Which New York team was a bigger playoff failure?
Tony Williams
Knicks beat writer
This argument is easier than firing a wrist shot through Henrik Lundqvist’s five-hole.
It’s absolutely the Rangers because they had an entire training camp and season to build toward the playoffs. Mike D’Antoni basically coached two entirely different rosters with the final one chalked full of playground rejects.
The fact the Knicks became relevant again and made the postseason for the first time in seven years is a major accomplishment. And when the Celtics return to the NBA Finals, everyone will realize it.
The rabid homers who erroneously predicted a Knicks title were obviously delusional. This trade was made for next year and beyond. At least this team has realistic championship aspirations, unlike Queen Henry and the Blueskirts.
Denis Gorman
Rangers beat writer
This is no contest, which, coincidentally is the Knicks’ defensive strategy. Mike D’Antoni’s team did not even show up for Games 3 and 4 against Boston.
Quick question, when Knicks fans chant defense, is it a demand or a pleading request?
Yes, the Rangers lost to the Caps in five games, but that was a competitive series.
You also have to judge the futures of both organizations. The Rangers have youth and cap room while the Knicks are waiting to overpay one of the mercenary point guards after next season. Also, Glen Sather and John Tortorella are safe, while D’Antoni and Donnie Walsh have the looming presence of Isiah Thomas in the background. That worked out well the last time, right?
