back to discussing Knicks miserable game last night. Yes, I know, it’s only pre-season—but the Knicks should win all their games and every lost hurts no matter what.

    Anti Out

    By Anti-NYSportsNews on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:03 pm

  68. Apologize for my missed words 66—no proofreading on my part.

    By Anti-NYSportsNews on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:05 pm

  69. You know it’s a good thing the Knicks will not be facing Jason Kid tonight. Dare he get all Drossed out and start groping grabbing on the crotch of Knick Players– that is if they still have them after getting punked yesterday.

    I still love them Knicks, always have always will!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:10 pm

  70. Anti,

    I hear you. Every game is like a little death for me and if they lose any more games like they did last night that might be the last ya’ll hear the name boomann. Square bizness!!! I’m not making any predictions for tonight but we bet not lose by no damn 40 points.

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:12 pm

  71. http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-28-194/SI-s-Jack-McCallum-Responds-to-Cosellout-s-Claim-Skin-Color-Helped-Nash-Win-Two-MVPs.html

    TRUE HOOP

    By Anti-NYSportsNews on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:21 pm

  72. Booman, we have the game tonight.

    I mean com’on with the team the Knicks have they better beat this Nets team with one of their best players on the team and in the NBA not playing.

    It would be a shame if they lose this. They can’t lose. They better win and not lose. So when they win, they could say they didn’t lose. HOW’S THAT FOR BEING ED DROSSMAN for ya. Did I make my point clear

    By Anti-NYSportsNews on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:27 pm

  73. Modi,

    Congratulations on the mention in McCallum’s SI webesite column on MVP Voting and your critique of the Steve Nash Invasion. He was respectful, and disagreed respectfully, and that’s okay. Although, I must admit, I am a little worried about Jack, because he made Sports Writers sound so nice and warm and fuzzy, so I am thinking he’s been sniffing the glue that binds his books ways to long, because this ROSEY PICTURE is a little unrealistic…

    Nevertheless, this is about OUR RESIDENT SCHOLAR MODI….Way to go Modi, you’v earned it…

    Keep it POPPIN

    By cooleyhigh on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:28 pm

  74. ESPN’s John Hollinger has the Knicks making a 5 game improvement.

    http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=HollingerForecastIndex0708

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:34 pm

  75. The more people read that Nash piece by Modi, the more potential readers pick up on the “Isiah the GM” piece he did.

    Not that we should expect a huge influx of Knick believers but…ah…what am I saying… the Knicks are the team the league loves to hate.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:37 pm

  76. Defense!!

    The Knicks get another shot at testing the “D”, at the 2 & 3. Kidd will not play so there will not be as many transition buckets, but time to put on the armor and play “DeeFence”

    Peace & Blessings

    By STATESMAN on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:37 pm

  77. Modi,

    You was on Espn yesterday and on Sports Illustrated today. So tell me how does it feel to be a Star?

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 4:44 pm

  78. Cooley High:

    Thanks for the spirttual uplift. i am with you and booman, as well as Statesman, Booman and African. The sky is not falling
    a one preseason game make not a season to unfold.

    Peaceman and DaVonn evidently need some time to recover, but
    I believe they will be back soon with or without Kobe or Artest.
    Tomorrow night “Big Snax” takes the floor for the first time–
    a chance to showcase whatever skills some other team hopefully
    needs.

    KFL

    By Post-up Prince on Oct 18, 2007 at 5:09 pm

  79. Greetings Defenders. Just recovering from the Boston Massacre. Those announcers gave me ogeda. Even if I were a celtics fan I wouldn’t listen to any games with those clowns. DOes anyone know, will the game be aired on Knicks radio or will we have to suffer thru another night of bias game calling?

    By St_George on Oct 18, 2007 at 5:18 pm

  80. Countdown to the Knicks vs Nets!
    110 minutes.. 109 minutes..

    By Robin on Oct 18, 2007 at 5:42 pm

  81. Defenders,

    This is my last post for the evening (due to technology issues at mi casa), so I thought I would chime in before I broke out and headed to the family compound. Regardless, of the results at this evenings game, the Knicks will find their level and they will be just fine.

    Hopefully StarburyFan will not take offense or the rest of my DEFENDER CREW, but a few times a week a I send out a message to my Spiritual Posse worldwide, and I wanted to share this message with my compadres called the DEFENDERS. If this offends or displeases the CREW, I will refrain from posting such messages. Until tomorrow, keep your heads tight and your spirits right, and let’s see if our BELOVED KNICKS can rebound and respond in this evenig’s game.
    Here she blows!

    I’m Back!

    The word Responsibility is very powerful and meaningful. In our present Hip and Hop Society the current lexicon neglects to expand or expound on the serious nature of this word, and it is only emphasized when a vote is attached to a particular proposition or piece of legislation. Considering the recent poll numbers for our President and our Legislative Branch, the word RESPONSIBILITY rings hollow in the Dark House and THE I CANNOT AND WILL NOT FIGURE IT OUT HOUSE.

    There is a scripture that says, “These are Dreadful days, and these are Perilous times, Children of Men why don’t you girdle up your loins; the time is near at hand, even at your door.”

    Waste not, want not…Believers, now is the time to reflect and take inventory, and seek redemption and get your Spiritual House in order. At present, If you do not have a personal, One-on-One, Father to Son/Daughter relationship with the Master of Mysteries, you are exposing yourself to the horrible ills and the catastrophic desolation of this CRAZY WORLD…

    Everything that has breath, praise God! Serve the Lord while you have the time…

    Today’s Quote
    When we help heal the earth, we heal ourselves.
    -David Orr

    Today’s Scripture
    “Then Peter said, I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right” (Acts 10:35 NIV).

    Today’s Word
    Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom-and God’s freedom is free for everyone! It doesn’t matter what your nationality or heritage is, or who your family is. It doesn’t matter how much money you have or don’t have, God wants you free from every type of bondage so that He can have a close and pure relationship with you. God wants to pour out His abundant blessing on ALL who honor Him and do what is right. In fact, the Bible says in Galatians that In Christ, there is no Jew or Greek or even male or female. That means, God’s not judging you based on external conditions. He’s looking at your heart. He’s looking at the giftings He’s placed inside of you. Don’t let the enemy lie to you and tell you that God is blessing everyone else but you. Look for the ways God is pouring out blessing in your life. Thank Him for His acceptance and love. Thank Him for the gift of life and freedom! Focus on the goodness of God with an open. Honor Him and do what is right and you’ll see His hand of blessing in every area of your life!

    A Prayer for Today
    Father in Heaven, thank You for loving and accepting me today. I choose to do what is right and honor You with my attitude, words, and actions. Holy Spirit, show me if there is any area that isn’t pleasing to You and help me live as an example of Your goodness all the days of my life. Amen.

    Keep it POPPIN!

    By cooleyhigh on Oct 18, 2007 at 5:44 pm

  82. Cooley,

    thanks for the prayers man. I needed that, I’ve been moving further and further from the Spirit and need a refresher every now and again.

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 5:57 pm

  83. Cooley

    No problem with prayer so long as the lord is the lord of many names not exclusive to any people.

    St_George

    NBA audio pass does not appear to be airing the game tonight. I know that WFAN 660 and ESPN 1050 on the AM are the radio homes for the Knicks and Nets respectively. However, after a quick run down I’ve not been able to find word of this preseason game playing on either station– and by extension on either stations webcast.

    I’ll keep a look out if things change but if not I’m sure the Defenders will chime in with updates.

    as Cooley likes to say Keep It Poppin!

    By Orange and Blue on Oct 18, 2007 at 6:05 pm

  84. Give thanks Cooleyhigh
    Keep it Poppin

    By St_George on Oct 18, 2007 at 6:33 pm

  85. Give thanks O&B
    Lets Go Knicks

    Defenders are awesome

    By St_George on Oct 18, 2007 at 6:36 pm

  86. The most important thing I can say is Starburyfan you have taken us to a new level. You deserve every post you get. Thank you very much for being such a great fanatic and host.

    Welcome Robin. Maybe a couple of these guys will fiinally bath.

    LGM . . . . Good stuff; a nice addition. Welcome.

    African, the content is overwhelming. I still have 50 comments to read, not to count the other 150 that will come tonight. So I’ll be catching up. I may be silent for a couple of days, but I’ll come back bearing gifts. For now,I need to catch up on those Cooleyhigh, Post-up Prince and Steady pieces I just flew over.

    Later.

    Should I say it’s just P.R.E.. . . naaaaaa. We’ve already been so advised. Enjoy folks.

    P.S. I’m laughing to myself because I realize that I have not read anyting about last night but this blog. I think I need to do some trolling (as in patroling) to catch up on the sports world.

    Later. Keep it Poppin’. Steady As It Goes. King of the F’n Hill. I Said My Piece. It’s Slippery When It’s Wet. FunkadelicAquabetapsychosomethingdoolop. The Revolution Will Not be Televised. LGK. and Leggo My Ego. LGK

    By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 18, 2007 at 6:45 pm

  87. Chance to see what Knicks can do in back to back games. Perhaps Peaceman and DaVonn are on their way to the game.

    Cooley High: Your prayers shall be answered. Our savior: Big Snax” makes season debut; a chance to showcass his skills for any team interested or desperate enough to take him off our hands.

    LGK I

    By Post-up Prince on Oct 18, 2007 at 6:52 pm

  88. This is incredible. There is no radio broadcast of the Knicks/Nets. What’s this? King of the F*in Hill?
    BS

    By St_George on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:33 pm

  89. weird starting line up for th eknicks

    stephon is out

    jamal
    qrich
    jeffries
    zach
    curry

    krstic opened the game with a hook
    curry responds with an alley oop from jeffries

    qrich steals
    zach randolph with a jumpshot 4-2

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:42 pm

  90. starting for the nets

    darrell armstrong
    vince carter
    rj
    krstic
    j collins

    sorry to hear you cant get the game on the radio st george

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:43 pm

  91. Defenders
    for those with digital cable or Dish, I just heard there is a NBA League Pass Free Preview currently going on.

    6-4 NYK.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:44 pm

  92. jeffries is bringing the ball up some.

    thats new

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:44 pm

  93. Quentin with the nice scope move.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:45 pm

  94. qrich hit a left handed floater in the paint…wow.
    krstic looks good. two jumpers in a row.

    curry’s a little sloppy handling entry passes. unfortunately, its nothing new.
    jjeffries still bringing the ball up. sets up a jumper on the baseline by jcraw.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:47 pm

  95. Barf,

    Is Marbury hurt? Any comments by the broadcasters why he didn’t start?

    By HarlemBoyinMD on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:48 pm

  96. jjeffries out, wilson chandler in early!!! hell yeah

    6′8″, 230 lbs. YEAH!!

    vc hits a three off an assist by armstrong

    curry’s still a big doof whenever he’s not posting. he got in jcraw’s way and it gave armstrong a chance to get a steal. led to an rj dunk

    qrich responds with a leaner on the left side that rolled around the rim

    18-12 Nets.

    Harlem-Marbury? i dont know. I doubt he’s hurt. Probaby took the night off cuz JKidd’s out. Its preseason baby!!

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:51 pm

  97. qrich hits three, nets call timeout. 15-18 nets

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:51 pm

  98. Nice job Starburyfan. I also watched this wretched performance and still feel okay the day after. Here are my objective assessments. Marbury was too unselfish last night. Rondo had one nice move last night and that was it. Steph has 10 assist if the team shoots 40%. Correct me if I am wrong. 2nd, the officiating was bad for both teams. The bigs were not allowed to play and the double fouls on Curry and Perkins were a joke. Let them play. Eddy looks good. On offense we had no ball or body movement on the perimeter. Boston was able to collaspe and double hard on the post but to Curry’s credit, he got the ball out but the New York Local Bricks Union was in effect. We had great looks but missed. The more we missed, especially in the 2nd half, the effort stopped. Our intensity was there the 1st half but nonexistent in the 2nd. Early garbabe time from the 5 minute mark of the 3rd quarter to the end of the game. Chandler must get in th rotation. Talk about Wally Pip. Q better wake up and start making shots and stops. Pierce killed him. Allen abused Jamal but KG and Randolph was a wash. Both shot poorly, KG had the edge in assist but Z-Bo cleaned the glass and was active on both ends. Also, not that they needed them shooting 60%, Boston’s 1st team had 0 offensive boards. We killed them on the glass but could not hit the ocean from the pier. To end, yes Boston’s legit but point guard play may be their dimise. If this team had even a Billups type point guard, game, season and conference over. But they don’t. That is why if we stay healthy and score and rebound like we should, I still like our chances in the East. Holla back defender with game and street know how, peace.

    By bumrush40 on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:53 pm

  99. steady, i’m beginning to think you’re right about crawford. i though there were stretches during the maccabi game where he looked more like himself, he started to warm up, but so far the weight doesn’t seem to be helping him too much.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:53 pm

  100. that arena looks empty. i should have gone to that game.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:54 pm

  101. Q for three! I guess he was mad about the boston game.

    Bumrush40, yo we should have said what’s up at the game last night.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:56 pm

  102. @Starburyfan

    GREAT PICTURES!!!!…..I know I am a bit late.

    By D L T Knicks on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:57 pm

  103. krstic still hot. hits a jumper from deep. they missed him a lot last year.
    he comes out and malik allen subs in.

    curry scores from deep in the post off a qrich entry pass. 17-20 nets.

    chandler switched off RJ and came up with a steal off a dopey entry pass from armstrong and almost gives it up but recovered. passed it to jc who passed it to Q FOR THREEEE!! Tied up.

    The Nets push it to RJ who draws a shooting foul on Chandler.

    Our kid looks good guarding RJ.

    Jamal Magloire in for the Nets. I’ve been curious to see what he got.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:57 pm

  104. Now that’s a starting lineup. Replace Jeffries w/ Balk and that’s our best lineup. Let Marbury come off the bench and play 1 or 2. That would be nice! It could be Isiah is experimentin with Crawford at point because he feeds the ball to Curry better. I hope so!

    By HarlemBoyinMD on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:58 pm

  105. JCraw to Curry alley oop!!! Nice to see

    JCraw
    QRich
    Chandler
    Lee
    Curry

    this is a good lineup

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:59 pm

  106. chandler’s got range tonight.

    we should beat these guys, no jason kidd or marcus williams, only an aged darrell armstrong.

    hope ah7 gets more burn tonight.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 7:59 pm

  107. chandler for a deep three!!!!!25-22 knicks

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:00 pm

  108. Starburyfan,

    AH7 is sitting this one out

    By boomann on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:00 pm

  109. sbfan

    screw houston

    haha

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:00 pm

  110. by the way, sbfan, this is a nice place you got here.

    but, i bet, you already knew that.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:01 pm

  111. That kid Chandler is nice. Didn’t realize he was so smooth.

    JCraw looks like he’s rounding into game form.

    By bronxboy in Md on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:01 pm

  112. OUCH!!

    Chandler tried a three from the same spot and missed but came down with the long rebound. Kept his momentum and drove hard to hoop for a dunk but was BLOCKED by VC (assisted my Malik Allen) and threw our kid to the ground. Lee cleaned the play up for a basket but on the way up the floor, VC turned around and gave him a little smirk.

    Ouch!!!
    Welcome to the NBA kid

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:04 pm

  113. barf, great job with the play by play homie!

    did not know ah7 and steph aren’t playing…

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:09 pm

  114. I heard from very reliable sources that Antoine Wright has closets like a woman.
    He blew a wide open layup on a fast break.

    Previously, JCraw threw ECity a lightning fast pass that he couldn’t handle. Not a bad pass. ECity just couldnt handle it.

    Lee seems to have met his match in Magloire. Jamal M just bumped Lee out of his spot and put the ball down real easy. BTW, Lee’s put up 2 deep shots and missed so far.

    Magloire scores again in the paint.
    Crawford still missing his forced shots. What happened to his driving to the hoop more this year?

    7-0 run to end the first quarter. 33-27 Nets again

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:10 pm

  115. Does Steph look upset on the bench?….can’t see the game here.

    By D L T Knicks on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:12 pm

  116. sbfan, and you dont get mad at sharing articles from your “competitors”? this place is great. :)

    DLT, I havent seen Steph.

    2nd QTR Line up

    Nate
    Mardy
    Jeffries
    Lee
    Zach

    The qtr starts with a zach miss from the top of the key. nate steals, misses a floater in the lane but jeffries comes up with the putback.

    These announcers don’t talk about nothing.
    Lee misses another shot.

    Collins cant keep up with VC on D but he’s not quitting.

    Who the hell is Hite? Just hit a nice left-handed southpaw jumper. Speaking of left-handed southpaw’s…zach just d!cked someone in the paint for an easy layup in the paint.

    VC is not fair. Just hit a jumper over someone’s head. Not bad D. Just VC’s that nice!!

    VC and Malik Allen out for Eddie Gill?? WTF? Where do these people come from?

    Magloire’s too strong for Lee. Just stripped/blocked him.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:19 pm

  117. Chandler for ROI.

    By St_George on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:19 pm

  118. maglore air balled a free throw. no pro should ever air ball a free throw.

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:20 pm

  119. nice block e city

    By Starburyfan on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:21 pm

  120. Fred Jones is all over the place. He’s not going anywhere.

    Just saw the airball…he REALLLY MISSED.
    About a foot and half short.

    ECity likes to block with his left hand.

    Zach blows an entry pass. ECity’s too non chalant with the catches though.

    Krstic just hit a three. DAMN! He’s looking really good.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:26 pm

  121. Who did EC block

    By St_George on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:26 pm

  122. 44-32 Nets guys

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:27 pm

  123. JCraw’s picking up full court half assed.

    FJones pushes the pace off a rebound and finds JCraw in the corner for a three. 44-37

    FJones running the point some. Entry pass to Curry who tries to find the cutting FJones but passes it off his foot for a TO.

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:29 pm

  124. St george, whoever #21 is. It was a weak right handed floater type shot and ECity blocked it with his left handed on the weak side help. Nothing great, but nice to see still.

    They are not posting ZBo enough for my taste. When they do he it seems to rush the shot and misses hard off the glass.

    Curry’s got a mean hook. 47-39 2:10 in the 2nd (more or less cuz I’m rewinding)

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:33 pm

  125. Curry is pressuring JCollins high on the post. Giving nothing easy. Its disrupting the Nets offense some. Nets lead down to 6.

    Lineup going into halftime

    Curry
    Zbo
    Chandler
    FJones
    JCraw

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:37 pm

  126. who’s got the boxscore analysis?

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:38 pm

  127. FJONES swiping VC’s dribble…dump pass to a driving Chandler for a wide open fast break TOMAHAWK JAM BABY!!!!

    48-47

    3.9 seconds left

    By BARF on Oct 18, 2007 at 8:39 pm

  128. Nice—that’s what I’m talking about—stop