Superstitions Run High Among Knicks Fans Ahead of Eastern Conference Finals

Knicks fans, known for their stubborn and superstitious nature, are gearing up for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals with all sorts of rituals. Many are diving deep into their pre-game routines—cleaning jerseys and even the TV screens.

Someone on Reddit noted, “If the Knicks fall behind by double digits, they consider it a win, since they haven’t seen the second half anyway, instead opting to play Earth Defense Force 5 while checking scores occasionally.” There’s a clear consensus about this: if it works, why change it?

Others chimed in, admitting to skipping the game altogether in hopes of better fortune. One noted they haven’t worn any Knicks gear since the series began, vowing to hold off until it’s all over.

At a local pub in Park Slope, bartender Colette Riley claims she’s become a kind of good luck charm for the team. “Whenever I’m not working, they seem to lose,” she expressed, adding that she’s received frantic messages from regulars insisting she show up on game days.

A loyal patron at the bar shared his quirky routine, saying there’s another fan who sticks to using the same straw and sits in the same spot every game. “He even promised to shave his beard if I was working and they won… and he really did it!” Riley cited with a laugh.

Outside Madison Square Garden, 22-year-old Danny said he never misses a chance to sport his Jalen Brunson jersey for luck. “I’ll be wearing this either here or at one of the parks—just gotta have faith,” he commented, acknowledging the uncertain fate of the game.

Meanwhile, not all fans buy into these superstitions. Doug Berns, 37, has been penning musical parodies for each game since November, and he explained why he doesn’t believe in such notions. “It feels unfair when fans cancel watch parties, fearing they might jinx the game,” he lamented, questioning the social aspect of enjoying the sport together.

Even so, Berns conceded that small superstitions still creep into his routine. “I might think, ‘Oh, we won the last game in this shirt, let’s wear it again,’” he admitted, demonstrating the draw of habit, even for skeptics.

On a confident note, fan Will Z believes Game 1 is already secured. “I’m heading out with friends to catch the game,” he said casually. “I wish I could be at MSG, but the ticket prices are crazy.” He added with assurance, “Game 1? We’ve got this.”