We are in a bit of a renaissance for the Knicks. Or, in the words of Josh Hart over the weekend, when the forward was shushing boos directed at James Dolan:

“Nah. We back, baby.”

In the context of the last 22 years, that’s mostly true. The Melo seasons had nice moments, but hope always felt easily combustible. Today, there’s more of an effort toward sustainability and continuity. The core is in its prime and there’s faith in Tom Thibodeau, who, assuming he doesn’t get fired, is about to become one of just four coaches to guide the Knicks for five full seasons. The others? Joe Lapchick, Red Holzman, Jeff Van Gundy.

(Pat Riley faxed his resignation after season No. 5).