The Top 10 New York Knicks Players of All Time
The Top 10 New York Knicks Players of All Time
By Edcel Panganiban December 23, 2023 05:31
The New York Knicks, one of the most iconic franchises in the history of the NBA, have had their fair share of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on both the team and the sport. From their dominance in the 1970s to their resurgence in the 1990s, the Knicks have had a rich history of talented players who have captivated fans with their skills and passion for the game. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 New York Knicks players of all time, celebrating their contributions to the team and the sport as a whole.
1. Walt Frazier
Walt Frazier, also known as "Clyde," was the heart and soul of the Knicks during their championship-winning seasons in 1970 and 1973. A master of the point guard position, Frazier possessed exceptional ball-handling skills, court vision, and defensive prowess. He was named an NBA All-Star seven times and was instrumental in leading the team to their two championships. Frazier's style and charisma on and off the court made him a beloved figure in New York City and a true icon of the franchise.
2. Willis Reed
Willis Reed is perhaps best remembered for his heroic performance in Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals. Despite a severe thigh injury, Reed mustered the strength to walk onto the court and score the first two baskets of the game, inspiring his team to victory. Reed was a dominant force in the paint, known for his tenacity, rebounding ability, and leadership. He was a seven-time NBA All-Star and was named the NBA Finals MVP in both 1970 and 1973.
3. Patrick Ewing
Patrick Ewing is widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in NBA history. His imposing presence in the paint and his scoring ability made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Ewing spent the majority of his career with the Knicks, earning 11 NBA All-Star selections and leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. He ranks as the franchise's all-time leading scorer and rebounder, solidifying his status as one of the greatest Knicks of all time.
4. Earl Monroe
Earl "The Pearl" Monroe brought his flashy style and offensive prowess to the Knicks in the early 1970s. Known for his unique dribbling and scoring abilities, Monroe played a key role in the team's championship run in 1973. He was a four-time NBA All-Star and provided a much-needed spark to the Knicks' offense during his tenure with the team.
5. Charles Oakley
Charles Oakley was the epitome of toughness and grit during his time with the Knicks in the 1990s. Known for his tenacious rebounding and physical play, Oakley was the enforcer on the court and a fan favorite. His contributions to the team went beyond the box score, as he provided leadership and toughness that helped define the Knicks' identity during that era.
6. Dave DeBusschere
Dave DeBusschere was a versatile forward who played a vital role in the Knicks' championship-winning seasons in 1970 and 1973. Known for his defensive prowess and clutch shooting, DeBusschere was a six-time NBA All-Star and provided a steady presence on both ends of the court. His contributions to the team cannot be overstated, as he was a key component of the Knicks' success during that era.
7. Bill Bradley
Bill Bradley was known for his intelligence and basketball IQ during his time with the Knicks in the 1970s. Although his statistics may not stand out, Bradley's impact on the court was immeasurable. He was a crucial piece of the Knicks' championship-winning teams, providing leadership and a steady hand during critical moments. Bradley's basketball acumen and team-first mentality made him an invaluable asset to the franchise.
8. Bernard King
Bernard King was a scoring machine during his time with the Knicks in the 1980s. Known for his ability to put the ball in the basket, King was a four-time NBA All-Star and won the NBA scoring title in 1985. Despite battling injuries throughout his career, King's offensive prowess and memorable performances cemented his legacy as one of the greatest scorers in Knicks history.
9. Amar'e Stoudemire
Amar'e Stoudemire brought excitement and energy to Madison Square Garden when he joined the Knicks in 2010. Known for his explosive athleticism and scoring ability, Stoudemire revitalized the franchise and helped lead the team to their first playoff appearance in years. He was a six-time NBA All-Star and provided a glimpse of hope during a challenging period for the Knicks.
10. Clyde Drexler
Although Clyde Drexler is more commonly associated with the Portland Trail Blazers, his brief stint with the Knicks in the twilight of his career warrants recognition. Drexler, a Hall of Fame shooting guard, provided veteran leadership and scoring ability during his time with the team. While his tenure with the Knicks was short-lived, Drexler's impact on the court and his status as one of the greatest players of his generation earn him a spot on this list.
The New York Knicks have been fortunate to have a rich history of talented players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. From the championship-winning teams of the 1970s to the memorable players of the 1990s and beyond, these individuals have played a vital role in shaping the identity and success of the Knicks. Whether it's Walt Frazier's style and charisma, Willis Reed's heroics, or Patrick Ewing's dominance in the paint, each player on this list has contributed to the storied legacy of the New York Knicks.
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