The New York Knicks are headed to the NBA Finals, a place few expected them to reach when the season began. In this South Shore Press Video Vault segment, Managing Editor Stefan Mychajliw talks basketball with News Director Tom Barton about the Knicks' surprising playoff run and their chances in the championship series.
Stefan Mychajliw: You are the basketball expert. Were the Knicks expected to make the NBA Finals at the beginning of the season?
Tom Barton: Not at all. Most people viewed the Knicks as a contender, but there were always questions about their defense. Nobody doubted they could score or that they had enough talent. The concern was whether Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns could defend well enough to get through multiple playoff series. The consensus was no. People believed their defensive weaknesses would eventually catch up to them. Instead, they proved everyone wrong and looked outstanding throughout the playoffs.
Stefan Mychajliw: What is the biggest reason they're in the Finals?
Tom Barton: There are several reasons. Brunson and Towns elevated their games, and the supporting cast played well. But the biggest factor is that the Eastern Conference was weak. We knew that all season. Several teams could have come out of the East. The Knicks took advantage of the opportunity and raised their level of play when it mattered most.
Stefan Mychajliw: Take off your homer cap. What are your thoughts on the Finals?
Tom Barton: The Spurs shocked me. I thought Oklahoma City was the best team in basketball and expected them to win. Instead, San Antonio's defense completely disrupted OKC's offense. That's impressive. The Knicks, meanwhile, have scored at least 108 points in every playoff game. Their offense has carried them. I think they have a fighting chance. The Spurs just knocked off the favorite and now have to regroup emotionally. Because of that, I think the Knicks match up much better against San Antonio.