New York Knicks show more grit and winning potential in defeat
The New York Knicks came up short in their first matchup with the new-look Brooklyn Nets but won respect in New York City
The landscape of New York City basketball continues to change with the recent changes in the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets rivalry. Fans continue to weigh in on their true allegiance as the Nets are presumed to be the favorites due to the signings of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and DeAndre Jordan. The Knicks have made a few under the radar moves to keep the team competitive and had their first opportunity against the new Nets in Brooklyn Friday night.
Irving backed up his recent claims that New York City belongs to the Nets with a superstar performance. The multiple time all-star hit two clutch shots including the game-winning three-point basket over rookie RJ Barrett. The big shots halted a potential Knicks victory and gave Irving plenty more to talk about post game.
"“We got a lot, said Irving, according to the NY Post, a lot of goals to accomplish this season. The team is excited. Obviously we know in the months to follow, we got a sleeping, sleeping monster that’s on our team right there,” Irving — referring to the injured Durant, So for real, that’s my best friend and I want to send good health to him. But for the time being, we’re going to take over the whole entire city. It’s about us.”"
The Knicks were down by as many as nineteen points in the second half but clawed back with big shots from Wayne Ellington and prized rookie Barrett. The Knicks refused to go down easy and showed the heart and desire that head coach David Fizdale has wanted from his team. A bad bounce out of bounds ended the team’s come back victory, but it won over the fans that represented the orange and blue throughout Barclays Center.
Knicks fans were heard openly booing Irving and former Knicks center Jordan at the free-throw line. The continued defiance of Knicks fans technically on enemy lines in Brooklyn is an example of the still resilient and loyal fanbase.
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Durant wasn’t in uniform for obvious reasons, but he wasn’t shielded from the Knicks fans loudly voicing their disapproval of the new Nets super team.