This is the first three-game, game thread in the history of game threads.
Why? Because there will never be a more pivotal stretch in the nouveau Knicks season. Similar to the first west coast swing where the new Knicks rebounded and bonded in November. They were coming off five consecutive losses and headed west to Denver. The doubt was setting in and Clyde uttered his prophetic, "this road trip will either make them or break them."
Game one in Denver was a tough loss 120-118 but the Knicks showed positive signs with five guys in double figures including Fields 21 and 17 and Felton with 19 and 12 assists. Then the fun started. They defeat Sacramento 113-106, Golden State 125-119, Clippers 124-115 and Charlotte 110-107. Our yoots found confidence on the road and "the Knicks are back!" felt authentic.
In the same vein, the Milwaukee win was huge to set the tone. Despite the built-in excuse of rapid transitions, it was a must-win. You never want to follow fanfare with a home loss. The road calls again. Does Clyde think this trip will either "make of break them"?
Cleveland is playing with more confidence and has nothing to lose. Losing 26 in a row only made them cherish every bright moment as golden. Think Cleveland fans see some of Lebron in Carmelo? You damn skippy. The home crowd will be loud and rowdy. This game sets the tone for the trip. Another must win. If Cleveland wins, brace yourself for the juicy headlines.
Miami is primed for some payback for the 93-88 loss on Jan 27. For some reason the Knicks always play the Heat tough in Miami. It must be the 17 New Yorkers who proudly wear the blue and orange to drown out the passive Heat fans. Shawne Williams and Wilson Chandler did an excellent job of defending Lebron.
Orlando is laying in the weeds with Dwight Howard. Bad news for the active, but brittle, Ronny Turiaf. This could be the rubber game of the series. Win in Orlando next Tuesday and the Knicks could return to The Garden at 2-1. The bad news is this game is the front end of a back-to-back with the New Orleans Hornets the next night at The Garden.
Someone in the NBA schedule office has a weird sense of humor.