Sacramento@New York
January 2, 2008 – 10:10 amHappy new year to all the defenders, hope you had a fun holiday. I want to thank every single one of you for making this blog pop in 2007 and I look forward to even more great reads from everyone in 2008, no doubt.
So Ron Artest is out with an injury that may require surgery–that’s unfortunate enough on its own, however this could have been a kind of audition performance because Artest may be moved before the trading deadline. But before anyone gets their hopes up about people coming to New York to save the Knicks, lets hear what Isiah the GM has to say about it, courtesy of the New York Times:
>>>
One change Thomas said he would not resort to was roster moves.
“I don’t foresee us being active around the trade deadline simply because I think this is the time where when you’re down you make mistakes,” he said. “You can make mistakes that will cost you years and everything that you’ve worked for over the last three, four years. You can make a mistake here that sets you back another three, four years.”
>>>
that is basically consistent with Isiah’s recent quotes where he’s said “I like what we have” and hasn’t indicated that anyone is being shopped or that the Knicks are looking for any new players. True, I don’t want to give up something and get back nothing in a hypothetical trade, but don’t you think with this teams performance that the Knicks should at least consider the possibility of improving the team through trades? Or is the objective to lose games now so that New York can hopefully get a top-caliber player from the draft? Can’t speak for the people in charge of the Knicks, but it is just too early in the season to give up for me. The team needs an identity.
Jamal will probably play tonight, Stephon is a remote possibility to suit up in orange in blue. Nate in that starting line up doesn’t look too bad to me, so I hope they continue with that trend going into tonight’s game.
LGK!
142 Responses to “Sacramento@New York”
Knicks will win convincingly tonight. My prediction. The good thing is that no one can touch Artest until after he returns to the court which might be after the trading deadline. Meaning he can opt out of his contract at the end of the season
Let’s Go Knicks
By Jazz on Jan 2, 2008 at 11:26 am
Good AM Defenders!
The folks on Wall street claim, “Timing is everything.”
Master Retailers claim, “Location, Location, Location.”
BLOGZILLA, Da Man and Master of the NY Knick Blog Universe claims,
“It’s GAME DAY, and we or KNICKDEFENSE, put our game faces on,
analyze the situation, and Calls ALL Defenders to attention with
a NEW POST on the THREAD.”
Talk about starting the New Year with a BANG!
Defenders, I could not let this New Year begin without a word of prayer
and a sense of Purpose. LET US PRAY!
Yesterday marked the beginning of a New Year and I started working
on my list for my New Year’s resolutions.
I started looking into the rear view mirror of my life and began
to see what things I needed to change about myself.
As I was reminiscing, I began to think about Matthew 6:33 - Seek ye first the kingdom of heaven and all His righteous, and all of these things shall be added
unto you. Then, I decided to throw away my list and put this
scripture up in my meditation area. My one goal for this year and
every year to come is to seek God first.
Instead of focusing on my hurt from past years, I plan to seek God
first and rest in the assurance that He will heal my wounded heart
( Psalm 109:21-23). Instead of being disappointed about yesterday
and worrying about tomorrow, I’m going to seek God first and
rejoice in living for today (Psalm 118:24). Instead of developing my
five-year plan, I am going to seek God first and let him lead and
guide me along the way (Proverbs 3:6).
Instead of trying to figure out how I will make more money,
I’m going to seek God first and know that just being in relationship
with HIM THROUGH ALL BLESSINGS FLOW is true prosperity
(Philippians 3:8). Instead of cutting back on my food intake,
I am going to seek God first and feed on the Bread of Heaven
(John 6:32). Instead of working on not being as loud, I am going
to seek God first and listen to hear the blessed quietness of God
(1 Kings 19:12). Instead of worrying when I will find a
BETTER THIS OR THAT, I am going to seek God first and know that
I have been called to a purpose and I have all that I need
(Romans 8:28). Instead of worrying if someone near or anywhere else
is out to get me, I’m going to seek God first and know that if God
be for me than no one can be against me (Romans 8:31-35).
Beloved DEFENDERS and NEW YORK KNICK FAN, make your goal for this
year and every day that you are on this earth to seek God first,
and by his grace and through his love, leave the world a better place
than we found it.
Defenders, we are the TRUEST of Knick Fans! Go Knicks Go Knicks Go Knicks
Go Knicks…
In closing Defenders, I want to leave with you one of my favorite
scriptures, which was read to me nightly by my Grandfather when I was
just A Little Nappy Headed Boy. It has truly served me and mine
well.”
“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their Strength; they
shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary;
and they shall walk, and not faint.”
If any New York Knick Players reads this THREAD, and I believe they
do; Recting thsi scripture, along with a coherent Game Strategy, and
a COLLECTIVE EFFORT, they can take the lemons we witnessed so far, and
turn them into Lemonade.
HAVE A GREAT PRODUCTIVE AND CONSTRUCTIVE DAY DEFENDERS!
Keep it POPPIN!
Peace and Love in 2008
By cooleyhigh on Jan 2, 2008 at 11:37 am
Reading Isiah between the lines, I suspect that he has sounded out one or more trade options and did not like what he was being offered for what he was willing to give up.
Proposing trades when the team is losing and looking desperate does not enhance one’s
bargaining position. If other teams want first round draft choices, even if lottery
protected, then a trade clearly involves mortgaging one’s future. As it is, the Knicks do not have a 1st round draft choice in 2010. I think that one was given up when the Knicks attained Marbury. If the team can put up some wins before the February trade deadline, then Isiah can propose and consider offers with a better hand.
Given Sacramento’s injuries, Knicks should be o.k. tonight, even without Marbury. Artest does not need to audition for the Knicks. Everyone knows what he can do,
as long as he is healthy. Hopefully, Crawford can play tonight. His scoring was clearly missed in the Chicago game as well as his ability to feed Curry. I hope Isiah finds a way to provide Chandler some floor time. LGK
By Post - up Prince on Jan 2, 2008 at 12:09 pm
Sup y’all, checking in….glad to see most are checked in, healthy, safe & optimistic about 2008.
i’m encouraged by Artest’s continuing support of the O & B, there’s no doubt he’s ready, willing and able to don the uni and play HARD for the Knicks, whether this season or in the future.
Of course, the one guy who has to be DREADING no action on the trade front is Jared Jeffries. Artest’s arrival would pretty much banishing Jeffries to the “JJ” end of the bench. Plus, Artest ALREADY has had for a long time a chip on his shoulder about not getting paid what he is worth, and that won’t change by signing a 5-year MLE here. He’d be knocking heads EVERY DAY with both JJ’s at practice, knocking them to the floor and saying, “What? You get paid as much as i do, you better just walk it off bitch!”
i say this in jest, i would love Artest coming here because i think he could singlehandedly change the playa culture in our lockerroom. i think his presence and hustle would allow Zach to settle in and give a bit (tiny) more defensively. i think Lee, Balkman and the other frontcourt scrubs would most definetely be energized and inspired by his play.
Even Steph might get charged up once he realized that: 1) he wasn’t the only guy on the whole damn roster who can play two-way hoops at a high level anymore, 2) he might not be the craziest dude in the lockerroom anymore, and 3) Artest has more of a chip on his shoulder, more of a me against the world righteousness going for him than Starbury does. The X-Factor is Jamal - does he buy into an Artest Era team defense identity, or does he revert to JChuck and increasing isolation from the rest of the newly “team first” guys?
By PaulNoize on Jan 2, 2008 at 12:52 pm
Excellent point on the traded pick we owe, Post-Up Prince….i believe when you couple that with the rule prohibiting NBA teams from not having first round selections in consecutive years, then i think that means the only first round picks we could put in ANY deal would be this year’s pick (don’t do it!) or our pick in 2012 (too far away to have a big value to a lot of GM’s).
Isiah’s right on in keeping the focus on the players. We have the talent, we have all the resources anyone could want to help our players improve….we just need them to step forward now, and seize the day. =)
Kings are in a bad way right now, we have a kind start to the 2008 schedule. Two things to remember in any SAC trade:
1) Bibby and Artest don’t get along
2) Kings are keeping Brad Miller and badly want Shareef & Kenny Thomas on the first bus out of town
Should be a fun game tonight - and if we cannot shut down a Kings team playing WITHOUT Bibby, Artest AND Kevin Martin, then someone should be dragged outside and shot.
By PaulNoize on Jan 2, 2008 at 1:10 pm
I’ve almost signed off on Isiah Thomas.
What was that 2 weeks thing he gave us before?
Was that just to play with the fans?
Isiah is treading on thin ice with me fellas.
Not that it matters but I’m just saying.
The supporters that he has…he’s making them not
support him. Everyday that goes by he says something dumb.
If we lose tonight…I will say to get Isiah on the next thing
smoking. I may even go to the Garden and have the best sign
in the house so I’ll be on TV.
This is getting crazy.
He says he can’t see us making any deals?
Are you serious?
He said the same shit last year when he was talking about
moving back 3 or 4 years. Fuck that Isiah!!
This team is going backwards now!!!
By DaVonn Jefferson on Jan 2, 2008 at 2:47 pm
I’m just blogging!
They get someone they can trade next year for cap relief, a SF who can bring defense and hustle and a C/PF who is on the cheap and may be developed.
We Get Artest.
We get two guys whose cap space clears in 2010… THE YEAR LEBRON IS FREE TO SIGN WHERE HE PLEASES!
Yes I know, I Know.
I’ve gone off the deep end!
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 2:50 pm
As much as I love Artest taking back these 2 over-prices stiffs would be asking too much. I’d hate to even take one of them. That’s like taking Q-Rich and Jarred Jeffries just to get David Lee. I’d take Thomas and Shareef if we can make it a 3-way trade where we get another player we can use like a PG or a shot blocking center.
By Marzak on Jan 2, 2008 at 4:13 pm
What’s up Defenders!
I’m still here. Beaten, but not broken. Still a diehard Knick fan.
New Year, let’s hope for some clarity.
I don’t know of anyone that’s blaming Zach for Curry, or the Knicks woes. I’m not.
What I observed many moons ago, when most thought I was crazy was that the culprits for the lack of cohesion on this team were Zach and Craw.
I watch the games at the Garden and on the tubes and I look at the players actions without the ball. When the two culprits catch it, you can see that the others are resigned to the fact that they’re no longer needed on offense. That’s a terrible sign, not just bad.
I look at Craw when he gets picked off on a screen. There’s no fight to get back in position. He just meanders behind until the opposing team scores.
A long time ago I stated that Craw should come off the bench, even after he had impressive offensive nights. Some here wondered aloud what I was smoking.
Many moons ago I stated (even when Zach was putting up big numbers) that Zach should be traded. Some here wondered if I had been drinking some toxic swamp water.
Folks, I’ve never seen numbers win ball games.
The great Kobe has begun to see it and has taken less shots this year as compared to the last few. Thus remains a team game.
Zach and Craw are numbers guys, and that affects cohesion on a team.
Last year, roles were more clearly defined and the Craw’s happy trigger finger was very blatant. This year it’s disguised, because he has a competitor in Zach and we’re all to happy to look at the silver lining in a loss to say Craw and Zach are the only ballers. They put up 25 and 28 not looking at the entire game to see they took 60 shots among them.
Numbers don’t win games. Fools gold is everywhere for cheap.
The good power forwards in this league pose a threat with the pass, so when they catch the ball, their team mates find openings for the pass.
Look at Duncan, KG, Wallace, Boozer. Their team mates love to play with them because they get open shots. Zach is equally skilled, but he’s a numbers guy. I’ve seen KG dominate a game, and end up with eight points and twelve rebounds. Can we say the same about Zach?
Zach is a warrior, and plays with heart. He has a lethal shooting touch on most nights, but he’s not a team guy.
Craw is a good ball handler, can be a lethal shooter if he takes good shots and plays within the team concept, but he’s not a team guy. He’s a numbers guy. He’s a volume shooter. He’ll erupt once in a while, but so too can the closest volcano. They just don’t do it night in and night out.
Craw has the worst winning percentage among active players. He should a bench guy just for that stat alone.
I’m keeeping the faith that Zake would see that he needs a coach. He’s second guessing himself and that’s a bad sign.
Zeke the coach has betrayed Zake the GM.
By African on Jan 2, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Af,
I see your frustration but I still believe it will be a mistake to trade Zach, unless for a marquee player. Fact is he brings other things to the team apart from scoring. Plus he and David Lee seem to be the only ones who get upset by losing.
Good players on bad teams develop bad habits. One of them is Zach always trying to shoot. But he seems to be working at it. he has been getting some assists lately.
Craw is a streaky shooter. The problem is that his streaks have been more off than on this season. A lot of these attitudes are based on trust. If you trust your team-mates to score, you will be more willing to pass the ball and take only quality shots. Imagine if Zach and Craw played with Duncan, the situation will have been different.
Which brings me to what has been nagging me for sometime now. I wonder why on earth Curry will just flip up the ball at point blank range, instead of just DUNKING it? If Curry has asserted himself in most games, I believe both Zach and Craw will be getting more high quality shots. That to me is a central problem with this team.
The other is the PG issue. Apparently somebody wants to play like Starbury and is pissed that he is now the 3rd or 4th scoring option and thus decide to act out by being passive in games. If Isaiah had balls, he would have kept N8 as the point. N8 is nowhere near Steph’s talent but we need teamwork to win. We should win tonight against Sac but who knows what Marbury is thinking right now.
By Jazz on Jan 2, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Correction Jazz….
Nate is just as talented as Steph.
Why do people say Steph is the most talented on our team?
Please don’t give me the 20 points 8 assists line anymore because he doesn’t average that any longer.
What can Steph do that is so incredible?
He gets to the hole…so does Jamal.
He doesn’t have the best anything on this team except passing and that doesn’t make him
the best to me.
By DaVonn Jefferson on Jan 2, 2008 at 5:58 pm
DVJ,
I still see Steph as a better ball handler and passer than N8. His problem has always been selfishness. Somehow last year he grudgingly agreed to be the second option on the team and it seemed to work out. When this season started he said something about wanting to play like Starbury again. This I believe is what started the problem. He hates it that he is now the 3rd sometimes 4th option. His reaction was to be very passive; just dump the ball inside to Eddy or Zach and not be concerned with the game. Then IT decided to bench him and this infuriated him more. Now I don’t know how that was handled and whether he truly has something on IT but I personally feel that undermined the coach and caused some of the players to revolt. At the moment he seems to be a cancer on the team and almost every day Mark Berman has some information, supposedly gleamed from “a source close to Marbury” That tells me the kid is still crying for attention
But I digress. If that selfishness can be contained and get him to play team ball, with N8 assisting, I think the Knicks will be fine.
By Jazz on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:16 pm
B&B
I like your energy on these possible trades.Keep it up!
But ask yourself this……………who in their right mind will want Steph’s contract(besides Zeke),
that’s 19million this year,and 21 million next year.Most teams will love to trade for Steph next year to take 21 million of their cap,but this year…plus the drama…..I don’t think so.
Do your trades without Steph…….we b bloggin’
Knicks vs Kings(minus Artest,Bibby and maybe Martin),knowing the Knicks at home……Kings by 24.
But I’m hoping for a win.
By D L T Knicks on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:23 pm
We suck….period.
Our own players are saying they don’t want to be here anymore.
I don’t blame them at all!!!
Who would want to be on this team?
Dolan is either very stupid or very smart!!!
Isiah is just plain dumb!!!
By DaVonn Jefferson on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:28 pm
DVJ
Yes, we do suck.But,we have to have hope.They can lose all the rest of their games and WE will still be Knicks fans.
……….that’s why we need HOPE!
By D L T Knicks on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:37 pm
DLT here is my reasoning for the proposed trade @ # 7
1) Balkman has been underutilized, can be defensive presence who clearly still has talent which could be harnessed, and Morris has not seen the playing court but has size and is still young enough to develop.
2) The Kings acquiring Marbury gives them a chip they can use next year to either clear space in 2009 or to trade for other players they might be able to use.
3) Artest will be leaving at the end of this year, and although he claims to want to be here, what assurance other than his word do we have.
4) Again two of the players we will trade are under utilized and we will get scrubs who will at least clear in the area of 13 million dollars, which we could use towards paying for Lebron James’ services.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:38 pm
DVJ,
Keep your head up. It will be okay. I believe of the players who reportedly wouldn’t mind being traded only DLee is wanted by another team. No team wants the other players because they are seen as part of the problem. I would want Dolan as my boss. He tosses me the keys and doesn’t interfere and gives me as much rope as possible. Just don’t do your business with the media. But will support you if you want to hire the best coach. He cannot be blamed for Curry missing point blank shots.
IT has to take responsibility for the coaching. Maybe he needs to fire himself and let Dave Hanners coach the team and hire a psychologist. I still believe we have a great team
LGK
By Jazz on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Here is a genuine question I would like someone to pose to the players who want to leave.
Is it b/c of Isiah?
The circus atmosphere that the MSM creates?
The fair wheathered fans?
The answer will be telling and indicate which direction the team and organization should go!
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:40 pm
One of the problems is that Thomas does not want to admit that he has failed as a coach thus far!
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Jazz:
I’m not frustrated. I’m dealing with reality.
You should try it sometime.
Zach dragged down the same Portland team that now won thirteen in a row.
Ask yourself the question..Would they have won five in a row with Zach? I say hell no.
That’s the reality of the situation.
Zach would dominate the ball and stifle the other players. It’s the same thing he’s doing here.
The only added player is Frye, an he has only recently been getting some burn.
Zach’s numbers fool quite a few here including you.
Numbers don’t win ball games.
Zach is a cancer!
By African on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:45 pm
B&B
I really think the Kings want Lee. At this point I’m willing to give up Lee for Artest.
So the trade is simply this.
By D L T Knicks on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:50 pm
Did IT fail as Coach or GM?
By D L T Knicks on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:54 pm
or both?
By D L T Knicks on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Watch out for Salmons and Garcia tonight if Zeke doesn’t put the right guys on them!
These guys could ball!
By African on Jan 2, 2008 at 6:56 pm
Starting lineup as per Trautwig:
Curry
Zach
Jeffries
Richardson
Craw
Stephon is in uniform but is expected to play 20-25 minutes as per Isiah.
Zeke was also quoted as saying that Curry “has learned his lesson”
um…so?
By BARF on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:05 pm
The problem I have with Zach is he does not want to play the perimeter. I remember the Pacers game when Dunleavy grabbed a rebound, Zach argued with the ref that he got pushed, Dunleavy dribbled to the perimeter and shot a 3. Zach looked at him and refused to run.
We cannot function in this new style NBA with two players on the floor refusing to play defense on the perimeter. Zach has to change his game. He has no problem shooting the deep shot, but he does not want to defend it.
If we make a trade right now, it will definitely set us back. Because our players are having sub-par years, we will have to trade 2-for-1 or volume for quality, which will probably give us another huge contract. I’d rather wait for guys salary to drop off the payroll or get to the final year (Steph, Bricklayer).
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:08 pm
Why does Zach have to change his game? Wait a freakin minute here!!
So he didn’t play defense. Neither does Steph, Curry or Jamal.
Zach is not a cancer….how can you say that?
Hey African..can you tell me who the Blazers have this year that they didn’t have last year?
Zach is the best player we have on this team….period.
He doesn’t fold under pressure like Curry.
Curry is always pulling on his shirt….that’s a fat boy move!!!
In other words….he is more worried about how he looks.
Clyde Frazier is the man !!!!
Zach is one of the last people on this team that should be traded.
By DaVonn Jefferson on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Af,
Reality itself is a relative word. What might be real to me might be different to you so I won’t even go there.
There are many who hailed the trade for Zach and are now call IT dumb. I watched a game early this season where each of our top guys got at least 20 points. You telling me this cannot be done every night?
I think we will disagree on Zach’s value to the team. For me, I would not trade Zach and keep Curry on the team. Zach is not the reason the Knicks have been losing. if anything, he shows heart and hustles every night. The same argument was made against Iverson but he fit in perfectly with Camelo Curry doesn’t seem to have the heart to survive in NY, period. When the right deal comes along, I am all for it. But comparing the output of these 2 guys on the team, there is not question about it
By Jazz on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:20 pm
fat fuck
By DaVonn Jefferson on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:41 pm
LMAO!!!! Nah, Baby Shaq!!!
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:42 pm
we suck guys
By DaVonn Jefferson on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Your Defenders are the best,
Hopefully this Knicks team can leave all their losing in 2007. If that happens—playoffs here we come!
If not… at least a NUMBER ONE DRAFT PICK!!!!
By Anti-NYSN on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Af, I hope you’ll be just as forthright when the Blazer go on their inevitable 5,6 game losing streak. It’s just not as simple as minus zach and you get a crazy run. They were struggling out of the gate this year (geez louise, they started 5-12, yo! where were you then?!) and caught a perfect storm to produce that incredible run (just squashed by utah). Alll their guys are playing well (in particular James Jones — whaat!?!) and got a lil streak going at a time when they were playing a ridiculous run of home games. It snowballed.
Not to take anything away from them, they’ve earned it, but let’s not get carried away saying it was a simple matter of dropping zach. If you look at aldridge’s performance to date (remember, this is the guy who’s taken over at PF), you’ll see his numbers are almost identical to zach’s. zach has the clear edge in rebounding (10.3 to 7.2), lamarcus the decided advantage in blocks (1.0 to .2), but, looky here, zach-the-black-hole is somehow averaging more assists! and who’s to say he wouldn’t be doing even better with roy as his point guard instead of the knicksmash he has now?
It really isn’t prudent to say zach is the difference when there’s little reason to believe the results would be much different if he were still there.
****
Lives, wotcanitellya. You’re taking a more negative spin on the kid, which is fair since he’s no longer on our team. I’ll take the more positive spin:
* first 3 games, he shot nearly 51%FG, next 3 games, a startling 32.6% which avgd out to 43% for the first 6games. the first 3 games is much closer to what we normally expect from dnice as he hasn’t been known as a streak shooter. so i’m going to say mebbe he got some nagging minor injury like a jammed finger on his shooting hand or something that produced those wretched numbers the next 3 games. i dunno, just sayin that second trio of games is way more the anomaly than the first 3.
* as for the fouls, he avgd about 3/gm the first 3 games, then about 4/game the second 3. so, for the first 6 games, he avgd about 3.5/game. that might sound like a lot if he’s only playing 20-odd minutes a game, but in actual fact he’s never played less than 36 mins/game! 3 or 4 fouls over that spread of time is quite acceptable, especially if it is an indicator of his defensive hustle as you suggest. that hustle is producing over a block and a steal per game! what?! that’s a pretty reasonable trade off. how many bouquets of roses would you toss curry’s way if he could stay on the court for 35+ mins/game while producing a block and steal per game with only 3,4 fouls? i know they don’t play the same position, but you’ve got to admit it’s still impressive.
* over the first 6 games, FG woes aside, he still managed over 35% from the arc and free throw shooting remained decent. he never completely lost his touch.
* he’s no ball hog, and has enough court vision/savvy to produce nice asst numbers as well.
* oh, btw, stats from his last game (the 7th this season)? 25pts on 11 for 23 FG (~48%), 4 rebs, 2 asts (poor night for him, he’s had as many as 6 in a game), 2blks and (gasp!) 2 fouls in 43 mins of play. i think he may be turning it around.
he’s not perfect, just about every player in the nba has some flaw(s) you can point to and, of course, this is all well and good against dleague guys, but i maintain there’s just no sound reason at this point, given his history to date, to believe he’s not nba material. kid’s good. give him time. he’ll be back.
By Charles Follymacher on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:47 pm
curry should be doing this every day!!!
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:57 pm
if you aren’t going to give up defense and rebounding, at least get us the points in the paint Mr. Curry.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:57 pm
bad-ass layup: steph to lee under the basket.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 7:58 pm
DEE-FENDER,
Yeah Curry has learned his lesson, 1-REBOUND IN 10 1/2 minutes.
If you start Curry, Crawful, & Q(injuries), then you have a very poor defensive team. The Kings w/o their players
have 28 points at this point. Is their a PRO-eam the KNICKS can defend,?
Peace & Blessings
By STATESMAN on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:07 pm
YO! CHANDLER!!!
all right!
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:12 pm
Chandler sighting!!
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:12 pm
why is nate throwing passes at zach’s shins?
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:14 pm
makes no sense to have q and chandler in at the same time. foul called, but chandler challenged the shot… we need that.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:15 pm
chandler can stick the j. he’s already better than q.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:31 pm
chandler the three point play.
that’s what i’m talking about.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:31 pm
hm. zach’s waay out of it tonight, for some reason.
By Charles Follymacher on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:32 pm
There’s no doubt that Chandler should replace Q in the rotation. It’s a no brainer at this point.
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:34 pm
charles fm:
that’s usually how it goes with that duo. curry does well offensively, zach does not. they’re nearly mutually exclusive in terms of production this year. once they both score over 20, we won that game…
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:38 pm
chandler is still a rook, he’s going to make rook mistakes, but give him some burn and see what he can do.
just need to find five guys that don’t want to lose tonight…
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:39 pm
The Knicks have resorted to playing streetball.
And they’re not even good at that.
By bronxboy in Md on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:40 pm
i wonder if roy jones jr. scored on any knick guards during that practice.
yeah chandler. four point play!
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:41 pm
decent run to cut it to 14 at the half.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Craw’s not himself tonight.
By Top Shotta on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Isiah should start Chandler over QRich in the second half….Q is useless.
By Top Shotta on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:45 pm
You should never interview someone that’s drunk. That ain’t right.
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:48 pm
Amen Top Shotta.
Z=F
E=O
K=O
E=L
Stubborn “Hell Bent” Fool
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:49 pm
John Legend was doing his Broadway Joe impression.
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:50 pm
I am past the point of being dissapointed.
Now when another team is up by Double Digits, I start to crack up.
Oh well at least we ran off 4 straight points.
But what the fuck is Q still doing on the court, and why hasn’t Fredd Jones come in to spell Crawford, he is one of the better defenders at the gaurd spot. Just couple him with either Marbury or Crawford when one of them is hot that evening.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:53 pm
Craw is making the adjustment to the 2. He is lost offensively.
I believe the Knicks will win this game.
I am very happy about Chandler getting burn.
But why are Jones, Jeffries and Balk out of the rotation? FOOL.
Curry-Chandler-Marbury-Crawford-ZBO (A half-ass step in the right direction)
Curry-Chandler-Marbury-Jones-Lee (Bigger steps in the right direction)
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:53 pm
O&B let’s submit our applications to Dolan for the Coach’s job.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:55 pm
Do you think Q has something on Isiah?
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:55 pm
I have to admit that even though Chandler missed some shots, he never lost his confidence.
I want to see him more and would rather see him at the 3 to speel Jeffries or even replace jeffries.
But don’t get me wrong at least Jeffries is a solid defensive player.
Thing is that he needs to be placed with a combination of players who will better mask his scoring deficiencies
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Well, it looks as though some of us got out wish…and that was to feature Curry….
Much to the demise of the rest of the team, albeit.
He could’ve shown a little more gratitude by grabbing more than 2 rebounds, however.
He’s just a big fat kid that wants to be fed…literally.
By bronxboy in Md on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Lives
LMAO
I think Q has some very compromising photos of Isiah!
If you want to coach pencil me and BARF in as assistant coaches.
What do you think?
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:58 pm
The NBA script has Crawford not shooting tonight–that’s what the whole glove drama was about. N.B.A.
At least Monty is burning some Chandler. I ask you Defenders; is this a Price is Right showcase?
KFLL
By Steady on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:58 pm
chandler at the half:
10 minutes, 7 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block, and challenged shot which they called a foul on. 2 turnovers
quentin at the half:
13 min, 0 points, 4 reb, 2 a, o stl 0 bl. 3 turnovers
plus chandler is taller by two inches and still has hops. q lost his hops a while ago, sorry to say it.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:58 pm
Chandler is making mistakes, but better now than never, as KnicksDefense pointed out in his previous post.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:58 pm
why is it CRAWFORD’s only taken one shot in 23 mins? someone explain this to me. is there an internal strike going on?
By Charles Follymacher on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:58 pm
Lives you stole my thoughts…I’m convinced that Q has some dirt on Zeke.
By Top Shotta on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:59 pm
top shotta called it.
chandler gets the start..
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 8:59 pm
see ya q.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:00 pm
Jones can either compliment Steph or Craw.
Z-Bo and Curry must never play together.
Curry must be accompanied by a rebounding foward and a long athletic SF.
Q must not see the light of day.
And we need to get some compromising of Q so that he no longer holds as much sway over Isiah as he has heretofore.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:00 pm
assist to chandler!
nate-4-3!
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:00 pm
randolph should throw that entry pass higher curry can get it at ten feet.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:01 pm
zbo cookin
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:01 pm
our defense reminds me of county rec ball in 8th grade. that was the last time i thought defense didn’t matter.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:02 pm
why did chandler come out?
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Zach just gave Curry an easy bunny under the basket, which he flipped up and missed, instead of going to the basket and dunking with authority …
I guess that’s Zach bein’ a cancer again, huh???
There’s that lack of chemistry again.
By bronxboy in Md on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:04 pm
forget player loyalty, just pick 5 guys that give us the best chance to win and leave them out there for the rest of the night.
shuffling the lineup every 2 minutes leads to turnovers because they can’t get used to who is on the floor.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:05 pm
Craw’s bruised hand is clearly bothering him.
By Top Shotta on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Where’s the TO Monty?
By Steady on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:06 pm
DEFENDERS
I normally don’t post during games, but my homies from Force MD”S have already beat me to the punch. BRONX, I was watching the game and thinking the same thing you posted in #48. The crowd can yell Fire Isiah, but he did not make one sloppy pass; Miller went around Curry all the way to the hoop like a Ferry cruising by the Statue of Liberty…Zach is so careless with the ball, and Marbury just dribbled at the top of the key forever, and then passes to Chandler who was just standing on the baseline posing for Vogue Magazine. But at least the latter IS FREE
Zeke bears some blame, but when you are losing to a team without its 3 best players suited up and act like YOU JUST DON”T CARE, that is pathetic and down right gutless. We could pick 8 DEFENDERS and beat this raggedy team. This collection of Knick Players have yet to exhibit any PRIDE, HEART, or WILLINGNESS to seriously COMPETE. And, that is unacceptable by any standard…
But, like the LOYAL FAN I AM, I will watch the 2nd Half and root for these PLAYERS TO HAVE A HEART TRANSPLANTS…LOL LOL As a BBALLER and FAN, watching these guys can make you nauseous…
But I WILL WIPE MY MOUTH AFTER MY DANCE WITH THE PORCELAIN GODDESS AND ROOT FOR MY TEAM LIKE I”m CRAZY or maybe I am just deaf, dumb, and blind….LOL LOL LOL You got laugh about this shyte, because this TEAM is HILARIOUS…
Go Knicks Go Knicks Go Knicks Go Knicks Go Knicks Go Knicks Go Knicks
Keep it POPPIN DEFENDERS!
By cooleyhigh on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Zeke is being outcoached and there’s no rhyme or reason for this performance 2nite. Still I believe we can win this game.
KFLL
By Steady on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:09 pm
almost an airball free throw.
4-10 from the line.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:09 pm
do they do drugs at halftime? guy must have strong enough arms to muscle up a free throw.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Why are we playing 4 guards and center that can’t play defense or rebound?
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:10 pm
no effort to rebound the ball. these guys are playing like they want isiah fired. isiah is coaching like he wants to be fired shuffling the deck like Next Town Brown used to do.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:11 pm
what happened to that five that made a run before halftime? why is fred in the game now??? i hear you harlem, too many guards.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:12 pm
its amazing how bad they play with curry in there…4 on 5.
By BARF on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:12 pm
If Isiah the coach doesn’t get fired after a performance like this then he’ll never get fired.
By Top Shotta on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:13 pm
B & B
You hit it right on the head. Start Chandler, with ZBO and Jeffries at the PF, and HARLEM and BRONX in the backcourt…with DVJ and John Q as backups…
Because N8, Craw, Jones, and I’m A STARBURY is killing US…YOU GOT LAUGH FELLAS LOL LOL
This is like watching the Five Stooges or the Little Knick Rascals…
Keep it POPPIN!
By cooleyhigh on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:15 pm
i don’t want to wait until next november for any signs of improvement… we waited a long time for this season to start and now they’re playing like they’re waiting for april to arrive.
not even the MSG payed announcers can find any kind of silver lining right now, and they’re controlled by dolan.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:16 pm
two last place teams in the east won’t fire their coaches because their GM is the same person.
chi didn’t have that problem so they sent skiles packing.
fred jones sucks, don’t care what isiah sees in him. put a 6′2″ guy to guard 6′10″ kevin durant…
look at renaldo. zero minutes.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:19 pm
BOO!!!
By Anti-NYSN on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:19 pm
This is worse than pre-Ewing.
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:20 pm
we played worlds better than this last season.
clyde says d lee is the only guy that other teams want.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Balkman must have really said or done something to piss Isiah off in practice or something.
By Top Shotta on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:21 pm
I’ll play for a free cheeseburger and fries.
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:21 pm
telegraphed pass.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:22 pm
at least i’m not at the pub watching. i hate to hear people talk smack about the knicks yet how can you defend this kind of ass-kicking.
they have nobody on squad besides salmons.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:24 pm
Still want to build around Zach? I’d rather take crazy Ron.
By HarleminMD on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:25 pm
This team needs a New Coach.
And now I am starting to think a new GM.
Why?
So they can’t hide behind “Smiles,” “Zeke” etc, if the coach lays the hammer down on them.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:26 pm
zbo ejected.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Well at least the group here is a group of real fans.
And if were ripping the team we all also genuinely want this team to do well.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:27 pm
B00!!!
By Anti-NYSN on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:29 pm
i hear you O*&B
whatever you guys say is fine because I know you’re real Knicks fans.
quite frankly you guys deserve a better team.
19 point deficit going into the fourth.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:30 pm
A new proven coach.
It’s your call guys on the GM thing.
I really would’ve wanted to see Thomas turn this around.
But when our team is losing to a team missing 3 of its better players by double digits…
maybe it’s not to be.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:30 pm
Boo
By Anti-NYSN on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:32 pm
I think Thomas’ spiel to the reporters today before the game was his cry for clemency.
I think he hears the bell tolling for him.
I think the winds of change are around the corner.
Also sad to say but a new GM will garner more respect and might be able to deal from a position of power which Isiah can’t currently do at this moment in time.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:33 pm
jamal is garbage tonight.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:34 pm
first loss to charlotte. second loss to charlotte. the loss to chicago. now this, every other game is the new rock bottom.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:35 pm
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
and
more
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOS
By Anti-NYSN on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:36 pm
It really is a shame Anti.
I feel those boos as well.
I think his rapport with the players is to congenial.
Like someone said before you can be a players friend after you’ve taken them to or near the pinnacle not before it.
Especially if the team hasn’t seen the playoffs in over 4 years.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:38 pm
just watched the nets on the big screen come back from a serious ddd. some teams have heart, some are heartless. frig.
By Charles Follymacher on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:41 pm
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This shyte is utterly ridiculous! O & B/B & B, you may be on to something… I could have sworn I saw a tear in Zeke’s Eye… With his boss a few rows away, this TEAM performs like they don’t care. Check please!
Defenders, I’m going to grab a Pizza at Ray’s and I’m headed across town to catch the 6 train uptown…A Brother can DREAM can’t he…LOL LOL LOL
Keep it POPPIN!
By cooleyhigh on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:42 pm
crawford is too selfish.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:42 pm
put chandler back in.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:44 pm
(they did)
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:44 pm
A waste of more electricity!!!
The Knicks should pay my electric bill!!!
By Anti-NYSN on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Balkman’s also in.
Let the youth movement begin.
If we’re going to lose, lose with players who still can develop and have something to earn in the NBA.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:48 pm
And to think earlier in the season we took this Kings team to Double OT!
What’s happened since then?
What the fuck happened since then!
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:49 pm
if people are going to say that the players don’t care, fine. but from everything i’ve seen I’d just as soon say Isiah doesn’t care. at all.
lee got pissed, almost got a tech, but the refs dont’ care at this point.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:54 pm
curry’s defense is nonexistant.
By knicksdefense on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:54 pm
I do figure that some of the team cares but separating the wheat from teh chaffe is not a task to be done by the current regime.
Can’t do it by being a friend to all the players.
Need some one with no allegiances to any current player or coach and with no allegiance to another organization- so we don’t get screwed like McHale’s screwed to T-Wolves.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 9:59 pm
Why is that every other night someone establishes a new career high against us? This is the second straight time a King hit the high water mark against us (Martin got 40 something against us in Nov)
Why is it that Curry can’t just go up and power it down when he gets in close, instead of always trying to be cute?
Why, why, why?????
By bronxboy in Md on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:00 pm
This is “Rock Bottom” according to Clyde Frazier!
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:00 pm
@ Cooley, # 113…
Make that a “slice” with extra cheese, and a rainbow italian ice…..:)
I feel like dreamin’ too, bruh….lol
By bronxboy in Md on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:03 pm
If Isiah cared.
He’d do the right thing and at least hire a competent and capable head coach!
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:04 pm
@ O&B…
“If we’re going to lose, lose with players who still can develop and have something to earn in the NBA.”
I concur wholeheartedly.
By bronxboy in Md on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:05 pm
Guys
Try to sleep this nighmare off.
I’m going to go to sleep and imagine that in an alternate reality the Knicks are actually a well coached and self motivated team.
That Starbury had a premonition in between his bouts of dispair.
That Crawford discovered he can play as effectively and be more profficient moving w/o the rock and scoring of screens like Miller use to do against us.
A world where Curry actually committed to off season conditioning and played both sides of the ball, where he defended and rebounded and blocked shots as a quality big man would.
A world where Thomas decided to say fuck this politicking I will play the kids and develop them and they-Balkman and Chandler-would reward him with great energy of the bench.
In short a world that is not this world.
Go NY Go NY GO!
The winds of change are a brewing.
Something has got to give.
Either Zeke removes himself from the helm and begins a search for a quality headcoach or Isiah gets axed as both coach and GM.
Good Night Fellas.
By Black and Blue on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:14 pm
@Bronx
I tried to wait for you bruh, but I ate your slice and I’m dogging the icey on the train.
Meet me at the Pizza shop at Pelham Bay and I’ll buy you a slice with xtra cheese. Or do you prefer to hook up at Nick’s near the 5 train Gunhill Road Station…I’m down either way!!! lol
Keep it Poppin!
By cooleyhigh on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:19 pm
Peace out O & B/B & B! Hang in there Defender! It can’t get no worse for sure.
BTW, Defenders we need take up a collection so Anti can pay his Electricity Bill…You know Con ED don’t play! lol You hang in there too Anti, and you can BOOOO all you want because we know your heart bleeds Orange and Blue…
I’m Audi!
Keep it POPPIN!
By cooleyhigh on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:24 pm
@ Cooley…
Nicks…that’s that spot over there by Evander Childs HS, right?
They make the best pizza in the BX!!!!
Aight….Nicks it is….and this time don’t eat my slice, man….
ROFL….
By bronxboy in Md on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:40 pm
Any of you guys out there think Sacramento plays better with Artest?
By Mike on Jan 2, 2008 at 10:43 pm
I’m going grocery shopping.
Be back in an hour or so.
By DaVonn Jefferson on Jan 2, 2008 at 11:07 pm
Many of you think that Isiah the GM should fire Isiah the coach.
Zeke doesn’t have the authority to fire a coach anymore - he used to. But the price he paid for winning the power struggle against Brown was steep, and it involved taking on both roles and fusing them into one. Dolan probably likes the dual GM/coach model because it gives the press only one attack vector rather than two.
Dolan needs to “promote” Zeke to a nice cushy VP position which doesn’t involve no bitches or white people, retain Grunwald as interim GM (knowing Grunwald will be heavily coached by Zeke), and promote Herb to interim coach. Give Herb the rest of the season to show if he’s got the goods - or if he’s just another guy to toss aside in search of the next “icon”.
It’s time to fire Isiah. If the players won’t listen to his encouragement, his threats or his calm rational explanations, maybe they’ll listen to his head rolling.
By PaulNoize on Jan 3, 2008 at 12:27 pm
LOL - Mike, an interesting and unpopular take if it understand your meaning right.
Are you suggesting that Sacto plays more cohesive, winning basketball when Artest isn’t playing (similar to the anti-Curry argument found ’round these parts)?
By PaulNoize on Jan 3, 2008 at 12:28 pm
PaulNoise,
if Isiah goes, I would absolutely recommend Glen “Zach Randolph Trade” Grunwald going as well. come to think of it, only Herb and Hanners should stay, everyone else should go. If Isiah goes, Brendan Suhr should absolutely go too, I’d love to say goodbye to Mark Aguirre as well as the brain trust Steve Mills.
unfortunately, nobody around Dolan can/will tell dolan these things, because he doesn’t know basketball, so this is just wishful thinking.
By knicksdefense on Jan 3, 2008 at 12:34 pm
i wonder if magic would still run this team if offered the job.
i bet he could turn it around as gm.
for a coach I’d rehire jvg against dolan’s preference.
By knicksdefense on Jan 3, 2008 at 12:36 pm
DerMarr Johnson’s recovery path leads to Spurs
Searching for depth on the wing following injuries to Manu Ginobili and Brent Barry late last month, the Spurs became the latest team to take a chance on the former lottery pick, plucking Johnson off the scrap heap of the Development League.
Tonight’s game at Denver will be Johnson’s second with the team.
To the Spurs, Johnson is a low-risk, high-reward signee: A 6-foot-9 swingman with seven years of NBA experience, signed to a non-guaranteed deal worth the veteran minimum. At worst, he is an inexpensive fallback option while Ginobili and Barry nurse their way back to health. At best, he can become a cheap but valuable perimeter-shooting threat on a team that puts a premium on such players.
By BARF on Jan 3, 2008 at 12:52 pm
All right bitches!
This is the Knicks! Cardiac fans watching!
Place a W tonight! Bet your lungs! Tomorrow?????
tHIS IS OUR KNICKS!
By Peaceman on Jan 4, 2008 at 9:51 pm
As a matter of fact we will blown out the Spurs!
Tomorrow is what I’m worried about!
By Peaceman on Jan 4, 2008 at 9:54 pm
The SPURS ARE TOAST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hell Yeah I said that!
By Peaceman on Jan 4, 2008 at 10:13 pm
Good watchable three quarters.
By Lives In New Jersey, Loves New York on Jan 4, 2008 at 10:15 pm