It's been over half a century since the New York Knicks celebrated an NBA Championship victory. Fifty-one long years have passed since the storied franchise last hoisted the coveted trophy, a feat accomplished by the legendary 1973 team led by Hall of Famer Walt "Clyde" Frazier. Today, Frazier continues to be a significant presence within the organization, serving as a television analyst, and remains optimistic about the team's future.
Reflecting on the legacy and the current state of the Knicks, Frazier offered insights that draw parallels between the championship squad he once led and the present team. "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, sharing his observations on the current roster under Thibodeau's guidance.
The Knicks, who are fresh off a season where they reached the second round of the playoffs, managed to push the Indiana Pacers to a grueling seven-game series. This marked a notable improvement for the franchise, which won 50 games last season—their highest win tally since 2013. Key to their success was Jalen Brunson, who posted career-high averages of 28.7 points and 6.7 assists, a performance that earned him the captaincy of the team.
"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 expressed, underscoring the importance of maintaining player health throughout the rigorous NBA season.
The team made significant moves in the off-season, including the acquisition of Mikal Bridges, in anticipation of further strengthening their roster. Despite a 24-year hiatus from the Eastern Conference finals and a 25-year absence from the Finals, there is a renewed sense of hope and determination within the organization.
Walt Frazier didn't shy away from lavishing praise on Brunson, drawing comparisons between the rising star and the Knicks' legendary center 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. 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."
This endorsement from a Knicks icon like Frazier speaks volumes about Brunson's potential and character. His leadership and work ethic embody the spirit of the team, qualities that were hallmarks of New York's past champions.
"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," Frazier remarked, highlighting the intense scrutiny and high stakes that come with playing in New York.
As the new season approaches, the Knicks face a blend of optimism and pressure. The expectation to perform and deliver success is palpable, with both fans and former players like Frazier eager to see the team return to their winning ways. Whether this season marks a turning point remains to be seen, but the elements are in place for a potential resurgence.
In a city where basketball holds a special place in the hearts of many, the echoes of past glories and the promise of future triumphs linger, capturing the imagination of a fanbase that has long awaited a return to the pinnacle of the NBA. The journey ahead for the New York Knicks, led by promising talents and guided by the wisdom of legends, promises to be a compelling narrative for all to follow.