CLEVELAND — Knicks’ Rise Echoes the 1970s Legacy

The current Knicks team brings to mind the iconic days of Clyde Frazier and Spike Lee back in the 1970s. It’s really fitting, then, that whether they’re facing the Thunder or the Spurs, expectations are high. Fans are hoping for an end to the 53-year championship drought.

After the Knicks’ impressive 130-93 win over the Cavs, which secured their spot in the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, Frazier reflected, “Honestly, I don’t think the opponent matters at this point. The way we’re playing is just strong. The defense is tough, and the ball movement is something else. Coach Mike Brown came in with ideas, but this last stretch—wow. The speed, the energy, especially from Bridges and Hart, has been something to witness.”

Spike Lee, the legendary Knicks superfan, seemed to resonate with Frazier’s sentiments. He’s been following the team’s remarkable playoff run, which has included a franchise-record 11 consecutive wins. He boldly stated, “I’m not worried about teams like San Antonio or OKC. We’re destined to win. May 8, 1970—that’s when it all started for me; I watched Willis Reed play at just 13. This team has heart and determination. I remember the names—Willis, Dave DeBusschere, Bill Bradley…and I’ll always come back.”

Frazier, who many consider the greatest Knick, shared a poignant moment on Monday when he awarded the Conference Finals MVP trophy to Jalen Brunson. This was not just a handoff; it symbolized passing the baton to the next generation alongside another Knicks legend, Patrick Ewing.

However, Frazier made it clear that the job isn’t finished yet. “It’s been so long since we’ve had this. We’re carrying on a legacy, and Jalen now holds that responsibility,” he said. “But we need to maximize this moment. As Red Holtzman would remind us, ‘Clyde, we haven’t won anything yet.’”