The Knicks Fix

ESPN Radio's Brandon Tierney spent the day pouring through your mailbag questions and sent me his responses. Keep in mind some of the replies were before the news of Demetris Nichols being cut by the Knicks today.

I want to thank BT for his interest in doing this and for promoting the Knicks Fix blog on his show. The Nation is growing.

Here's the mailbag...

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Posted by lukberger | October 23, 2007 15:02

When it comes to the Knicks BT is the only one on the radio worth listening to.( other than Max Kellerman)
Would the Knicks be better served having Craw come off the bench or does his ability to score in bunches and his chemistry with Curry make up for his defensive deficiencies?
I think the starting five should be Steph,Q, Balk, Zach, and Curry.
Nate, Craw and Lee off the bench. Sometimes even Jeffries because of his contributions on the defensive end and his ability to defend multiple positions. He did lead a team to the NCAA Championship Game. Im not ready to give up on him yet.
What are your feelings on the starting five and rotation?

BT: lukberger, nice job in the leadoff spot, appreciate the support. Personally, I feel strongly that Crawford has earned the right to start, and given his chemistry with Curry, I like him on the floor from the opening tip. Given Randolph's offensive role, the front court needs time to blend, and with Jamal there, it increases the chances that Curry gets a few easy looks, and gets into a groove early. For me, Quentin (along with Crawford) keeps the defense honest, and he's by far one of the better defensive players on the team. My starting five: Marbury, Crawford, Richardson, Randolph and Curry. As for Balkman, I'm a fan...but he hasn't even practiced full-tilt this pre-season. You better read this blog more frequently!!! Still, he'll be a factor this season, and rip down a few rims in the process.

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Posted by Jim G | October 23, 2007 15:11
Brandon - I am a Marist graduate (1989), as I know you are. Do you think Jared Jordan will get a roster spot and will be make an impact inthe NBA within the next 5 years? Thanks.

BT: Jim, once a Red Fox, always a Red Fox. Have you seen pictures of the new football stadium? Pretty sweet. As for Jared, given the volume of guaranteed deals, it's going to be tough for him to stick--now. I know Isiah has liked him for some time, extending back to early last season when he was in college. He needs to work on his body. Once he does, he has a chance, and that should absolutely come within 2 years, not five. Whether he suits up for the Knicks or someone else, he will see a regular season NBA roster at some point. It's like a pitcher who throws strikes. Jared simply delivers the basketball as well as any college player I've seen firsthand, in over a decade. He has a chance. And of course, I'm rooting for the kid. I had a solid 15-20 minute conversation with a Knick coach prior to the Philly game, and it was quite the endorsement. Ask Hahn, he was right next to me. (Editor's note: Sorry, I was watching the dance team warm up at the time and wasn't paying attention).

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Posted by jwambera | October 23, 2007 15:28
Brandon Do you think Chandler will be in the rotation this year? What in your opinion is his long term upside?

BT: jwambera, Chandler is intriguing, for sure. He already has a pro build, and should grow into a devastating finisher at some point. Still, there are a lot of bodies (and contracts) in front of him, but Isiah has always done a pretty good job of keeping young prospects involved just enough. It will be a slow process, but the kid has every physical tool (minus the "J") that anyone can ask for. I saw him a lot at DePaul, and I always liked him. His coach, Jerry Wainright actually told me on air that Wilson is the kind of kid he would want his daughter to date. Is there any higher praise? (Editor's note: Um...how about "He's the kind of kid I would want my daughter to date once he signs that multi-million dollar contract")

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Posted by bucktooth | October 23, 2007 15:38
i feel like nichols is getting his comeuppance, after refusing to go to europe for the year. might be petty but hey.

BT: Bucktooth, I disagree with your assertion. Remember, players that can help a coach win stick around, others do not. In his case, he has a two-way battle on his hands. One is that he's just not quite ready for a defined role AND... all of the contracts. I'll say this: I called a few of his games the past few seasons when the Orange played St. John's, and his performance last year at the Dome dwarfed any other I've seen/called since I've been in the business. He dropped (38?) and hit every shot imaginable. Runners, threes, fallways...not an easy hoop in the group, it was insane. He'll play somewhere, and I'd like to see it work out here. He can stroke it.

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Posted by Pete | October 23, 2007 15:39
When has Isiah or Dolan done the "right" thing?

BT: Pete, I'm not here to defend anyone's body of work, but rather look ahead to the season. After a while, wins/losses paint a pretty clear picture, no? Let's see. This team has talent, let's see if they've acquired that elusive winning "gene." They're knocking.

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Posted by Nas | October 23, 2007 15:45
Thank God for BT!!!!You make my 2 hour evening commute go by fast, especially around basketball season. What do you think our chances are of sneaking into the last couple spots of the playoffs? Do you think they will ever get rid of Jerome this season?

BT: High praise, thanks Nas (I prefer old Snoop and Dre myself) There's no question, the playoffs are THE goal, minimum. I encourage you to study the Knicks' roster, along with the rest of the teams in the NBA. What's truly missing? Playoff experience. Other than that, the Knicks have talent and plenty of depth. They rebound the ball well, and they get to the stripe with great frequency. You know the drill: stay healthy, and play a speck of "D" and this team is in the playoffs. Period.

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Posted by Jon | October 23, 2007 15:47
BT (or Alan),
Can anyone get the name/information of Clyde's Bed and Breakfast in St. Croix? The future-wife and I have been hunting for this info for years now. She agreed to get married there if Clyde did the ceremony.

BT: Jon, I'm honestly not sure, but I'll ask Clyde next time I see him, or I'm sure Hahn will do some digging for you. Hope you make some good coin bro. Good luck flying everyone out for the wedding! (Editor's note: Only radio guys make the kind of bread where you can vacation in St. Croix. We poor sportswriters can barely afford to vacation in St. Albans).

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Posted by Across the Hudson | October 23, 2007 15:52
What do you think of Isiah tinkering so significantly with the lineup during preseason? I've heard a lot of people say that he is trying to see different looks, figure out who's going to play defense, etc. But shouldn't the preseason be a time when a team develops chemistry within the likely units?
It would be one thing if this team was a group of veterans that has played together for years and knows each others' game inside and out. But that's obviously not the case. Why waste time figuring out what Jared Jeffries can give you with the first unit if he's not even going to play with them?
Or, is the rotation really that much in the air? I feel like one of the biggest problems with this team in recent years has been a lack of cohesion, too many turnovers, ill-advised shot attempts, and everything else that comes with a team that is trying to gel, dating back to the Larry Brown regime and his insistence on starting a different 5 every game.
Given these problems, wouldn't it make sense to see a more consistent rotation in the preseason?
One last question: Do you think Isiah might actually draw up a play or two for last second shots this season, or do you think he will continue to let Crawford run down the game clock to 3 seconds before throwing up an ill-advised, off-balance, double-covered 3?
All this being said, I am optimistic about the Knicks' chances this year. Since this is my first post on the Fix I don't want everyone to think I'm some sort of hater. I like the talent level on the team, and I really think we have a chance to surprise some people this season. I just hope that we're able to maximize that talent. I have my micro-package tickets and I'm ready to see some ball at the Garden this year.
"And if your defense makes a mistake, then BAM!, Ewing dunks in your face!"

BT: Across the Hudson, welcome, but you need to be schooled on Rule # 1 in Blog-ville: Quit apologizing for your take. Stick with your position, this world feasts on the meek! LOL. I do see your point, regarding the distribution of minutes. Look at it this way: one, I think Isiah's trying to create a competitive atmosphere, and by dangling the carrot of PT, players usually respond at this level. No one, regardless of how much money they make, wants to sit. Also, he's obviously trying to find combos that work best, and perhaps create a little buzz on the trade front. Personally, I would have liked to see more of Eddie/Zach, but Curry was saddled with fouls early. This team has so much depth, it's an asset if used properly. If not, it can become a detriment, with guys unhappy. The time to figure this out obviously is now, when it doesn't count and you have a built in margin for error.

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Posted by stevek | October 23, 2007 16:04
Brandon,
Can the Knicks sue, not pay or fire Jerome James, Just like they did Larry Brown, and others for breach of contract for coming every year to camp out of shape? Are there any rules/repercussions in the NBA preventing a player after signing a quarantee contract, from not getting into shape, not taking care of themselves physically or gaining weight? And lets say those things lead to an injury.. Honestly what protection does an NBA team have for these kinds of players, beside cutting them and having their salaries count towards the salary cap? Thanks...

BT: stevek, I understand the frustration, but unfortunately, the options are few and far between. They can buy him out (still counts against cap), dress him (if heathy) and hope he brings something to the table--like 6 fouls when you play Shaq--or put him on the injured list. There really is no protection, which is why you always hear people mention..."sure, but Player X did so and so in a contract year..." It's the risk you run, you just hope the players you sign have enough self-respect, and respect for their craft and team, that they take care of their bodies. Not everyone does. That's just the reality for some pro athletes, and really, people in general. Not everyone gets after it and looks to improve daily.

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Posted by Adam | October 23, 2007 16:08
Do you see having Curry and Crawford on the floor at the same time as a problem? Both are turnover prone, neither can play much defense, and both have a low basketball IQ. Shouldn't the offense run through Randolf?

BT: Actually Adam, from what I saw last season, not having Crawford on the floor with Curry was the problem, not the other way around. Curry's numbers dipped when Jamal went down. Will Isiah have to live with some questionable shot selection and subpar defense when they play together? Probably. But you can also get 60 points combined from them on any given night. I agree though, from the post, it will--and should--run through Zach.

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Posted by Mark | October 23, 2007 16:35
At least he's not Colin Cowdung or Mike "Sexual Harassment" Tirico.
Even better, he's not Skip Bayless or Stephen A. (Is for Flaming) Smith.
Or Mikey "Perpetual Victim" Greenberg or Stuart "Shakur" Scott.

BT: Let me stay off this dude's Hit List. Hahn, you got my back, right? LOL Easy...that's my family you're knockin! (Editor's Note: This blog was not compensated in any way by ESPN, ESPN Radio or the Disney Corporation. Boo-ya).

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Posted by Legend | October 23, 2007 17:02
Will the Garden crowd ever forgive Isiah Thomas or will we have to listen to the boo-birds all year long? It gives the knicks a disadvantage, as I watched the game I felt that the fans were waiting to boo the knicks.
Also , why does the New York Media hate Isiah so much?, is he the worst GM we ever had , is he a closet Tyrant.
Why is the media as a whole, so anti NYC? Regarding all our teams , football, baseball, and basketball.

BT: Legend, do you live in New York? If so, you should know the drill. Winning makes every foul stench--or fractured relationship--better. It's always been that way in this city--or in most cities with a heavy concentration of professional teams. Name one winning team or highly-productive player given a raw deal from the fans to the point of it becoming a distraction. Good luck, you'll be thinking for quite some time. There aren't many. Play hard, keep your nose clean away from the court/field, and win...and people will embrace you. Times change--that remains the same.

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Posted by Will Hanza | October 23, 2007 17:36
main reason you don't cut Nichols right now: What if there is an injury?
but I am sure some of this is payback because the Knicks drafted him with the understanding that he would accept being shipped off to Europe for a year to hone his skills.
Then he renegged on that, hired a new agent, etc.
He tried a power play on the Knicks, and Isiah is now returning that dis-favor.
Who knows, maybe he'll make the team somehow (trade, injury, etc).

BT: Will, I'm as intrigued with Nichols' skill-set as you are...Personally, I'm finding solutions to keep him, and not ways to show him the door. Still, be careful. I think fans sometimes are too quick to annoint a rookie the "next so and so." Remember Mike Sweetney? Let's see where this takes us, and remember: there are about 15 more important factors that will have an influence on this season, not so much the kid from 'Cuse--not yet.

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Posted by Todd | October 23, 2007 17:43
BT: The main problem that I see is that the roster duplicates its strengths and weaknesses. As much as I love David Lee, is there an option out there that might be available through a trade that could bring a shot blocking/rebounding beast to back up the front line as opposed to Lee, who brings energy and rebounding, but like Randolph and Curry, little D.

BT: Todd, pretty astute point on your part, in terms of identifying similar strengths within the team, and whether or not they need to diversify the roster at some point. It's quite possible they do, and not improbable that they WILL. When? Who knows. The NBA is all about matchups, and this year, the Knicks will force many teams into uncomfortable positions. For example, against small teams, the Knicks will bludgeon them to death on the blocks with the Big Boys. Against an older, or slower team, we'll see more of the 2nd unit, with an emphasis on running the floor, and maybe even picking things up 94 feet on defense in spurts. The Knicks will always get to the FT line. Are they vulnerable in certain spots, like teams with great transition skills on offense, or range from behind the arc? Yes. It's all about hitting the right buttons and forcing your opponent into an element they are uncomfortable in. That's what consumes and drives every coach, in every sport. At least the good ones.

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Posted by rush | October 23, 2007 19:42
BT my man! You do great radio show. Keep doing it! All the best.

BT: Rush, I'm sure after a while it seems corny, or contrived, but seriously...thank you. It's all about connecting with my audience. It's like a comedian on stage. Are the cheers and laughter heart-felt? If so, the feeling is indescribable. Rush? Helluva band as well. (Moving Pictures was one of my first albums as a kid. 1981?)

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Posted by rush | October 23, 2007 19:49
BT whats up with that Tirico show, it really sucks. I think you should take over that slot. It will be so much better!

BT: Easy there...Mike's one of my teammates, at the top of his profession, and he's the consummate professional. Politics are for people who feel threatened, so I only worry about what I can control--MY SHOW--but...thank you for the kind words.

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Posted by david | October 23, 2007 20:09
Whenever David Lee is on the floor, the Knicks are more successful. He has the highest plus-minus on the team. Why is it then, that he only plays 25-30 minutes a game, rather than 35 minutes plus?

BT: David, you're 100% correct, and it's easy to document: when Lee plays, the Knicks play better basketball. Still, I think it's been a bit circumstantial the past few seasons, because of Channing Frye. Frye was a subpar perimiter defender, and I think Isiah wanted to avoid having a frontcourt of Channing, David and Eddie for long stretches. That could absolutely change this season, especially if Lee knocks down a few J's. The secret's out NYC: Lee's terrific. He should merit more time.

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Posted by Hani | October 23, 2007 21:17
Hi BT! love your work! Do you think any of Knicks players will make the all star? What impact do you think Wilson Chandler will have this year? I like his game a lot, what player, past or present, does he compare to do you think?

BT: Hani, happy you enjoy my work, thank you. In terms of the All Star Game, wow, let's get to December 1st! Still, I would think that Randolph and Curry have the best chance, based on the potential offensive numbers they could put up. Still, if the Knicks are playing solid ball, and Lee's hauling in 12 rips a night, shooting 60% from the field and 80% from the stripe...He'll get a real look.

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Posted by Peso | October 23, 2007 21:34
Sup BT! Love your work man!
My Question is about Nate...
With the work he is putting in, do you think that he is capable of being the second coming of an A.Iverson caliber type player?
With Marbs on his way out...If consistent, will Coach Thomas retain N8 as the next Starting PG?
During the game with Boston at MSG, it seemed that N8 had a better handle of the team at point then Jamal when Marb's was on the bench...
What do you think?
Alan your Blog Rocks!

BT: Peso, let's allow Nate, to be Nate--because that's going to be pretty good. The comparison with Iverson, in terms of sheer physical stature, I understand, to an extent. Both are fearless, attack the rim (more so when AI was younger) and have good range. The difference is, one, Iverson's one of the greatest scorers in the history of the game, and two, he never really had a low post threat to feature, unlike Nate and the Knicks, who focus an inside/out offense. Do I think if Nate pumped up 25-30 shots a game like Iverson, that he could average 20+ ppg? Actually, I do. Won't happen here though. Never.

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Posted by Flybanjo | October 23, 2007 21:38
What five do you think Zeke will close out games with?
Seems like Marbury, Crawford, Balkman, Lee and Randolph would give them enough scoring options. And, while that unit is only OK defensively, it is very, very unlikely to give up an offensive rebound. Only problem is the backlash to leaving Eddy on the bench at crunch time. But, his poor free throw shooting and poor defense leave NYK vulnerable in late game situations.
Anyway, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

BT: flybanjo, great question, seriously. Depends on the night, with so many variables. Are any of the big men in foul trouble? Who's had the hot-hand? Did they come back from a double-digit deficit, thanks largely in part to the reserves? Is it the 3rd game in four nights, where fatigue might be a factor? All things considered even, here's safe bet for a few: Zach, Jamal and Lee.

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Posted by Don ADO | October 23, 2007 21:48
BT - There has been a lot of talk here about bringing Artest to NY, but at least for now, that ain't happening. But Zeke still needs to trim the roster, and it would obviously be better for the team to get something back than it would be to just cut players and/or burn contracts.
So the question is this - if there's a trade on the horizon, who do you see Zeke going after, and who is more likely to be dealt?

BT: Don ADO, this is why talk radio is so much fun, fans like you always looking to get better--BEFORE THE SEASON STARTS! I love it. In terms of trades, look at it this way: anything initially will be low-level, which won't bring back much in return. (read, future 2nd rounders) Can they package a few players, for a veteran PG (back-up) or defensive-minded center? Possible.

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Posted by asowholdings | October 23, 2007 22:59
Wassup BT?
I am a big fan bro. I listen to you on 1050 all the time. Keep it up man!

BT: asowholdings, thanks for the shout, sincerely. I've always maintained, it's a two-way street. There are other options on the radio dial, and if you choose me, it's my goal to bring it every night (day). That's one of my basic principles, always has been. I'll borrow a line from the Great Joe D..."You never know when someone's watching (listening) me play ball for the first time." (and by no means am I implying that I'm as talented as Joe D. I'll let you do that for me LOL)

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Posted by Anonymous | October 24, 2007 01:49
BT,
What do you think of a potential Nate-Stephon starting backcourt given Stephon's propensity to play better defense on shooting guards and the fact that Nate needs starters minutes?
Also, when everyone is healthy, what becomes of the three spot? I think we need Q because he can help spread the floor, he can defend and he can rebound. But for you, do you say Lee, Balkman, or Q?

BT: Personally, when Randolph gets a blow, I'd like to see the Lee/Curry tandem as much as possible, as Lee's ability to rebound allows Eddie to focus on putting the ball in the hole--something he does as well as any big man in the game. I've always been a big Q Rich fan. Certain people don't believe in taking shortcuts, and he's one of them. It's like that guy at the Y, or at the park, who might not run the fastest or jump the highest, but his team always stays on the court. That's Q. He's a winner, despite the overall record the past few seasons. If I'm in an alley, and I'm surrounded by punks with bats--Q's the guy I want next to--check that--in front of me.

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Posted by Don | October 24, 2007 06:23
BT,
What are the odds the Knicks play the type of defense needed to go far in the playoffs? Can Curry average more than 7 rpg and .5 bpg?
If Feb. rolls around and the D stinks, does I.T. pull the trigger on Artest?

BT: Don, personally, I will not rule out Artest until I actually see him in a uniform other than the one he's currently wearing. I believe he's in play, personally. As far as playing the type of defense--mid 90's Knick's D--that we've all been looking for, it just doesn't happen overnight. It will be better, based on the players familiarity with the system, but there's no Ben Wallace, or Oak or Mase. Artest would change things immediately, provided his head is on tight, and he's committed to balling.

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Posted by Alan | October 24, 2007 08:11
Good morning Fixers. The spot with BT on ESPN Radio went well for a first-time, long-time. They had me on earlier than expected (10:40 p.m.) and we had a 10 minute spot. BT is a passionate Knick fan who is a good sport and is also excited about answering your questions. Remember, the deadline is midnight tonight. He plugged the blog several times, so shouts to the Fixers were heard loud and clear on 50,000 watts.

BT: Alan, pass the Advil. My back is still barking from carrying you for 10 minutes. (Editor's Note: BT's ratings skyrocketed for that 10 minute spot, then plummeted once I hung up the phone. I have proof. Numbers don't lie! It's the Fixer Effect)

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Posted by Kevin Harewood | October 24, 2007 09:15
BT is a good radio host. Great information and eneergy on radio. I was a guest on his Live at PLay by PLay a couple of years ago and he made me feel right at home.
My Question. Dolan has seemingly given Isiah a reasonable chance to turn this thing around. What do you feel is the criteria this season for keeping this regime in charge?

BT: Good radio host? That's it? Just kidding Kevin, nice to hear from you. I remember many of the guests from the television show on MSG, but the name doesn't specifically ring a bell. What were you on for? As for outlining what will be interpreted as a success or a failure? How can it NOT be the playoffs, no? Just a guess.

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Posted by Matt B | October 24, 2007 09:39
BT - Love your show and your enthusiasm in the Knicks pre-game stuff (especially when there wasn't much to be enthusiastic about)..
I'm excited for this season, and that the Knicks seem to have at least have a legitimate shot at the playoffs. But does this team - as it's structured with Thomas at the helm and with Eddy Curry as our franchise player - have an inherently low ceiling? Are there enough pieces here to together a perennial championship contender sometime soon, or would that take a complete management and roster overhaul?

BT: Matt, thank you! I cherish the fact that I'm the first voice every Knick fan hears during our radio broadcasts on 1050, every game. Trust me, I've been going to the Garden since the early 80's when BK was regularly dropping 30, and Rory Sparrow and Darrell Walker were picking up full court for Hubie Brown. Heck, I was there when Louis Orr was skinny--wait, he still is. (Great guy by the way, raw deal at The Hall, in my opinion) You, however, are truly the entusiastic one! Perennial championship contender? Easy, one step at a time. Still, I see your point. Two things must happen: One, the overall team defense MUST improve a few levels, and two, the Knicks need to find their PG of the future. Steph's still good, very good...but he's not a kid.

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Posted by Tod | October 24, 2007 09:47
With so many scorers, do you think it would make sense to add Q Rich's scoring from the bench and get Lee's rebounds and D as a starter. I was thinking it might give Jamal more shots. And there are only so many shots.

BT: Tod, short but sweet. Not a crazy idea by any means, but again, if it's me--provided Q's hammy's/back are good to go, he's starting every night. He injects an immediate level of toughness, and accountability into every game. I wouldn't compromise that. Now, would I consider--read, consider--starting Q at the two and Lee and the three? Let's give it 15-20 games before we examine other line-ups.

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Posted by Jack | October 24, 2007 09:56
Do you really think Isiah Thomas sexually harassed Anucha by the hearsay that he said "I Love You"?

BT: Jack, let's talk hoops my man. It's time.

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Posted by Pablo | October 24, 2007 10:13
For those that missed AH on BT, here's the podcast:
http://espn-mp3-od.andomedia.com/stations/1367/071023_bt.mp3

BT: Atta' boy, Pablo, you're obviously internet-savvy, unlike Hahn, who carves out his blog every night on pieces of stone, and pays an intern at Newsday to put it on the web for him. (Editor's Note: This will be BT's last mailbag)

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Posted by Charlie O's | October 24, 2007 10:51
Brandon, thanks for taking the time to answer these mailbag questions. As a life-long Knick fan (I never saw a championship, Hubie Brown was the coach when I went to my first game at the garden) this is always the part of the year where we all get excited and think the team is going to be better. My question is two fold, first, how much better do you think this group is? Second, how far off (if they keep the core group together) is this team from being a force in the east?

BT: Charlie O's, you are welcome, I'm having fun. I'm guessing we're in the same exact age group...we've seen the same things, missing out on the two great, championship teams. In terms of improvement, I think the Knicks have a chance to be pretty good, I really do. Maybe they take on the "Rangers aura" from a season ago, we'll see. Listen, after a while, talk is cheap. Isiah knows it, the players know it, and you, the fans, certainly know it. They have an abundance of weapons, but based on where the team has been for a few years now...have they earned the benefit of the doubt? No, they haven't. That they'll have to earn. Should be a fun ride.

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Posted by Jeremy | October 24, 2007 11:23
What will Fred Jones's role be on this team?

BT: Jeremy, I just got into this the other night on my show. I think his role will fluctuate as much as anyone on the team. One night he might be called into 15-18 minutes of prime minutes, and then collect a few DNP's. Isiah does like him, so he's obviously on the team, and will be called on to provide some D, and add a spark, probably on the second night of back/backs...He might steal Mardy's minutes.

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Posted by BAZ201 | October 24, 2007 12:40
BT,
To follow up on Hani's question; do you see anything special in Wilson Chandler? Does he look like a kid who can have a strong offensive game in 2-3 years?
Has Isiah ever done your show? If so, did you ask him any tough questions? Who was the broadcaster Isiah threatened to beat down if he ever saw him? My apologies if it's you.
Is your show on ESPN or anywhere online daily? I'm transplanted out of the tri-state.

BT: BAZ201, again more interest in Chandler, and I understand why. In terms of having Isiah on the show, yes, several times when I was doing middays with Steven A, and of course, before every home game during the regular season. Obviously, it's a different format, doing a 15-20 minute interview on a talk show and a more concise 6-7 minute pop as part of the pre-game package. I've said this many times: professionally, I have a solid rapport with Isiah, and genuinely enjoy our daily chats. Do I ask tough questions? I ask pertinent questions, and some will carry a level of "toughness," I guess. The difference being, for a pre-game show, you inquire, and maybe offer a brief follow-up. During my show, I have more time to dig as deeply as I see fit, and no--he's never threatened to "beat me down." Nobody has. If they do, Hahn has my back. They'll have to get past 470 pounds of combined muscle. LOL As for listening out of state, you bet: www.1050espnradio.com (Editor's Note: That makes you 230 lbs, BT)

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Posted by BAZ201 | October 24, 2007 13:16
With players like Jared and DNic possibly being waived soon are there any players from this "deep" draft that could be a steal. I see Philly waived Derrick Byars, are the other "potential ballers" out there that could become available as well?

BT: Did you watch the Sixers Wednesday night? Do you really want someone not good enough to play for them? Funny, everyone claims the 2007 Draft was deep, but let's allow it to play out. Remember when Chris Mullin tabbed (former Xaverian HS/Pitt star) Chris Taft in Round 2 a few years ago? It was roundly praised. Where's Taft now? This isn't the NFL. Generally, players cut, are cut for a reason. Generally. (not counting Starks and Mason, of course)

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Posted by GT | October 24, 2007 15:45
Why the heck do I still waste my time following the Knicks? Knick fan's should have a strike against Dolan/Thomas. Both so severely inept they are a match made in heaven or hell for us fans.

BT: GT, move away from the initial thing, it's confusing, and I had it first--at least publicly. LOL Why do you still root for the Knicks? Why did Jet fans show up in 1996 after a 3-13 debacle (I was one of those brain surgeons, by the way) in 1995? Because they are Jet fans. You root for the Knicks, and I'm guessing that you've always rooted for them. With real fans, that doesn't change. It's about the uniform.

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Posted by Alibaba | October 24, 2007 15:46
Brandon:
I feel that the best short and long term solution out of the roster logjam will be to buy out Jerome James (who is never going to contribute to the team anyway) and keep Nichols. This boy can shoot and he might eventually become a shooter in the Houston mold. If he does, he will greatly complement Curry and Randolph's inside game, perhaps even later this season.
However, I don't think Isiah has the guts to admit his mistake with James, especially after the trial. I will be very surprised if he does the right thing.
What do you think?

BT: Alibaba, I don't think the trial has anything to do with it, personally. It might be professional pride, in not cutting James loose, I really don't know. Listen, we all know Jerome hasn't brought much to the table, and again, personally, I'd find a way to keep the kid. Jerome in a lot of ways represents the early Isiah years, where there was a desperate need for height. He's been blown past by almost everyone on the roster. Which is good for the Knicks, bad for Jerome in terms of having a role.

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Posted by emac2 | October 24, 2007 16:49
Any word on Balkmans MRI yesterday?
Anything we can read from the silence?

BT: My man Hahn is all over this, I don't want to steal his thunder being that I've already given his blog more comments than he's ever had. Ouch! (hint, Balk's OK)

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Posted by jerod mustaf | October 24, 2007 20:57
if the knicks make one (realistic) trade this year, what is it?

BT: Jerod, as long as they don't bring your namesake back, everything should work out. Absolutely impossible to forecast, really. Did you see Steph, or Francis or Francis coming before they arrived? I didn't. They have assets, it's just a matter of how they play early, and how much they are willing to disrupt the core.

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Posted by Tod Lautenberg | October 24, 2007 21:42
Do you think David Lee could start at the 3 over Q?

BT: Tod, not right away, no. Still, Q needs to prove he can withstand the grind and pounding of a full 82 game slate. Trust me, the last guy you
want to willingly send to the bench...is Quentin. He does more than the average fan will ever know.

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Posted by Zdiddy | October 24, 2007 22:34
Hey BT,
We have to find a way to keep D-Nice. He is a big time shooter and will be a good NBA player. He could be our Kyle Korver, which will open things up for E-City and Zbo down low. With the lack of consistent outside shooting throughout the league, D-Nice is an assest that we have to keep.
Who should the Knicks cut?
Knicks fan for life............Go NY, Go NY, Go!!!!

BT: Just remember, even if he makes the team--and it doesn't look good--he will have a very limited role. Easy with the Korver, or Allan Houston comparisons. Right now, he's a fringe player who may not even be here in a few days.

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Posted by Patrick H | October 24, 2007 23:29
BT (or Alan)-- Last season, after the melee with Denver to the late February win at home against Miami (which was the beginning of the injury onslaught that capsized the season), the Knicks went 20-17 and snuck into the last playoff spot. It looked like they had ironed out some early season wrinkles and were building chemistry. For the Knicks to play like they did during that stretch for an entire season, it would seem that a real leader needs to emerge. Someone to to make sure they don't play down to their competition. Someone to galvanize them when they are sluggish and to calm them down when they are too exuberant. A floor commander, but not necessarily a guard. When I think of who could play that role, Q and Steph are the only two players that come to mind. Malik Rose certainly can certainly be a leader in the locker room, but doesn't contribute enough to impact games. The likely candidate would have to be Q, but do you see anyone else stepping up and making it 'his team.' Any dark horses? Or, will the Knicks still be void of a leader like they have been the past few seasons?

BT: Patrick, I love your angle. Leadership. Man, it's vital in pro sports, especially in hoops, when you play a few times a week and can get lethargic during the dark winter months. Is there a Willis Reed on this team? Doubt it. I think the leadership will come in several different forms, from several very different players. I see Nate and Lee energizing the team with spirited and youthful (and very productive) play; Q Rich is the physical leader, unafraid to get in someone's face, whether it's a teammate, or an opponent. And Malik Rose keeps things in order in the locker room. Who's the one guy everyone looks at when the Knicks are down a point with :20 to go? That person has yet to consistently step up. We'll see if someone grabs that role this season.

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Posted by shack | October 25, 2007 00:00
have you noticed a difference in the climate around MSG since the sex harrassment ruling? do you sense that some institutional integrity is being restored? i've read that Isiah is toning down all the bullcrap rhetoric he feeds the media, and now his responses to questions are very boilerplate, very benign, very safe. is he maturing as a GM/president?

BT: Personally Shack, I have never encountered a single problem, or anything resembling a conflict in my three years working Knick games. Remember, I also spent four seasons calling St. John's games, so I have spent a lot of time in that building recently, and speaking for myself, the only complaint would be the lack of wins. The people I interact with daily, Mike Breen, Johnny Hoops, Gus Johnson, Al Trautwig, Earl Monroe, John Starks, Allan Houston....I have enjoyed my time there, professionally. Personally, I've been exposed to some good people. Take it for what it's worth, but that's been MY experience.

**

Well done, BT. And thank you again.