Of course, far more significant than an exhibition win is how people played and who pulled through at decisive moments. Close observers of the NBA can detect key trends even during mundane stretches of play, and there is a reason that head coach Larry Brown is the brightest tactician in basketball.

For those who take notice of these patterns, it is unclear whether the future of the Knicks will include Stephon Marbury. One of Brown’s notable pre-season experiments has been to put Jamal Crawford at the point for extended periods and crunch time. Playing point guard forces Crawford to drive and pass and gear down his long-range jumper to a secondary option. As a wing player, Crawford flashes brilliance amid a torrent of painfully bad shots. But he’s a different player when playmaking focuses his game, and his range and height are extraordinary for the position. Handing Crawford the ball could be what transforms the second-year Knick from a big talent into a big contributor.

http://www.realgm.com/src_feature_article/67/20051024/the_early_indicators_on_the_05_06_knicks/

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Tuesday, October 25, 2005 (Tomorrow)

A flashy invitation you receive will actually be to a party or event that is quite boring. Look at the steak, not the sizzle. Do not settle for the ordinary when today offers you a peek at a passionate possibility.