On paper, the Knicks appear better than their few victories infer. Packing David Lee, Al Harrington (U of Florida fame for those Floridians sporting selective amnesia), Eddie House, Tracy McGrady (hold back the cheers please), and Eddy Curry, losing twice as many games as won is a tad mind baffling. Then again, rarely does anything (specifically in sports fame—with the exception of Butler College and the NCAA Championships—no disrespect to Butler College)—appear as impressive in person as on paper. Could this be the case with the New York Knicks?
Seeking audience perspective, I asked family man, Stan Martin to share his view on the game and perhaps offer insight on the upcoming playoffs. Stan, a New York native currently living in Tampa, had this to say just prior to game time:
“My family and I are tremendous NBA fans. However we normally enjoy our family passion (he, his wife, and three little ones visited the Amway Arena for the first time) via TV. We expect an action-packed environment in which the Magic will thrive tonight. Hopefully Dwight Howard will play up to his potential and the supporting cast (Nelson, Carter, Lewis, and all) will have big games. Let’s get off to a good energetic start as we rapidly approach playoffs 2010.”
With two regular home season games to go and no prize for tonight’s victor, will the Knicks put up a fight? One minute to tip, an answer to one of life’s mysteries may come to surface.
Tip was controlled by the Magic and, showing Southern hospitality, was politely returned by way of a turnover. Not too worry, Nelson got the ball back and swished a quick 3-pointer. Knicks kicked back with a three of their own. Shots, looking like rain in early Autumn, kept coming, going, missing, and making. Heck, this may be a game… but if you’re looking for defense, you may want to look elsewhere.
First three minutes found a combined 19 points. At this rate, I worry the scorekeeper may develop a bad case of carpal tunnel syndrome. Come to think of it, my fingers are starting to show signs of cramping just trying to keep up! My fingers can use a breather so let’s check out what Stan has on his mind:
“I saw a mixed reaction from the crowd for T-Mac while the Magic came out with a positive start, shooting the ball well.”Thanks Stan, we’ll check in after you get the kids another soda and tub of buttered popcorn.
First quarter was defined as a shooting spree with Orlando hitting over 62% of their 24 shots. End of quarter total points reached 56; as for who was leading at this juncture? Does it really matter? Thought you’d agree.
Second quarter began as the first concluded… more shots being served than at the local sports pub. By the time the first half concluded, total points hit 110. Needless to say, scoring records could be shattered before the evening finds the chaser.
Interesting (maybe I can find some?) first half stats:
* Top scorers: Howard and Carter at 13 each while Nelson hit 10.
* Both teams scored 27 points during the second.
* Largest lead, Magic at 19 (who, by the way, has not been behind in the game).
Hey Stan, take us into the third…
“The Magic have certainly sustained the effort as the first half concluded. Thus far a very exciting environment for kids and family.”
Third quarter matched the first two by way of defensive intensity (MIA). I won’t waste your time with the details and give you what you really came to the show for. Magic up with 12 minutes to go by 11 (but feels like 31—yes, the two teams are that distant. Knicks were put to rest at 79 while the Magic kept the beat at 90.
Third quarter points to ponder:
* Leading scorer for the Knicks: Danilo Gallinari with 23(who out there in Orlando has heard of him? Now be honest!). For the Magic, Dwight carried 23 points as well, making 10 out of 11 shots—what’s that I hear in the background? Can you say MVP?
* Magic set team record for three pointers in a season (Okay, now I’m reaching).
Though the Knicks tried to make it a game, in the end, the little train that could, could not. Ultimately the Magic win a meaningless game in a meaningless manner. How many more until the real games begin? Well that’s too long.
Let’s get back to the “on paper” insight from the beginning. The Knicks just don’t have it this season… pure and simple. Sorry for the lead-in (my bad) way up at the beginning. As for answering one of the great mysteries of the universe. Looks like you are going to have to wait until the playoffs being as I am checking out a gook-looking chili-cheese dog with my name on it? Almost forgot, the Magic kick the Knicks out at their knees (sorry, had to throw that in just once) 118 to 103.
For those lucky enough to have tickets for the Magic’s final Amway Arena home game next week, see you there. If you don’t have the Magic ticket, I’ll make sure and bring you along by way of paper.
Before I close out for the evening would like to give an official shout-out to Stan and his family. Thanks for breaking it down. You have a great family… and that’s what keeps the West Orlando News and the Orlando Magic going. You are what we are all about.
Sitting with pen in hand and paper longing for a story, I am
dhuffman
Nice article and I do like the way you bring a fan into the mix. What will it take to be part of your next article?
Impressed with the way you write, at least one of the news source in Orlando has it right!
Oh no! We can’t have those talented wordsmith hands of yours cramp up!
However, I have to ask….
A “gook-looking chili dog?” Gook conjures quite the image!
Nevertheless, thank you for leaving us breathless with awe once again over your entertaining sports coverage. By any chance, will you expand your coverage with other sports? Women’s tennis? Synchronized diving? Hot air ballooning? How about one on skydiving?