Legends Night last night at the Garden couldn’t have come at a better time. While anyone interested in the Knicks seems consumed with getting this guy or that guy when free agency begins July 1, it was good to be reminded getting this guy or that guy doesn’t necessarily win championships.
Forty years since capturing the first of the franchise’s two NBA titles, the 1970 Knicks are still heralded as one of the best teams ever assembled. Certainly, there were individual stars like Willis Reed and Walt Frazier. But it was the collective parts that made it the strongest unit in the NBA.
“We epitomized being able to work together, hitting the open man, playing defense and all those type of things,” Dick Barnett said. That’s something to keep in mind as the Knicks plot to sign multiple stars this summer. The championship teams of 1970 and 1973 weren’t built overnight, and the next title contender will need more than what can be purchased in July.
“If we’re prudent with what we do [this summer], then we’ll have room the second year,” team president Donnie Walsh said. “And not just in free-agency, but in making trades. That’s how I think you have to run this franchise for a while.”
Sure landing LeBron James or Dwyane Wade would be a great start. So would keeping Tracy McGrady, who had 15 points before limping off the court after banging knees during the Knicks’ 83-67 loss to the Bucks last night. But the 1970 Knicks reminded us that one or two superstars aren’t the only ingredients to win a title. It takes chemistry, hard work and a willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. Bill Bradley said that’s what the 1970 Knicks were all about.
“There’s always the illusion that one more player will make it all work when there’s really five players that you have to have that complement each other with their physical skills and their personality,” Bradley said.
The team concept isn’t old-school thinking either. Kobe Bryant didn’t win an NBA championship after Shaquille O’Neal left until Pau Gasol was acquired and Derek Fisher returned.
“The team that wins the NBA title always plays as a team,” Bradley said. “That’s been my experience.”
The right formula is not easy to achieve, and the Knicks’ woeful effort last night only punctuates how much work there is to do. The best scenario is they make the playoffs next year and then a few drafts and a few trades later contend for the title. What’s certain is LeBron or Wade or whoever arrives here in July is going to need help.
The 1970 Knicks can be used as a blue print. They sacrificed — Cazzie Russell accepting a role off the bench; they had courage — Willis Reed limping on the court for Game 7; and spectacular performers — Walt “Clyde” Frazier posting 36 points and 19 assists to beat the Lakers and win the title. It wasn’t all about who had the max contract.
“We all came for the ring,” Reed said. “That’s what we wanted and that’s what we got.”
Thanks for reminding us.