It has been 51 long years since the New York Knicks last tasted the sweet triumph of an NBA Championship victory. Led by Hall of Famer Walt "Clyde" Frazier, the 1973 team's success remains a cherished memory for fans. Now, with Frazier as a television analyst for the Knicks, the team is showing signs of rekindling that past glory.
The Knicks are riding high after a season that saw them reach the second round of the playoffs, where they pushed the Indiana Pacers to a thrilling seven-game series. Jalen Brunson was a standout, averaging career-highs of 28.7 points and 6.7 assists. This performance helped the Knicks secure 50 wins, a feat they had not accomplished since 2013.
Mikal Bridges Joins the Roster
Over the summer, the Knicks bolstered their lineup by acquiring Mikal Bridges, a move that adds depth and versatility to their roster. Given that it has been 24 years since their last appearance in the Eastern Conference finals and a quarter-century since their last Finals appearance, this could be a pivotal moment for the team.
Brunson, who was inducted as the team captain, brings a tenacious work ethic and a team-first mentality that echoes the values of Knicks legend Willis Reed. "I did a video -- I wasn't able to be at the induction when he was inducted as the captain — I told him, he reminds me a lot of Willis Reed," Frazier observed. "They're both lefties, they both have tenacious work ethic, they're always sharing and caring, and team-first concept. They're always thinking of the team, not themselves."
Frazier's Optimism
Frazier's optimism for the team’s future is palpable. He senses similarities between the current squad and the championship teams of the past. "I see the vibes. I see a lot of similarities with [our] championship teams, starting with the coach. [Tom Thibodeau] is a lot like Red Holzman. He holds the guys accountable, and they're defensive oriented, and the players actually like each other," Frazier said.
This camaraderie and focus on defense could be the keys to the Knicks’ resurgence. "I think this is going to be our year. Obviously, health is going to play a big factor into it. But if the Knicks can stay healthy, I think we can get back to our former grandeur," Frazier added.
For a city where basketball expectations are always sky-high, the performance of Jalen Brunson has been especially encouraging. Walt Frazier did not mince words when discussing Brunson’s impact. "We know, in this town, the expectations are always overwhelming, so to rise to the occasion his first two years and accept the challenge, catapulting the team, he's definitely got a chance to be one of the greatest Knicks ever, if not the greatest Knick ever."
The Road Ahead
With Mikal Bridges joining the squad and a hardworking, team-focused leader in Jalen Brunson, the Knicks have a solid foundation upon which to build. The comparison of Thibodeau’s coaching style to that of Red Holzman offers another glimmer of hope. Thibodeau’s emphasis on accountability and defensive prowess could very well echo the strategies that led to the Knicks’ golden years.
As the new season approaches, Knicks fans have ample reason for cautious optimism. The echoes of past achievements blend with the promise of a dynamic future, creating an atmosphere ripe with potential. If the team can harness this blend of talent, work ethic, and camaraderie, perhaps the long wait for another championship might soon come to an end.