The New York Knicks have taken fans on an emotional roller coaster unlike any in recent memory. The theme of thriving early and falling apart in January is nothing new to Knicks fans, but there’s a rare element that has complicated the 2017-18 NBA regular season.
With a young and promising core of players that’s complemented by a cast of grizzled veterans, the Knicks are toeing the thin line between a rebuild and postseason contention.
In previous seasons, the Knicks were an older team without draft picks to tank for or younger players to develop. Even when Kristaps Porzingis was added to the roster, New York had to be mindful of Carmelo Anthony and his closing championship window.