www.KnicksDefense.com

I hope there’s some banter tonight on the Knicks game. Doubt I’ll be home to watch it and forgot to set the DVR. Dang!!

First

By BARF on Oct 26, 2007

Well I just voted. They better get over 50 or I may kick my dog to death and have to answer to PITA,

By St_George on Oct 26, 2007

Poppin Scoski picked Knicks winning 46-50 games.
…………………………………………….
Here’s your chance—to be the next D-Nice:

http://knicks.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/26/heres-your-chance/

Can Anyone Guard Nate Rob?

http://the76ers.blogspot.com/2007/10/cant-anyone-guard-nate-robinson.html

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;
For those who like Steve Nash
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/28/sports/playmagazine/28nash.html?_r=2&adxnnl=1&oref=slogin&ref=sports&adxnnlx=1193422067-rbE57xsMS35tAEMNqtNaFg

Unhappy with NBA referees? Let’s try the free-for-all method
http://www.sportingo.com/basketball/unhappy_nba_referees_lets_try/1001,5489

Don’t expect the Miami Heat to have significant cap space in 2008.

http://blogs.sun-sentinel.com/sports_basketball_heat/2007/10/separating-trad.html

By Poppin Scoski on Oct 26, 2007

What up Defenders! Just peeking in the HOUSE through the back door checking on my folks. I’m sticking with my original prediction of W-52 and L-30. The Knicks should make easy work of the Nets tonight and begin to really solidfy their team and their focus.

GO KNICKS!

Keep it POPPIN!

By cooleyhigh on Oct 26, 2007

Outspoken Detroit Pistons forward Rasheed Wallace isn’t certain Boston will make the playoffs even with Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce, and he took a shot at the Celtics’ supporting cast. “They need to worry about making the playoffs first,” Wallace told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “This is no knock on those three guys they have, but they don’t have a point guard, center, or bench. They gave it away in the trade. I’ll be [expletive] if you can build a playoff-winning team during the offseason, it can’t be done.” Boston Globe

By Syd on Oct 26, 2007

NBA: No sign yet of Raptors’ much-balleyhooed depth

http://www.sportingo.com/basketball/nba_no_sign_yet_raptors/1001,5372

By Poppin Scoski on Oct 26, 2007

I got em’ winning 41-45. Anything more would simply be fantastic.

By bronxboy in Md on Oct 26, 2007

I predict 43(W)/39(L). Hey Poppin Scoski, have you seen the guy who predicted 57 Wins?

Peace & Blessings

By STATESMAN on Oct 26, 2007

Poppin:
What struck me with that Celtics piece, was that Brandon Wallace, the 14th roster spot for the Celtics said he’s looking forward to go to the D-league to hone his skills.
Quite a far cry from Mr. Nichols, who thinks he’s reggie Miller. Luckily for him I’ll need some Term Life Insurance soon. I’ll give him the sale.
St. george:
What’s up. Dogs are actually dogs down there. You’d be fine, fire away! (lol)

By African on Oct 26, 2007

That sixers blog site @ #3 is pretty cool with the graphix scrollin over the picture. Haven’t seen that before

By St_George on Oct 26, 2007

Eddy Curry Had Crazy Visions, Son!

http://slamonline.com/online/2007/10/eddy-curry-had-crazy-visions-son/

By Poppin Scoski on Oct 26, 2007

African Whazz up. Man me almost grabbed me cutlass and Jack Irons bockle last nite when that guy was capitalizin. But we just bloggin… Seen? Diggin the vibe Bro

By St_George on Oct 26, 2007

Converse - Dwyane Wade “From Robbins, Illinois” commercial

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXxIw7UDtt8

Nike Zoom LeBron Soldier Commercial
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PWL66Y7kqk
…………………………………………………………………..
Still looking for the Jerome James commercial—wait…I think I found it. Ok, here it goes: http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp

By Poppin Scoski on Oct 26, 2007

Rumor has it that Jerome James is developing a new blog site called: Twinkiesdefense.com

Stay tuned!!!

By Poppin Scoski on Oct 26, 2007

Poppin Scoski:

I also voted 46 - 50 wins, but won’t mind being wrong if they win more than 50; but will feel disappointed if they win less than 46. Nevertheless, 40 -41 could get them a playoff
spot (7-8 more than the 33 wins of last year).

I think that both Knicks and Nets wish to prove something to tonight and hope to make a “statement” in anticipation of regula season. As much as I would like to win this one for Knick’s sense of confidence and pride, etc., I agree with T Man that no one need take excessive risk and and hope Knicks get sufficient lead or at least demonstrate parity, so that starters can rest and 2nd - unit players like Jones, Chandler, Morris, and Collins get ample minutes. Though Balkman may be itching to contribute, he, especially, should not rush back too early. Otherwise, LGK

By Post-up Prince on Oct 26, 2007

http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/10/25/430214.aspx

By Starburyfan on Oct 26, 2007

St.George:
The Cutlass and the Jack Iron bottle. Priceless!!
I’m feeling you.(no homo) I’m living my life through you. Say Hi to Mr Clarks Court for me!

The second unit is the Burn unit. Quicker and more defensive intensity than the starters.
I’ll be there tonight.

By African on Oct 26, 2007

AF

Digi Cam? Take some pics. Give you a good reason to take the walk down to the court.

I imagine some of our starters will be out. Any word on Balkman? No chance he plays right?

By BARF on Oct 26, 2007

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/ian_thomsen/10/26/scouts.predictions/

By Starburyfan on Oct 26, 2007

T-1. Boston Celtics (25 cumulative points)
T-1. Detroit Pistons (25)
3. Chicago Bulls (32)
4. Cleveland Cavaliers (41)
5. Miami Heat (63)
6. New Jersey Nets (72)
7. Washington Wizards (78)
8. Toronto Raptors (80)
9. Orlando (86)
10. New York Knicks (112)
11. Milwaukee Bucks (122)
12. Atlanta Hawks (140)
T-13. Indiana Pacers (144)
T-13. Philadelphia 76ers (144)
15. Charlotte Bobcats (156)

Orlando will not be better than the Knicks. With their Center position in flux, Washington won’t be as successful as last year. Their bench sucked last year.

By BARF on Oct 26, 2007

Anyone know anything about Varejao and Pavlovic? If that situation isn’t remedied, thats another team that will fall a notch or two.

By BARF on Oct 26, 2007

Knock, knock anybody home?

By St_George on Oct 26, 2007

@ #20 Barf, how does that point system work?

By St_George on Oct 26, 2007

Barf you gotta be kidding putting Celtics and Pistons 1st. Listen to what Sheed is telling you, Celtics aint making the playoffs this season and Detroit is no better then 5th. Heat aint making the playoffs either. Its gonna be Bull’s, Cavs’, Raptors, Nets, Knicks, Detroit, Orlando, Washington.

By rush on Oct 26, 2007

that’s not BARF saying that stuff, he’s quoting the ESPN article I referenced in #19. they polled the NBA scouts and that is what they came up with.

speaking of which, here is a link the NBA gm survey:

http://www.nba.com/preview2007/gmsurvey_misc.html

the only spot I see any knick on the map for is best offensive rebounder in the league, D Lee came in third I believe.

By Starburyfan on Oct 26, 2007

Those scouts who are picking Celtics 1st should be fired. They are not being objective and just bought into the hype. Celtics are missing alot of pieces and will not be very good this season. You saw them play, they are out of sync offensively and below average defensively without any depth at all. How can they be the best team?

As far as the GM survey I think none of them saw Nate the Great play. In speed and athletic categories he should have been right there.

By rush on Oct 26, 2007

This shyt is ridiculous. How can there be no radio coverage for any Knicks games in the PS. They had coverage in the summer league. This SUCKS. Every other game has audio coverage. ALl you cats are at the game SHYT, SHYT, SHYT.

By St_George on Oct 26, 2007

@ BARF (Post #20)

Surely that’s not you posting those predictions, is it?

Tell me those results are from some type of publication or periodical….

Or maybe you’re just testing to see if we’re asleep at the switch…

Because nothing is further from the truth. Barring injury, we’ll finish no lower than 6th.

Count on it!!!

By bronxboy in Md on Oct 26, 2007

What’ up Defenders

Just checking in at halftime. I sure hope we can finally get this Monkey(NJN) off our backs. Seems like we haven’t beaten them in 10 years. Jkidd makes me sick. JCraw lost his shot.I think N8 plays Kidd better than Steph.

Back to the game.

By D L T Knicks on Oct 26, 2007

52-43 NJN at Half

By D L T Knicks on Oct 26, 2007

Newsflash for Knick Defenders!!!!! NBA LEAGUE PASS FREE PREVIEW TILL NOVEMBER 6th for cable and sattelite subscribers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By George M. on Oct 26, 2007

Anyone know J. Jeffries status? Any ligament damage etc.?

By shamgod on Oct 26, 2007

Rush came on and chased the crew.
Someting stinks in here

By African on Oct 26, 2007

watching the game now, friday nights are arse for play by play

bboyinmd, you know that wasnt my prediction, just a quote like blogzilla said

i think the knicks are winning 50 if healthy

nachbar looks good, what happened to jjeff?

By BARF on Oct 26, 2007

Jeffries’ knee hit RJ’s knee on a play in the first half. looked like it buckled sideways. Hope he is all right. he was having a good game, and a good preseason imo.

tonight was a blowout. nothing more to say about, bad d by the knicks, bad offense by the knicks. nate tried to dunk it on rj on the fast break and it wasn’t close to the rim. the beautiful thing about DVR is you can fast forward through a game, especially a game like tonight’s.

By Starburyfan on Oct 27, 2007

found this on realgm.com just now:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncw/news/story?id=3081048

By Starburyfan on Oct 27, 2007

What’s up guys…I’m back. Nice vacation but let’s get back to business….shall we?

Just for the record..I haven’t seen the Boston, Philly or Nets game yet.

I was watching the Cavs-Celtics game tonight on the plane coming home….Boston looked good. Still don’t think they Eastern Conference Finalists.

Knicks had 2 good games after losing 2 in a row huh? They beat the Celtics and the Sixers.

They got blown out tonight by the Nets.

Why are we getting blown out by the Nets again?

I thought Kobe didn’t want to come here.

Pierce blows balls…

KG kicks ass…

Artest should be the next move in my opinion…

So Crawford got punked by Pierce? I can’t wait to watch that.

I still got some catching up to do on the reading but I should get through most tonight.

Good to be back right in time for the season to begin.

Great Story Starburyfan in #36….

What Isiah really wanted to say was “Bitch you need to watch the whole video and stop jumping to conclusions”

I know that wasn’t right but if he said it…would he be wrong?

By DaVonn J on Oct 27, 2007

Hip Hop Hooray – PreSeason Is Finally Over

Good morning Defenders, good bye Pre-tenders. The Pre-season is finally over. Thank God.

I am Lives and it is almost time to get jaggedly jiggy with it. Cut throat. Nice n’ Nasty. And most signs are good for a nice, playoff productive season. There is a lot to discuss and my regular posting season starts Wednesday night at ten o’clock at the latest. You can expect roll call (real soon), a little poetic re-introduction and a couple of slammin’ (ala Shawn Kemp) Atlantic Division previews that will have you thinking I am either crack-a-lackin’ or just plain lackin’. But first, let’s close this pre-season baby out.

I know I don’t need to flash my badge. And I know I don’t need to say I told you so, since that would be redundant, but I feel like I need a reminder that my job is to try to stay ahead of the curve. Plus losing Jeffries for two weeks has me in a bad mood. Check out the re-post post to follow.

*************************************
Don’t let the bad taste fool ya.

For the first time in a long time, I turned a Knicks game off in the third quarter. Clearly, the Knicks lost all desire to play when they saw their boy go down with a knee injury in a Pre-Season game. The vets had no intention of getting mor than their feelings hurt, so I had a good feeling that there would be nothing to learn from te rest of the game. If I’m wrong, share the intel, please.

AH at KF is reporting that JJ is out for at least two weeks. That means he misses four to six games. Two weeks have him back for Miami. Why am I so hyped about losing a versatile big man who has shown he is all business during the pre-season? I’ll answer by first stating anyone who thinks JJ is not one of the key players, early on, for this squad doesn’t have a f*ckin’ clue and just needs to act like he or she has a season ending hand injury right now.

This promises to be a good year for JJ for a couple of reasons. First, he was not going to have team chemistry problems caused by the injuries, lack of playing time b/c of the brawl, and a lack of a team defensive philosophy and mindset. This Knicks team is the kind he was meant for. A hustling team that brings defensive pressure and varied offensive looks. Second, he (along with Nate, Rose, Balkman, Lee and Jones) establish a core that reinforces the tone Zeke needs for this team – a hard playing, no prisoners type of hustle and physicality that will bring back some of the glory days. His teammates see him hustle and they are forced to bring the energy because he give Zeke the option to sit their asses down when they don’t play up to their potential. Third, the Knicks are going to win by throwing hard defenders at hot opponents. There is not much better than throwing Jeffries, Balkman and Jones as some of these players.

The Balkman solution. Yes they have Balkman and Chandler which will make Jeffries less critical later in the season when both of these guys (assuming Chandler gets PT) are more acquainted with the team. Balkman has the energy, but he is still working on that basketball knowledge. I am not overly concerned about later in the season. I need wins now though.

It won’t kill the Knicks, but I felt a lot more confident about these early wins we should get with Jeffries available. We will need these early wins to avoid the pressure of a numbers game in March and April. Everybody needs to step it up and Balkman needs to play well.

***************************************

There were a lot of good signs during the pre-season. The Boston and Philly contests showed that the Knicks are ready to play with a little edge and fire. The softness that came with Frye’s game has dissipated and been transformed into some hustle and muscle. You can see that Curry is not going to take much shyte and bad boy Z-bo is a load. The softest player from head to toe, Big Snaxxx will have his Mr. Softee azz on the bench.

Unfortunately the refs are not going to give Nate the benefit of the doubt as evidenced by the flagrant last night. And Curry is going to need to constantly talk to the refs as he develops a defensive pattern they can recognize and respect as part of the game. Curry needs to use his body more and his arms less in fighting back the opposition.

*****************************************

Nate was great and I see he is ready to translate that into th regular season. But don’t act like the poor decisionmaking will totally go away. It never will because he plays an emotional brand of basketball which has him in attack mode constantly. You can’t always harness that type of energy. You can manage it, but you can’t always control it. Every once in a while you’ll see him take the hard shot instead of the easy pass, like he did last night. But he promises to be a big time Knick favorite as the press revises his story to focus on his hutzpah , boundless energy and physicality. I mean didn’t he try to block a shot by and dunk on Richard Jefferson. Damnnn.

******************************************

Steph is ready. Hard to tell what that towel incident was about, but either Isiah has been getting on Steph and Craw or everyone was a bit bummed that three guys including D-Nice was getting cut. It’s part of the business, but it is always hard to break bonds with a likeable guy and cutting players is always the worst part for a coach like Zeke, who cares about the individuals.

Nevertheless Steph is ready. He’s too much of a vet to overdo pre-season. He is in good shape and he is ready to lay defense. Zeke will eventually decide that he needs to see more of Robinson and Marbury on the floor at the same time. Robinson turns the game into a fastbreak game which Marbury clearly enjoys but will not necessarily initiate himself as he contemplates running the sets. Robinson takes Zeke’s command to push to the basket very, very seriously.

******************************************

Zbo is all that and then some. but he is definitely a black hole when he gets the ball. For the most part he is not looking to pass. Thank god, he can shoot. However, I do like a little wrinkle that includes him in feeding the ball into the post. The guard feeds Z-Bo at the high post behind the feeder’s defender establishing a better angle to pass to Curry in the low post. Ball movement will kill the opposition.

*********************************************

How far the Knicks go all depends on Zeke and how he uses his tools. The idiots that say this team can’t mesh will hopefully see why they are wrong as Zeke establishes a 10-man rotation (not 8 or 9, but 10).

Zeke has shown that he will not be bullheaded and force Z-Bo and E-City to play together when it is not working, like he did last year by forcing Francis and Marbury to play together or Big Snaxxx to start. Good squads can be fielded with just one of those guys on the floor.

*********************************************

We need Crawford to find his shot. He believes that he is in the same league as Wade, Arenas and Kobe. He may be. I don’t think so. But, I know that Dwade, Arenas and Kobe have an advantage in that they are allowed to shot themselves into a game. Crawford will not get as many shots as his competitors to constantly establish the flow he needs.

I expect Crawford to see less playing time as the season goes on, if not a move to the second unit.

***********************************************

I am not ready to predict number of wins yet, but I am certain that Washington, Orlando and Miami are ready to hand over their playoff spots. The Knicks should finish ahead of each of them and one of them will not make the playoffs. I expect Miami to start the season at 6-9 without Wade and with Ricky Davis (HaHaHaHa). I am not sold on Boston to make the playoffs. Not enough depth and everyone will be gunning for them like they are the favorites and because they willl get lots of telee coverage. Boston is marked and Zeke exposed their weakness at the guard spot with three-quarter and full-court pressure.

In NBA mythology GARNETT IS A GOD. Perhaps he is Thor or Poseidon. But he is my choice for MVP if the Celtics make the playoffs. You gotta love his game. But alas, I doubt even he can get them to the playoffs without help from the Wizards and Heat.

***********************************************

Welcome Harewood. KnicksDefense kicks it up a notch again. Welcome back DVJ and BARF. Steady, you’re not kidding about the effort it takes to keep up with these posts. Thank goodness that every once in a while someone starts typing crazy shyte that I can skip to get to the meaty posts and links. But I mean, damn. This blog is no joke and Blogzilla is a great host.
Although, as far as I am concerned we all post at our own risk and should be ready to get blasted and or praised for our opinions. Just Bloggin’ ha ha ha.

*************************************************

Bottom Line? This will be a nice season. We could win 48 but I expect inconsistency although much less than last year. I say we should start November 10 -5 with victories over Minnesota, Denver (2), Orlando, Miami, LA Clippers, Chicago, Utah, Boston and Milwaukee. I reserve the right to change my mind after every game.

*************************************************

Peace

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Hip Hop Hooray – PreSeason Is Finally Over

Good morning Defenders, good bye Pre-tenders. The Pre-season is finally over. Thank God.

I am Lives and it is almost time to get jaggedly jiggy with it. Cut throat. Nice n’ Nasty. And most signs are good for a nice, playoff productive season. There is a lot to discuss and my regular posting season starts Wednesday night at ten o’clock at the latest. You can expect roll call (real soon), a little poetic re-introduction and a couple of slammin’ (ala Shawn Kemp) Atlantic Division previews that will have you thinking I am either crack-a-lackin’ or just plain lackin’. But first, let’s close this pre-season baby out.

I know I don’t need to flash my badge. And I know I don’t need to say I told you so, since that would be redundant, but I feel like I need a reminder that my job is to try to stay ahead of the curve. Plus losing Jeffries for two weeks has me in a bad mood. Check out the re-post post to follow.

*************************************
Don’t let the bad taste fool ya.

For the first time in a long time, I turned a Knicks game off in the third quarter. Clearly, the Knicks lost all desire to play when they saw their boy go down with a knee injury in a Pre-Season game. The vets had no intention of getting mor than their feelings hurt, so I had a good feeling that there would be nothing to learn from te rest of the game. If I’m wrong, share the intel, please.

AH at KF is reporting that JJ is out for at least two weeks. That means he misses four to six games. Two weeks have him back for Miami. Why am I so hyped about losing a versatile big man who has shown he is all business during the pre-season? I’ll answer by first stating anyone who thinks JJ is not one of the key players, early on, for this squad doesn’t have a f*ckin’ clue and just needs to act like he or she has a season ending hand injury right now.

This promises to be a good year for JJ for a couple of reasons. First, he was not going to have team chemistry problems caused by the injuries, lack of playing time b/c of the brawl, and a lack of a team defensive philosophy and mindset. This Knicks team is the kind he was meant for. A hustling team that brings defensive pressure and varied offensive looks. Second, he (along with Nate, Rose, Balkman, Lee and Jones) establish a core that reinforces the tone Zeke needs for this team – a hard playing, no prisoners type of hustle and physicality that will bring back some of the glory days. His teammates see him hustle and they are forced to bring the energy because he give Zeke the option to sit their asses down when they don’t play up to their potential. Third, the Knicks are going to win by throwing hard defenders at hot opponents. There is not much better than throwing Jeffries, Balkman and Jones as some of these players.

The Balkman solution. Yes they have Balkman and Chandler which will make Jeffries less critical later in the season when both of these guys (assuming Chandler gets PT) are more acquainted with the team. Balkman has the energy, but he is still working on that basketball knowledge. I am not overly concerned about later in the season. I need wins now though.

It won’t kill the Knicks, but I felt a lot more confident about these early wins we should get with Jeffries available. We will need these early wins to avoid the pressure of a numbers game in March and April. Everybody needs to step it up and Balkman needs to play well.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

There were a lot of good signs during the pre-season. The Boston and Philly contests showed that the Knicks are ready to play with a little edge and fire. The softness that came with Frye’s game has dissipated and been transformed into some hustle and muscle. You can see that Curry is not going to take much shyte and bad boy Z-bo is a load. The softest player from head to toe, Big Snaxxx will have his Mr. Softee azz on the bench.

Unfortunately the refs are not going to give Nate the benefit of the doubt as evidenced by the flagrant last night. And Curry is going to need to constantly talk to the refs as he develops a defensive pattern they can recognize and respect as part of the game. Curry needs to use his body more and his arms less in fighting back the opposition.

*****************************************

Nate was great and I see he is ready to translate that into th regular season. But don’t act like the poor decision making will totally go away. It never will because he plays an emotional brand of basketball which has him in attack mode constantly. You can’t always harness that type of energy. You can manage it, but you can’t always control it. Every once in a while you’ll see him take the hard shot instead of the easy pass, like he did last night. But he promises to be a big time Knick favorite as the press revises his story to focus on his hutzpah , boundless energy and physicality. I mean didn’t he try to block a shot by and dunk on Richard Jefferson. Damnnn.

******************************************

Steph is ready. Hard to tell what that towel incident was about, but either Isiah has been getting on Steph and Craw or everyone was a bit bummed that three guys including D-Nice was getting cut. It’s part of the business, but it is always hard to break bonds with a likeable guy and cutting players is always the worst part for a coach like Zeke, who cares about the individuals.

Nevertheless Steph is ready. He’s too much of a vet to overdo pre-season. He is in good shape and he is ready to lay defense. Zeke will eventually decide that he needs to see more of Robinson and Marbury on the floor at the same time. Robinson turns the game into a fastbreak game which Marbury clearly enjoys but will not necessarily initiate himself as he contemplates running the sets. Robinson takes Zeke’s command to push to the basket very, very seriously.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Zbo is all that and then some. but he is definitely a black hole when he gets the ball. For the most part he is not looking to pass. Thank god, he can shoot. However, I do like a little wrinkle that includes him in feeding the ball into the post. The guard feeds Z-Bo at the high post behind the feeder’s defender establishing a better angle to pass to Curry in the low post. Ball movement will kill the opposition.

*********************************************

How far the Knicks go all depends on Zeke and how he uses his tools. The idiots that say this team can’t mesh will hopefully see why they are wrong as Zeke establishes a 10-man rotation (not 8 or 9, but 10).

Zeke has shown that he will not be bullheaded and force Z-Bo and E-City to play together when it is not working, like he did last year by forcing Francis and Marbury to play together or Big Snaxxx to start. Good squads can be fielded with just one of those guys on the floor.

*********************************************

We need Crawford to find his shot. He believes that he is in the same league as Wade, Arenas and Kobe. He may be. I don’t think so. But, I know that Dwade, Arenas and Kobe have an advantage in that they are allowed to shot themselves into a game. Crawford will not get as many shots as his competitors to constantly establish the flow he needs.

I expect Crawford to see less playing time as the season goes on, if not a move to the second unit.

***********************************************

I am not ready to predict number of wins yet, but I am certain that Washington, Orlando and Miami are ready to hand over their playoff spots. The Knicks should finish ahead of each of them and one of them will not make the playoffs. I expect Miami to start the season at 6-9 without Wade and with Ricky Davis (HaHaHaHa). I am not sold on Boston to make the playoffs. Not enough depth and everyone will be gunning for them like they are the favorites and because they willl get lots of telee coverage. Boston is marked and Zeke exposed their weakness at the guard spot with three-quarter and full-court pressure.

In NBA mythology GARNETT IS A GOD. Perhaps he is Thor or Poseidon. But he is my choice for MVP if the Celtics make the playoffs. You gotta love his game. But alas, I doubt even he can get them to the playoffs without help from the Wizards and Heat.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Welcome Harewood. KnicksDefense kicks it up a notch again. Welcome back DVJ and BARF. Steady, you’re not kidding about the effort it takes to keep up with these posts. Thank goodness that every once in a while someone starts typing crazy shyte that I can skip to get to the meaty posts and links. But I mean, damnnn. This blog is no joke and Blogzilla is a great host.
Although, as far as I am concerned we all post at our own risk and should be ready to get blasted and or praised for our opinions. Just Bloggin’ ha ha ha.

*************************************************

Bottom Line? This will be a nice season. We could win 48 but I expect inconsistency although much less than last year. I say we should start November 10 -5 with victories over Minnesota, Denver (2), Orlando, Miami, LA Clippers, Chicago, Utah, Boston and Milwaukee. I reserve the right to change my mind after every game.

*************************************************

Peace.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Welcome Harewood. KnicksDefense kicks it up a notch again. Welcome back DVJ and BARF. Steady, you’re not kidding about the effort it takes to keep up with these posts. Thank goodness that every once in a while someone starts typing crazy sh*te that I can skip to get to the meaty posts and links. But I mean, damnnn. This blog is no joke and Blogzilla is a great host.
Although, as far as I am concerned we all post at our own risk and should be ready to get blasted and or praised for our opinions. Just Bloggin’ ha ha ha.

*************************************************

Bottom Line? This will be a nice season. We could win 48 but I expect inconsistency although much less than last year. I say we should start November 10 -5 with victories over Minnesota, Denver (2), Orlando, Miami, LA Clippers, Chicago, Utah, Boston and Milwaukee. I reserve the right to change my mind after every game.

*************************************************

Peace.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Welcome Harewood. Knicks Defense kicks it up a notch again. Welcome back DVJ and BARF. Steady, you’re not kidding about the effort it takes to keep up with these posts. Thank goodness that every once in a while someone starts typing crazy sh*te that I can skip to get to the meaty posts and links. But I mean, damnnn. This blog is no joke and Blogzilla is a great host.
Although, as far as I am concerned we all post at our own risk and should be ready to get blasted and or praised for our opinions. Just Bloggin’ ha ha ha.

*************************************************

Bottom Line? This will be a nice season. We could win 48 but I expect inconsistency although much less than last year. I say we should start November 10 -5 with victories over Minnesota, Denver (2), Orlando, Miami, LA Clippers, Chicago, Utah, Boston and Milwaukee. I reserve the right to change my mind after every game.

*************************************************

Peace.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Welcome Harewood. Knicks Defense kicks it up a notch again. Welcome back DVJ and BARF. Steady, you’re not kidding about the effort it takes to keep up with these posts. Thank goodness that every once in a while someone starts typing crazy sh*te that I can skip to get to the meaty posts and links. But I mean, darnnn. This blog is no joke and Blogzilla is a great host.
Although, as far as I am concerned we all post at our own risk and should be ready to get blasted and or praised for our opinions. Just Bloggin’ ha ha ha.

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Bottom Line? This will be a nice season. We could win 48 but I expect inconsistency although much less than last year. I say we should start November 10 -5 with victories over Minnesota, Denver (2), Orlando, Miami, LA Clippers, Chicago, Utah, Boston and Milwaukee. I reserve the right to change my mind after every game.

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Peace.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Davonn
Welcome back, hope you enjoyed vacation! I’m interested in your reaction when you watch
the last 7 minutes of your TVO’d 76er game! I think your going to have a fit after seeing
what Nichols did, only to get cut the ne fext day!

Last night was a huge disapointment! Thank God it was only preseason!
Jeffries looked real good until that injury! It may be noted that that was the same Knee
he had ACL surgery on a few years ago!

Dave Lee was the best Knick on the floor last night! He was a monster on the Boards and
I almost dropped when he had that NASTY BLOCK! He made a few steals to go with his Double/Double!
I don’t think the Nets beat us….we beat ourselfs! The Knicks looked void of desire.
Poor overall defense and shooting 31-84 from the floor was our demise!

The season starts Nov 2nd! Lets see what we really have in a real game!

By Peaceman on Oct 27, 2007

Welcome Harewood. Knicks Defense kicks it up a notch again. Welcome back DVJ and BARF. Steady, you’re not kidding about the effort it takes to keep up with these posts. Thank goodness that every once in a while someone starts typing crazy sh*te that I can skip to get to the meaty posts and links. But I mean, darnnn. This blog is no joke and Blogzilla is a great host.
Although, as far as I am concerned we all post at our own risk and should be ready to get blasted and or praised for our opinions. Just Bloggin’ ha ha ha.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Bottom Line? This will be a nice season. We could win 48 but I expect inconsistency although much less than last year. I say we should start November 10 -5 with victories over Minnesota, Denver (2), Orlando, Miami, LA Clippers, Chicago, Utah, Boston and Milwaukee. I reserve the right to change my mind after every game.

*************************************************

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

We could win 48 but I expect inconsistency although much less than last year. I say we should start November 10 -5 with victories over Minnesota, Denver (2), Orlando, Miami, LA Clippers, Chicago, Utah, Boston and Milwaukee. I reserve the right to change my mind after every game.

*************************************************

Peace.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

REPOST FROM KNICKS FIX * REPOST * REPOST * REPOST

Posted by Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York | October 7, 2007 11:38

Sounds like some of the BIG GUNS are rumbling. No kissy, kissy. I like the sound, but you guys are swinging at each other like only one of you has valid points (Speaking of kissy, kissy, I just read where IT told Vescey no more k.i.s.s.e.s, which as you know is an IT trademark greeting sometimes to men as well as women. Vescey is such a pri*k though. I won’t even tell you how gleefully disrespectful he is.)

Anywho, I’ve been reading all summer about these wishful thinking lineups and I am glad that we are getting around to cutting time. So you guys keep pimp slapping each other, while I slip this little ditty in on you under the radar.

I would suggest to you that, assuming Zeke remains on the job, he has a certain philosophy that is usually apparent in his roster selections. First, Zeke tends to go three deep for every position with at least one convertible (tweener?).

Last year at Center we had the following:

Curry/James/Cato/ then Morris late Convertible: Rose

Last year at Point we had:

Marbury/Francis/Collins Convertible: Crawford

Last year at shooting guard we had:

Crawford/Robinson/Marbury Convertible: Richardson

Last year at the soft forward spot we had:

Richardson/Jeffries/Balkman/ Convertible: Lee

Last year at the power forward spot we had:

Frye/Lee/Rose/ Convertible: Cato or Balkman

Last year his top five units in terms of minutes on the floor were as follows:

1. Marbury—-Crawford——Richardson——-Lee—–Curry

2. Marbury—-Francis———Richardson——Frye—–Curry

3. Marbury—-Crawford——Richardson——Frye—–Curry

4. Marbury—-Crawford——Jeffries———–Frye—–Curry

5. Marbury—-Crawford——Lee—————Frye—–Curry

The most effective units were (5) and (2). Statistically, the least effective was the Starbury/Crawford/Richardson/Frye/Curry. This unit was outscored by opponents in 16 of 24 games in which they played.

The second principal Isiah seems to follow is that he gives vets first shot and they must work themselves out of a starting position. He also will allow them to work up to speed while in the starting position. Cite Marbury, Jeffries and Francis as evidence of that tenet of management.

As I suggested a long, long time ago. The starting lineup will probably be Marbury, Crawford, Qrich, Z-Bo and Curry. The only substitution would possibly be Jeffries for Qrich which is unlikely to start the season, because Z-Bo and Curry will need room to work out the kinks. Jeffries would get in the way and has practically no shot unless he gets plenty of ops. Not happening! After the starting lineup, Isiah has the same problem he had last year in terms of deciding how to dispense minutes and to use his weapons to beat up on opponents. Yet, that is another topic for another day.

Based on the foregoing and 1) comments by Jamal Crawford, who is not delusionary but confident that Isiah will treat him fairly and like a man; 2)that Fred Jones has been introduced to the public by MSG; and 3)comments made by Zeke, I would suggest that the following roster is the most likely. Three deep at each position.

This is of course barring a trade:

Marbury ———————————- Collins —————————Robinson

Crawford ———————————Jones——————————-Richardson (convertible)

Richardson ——————————-Jeffries—————————–Balkman/Chandler

Randolph———————————-Lee———————————Rose

Curry—————————————James——————————Morris

That leaves Houston, Jordan (who needs to bulk up and play which will not happen on the Knick roster unless he is in D-League), Nichols and Cato (?).

I think James needs to go, but States (and others) is probably right about why Zeke would keep him. If either Randolph or Curry goes down, the Knicks need that body as insurance. AAAGH. I think if Zeke cuts himself a center, it is Morris who looked o’k (he did block shots) in the summer league, but as many noted, he just seems to be disinterested and to lack passion sometimes.

Obviously, I do not have a third shooting guard as a backup. That would be AH20 or Nichols. However, Chandler has already been promised that he would be drafted and that he would be a Knicks player for the future. I take the Pony deal as further evidence of a guaranteed spot in the NBA even if the Knicks decide he is trade bait. He will either sit in a suit or be in D-League honing his skills in a way that practice doesn’t quite cut it. (Chandler sticking means that either Balkman or Jeffries may be gone by the February trading deadline.)

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Jefferies will probably miss only the first week of the season. He had been having such a good pre-season. Although it is cost-effective I suggest the Knicks don’t play the Nets in any pre-season game in the next few years.

E-City should keep his composure. He got called for several silly fouls by retaliating. I suspect the pairing with Z-Bo will be totally different once the season starts.

What’s up with Jamal? The extra pounds he put on seem to have affected his shot.

Anyway, I am just bloging, trying to get through the hangover

My 2 Cents

By Jazz on Oct 27, 2007

From Ian Thompson on SI, defense of picking the Knicks 6th

“Of course they have too many non-defenders and non-passers. But I’m imagining they’ll play hard for Thomas in an us-versus-world kind of way, leading to a strong start up to the All-Star break. Then I can see them fading while the better teams are gearing up. At the moment it’s politically incorrect to forecast good things for the Knicks. And while no one should take my prediction as a show of support for Thomas’ hurtful testimony or for the phenomenally (and characteristically) stupid decision by ownership to not settle out of court, this team should win 43 to 45 games with a variety of styles that will make for an interesting playoff matchup.”

Eddie can change all that with a little defensive thinking.Close the middle and we’re dangerous.

Nate should have made that pass.That’s what good PGs do, disappointing.The fact that he was headed for the bench by himself however, was a good sign.A work in progress, but that’s progress isn’t it?Don’t give up so easily!The effort was there until the mental let down.We need a rotation.And Craw needs to stay in front of people.Kidd made him look silly, but he’s JKidd!Crawford would have been better served putting on 8-10 pounds and working on his defensive footwork with Curry (big man camp?)When shooters put on muscle it constricts them unless they have very sophisticated stretching programs and extensive daily shooting schedules.Pumping iron is actually easy and addictive.Later.Lives welcome back.Do it write!LGK

By Tman on Oct 27, 2007

Another preseason, another injury. JJ looked great last night in limited action. We lost it after he left the game because we went short at the 3. Q needs to play the 2 w/ JJ or Balkman at the 3. I sound like a broken record, I know, but its what would be best for the team.

By JohnQ on Oct 27, 2007

It would be nice to have a reliable shooter to call up off the bench, but I’m not lickin up the spilt milk. I’m lookin at 41-45 wins this year as a reasonable target (of course assuming no crazy injuries). More than that is an overachievement in my books, however welcome. Next off-season is the real move into maayjor threat territory.

By Charles Follymacher on Oct 27, 2007

Welcome back DVJ and Lives.
Yes Lives, I recall your October 7 post at KF.

“NBA stands for Nothing But Actors”–Shaquile O’Neal.

Let the games begin.

KFLL

By Steady on Oct 27, 2007

Great summary by the way, LINY.

O wot thee hell, early predictions are fun so I’ll stick my foolish neck out, too. Here’s my two cents re playoffs (so, natch, take it for what it’s worth). In my rough order of probability…

MORTALISH LOCKS (really, if anybody predicts any one of these teams not making the playoffs, that person prolly teaches part time at Hogwarts)

chicago
detroit
cleveland
toronto

MORE LIKELY THAN NOT (at least three of these teams are goin to the after party, which ones is anyone’s guess)

celtics (can they rack up enough wins while the big-3 are healthy?)
new jersey (lil stronger bench this year)
atlanta (horford activates: “form of…beast! rowr!”)
new york (can they put the puzzle together?)
orlando (howard is looking to morph from man-beast to beast-man; new FA might help out, too)
miami (that ricky trade makes a big diff for them)
washington (hard to count out that lovable weirdo arenas)

WHO KNEW (if you predict one of these cinderellas making the top 8, there’s a lucrative career for you sitting behind a glass ball)

charlotte (they’re on top of the bubble bunch)
milwaukee (JRich and a gaggle of whodats)
indiana (thin, thin, thin)
philadelphia (too many needs, so much whine)

Knicks, assuming they make it, I figure grabbing 8th or 7th spot. 6th sounds a long shot. Looking for the team to gell and really start clicking on the offensive end. Waiting for that final piece in the off-season. JB, LGK!

By Charles Follymacher on Oct 27, 2007

Safe, but useful post ChuckFM. Very safe.

KFLLL

By Steady on Oct 27, 2007

O’k, I’m stumped. I keep looking at this roster trying to figure out what will be Zeke’s rotation. I bet he still doesn’t know what his ten will be. That’s not good news. Is it?

I have James, Morris, Chandler, Collins and Jones on the bench and that can’t be right. NO NO NO, Rose will not sit. I doubt that he would be here if he intended to sit. Zeke had to tell him that PT was available and that he would be a critical piece of the puzzle.

The only thing I can figure is that his ten man rotation is a soft ten and that he will be quick to yank anyone not doing their job. Someone is not going to be happy with playing time. Starbury? Crawford? Chandler? Jeffries?

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 27, 2007

Welcome Vic Corbitt, Marquette ‘07, Frantz Richard and Sean Butcher. You’re just in time for the .

KNICKS DEFENSE HALLOWEEN ROLL CALL

Good Morning DEFENDERS. Happy Halloween. It’s almost time for the start of a season-long Monster Mash, at MSG and visiting stadiums near you, and the Blogger Bash at “www.KnickDefense.come and read the best in Knicks analysis and commentary in the blogosphere.”

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 31, 2007

TEST
The atmosphere is electric; the energy is building in the building. Our host with the most, Blogzilla a/k/a
Starburyfan, the dominator and wacky terminator, has created a Frankenstein of a Blog. The where?wolves are here, wearing Knicks Jerseys, EwingCurse talismans and cross-over dribbles to defeat the bloodsuckers of the Atlantic Division. How will the division be divided? Yes, we know. With the Knicks upstairs in playoff glory and the Net Worthless’, 70sickers, Craptors, and CellarTicks in . . .well, the cellar graveyard. Long Live Knicks Love.

Gentle Folks, are we ready to receive the winnings and “shiny stuff” we so richly deserve for our fanaticism? Are we ready to bask in the rain of treys and the reign of our BIGS in the paint? Are we ready to Post-Up Princely and to be Steady while we get Cooleyhigh and be Poppin in Orange and Blue?

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 31, 2007

TEST
If the answer is yes, and I know it is, it is time for the Official 2007-2008 Roll Call for Knick Defense. Training camp is over and we are ready like Freddy Krueger. So let’s do this.

Yes, we are scary good. On October 1, there were three posters (Modi, Steady and Robin) hanging out with our esteemed host preparing this space for our arrival. With the following words by Shamgod, on October 8 at 10:05 pm at Knicks Fix, the migration began: “Go courtside with news and commentary on the wacky world of the New York Knicks. Wacky world of the NY Knicks? C’mon what kind of ad is that? Sounds like they are making a joke of the Team” on Knicks Fix.” .

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 31, 2007

Shortly thereafter, BARF on October 9th at 7:42pm set his flag in the heart of KD post territory with the following comment heralding a historic journey that would shake the blogosphere and turn this private haven into the headquarters of Knicks intel. BARF wrote, “Maybe that wacky stuff won’’t go down and we’’ll all migrate here.” Truer words were never typed. . . .

And here we are. Fall In. Attention. Roll call at 47 strong and growing:

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 31, 2007

TEST
Modi, BARF, Peaceman, Jazz, BronxboyinMD, Orange and Blue, Cooleyhigh, Steady, John Q, Shamgod, Robin, Lives In New Jersey, Bumrush40, DaVonnJ, African, Post-Up Prince, Anti-NYSportsnews, Boomann, Statesman, Syd, DNM, DLT Knicks, Poppin Scoski, Harlemboyin MD, St._George, Charles Follymacher, Stopmikelupica, Bokonon, George M., Knicksome, Saipanknickster, TMAN, Minnesota Knicks Fan, MAK, LGM, Andone, Kandiman, Don, Ali G, Dross, Rush, Kevin Harewood, Frantz Richard, Sean Butcher, Trane, Vic Corbitt and Marquette ‘07.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 31, 2007

TEST

We also acknowledge special visits from CellarTicks fans: T.o.m and S.e.a.n. Welcome.

By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Oct 31, 2007