Knicks vs Cavs

Last night, Cleveland visited Madison Square Garden to play the Knicks. I happened to be there to witness my first Knicks' home game. Besides visiting "the world’s most famous arena," I also had the chance to have great seats while watching my favorite team.

The Knicks actually played inspired. They were coming off of a horrid loss to the Wizards in DC, another in a long line, all part of a miserable season. But the Knicks not only played well, they showed heart.

Jamal Crawford set his season high for points. If only he were more consistent, he would be the guy to carry the Knicks on his shoulders. As it is, he can do so every once in a while. Steve Francis was unselfish for the first three quarters of the game. The Knicks got out to a 17 point lead in the 4th.

Then Francis began looking for his shot. Eddy Curry was in foul trouble and didn't play in the final quarter. Lebron James salvaged his first half and nailed three three-pointers in a row, all three barely even touched the net.

Cleveland kept coming and eventually tied the game late. Jamal Crawford nailed a tough jumper to give the Knicks a 2-point lead with 6 seconds remaining.

Lebron got the ball, but decided to dish to a teammate, who missed a three at the buzzer. The Knicks pulled out a tough one. If only they had showed this type of mental toughness all year, The Knicks would be in a significantly better position as the regular season heads towards its end. Unfortunately, much of the blame must be put of Stephan Marbury. I've been a supporter of him this season, but the team simply cares more when he is not in the lineup. That is biting criticism I must say. But Marbury has sucked the will out of his team this year. He scores and dishes, but doesn't do what is needed when it is needed.

The Knicks don't have their first round draft pick for next year's draft, but they do have two late in the first round, I believe. Hopefully Isiah Thomas continues drafting players such as David Lee, Nate Robinson, and Channing Frye, instead of players of Marbury's ilk.