50 Wins and the #2 Seed

The New York Knicks are the #2 Seed in the Eastern Conference Playoffs.

Unbelievable.

Oh yeah, they also put together an unbelievable fifty-win season to do so.

I've already expressed some thoughts on this season - from the trade of RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Julius Randle's injury and obvious absence to the brilliance that was Jalen Brunson - there has been so much to take in, and appreciate.

I can't say it enough - I love this team. THIS team.

Just a few other quick thoughts as we reflect on 50 wins and the #2 seed before heading into a tough first-round series with either the Miami Heat or Philadelphia 76ers:

I know Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the hot narrative for MVP and there is a big-time Serbian in Denver who easily makes a claim for the award once again, but damn it, Jalen Brunson deserves recognition and some lower-place votes. That's all I'm asking for...
Speaking of giving flowers to Jalen Brunson, it's about time a real basketball discussion is had regarding Tom Thidbeau. Again, not a "hot-take" discussion that often carries common narratives (that are often outdated or untrue) but an updated and realistic assessment - Thibs is a candidate for NBA Coach of the Year. The Knicks for a large stretch of 2024 played with seven healthy guys - two of whom were G-League or Two-Players!
Josh Hart may be my favorite player beyond Brunson and Randle. Hard not to love the way he plays.
How do even quantify a player like OG Anunoby? Seriously, I've never encountered a player who affects winning basketball in such an influential way that often isn't seen in a box score.
Finally, my absolute favorite part of the 23-24 Knicks season is proving every narrative wrong. There was the Randle disbelief (became a 3x All-Star), the Brunson neglect (1st-time All-Star and MVP candidate), and the countless times the Knicks were said to have been "missing a piece" or the tired-ass narrative of "needing a superstar". It's not the ultimate vindication, but believing in something against the grain added an element that bonded fans like me to this team.

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