The Knicks will win this game. It won't be easy, but it can be done. Here's why I say this:

Spree and Cassell have both looked old in the pre-season. Its going to take a while to shake off the rust. Also, neither player is happy to not have an extension done. Spree has gone on record to say he won't be playing hard. This is not the same Twolves team as last year, they will be vulnerable as they learn how to work Troy Hud and Wally into the Sam and Spree offense (they never had time to do that last year). Troy and Wally don't really know their role yet, and that makes a difference. Also, one of the best players in the pre-season for Minnie has been Eddie Griffin - he's suspended tonight.

As for how the Knicks matchup: Kurt has always played KG relatively well. Nazr is better than Olowokandi. Anyone who doesn't know this should have their Knicks membership card revoked. The Knicks have the quickness to get by Cassell and Spree (Jamal, Marbs and Timmy and yes Ariza). Sweets will feast against any Minnie defender OTHER than KG. The key though will be getting to the line, as they did in the pre-season. I'll also be interested to see if they can continue to rack up the steals and start fast breaks.