EWING NOT THE MAN?

Patrick Ewing would at least like an interview for the Knicks head coaching vacancy. Apparently, Donnie Walsh doesn't seem inclined to give him one anytime soon. Of course, this could just be because Ewing's current team, the Orlando Magic, is still playing in the playoffs. It's generally assumed that if/when Mark Jackson is announced as the next head coach, Ewing will be one of the first assistants that Jax hires.

WALSH OBSESSED WITH BROADCASTERS?

Kenny Smith appears to be one of many general manager candidates that Donnie Walsh will interview, after he's finished his search for a coach. Smith has a lot in common with Walsh and apparent-head-coach Mark Jackson. Like both, Smith is a New York native. Smith and Walsh are graduates of North Carolina. Smith and Jackson have been broadcasting since their playing days have ended, gaining no experience in the respective job fields that they will be interviewing for. Smith already has ties to the Knicks. He has been a part-time analyst on the MSG in recent years, and is very close with Garden president Steve Mills.

The Knicks' GM position is currently held by Glen Grunwald, who was hired by Isiah Thomas. Former Sixers GM Billy King and former Pistons/Sonics GM Rick Sund are both expected to meet with Walsh as well, who is not ruling out retaining Grunwald. It would seem that Grunwald and the rest of the scouting department figure to remain in place at least until the draft in June.

ON THE CLOCK

With the NFL Draft being held today at Radio City Music Hall, I thought this would be a good time to remind everyone of the upcoming NBA Draft dates:

April 27th: Underclassmen Draft Entry Deadline
May 20th: Draft Lottery Drawing
June 16th: Underclassmen Draft Withdrawal Deadline
June 26th: NBA Draft

DESERT-BOUND WALSH, GARDEN-BOUND JAX?

Alan Hahn of New York Newsday & Frank Isola of the New York Post seem to be "confirming" that Walsh has indeed flown to Phoenix to meet with Mark Jackson.

WALSH ON THE PROWL

Apparently, Walsh didn't meet with Mark Jackson in New York yesterday. He did, however, fly out of town to meet with what seems to be his only head-coaching candidate. Jackson could have either been home in Los Angeles, or in Phoenix preparing to broadcast tonight's Suns-Spurs game. The fact that it's Walsh on a plane headed toward Jackson, instead of the other way around, makes me expect an announcement this weekend of a press conference early next week.

ACTION WITH JACKSON

Donnie Walsh is expected to meet with Mark Jackson face-to-face today, even though they spoke to each other briefly over the phone last week. This doesn't necessarily mean Jackson will be announced as the Knicks next head coach anytime soon though. Walsh has indicated that he's willing to be patient, presumably so he can see how other candidates compare to his leading man. Some names in the mix include: Boston assistant Tom Thibodeau, Sacramento assistant Chuck Person, and possibly Detroit's head man Flip Saunders, Dallas' Avery Johnson, or Toronto's Sam Mitchell. The last three would only be available if they're fired due to early playoff exits.

Walsh seems set on Jackson, but may want to interview a number of people just to make sure his instincts are correct.

HELP WANTED: HEAD COACH

With Scott Skiles taking the Bucks' job, the list of candidates for Donnie Walsh to hire has shrunk. First to get an official interview will be long time assistant coach, and former Knicks player, Herb Williams. Williams signed with the New York Knicks on November 15, 1992 as a free agent. The 6’11” center out of Ohio State spent seven seasons with the team and was a part of two Eastern Conference Championship teams (1994 and 1999). He played in 278 games with the Knicks, including 50 playoff games and two NBA Finals, and was always a fan favorite at the Garden. Herb returned to the Knicks in 2001 as an assistant coach and has been here the past three years. He had his sole opportunity to coach for the Knicks on January 14, 2004. The team defeated the Orlando Magic 120-110, giving Williams a 1-0 career coaching record. He's been here from Pat Riley, through Isiah Thomas, and everything in between. No matter who's brought in as the next head coach, Herb deserves and has earned the right to be here for the good times.

Walsh held a conference call with reporters today to address the coaching situation: here's the transcript.

Mark Jackson still seems to be the leading candidate for the job.

ISIAH'S BANISHMENT

Due to his "reassignment agreement" with Donnie Walsh, Isiah Thomas is not allowed to have ANY contact with anyone involved with the team itself. Good news for the players, and incoming head coach. It's hard to tell if Walsh is having his strings pulled by Dolan, or if he actually kept Thomas within the organization for a good reason. Maybe Donnie/Jim didn't want to give Isiah his paycheck just to have him spill the beans about the ugly ongoings behind closed doors?

END OF AN ERA (FINALLY!)

Donnie Walsh has finally done what Jim Dolan should have done months ago, remove Isiah Thomas from his head coaching position. The bad news, Thomas will still be employed by Dolan and the Knicks in some sort of untitled advisory role. However, Walsh said during his conference-call announcement that Thomas will not be charge of the draft as was speculated. Even though Walsh did say "I will be in contact with Isiah a lot, I value Isiah's knowledge of the game and I value his opinion so I would use him as a resource". He later mentioned, "There will be nobody reporting to Isiah." Thomas will report to Walsh directly.

To me, this sounds like Walsh was just being polite publicly. Thomas has been fired without receiving a pink-slip. Even if he had been outright fired, Dolan would still owe him the full amount of his contract. Thomas would also be able to try and find another job elsewhere (insert gut-busting laughter here) and collect both paychecks, move on from this disgrace (Larry Brown), rebuild his reputation, etc. With Zeke still "employed" by the Knicks, it seems more like he's been fittingly banished to purgatory.

Getting rid if Isiah was the easy part for Walsh. Picking a new coach before June's draft will be the hard part. Mention Mark Jackson to Walsh, and you can hear the excitement in his voice when he says, "I know he's one of the smartest guys who ever played for us at Indiana. He's always been a guy I think who could make a really fine head coach."

With the team going into rebuilding mode for the next couple of years, this is the perfect time to bring in a coach with no prior expierence. Let Jackson learn on the job. If he proves he's a quality coach, great. If not, replace him when we're in a position to contend after gaining cap-space (D-Wade). It's not like Jackson can do any worse than Thomas did.

NIGHTMARE COME TRUE?

Apparently, Donnie Walsh informed Isiah Thomas last week that he will not be the Head Coach beyond this season. Walsh seems to be doing what all Knick fans feared he would, keeping Thomas in an "invisible" role. I still have faith that this nightmare doesn't come true.

NEW YORK @ INDIANA

The Knicks play the Pacers tonight in the final game of the season. (7:00pm FOX SPORTS NET / NO RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Fred Jones
PG-Jamal Crawford

PACERS:
C-Jermaine O'Neal
PF-Troy Murphy
SF-Mike Dunleavy
SG-Danny Granger
PG-Flip Murray

FINALLY

Mercifully, and ironically, the Knicks' season ends tonight in Indiana, home of Isiah Thomas and Donnie Walsh's former team.

With as miserable as this season has been, tomorrow is when the fun finally begins. We can begin counting down to Isiah Thomas' long overdue departure from Knick-land. Tomorrow is also when Walsh actually starts his job as President of Basketball Operations. How to get rid of Zach Randolph? What to do with Stephon Marbury, Quentin Richardson, Eddy Curry? Yet, even more important than those guys, what does the future hold for David Lee and Nate Robinson? Walsh has been adamant about getting under the cap for 2010. However, as Lee's agent, Mark Bartelstein, commented, "The reason why you try to create cap space is to try to get really good young players. I don’t know how much better you’re going to get than David Lee.”

This offseason should be better than the last four, even if only by default. Let's hope so, because it will probably be the most important one in New York Knickerbocker history.

LeBRON JAMES

Anyone (including Donnie Walsh) thinking LeBron James will leave his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers for greener pastures in 2010 is insane. Yes, he signed a 3 year extension instead of a 5 year one. That leads to all the speculation that he's "left his options open" to maybe leave for a better situation in the future. Wrong. The only thing that the 3 year deal means is that LeBron can sign a max extension with Cleveland 2 years sooner. King James is a homegrown hero, he's not going to leave his backyard. Even IF New York could offer more money than the Cavs, he doesn't need it. Endorsements would easily cover the difference.

Dwayne Wade also made the same decision to take a 3year deal with Miami. Looking at that situation objectively, he definitely "left his options open". Anyone could see this season coming for that wreck of a roster in South Beach, obviously including Wade. In 2010 Miami could be in an even worse position then they are now.

Dwayne Wade, who'd I'd like to remind you has already won a Championship, makes much more sense in New York than LeBron James.

BOSTON @ NEW YORK

The Knicks final home game is tonight, fittingly against the NBA-best Boston Celtics. (7:30pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
==================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Wilson Chandler
PG-Jamal Crawford

CELTICS:
C-Kendrick Perkins
PF-Leon Powe
SF-James Posey
SG-Tony Allen
PG-Rajon Rondo

ATLANTA @ NEW YORK

Josh Childress and the Atlanta Hawks are in town to play "a team like" the New York Knicks tonight. (7:30pm NO TV/ RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford

HAWKS:
C-Al Horford
PF-Marvin Williams
SF-Josh Smith
SG-Joe Johnson
PG-Mike Bibby

WALSH & THOMAS

No meeting between Donnie Walsh and Isiah Thomas took place today, even though one was expected. Wonder what this means?

CHARLOTTE @ NEW YORK

The Charlotte Bobcats are in New York tonight to play the Knicks. (7:30pm NO TV / RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford

BOBCATS:
C-Nazr Mohammed
PF-Emeka Okafor
SF-Jason Richardson
SG-Matt Carroll
PG-Raymond Felton

NEW YORK @ DETROIT

The Knickerbockers are in Detroit to square-off against the Pistons tonight. Including tonight, there's just five games left in this abysmal season. (8:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-Jared Jeffries
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford

PISTONS:
C-Rasheed Wallace
PF-Antonio McDyess
SF-Tayshaun Prince
SG-Arron Afflalo
PG-Chauncey Billups

HOW SWEET IT'LL BE!

It's happened before: Ewing to New York, Duncan to San Antonio, LeBron to Cleveland. It seems like whenever the stars need to be aligned just right, David Stern makes sure it happens. So as soon as Derrick Rose announces his eligibility for the 2008 NBA Draft, he might as well start looking for a Manhattan Co-op.

He's exactly what the Knicks need: a young, SMART, athletic, pass-first PG. A backcourt of Rose and Crawford would definitely be a step in the right direction as a team. Getting rid of Starbury and Randolph would also do wonders.

KANSAS @ MEMPHIS

Potential-future-Knick Derrick Rose and the Memphis Tigers will play Brandon Rush and the Kansas Jayhawks for the the right to be National Champion of Men's Division One Basketball. (9:00pm CBS)

PATRICK EWING

Patrick Ewing was elected into the Basketball Hall of Fame today. While his tenure with the Knicks didn't have a storybook ending, Ewing will always be remembered as nothing other than a New York Knickerbocker.

Here's a look at his playing career.

EWING SINGS JACKSON'S PRAISE

Patrick Ewing was back in The Garden last night, as an assistant coach of the Orlando Magic. With the expected announcement today that he will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, the Knicks honored Sir Patrick with a video montage on the jumbo screen.

In regards to all the speculation about Mark Jackson being the Knicks next head coach or GM, Ewing said, "Whatever Mark chooses to do, he will do fine in it. Mark's a New Yorker, has a New York swagger. Whether coaching, front-office, he'd do an outstanding job." If Jackson is hired as coach, Ewing would most likely be on his staff.

ORLANDO @ NEW YORK

"Superman" Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic fly into Metropolis to battle the Knicks tonight. (7:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Wilson Chandler
PG-Jamal Crawford

MAGIC:
C-Dwight Howard
PF-Hedo Turkoglu
SF-Rashard Lewis
SG-Maurice Evans
PG-Jameer Nelson

NEW YORK @ NEW ORLEANS

The Knicks are in New Orleans in a match-up against MVP candidate Chris Paul and his Hornets. (NO TV / RADIO?)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Jamal Crawford
PG-Mardy Collins

HORNETS:
C-Wilson Chandler
PF-David West
SF-Peja Stojakovic
SG-Morris Peterson
PG-Chris Paul

ACTION JACKSON

Former Knick, and native New Yorker, Mark Jackson is being rumored as the favorite to replace Isiah Thomas as Head Coach of the Knicks. However, there's also speculation that Donnie Walsh is considering him as the next GM instead. Personally, I'd prefer the latter, in conjunction with a Scott Skiles-like head coach. This team needs an established and respected coach to guide them. That isn't to say that Jackson can't or won't be a quality coach, but I think he'd be a better fit long term as GM, ala Steve Kerr with Phoenix. Walsh could mentor him to eventually take the reigns himself, ala Larry Bird.

For everyone advocating Jackson as coach, trying to get the next Avery Johnson: just remember Johnson was an assistant under Don Nelson before becoming the head man.

SAME 'OLE STEPH

We've all heard this "I'm a new man. I'm more motivated then I've ever been. I'm really excited about the new coach." crap from Stephon Marbury before. He said a lot of things along those lines headed into THIS season, and we all know how that's turned out (FOG-HORN!). But this time I actually believe him when he says, "I feel I got something to prove." Let's not forget: he did play well last season, and was a big reason there was hope coming into this season. He's had the battle with Zeke, his father passed away as did an aunt, and then he's been "hurt". Honestly, I think he's fine, and he and Thomas just said that to keep themselves away from each other. With all that's gone on this year, everything Steph's been through, entering that holy-last-year of his contract, hopefully a real coach coming in, and being a native New Yorker paired with another native New Yorker, I think he might actually have a chip on his shoulder and be very motivated next season.

All that being said, I'm still not sure I'd want him on the Knicks. Especially if Derrick Rose is drafted. No need to risk having Starbury show up and ruin/undermine everything, no matter who's drafted.

DAVID LEE A FORGOTTEN MAN?

When Donnie Walsh briefly spoke about some of the current Knicks' players, he had joy in his voice when mentioning Jamal Crawford, Renaldo Balkman, and even Jared Jeffries. However, not once did he mention David Lee! Lee might actually be the best all around player on this team. He seems to be the one guy most other teams inquired about in (non)trade discussions. Hopefully, Walsh was trying to increase the value of pieces he wants to move, and help other GM's forget about David Lee.

$500 MILLION

That's how much it'll cost to renovate The Garden. The Knicks won't have to play games anywhere else during the '09-10 season because most of the construction will be done over the those two summers, with work beginning in the spring next year. As I've said before, I couldn't be happier that "The World's Most Famous Arena" will not be replaced. The plan is to be finished for the '11-12 season, with seating capacity remaining the same.

WELCOME HOME DONNIE

Now that you're finally here, how's the view? Donnie Walsh might have an easier time climbing Mt. Everest with his hands tied behind his back then he will making the Knickerbockers competitive again, never mind "elite" as he mentioned a few times.

Stephon Marbury, Zach Randolph, Eddy Curry, Quentin Richardson, Jared Jeffries, and Jerome James all carry BIG contracts. So does Jamal Crawford, but he should be retained in my opinion. I wouldn't trade Marbury, I'd buy him out: his $21m coming off the books after next season will help immensely. Just cut ties with a lost cause. The rest of those guys/contracts are such a mess, I'm not sure where to start.

NEW YORK @ MEMPHIS

The Knicks are in Memphis to play the Grizzlies tonight. (8:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
==================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford

GRIZZLIES:
C-Darko Milicic
PF-Hakeem Warrick
SF-Rudy Gay
SG-Mike Miller
PG-Mike Conley

THE WALSH-ERA HAS OFFICIALLY BEGUN

Now that Jim Dolan has formally introduced Donnie Walsh as the President of Basketball Operations for the New York Knickerbockers, lets dissect what was said at the press conference. The most obvious thing from Dolan was, "His mandate is clear: Do whatever is necessary to turn this team around." The most notable though, was Dolan saying that Walsh has complete autonomy, including the media policy. Walsh said the Knicks will be "more open and accessible."

From all of Walsh's indications, Isiah Thomas will not be the coach beyond this season. When first asked about Thomas, Walsh said, "I won't judge anything from afar. I will sit down and talk with him. I think he has a great basketball mind. I think he has the skills to help this franchise." Later, he was asked what role Isiah would have if not the coach, and Walsh replied, "That'll be the conversation." This seems to imply that, unfortunately, Walsh is thinking about keeping Thomas on in some advisory role. Hopefully, Isiah won't accept a demotion.

Walsh said that his goals are to make the team competitive, and to gain cap flexibility in 2,3,4 years. He mentioned a few times that the Knicks will not dip into the free agent market anytime soon. He doesn't want to add any long-term contracts via trade either.

Overall, I liked everything I heard from Donnie. He seemed very truthful with the media, and his approach to rebuilding this once great franchise is encouraging. When asked how he brings hope to the Knicks, he answered, "The hope I bring to them is: I'm going to do the right things for this franchise." It's about time someone did.

NEW YORK @ MILWAUKEE

The Knicks will face the Bucks tonight. Only 8 games left after tonight. (8:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
KNICKS:
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford

BUCKS:
C-Andrew Bogut
PF-Charlie Villanueva
SF-Desmond Mason
SG-Michael Redd
PG-Maurice Williams

THE RETURN OF "CLYDE" FRAZIER?

It's obvious, the Knicks couldn't even guard ME at this point. That's how horrible they've been defensively under Isiah Thomas. Their perimeter D has been especially atrocious, allowing either wide-open 3's or a free path to the rim. Granted, not having a shot blocker doesn't help, but even Zo, Mutombo, AND Hakeem couldn't swat all those easy lay-ups. As for putting an end to all this matador-dom, who better than Hall-of-Fame PG, and seven time NBA first team All Defense, Walt "Clyde" Frazier? So far, Clyde has stayed away from coaching, but he's definitely open to being a special instructor, ala Tino Martinez with the Yankees. Hopefully, he and the new management/coach can work something out.

WALSH OR NOT?

Walsh continues to attempt to wear down Dolan on three key issues: whether he'll have complete freedom to run things his way, Dolan's ludicrous media policy, and Isiah Thomas' future. Dolan would prefer to have Thomas remain as coach, which will not happen if Walsh is running the Knicks. However, it seems that Dolan would still want Thomas to remain in the organization in a still-to-be determined role. I'm sure Walsh knows what a disaster that would be in many ways.

A person with knowledge of the negotiations has implied that Walsh is still undecided about coming to the Knicks. If a deal with Walsh is announced before the end of the season, it would seem that Thomas would be staying on board.

NEW YORK @ ATLANTA

The Knicks visit Atlanta to battle the Hawks tonight. (4:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS:
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-David Lee
PF-Jared Jeffries
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford

ATLANTA HAWKS
C-Al Horford
PF-Marvin Williams
SF-Josh Smith
SG-Joe Johnson
PG-Mike Bibby

TEXAS @ MEMPHIS

In a battle of potential-future-Knick-point-guards, Derrick Rose and #1 seed Memphis take on D.J Augustine and the #2 Texas Longhorns for the right to go to the Final Four. (2pm CBS)

KING OF NEW YORK?

Could Billy King be coming to the Knicks along with Donnie Walsh? Considering everything he did with the Sixers I sure hope so. They've got great young talent, and room under the cap. Sign me up!

WHO WANT'S ISIAH?

This I find VERY hard to believe, but some of the Knicks actually want Thomas to return as coach next season.

A MAN WITHOUT A CITY

That's exactly what Isiah Thomas has become, and deservedly so.

NEW YORK @ TORONTO

The Knicks visit the Toronto Raptors tonight (7:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO).

STARTING LINE-UPS:
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-David Lee
PF-Jared Jeffries
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford

TOTRONTO RAPTORS
C-Rasho Nesterovic
PF-Chris Bosh
SF-Jamario Moon
SG-Anthony Parker
PG-T.J. Ford

MSG TO STAY PUT

A proposed plan to move Madison Square Garden and Penn Station across the street and into the Post Office building has be abandoned. Instead, Cablevision has decided to renovate The World's Most Famous Arena again, just as in the early 90's. Personally, I like this non-move. Yes the Yanks and Mets are getting new parks next year. However, while the Mets aren't leaving anything worthwhile, the Yankees are leaving behind their own personal Indian Burial Grounds. Yankee Stadium is much older than MSG and is due to be retired with honor. I don't think The Garden is quite there yet. New York deserves to see a quality team in THIS Garden before we get rewarded with a new one. A few years from now, once the Knicks contend again, The New Garden will come. Then it'll get the limelight that it'll deserve.

MVP PREDICTIONS

My pick would be Chris Paul. Hands down. Although he deserved it, Steve Nash's first MVP should have gone to Jason Kidd a year earlier, and Paul is having a better season than either of them did. I wouldn't complain about LeBron getting it either, T-Mac 3rd, Garnett 4th, and Stoudamire 5th. Kobe isn't even close in my opinion, as great as he is. The Lakers were competitive, but not CONTENDERS until Bynum developed early this year and then they stole Gasol. They've proven that: by getting Gasol BECAUSE Bynum got hurt, and struggling with Gasol hurt. KG's my favorite singular player in the league (so it KILLS me to see him in Boston), but the Celtics still have Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. Plus, they've played well without KG or Allen. T-Mac and Paul have taken their teams to the TOP OF THE WESTERN CONFERENCE mostly by themselves. LeBron is Lebron, but Paul is still my pick.

Who's your pick?

MIAMI @ NEW YORK

The Miami Heat will be in town to take on the Knicks, in a battle for ping-pong balls. (7:30pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS:
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Wilson Chandler
PG-Jamal Crawford

MIAMI HEAT
C-Mark Blount
PF-Earl Barron
SF-Ricky Davis
SG-Daequan Cook
PG-Chris Quinn

WALSH TO NEW YORK IS OFFICIAL?

According to ESPNews, Donnie Walsh as agreed to accept a 3year/$15million contract to run the New York Knickerbockers at the end of the season. I smell something fishy here, but this seems to be Dolan's M.O.: hire the replacement before firing the incumbent. That's how Thomas was brought to New York in the first place. I'm not sure if traveling down the same path that has brought us to where we are is a good idea at all. Hopefully this time I'm wrong, but only time will tell.

NEW JERSEY @ NEW YORK

The New Jersey Nets will travel across the Hudson River and take on the Knicks at Madison Square Garden tonight. (7:30pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS:
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Jared Jeffries
SG-Wilson Chandler
PG-Jamal Crawford

NEW JERSEY NETS
C-Josh Boone
PF-Nenad Kristic
SF-Richard Jefferson
SG-Vince Carter
PG-Devin Harris

FALL-OUT

In a surprising turn of events, Donnie Walsh and the Indiana Pacers will be parting ways at the end of the season. Walsh intends to "pursue other opportunities". This would seem to put him atop the list of candidates to replace Isiah Thomas. While Walsh may be qualified, I think it would be rash to sign the first guy spoken to. There has been no conformation of any contact between Jim Dolan and anyone other than Walsh. Dolan needs to be thorough and diligent with his process. Interview EVERYONE. Don't just make an impulse purchase based on someone else's recommendation this time. If this results in Walsh, so be it. Just make sure he's the right guy for the job BEFORE you hire him. Don't just read his resume. Someone else might turn out to be a better fit (Jerry Colangelo?). That's what interviewing people to do a JOB is all about.

AGENT ZERO & PATRICK EWING?

All is quiet on the Knicks' front, and I'm bored: so I'm thinking...

Lets start with the obvious: FIRE ISIAH. Personally, I'd like to see Jerry Colangelo as the Prez/GM. If not Colangelo, ANYONE will (probably) be an upgrade. Next, whoever is brought in as coach should have some experience in my opinion. Atlanta's Mike Woodson is next to get the axe after Isiah, and despite that would be a good fit given what he's done with the young Hawks. Del Harris should also be considered. I know the fancy names of Marc Jackson and Greg Anthony have been thrown around looking for the next Avery Johnson, but that's asking for more doom. Most people forget Johnson coached under Don Nelson before taking the reigns himself. Bring Marc Jackson AND PATRICK EWING on as assistant coaches.

Lets say Gilbert Arenas declines his option, which is unlikely, unless Washington prefers he declines. It MIGHT possible to sell him on New York, bringing the Knickerbockers back to the limelight of the NBA, all the endorsements, everything that comes with all that, endear him on being able to prove "it's not all about the money" and convince him to take a short 3-4 year exemption @ about $6-7 with the promise of a max extension afterwards.

DRAFT Derrick Rose
C 2nd RD

TRADE
TO TOR: Jamal Crawford ($8.6 '08-9)
TO NY: Radoslav Nesterovic (1/$8.4)

TO CHI: Zach Randolph
TO NY: Tyrus Thomas & Drew Gooden

BUYOUT Quentin Richardson

C-Eddy Curry
PF-David Lee
SF-Tyrus Thomas
SG-Agent Zero
PG-Derrick Rose
-------------------
G-Nate Robinson
C/F-Drew Gooden
F-Wilson Chandler
C
F/G-Renaldo Balkman
G-Mardy Collins
F-Jared Jeffries
SUIT Malik Rose, Jerome James, Nesterovic

Since that'll never happen, maybe a sign-and-trade is in order:

TO NY: GilbertArenas (1/$12.8), Darius Songaila (3/$13.5) ($17 '08-9)

TO WASH: Jamal Crawford (3/$27.9), Malik Rose (1/$7.6) Renaldo Balkman (1/$1.2) ($17.4 '08-9)
'09 1st Round pick

DRAFT Derrick Rose
C 2nd RD

TO CHI: Zach Randolph
TO NY: Tyrus Thomas & Drew Gooden

BUYOUT Quentin Richardson

C-Eddy Curry
PF-David Lee
SF-Tyrus Thomas
SG-Agent Zero
PG-Derrick Rose
-------------------
G-Nate Robinson
C/F-Drew Gooden
F-Wilson Chandler
C
F-Darius Songaila
G-Mardy Collins
F-Jared Jeffries
SUIT Jerome James

Hey, I can dream.

NEW YORK @ MINNESOTA

Tonight the Knicks visit the Minnesota Timberwolves. (8:00pm, MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS:
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-Randolph Morris
PF-David Lee
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Fred Jones
PG-Jamal Crawford

MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
C-Al Jefferson
PF-Ryan Gomes
SF-Kirk Snyder
SG-Marco Jaric
PG-Randy Foye

NO WALSH IN NEW YORK

It looks like Donnie Walsh will remain in Indiana, and not replace Isiah Thomas at Madison Square Garden. This should shift Dolan's focus to more appropriate replacements: Jerry Colangelo, Jerry West, Kiki Vandeweghe.

MEMPHIS @ NEW YORK

The Memphis Grizzlies visit Madison Square Garden and the New York Knicks tonight (7:30pm)

STARTING LINE-UPS:
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-Randolph Morris
PF-David Lee
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Jamal Crawford
PG-Nate Robinson

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
C-Darko Milicic
PF-Hakim Warrick
SF-Rudy Gay
SG-Mike Miller
PG-Mike Conley

THE FUTURE IS NOW

There has been plenty of speculation surrounding the Knicks' and Isiah Thomas' respective futures. With all the rumors flying around about owner Jim Dolan meeting with perspective execs Kiki Vandeweghe and Donnie Walsh, it seems that Dolan is finally ready to rid the Knicks of Isiah's presence. The sooner the better, in my opinion. Personally, I'm hoping for Jerry Colangelo. But ANYONE would be an upgrade over Thomas. Hiring the GM (or President of Basketball Operations, if you prefer ) is MUCH more important than worrying about the next coach. Dolan needs to hire an accomplished and savvy basketball man, then let him do his job and hire a coach that fits his philosophy.

Only one thing is certain, next year can't be as bad as this one (unless Isiah Thomas is still here).

NEW YORK @ INDIANA

Tonight the Knicks are in Indiana to play the Pacers, and will wear green uniforms in honor of St. Patrick's day. (7:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Jamal Crawford
PG-Nate Robinson

INDIANA PACERS
C-Jeff Foster
PF-Troy Murphy
SF-Danny Granger
SG-Mike Dunleavy
PG-Flip Murray

SAY IT AIN'T SO

It's been made public knowledge that Indiana Pacers' CEO Donnie Walsh, a New York native, is postponing his retirement. There is speculation that Jim Dolan would like Walsh to replace Isiah Thomas the president (so far so good), but let Zeke stay on as head-coach (D'oh!). Remember, Walsh hired Isiah Thomas to be head-coach of the Indiana Pacers before the 2000-01 season.

Walsh's agent, Steven A. Kauffman, said yesterday that his client has the right pedigree to become successful in New York. "Donnie has the experience, the temperament and personality to deal with the New York Knicks' situation," said Kauffman, whom Walsh hired last summer to represent him. "He has roots there."

ATLANTA @ NEW YORK

Tonight the Atlanta Hawks will take on The New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in the heated rematch of "teams like that". (6:00pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINE-UPS
=================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Jamal Crawford
PG-Nate Robinson

ATLANTA HAWKS
C-Al Hortford
PF-Marvin Williams
SF-Josh Smith
SG-Joe Johnson
PG-Mike Bibby

LET THE LEE-ERA BEGIN

With the Knicks season over long ago, the time has come to focus on the future. In particular, David Lee has been shining in his role (FINALLY) as a starter. He's added the abilities to knock down the 15-footer and take opponents off the dribble, to go along with his natural Lee-bounding and finishing at the rim. Hopefully, Zach Randolph is moved this off-season (he'll bring more in return than Curry) so Lee can start at PF full-time in '08-09.

"THEY'RE DONE"

According to "The Big O" Oscar Robertson, "Just stick a fork in them, they're done. They need an overall transformation, from top to bottom."

NO MORE CURRY

It's official. Today the Knicks confirmed that Eddy Curry will miss all remaining 19 games this season. If only us fans were so lucky. He finishes the season averaging 13.2 PTS and just 4.7 REB per game.

NEW YORK @ MIAMI

Tonight the Knicks are in Miami to play the Heat in a battle for NBA futility. (7:30pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO)

STARTING LINEUPS
================
NEW YORK KNICKS
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Jamal Crawford
PG-Nate Robinson
OUT-Eddy Curry (knee), Quentin Richardson (wrist)

MIAMI HEAT
C-Mark Blount
PF-Shawn Marion
SF-Ricky Davis
SG-Daequan Cook
PG-Jayson Williams
OUT-Dwayne Wade (knee)

JUST TO MAKE A POINT

After the Feb 29th game in Atlanta (99-93 ATL), Josh Cildress was interviewed on 1050 ESPN radio here in NY. Not that big of a deal, until he said "I'm glad we got to play a team like that headed into the stretch run." I'll let that sink in.....
(to be fair, I turned off the radio immediately after he said it so I don't know what Johnny Hoops' response was).

This is how bad things have gotten around here. The 6th man from the annually-bottom-feeding Atlanta Hawks called the Knicks "A TEAM LIKE THAT" ON THEIR OWN RADIO STATION (and not in the same way that the Spurs are a team like that). Need I say more?

Q & A

I'm asking what you would like to see here next.

I realize that I could easily sit here and rant about how ridiculous this once model franchise has become. But at this point, what's the point, right? I mean, on Saturday against Portland (starting 7'1, 6'11 at C,PF) with Curry, Randolph and Crawford all DNP's, 6'7 Malik Rose started at C and 6'11 Randolph Morris doesn't take off his warm-ups? (or Mardy Collins?)

Anyway, would you like more rants just so we can get a "venting" conversation going lol? You want rumor-ville, or more just basic reporting/news/links? Leave your chatter in the comments, thanx.

"IT'S HARD TO BE A KNICKS FAN"

So said John McEnroe when he interviewed Roger Federer IN Madison Square Garden this weekend.

NEW YORK @ DALLAS

The Knicks are in Dallas tonight to take on the Mavericks, in the first of a 2 game mini-road trip (8:30pm MSG).

STARING LINE UPS
===============
NEW YORK
C-Zach Randolph
PF-David Lee
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Jamal Crawford
OUT-Eddy Curry (knee)

DALLAS
C-Eric Dampier
PF-Dirk Nowitzki
SF-Josh Howard
SG-Jerry Stackhouse
PG-Jason Kidd

CURRY DONE?

UPDATE: The MRI revealed a vertical cartilage tear in his right knee. A Knicks' spokesman said Curry will undergo "aggressive treatment over the next three days" in an attempt to postpone surgery until after the season. However, with the Knicks lousy record he'll probably end up having the surgery.

Could Eddy Curry's season be mercifully over? For the sake of his trade value, I hope not. He didn't travel with team to Dallas last night, and is scheduled to have an MRI on his swollen knee today.

UN-HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Last night marked the 1 year anniversary of Isiah Thomas' contract extension. Fittingly they lost, bringing his record to a putrid 22-60 since then, and 51-94 overall as head coach. Wow. At least Thomas takes full responsibility for his ineptness. Yet he still expects to be ruining the Knicks in '09. Wow.

Friday against Detroit, Thomas went with a mini youth movement, playing Wilson Chandler, Renaldo Balkman, Randolph Morris, and Mardy Collins in the same game for just the second time this season (and not playing Quentin Richardson at all). Yet, without Jamal Crawford, Zach Randolph, and Eddy Curry last night, Q-Rich started at SG, while both Morris and Collins were DNP's. Huh?

NATE THE GREAT

Nate Robinson had an explosive and dazzling career-high 45 PTS (16-28 FG, 2-6 3PT, 11-13 FT) to along with 6 AST, 6 REB, 1 STL, and only 2 TO in 52 MIN, including the tying basket with 2 seconds left to send the game into overtime. Alas, it was not enough, as Portland outscored New York 12-6 in the extra period to win 120-114.

PORTLAND @ NEW YORK

The Portland Trail Blazers visit Madison Square Garden and the circus that is the New York Knickerbockers tonight, in the last game of a 4 game 0-3 homestand (7:30pm MSG / 1050 ESPN NY RADIO).
It's Garden Of Dreams weekend at The Garden.

STARTING LINE UPS
=================
NEW YORK
C-Malik Rose
PF-David Lee
SF-Wilson Chandler
SG-Quentin Richardson
PG-Nate Robinson
OUT-Jamal Crawford (hand), Zach Randolph (foot/ankle?), Eddy Curry (knee)

PORTLAND
C-Joel Pryzbilla
PF-LaMarcus Aldridge
SF-Martell Webster
SG-Brandoy Roy
PG-Steve Blake

UNC @ DUKE

#1 North Carolina visits #6 Duke tonight (9pm ESPN). My Tar-Heels will be looking to lock up the ACC regular-season title, a #1 NCAA Tournament seed, and exact revenge on the Blue-Devils for a 89-78 loss at Duke on Feb 6.
From UNC, I'll have a close eye on Ty Lawson, Wayne Ellington, and of course Mr. Hansbrough.
From Duke, DeMarcus Nelson and Greg Paulus.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

Last night in a close 101-97 loss at home to the Detroit Pistons, Isiah Thomas finally leaned in favor of playing the Knicks' younger players instead of their under performing veterans. As Frank Isola of the NY Daily News points out, "For only the second time this season and the first since Nov. 13, Thomas played rookie Wilson Chandler as well as second-year players Renaldo Balkman, Mardy Collins and Randolph Morris in the same game." Quentin Richardson (finally) received a DNP-coaches decision. In his place, Wilson Chandler got the start and played 25 MIN with 4 PTS, 4 REB, 2 AST, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 4 fouls. Trying to shake-off the rust after barely playing lately, Balkman had 0 PTS, 4 REB, 3 TO, 3 fouls in 11 min. In 9 MIN, Morris collected 1 REB and 1 TO. Collins saw just 3 MIN of court time and had 2 PTS, 1 STL, 1 TO. Between the 4 kids, that's a combined 50 MIN and just 6 PTS, 9 REB, 2 AST, 1 STL, and 5 TO. At least they played. Now they need to keep playing, learning from their experiences, and getting better.

The Knicks had a 7 point lead early, but Detroit flexed to take a 13 point lead with a 12-0 run. NY then followed with their own 12-0 run, and would go into half time tied at 53. Crawford left the game with a bruised hand in the 3rd quarter, but came back at the start of the 4th. Nate was great down the stretch, except for the time the Knicks were down 73-71 and he made a leaping steal of the inbounds pass, then just chucked up a contested brick from downtown. Detroit got the rebound, came down the court, and scored. Checkmate. Ultimately, this team can't make good decisions under pressure. They can't even win at home with Detroit missing Rasheed Wallace, Rip Hamilton getting ejected, and Chauncey Billups being a ghost until the last minute. However, they continued to show some skill last night (Malik Rose even hit a 3!) but they're a team of role payers with a clueless head coach, and it shows.

I take nothing anyway from the Detroit Pistons, for them to win a game on the road with last night's circumstances shows exactly why they're a championship caliber team, and exactly why the Knicks are not.

A TEAM LIKE THIS

After the Feb 29th game in Atlanta (99-93 ATL), Josh Cildress was interviewed on 1050 ESPN radio here in NY. Not that big of a deal, until he said "I'm glad we got to play a team like that headed into the stretch run." I'll let that sink in.....
(to be fair, I turned off the radio immediately after he said it so I don't know what Johnny Hoops' response was).

This is how bad things have gotten around here. The 6th man from the annually-bottom-feeding Atlanta Hawks called the Knicks "A TEAM LIKE THAT" ON THEIR OWN RADIO STATION (and not in the same way that the Spurs are a team like that). Need I say more?

LOST CAUSE

Where did this season go oh-so-wrong? Forget the Starbury debacle, or the Randolph/Curry redundancy. This team has QUIT on it's coach, and I can't really say I blame them.

After Marbury bolted from the team during their early season west coast trip, Isiah had them vote if he should play in the next game. They UNANIMOUSLY voted NO. Of course, Steph played 34 minutes.

If Isiah was going to play Steph no matter what, why even bother having them vote? He should have just played the most talented player without spitting in the collective faces of the most important ones. Since then they have collectively one-upped him (and us).

MY BLUEPRINT FOR 2008-09

FIRE ISIAH!

GM Jerry Colangelo
HEAD COACH Del Harris
ASST Herb Williams, Patrick Ewing, ?, ?

=======================================================

TO CHC: Zach Randolph(3/$48), ($14.6 '08), '09 2nd RD PICK
TO NY: Tyrus Thomas(3/$14.8), Drew Gooden(1/$7.1), Viktor Khryapa(1/$2), Shannon Brown(1/$1.5), ($14.4 '08)

TO LAC: Eddy Curry(3/$31.4), Stephon Marbury(1/$22), Wilson Chandler(4/$7.6), ($32.9 '08), '09 1st RD PICK, '10 2nd RD PICK
TO NY: Corey Maggette(1/$8.4), Chris Kaman(4/$43.4), Cuttino Mobley(2/$18.9), Tim Thomas(2/$12.7), ($33 '08), '09 2nd RD PICK

======================================================

NEW YORK KNICKERBOCKERS

BUY OUT Tim Thomas(2/$12.7) & Quentin Richardson(2/$18.1)
EXTEND Corey Maggette (NOT MAX, THINK Al Jefferson 5/$65)

DRAFT Derrick Rose PG
PF/C IN 2nd RD

Chris Kaman 35
David Lee 42
Corey Maggette 50
Jamal Crawford 11
Derrick Rose 23
-----------------
Tyrus Thomas 24
Nate Robinson 4
Drew Gooden 90
Cuttino Mobley 5
Renaldo Balkman 32
PF/C
Jared Jeffries 20

===============================================

CHICAGO

DRAFT PF/C

Joakim Noah 13
Zach Randolph 50
Luol Deng 9
Larry Hughes 32
Kirk Hinrich 12
----------------
Andres Nocioni 5
Chris Duhon 21
PF/C
Thabo Sefolosha 2
(PROBABLE SIGNnTRADE Ben Gordon - NO, ORL, DEN, PHIL?)

===============================================

LAC

DRAFT G, SIGN/DRAFT BACKUP PF/C

Eddy Curry 34
Elton Brand 42
AL Thornton 12
Stephon Marbury 3
Shaun Livingston 14
-------------------
Wilson Chandler 23
G
PF/C
Brevin Knight 22
Josh Powell 21
Paul Davis 40
Nick Fazekas 20

TIP-OFF!

Welcome to the inaugural KNICKERBOCKERCHATTER post!

As a life-long Knicks fan, I wanted to start this blog for not only myself, but YOU my fellow fans as well. I'll be talking/typing about the everyday going-ons of the New York Knickerbockers. I'll also keep an eye on college hoops (scouting possible future Knicks). There'll be game threads, rumoring, trade ideas, and things of the sort. Have fun and enjoy. GO NEW YORK, GO NEW YORK, GO!