The New York Knicks: Expectations For The 2024-25 NBA Season

The New York Knicks have some lofty expectations this 2024-25 season. Through two games thus far, the Knicks are at 1-1 and are expected to make a deep playoff run. Some even believe that they have what it takes to win the NBA title. That remains to be seen, but the Knicks do have a formidable squad to get the job done. New York has a deep lineup, and some believe that they have the best starting five they’ve ever had, but some aren’t buying into that notion, including Knicks legend, champion, and Hall of Famer Walt Clyde Frazier.

Frazier appeared at FanDuel's Run It Back Tip Off Experience on Tuesday night from the iconic Gaucho Gym in The Bronx, and said the 1973 Knicks, the team that won the NBA title, have the best starting five, not this year's Knicks. This statement certainly raises eyebrows as it reflects on the legacy of a team that holds a special place in the hearts of Knicks fans. The 1973 championship team is often heralded as the pinnacle of Knicks basketball, and Frazier's insights show just how high the bar has been set.

This year’s Knicks team still has a lot to prove if they want to reach the heights the 1973 Knicks achieved. However, they do have a great starting lineup led by point guard Jalen Brunson, shooting guard Mikal Bridges, forward OG Anunoby, forward Josh Hart, and center Karl-Anthony Towns. With a blend of youthful talent and seasoned experience, the Knicks aim to make a strong statement in the upcoming season.

Although this Knicks team is filled with talent, the 1973 Knicks were the last great team to bring a championship to the organization. Not only that, but the 1973 team featured eight Hall of Famers, which were Frazier, Dick Barnett, Bill Bradley, Dave DeBusschere, Phil Jackson, Jerry Lucas, Earl Monroe, and Willis Reed, the hero of Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals. Frazier’s recognition of the historical significance of the 1973 team illustrates the challenge ahead for the current roster.

While Frazier doesn’t believe this Knicks team has a better starting five, he does believe the Knicks have a real shot at capturing their third title in franchise history. 'I always say if we can stay healthy, I like our chances against anybody,' Frazier said. 'Overall, I’m very optimistic and hopefully, the Knicks can get back to our former brand.' This optimism is crucial as the team navigates the ups and downs of the season.

The long-time Knicks commentator has yet to see the team he spent most of his career with win a title without him on the roster. It’s been a long time coming for the Knicks, and although there is still a long way to go in the season, they are confident they have the team to finish the job. The Knicks have the third-best odds to win the NBA title with +800 odds. Only the Oklahoma City Thunder (+500) and the Boston Celtics (+300) have better odds.

More news: JJ Redick Does Something For First Time Since Phil Jackson With Lakers. For more Knicks news, make sure to head over to Newsweek Sports.