Preseason Preview

The Knicks are about where they were expected to be so far this season. They started out terrible and it looked like they might have taken a step back but they have regrouped and are becoming respectable. They began the season 3-14 but have since won 13 of 23 games and are currently three games out of the eighth spot in the East. David Lee is averaging his usual double-double and Al Harrington provides a great spark off the bench. D’Antoni is beginning to make this team more exciting.

Ready to Breakout vs. Reality: Danilo Galinari has stepped into the role D’Antoni drafted him for. He can knock down the three-pointer and is beginning to learn how to get to the rim as well. He has more than doubled his scoring average from his limited play last year and looks to be a pivotal part of this franchise going forward.

Over the Hill vs. Reality: Hughes has fallen out of favor with Mike D’Antoni and his minutes have been reduced. And by reduced I mean non-existent. They’re just waiting to drop him when his contract expires at the end of the year.

Worst Moment: Losing to the Nets on December 30. Losing to the Nets will be almost any team’s worst moment.

Best Moment: In Nate Robinson’s first game back after being benched for an entire month, he scored 41 points in an overtime win against the Hawks on the road.

Best Case Scenario: They are able to sneak into the playoffs and show potential free agents that they have the building blocks needed to be successful. All they need is a King to lead them.

Worst Case Scenario: The players get fed up not knowing whether they will be part of the puzzle next year and begin to play for themselves.

NBA Midseason Reports