by Digger

The Knicks ownership led by James Dolan has endured enough losing seasons to finally make a bold front office decision. Donnie Walsh has been hired (4/2/08) as President of Basketball Operations in an attempt to save a sinking franchise. Walsh was one of the major architects of the Indiana Pacers rise to elite status and will be counted on to save a storied franchise which has hit rock bottom.

One of his first orders of business will be to make a decision quickly regarding the status of Isiah Thomas as Knicks head coach. Thomas has been nothing short of a train wreck during his tenure with the Knicks. Poor personnel choices to losing respect from his players and next to zero admiration by Madison Square Garden faithful who shell out top dollar for tickets.

The Knicks were one of the NBA's fiercest and feistiest teams during the 1990's and early 00's. Lately, they've been the joke of the town failing to make the NBA Playoffs in six out of seven seasons. Since the 2005-06 season, the lowly Knickerbockers have a horrid 76-163 (.318) record. James Dolan is a serious competitor and he must be sick to his stomach as this team has fallen to depths most fans could never imagine. Heavy duty changes will be expected and all players are officially on notice.

Madison Square Garden hosted many tremendous Knicks teams and superstars. Led by elite coaches Joe Lapchick (3 Finals appearances), Red Holzman (2 time Champion), Pat Riley (1 Final, former star coach of LA Lakers) and miracle worker Jeff Van Gundy. All directed teams filled with crowd pleasing star performers: Walt "Clyde" Frazier, Willis Reed, Dave DeBusschere, Patrick Ewing, Bernard King, Richie Guerin, Walt Bellamy, Bill Bradley, Earl "Pearl" Monroe, Charles Oakley.

Recent Knicks teams have lacked leadership and and off the court. Mini soap opera's have made headlines more than spirited team play. This squad is longing cohesive chemistry and New York has had enough bickering and side show drama. Mr. Dolan has brought in a proven builder of success by way of Walsh.

Walsh's first order of business will be to can Isiah and find a suitable team oriented head coach, quickly! Next in line will be to find a big man to dominate the inside lanes. Whether this player comes to NY via free agency, trade or draft will be left to the new boss in town. However it's done, this team needs a complete overhaul. No more wasting money on lucrative contracts for players who don't perform... or those who moan about playing and practicing. The Marbury's, Sprewell's and Houston's of the world were showered with big contracts which rewarded intolerable attitudes and selfish style ball playing.

Times will be changing in New York. Better late than never.