Start: Patrick Ewing; Bench: Willis Reed; Cut: Carmelo Anthony. Ewing’s defense and leadership, Reed’s legendary toughness, Melo’s scoring flair—each left a unique Knicks legacy.

Three iconic figures who defined different eras of Knicks basketball and left indelible marks at Madison Square Garden. The choices—Patrick Ewing, Willis Reed, and Carmelo Anthony—represent distinct styles, eras, and contributions. Making sense of their legacies requires understanding their roles, impact, and the context in which they played.

Patrick Ewing: The Defensive Anchor and Franchise Cornerstone

The Era and Impact

Patrick Ewing arrived in New York in 1985 as the franchise’s first lottery pick, and he became synonymous with Knicks basketball for over a decade. Ewing’s career with the Knicks spanned from 1985 to 2000, during which he established himself as one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. His presence at Madison Square Garden transformed the franchise into perennial playoff contenders and a symbol of resilience.

Playing Style

Ewing’s game was characterized by his defensive prowess, shot-blocking, rebounding, and mid-range scoring. He was a two-way force, anchoring the Knicks’ defense with his size, timing, and intelligence. Offensively, he was reliable in the post and developed a respectable jump shot, making him a scoring threat from various spots on the floor.

Leadership and Legacy

Ewing’s leadership on and off the court was instrumental in shaping the Knicks’ identity. His resilience through injuries and playoff runs exemplified his commitment and toughness. Under coach Pat Riley, the Knicks reached the NBA Finals twice in 1994 and 1999, with Ewing playing pivotal roles. His 11-time All-Star selections, All-NBA honors, and Hall of Fame induction cement his legacy as the franchise’s greatest player.

Why Start Ewing?

Choosing Ewing as the starter reflects his role as the ultimate franchise icon. His presence defined the Knicks’ identity in the ‘80s and ‘90s, and his influence extended beyond statistics—he was the face of a resilient, gritty Knicks era. His leadership, defensive dominance, and consistency make him the logical choice to start in this debate.

Willis Reed: The Captain, the Warrior, the Legend

The Era and Impact

Willis Reed’s Knicks story is one of legendary toughness, leadership, and iconic moments. Playing primarily in the 1960s and early ‘70s, Reed was the heart and soul of the Knicks during their first NBA championship runs in 1970 and 1973. His leadership qualities and clutch performances made him one of the franchise’s most revered figures.

Playing Style

Reed was a versatile center and power forward—an undersized big man with a relentless work ethic. He was known for his rebounding, defense, and mid-range scoring. His physicality and tenacity set the tone for the Knicks’ playing style, emphasizing grit and resilience.

The Iconic Moment: Game 7 of the 1970 Finals

Reed’s legendary Game 7 entrance in the 1970 Finals epitomizes his leadership. Despite a severe thigh injury, Reed surprised everyone by starting the game, inspiring his teammates and fans alike. His presence ignited the Knicks’ victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, securing their first NBA championship. That moment has become etched in NBA lore, symbolizing perseverance and leadership.

Legacy and Impact

Reed’s leadership and warrior spirit helped elevate the Knicks to championship status. He was a seven-time All-Star and a key figure in establishing the franchise’s winning culture. His role as team captain and his legendary status in New York sports history make him a transcendent figure.

Why Bench Reed?

While Reed’s impact is undeniable, the reason for benching him in this context relates to the era and style comparison. Ewing’s more modern, versatile game and longer tenure with the franchise have broader relevance. Reed’s era, though historic, predates the modern NBA, making him a legendary figure but perhaps less fitting as the starter in this particular lineup.

Carmelo Anthony: The Modern Scoring Machine

The Era and Impact

Carmelo Anthony’s Knicks tenure (2011–2017) marked a period of revival and star power for the franchise. His arrival signaled a shift towards a more offense-oriented approach, with Melo serving as the centerpiece of the team’s offensive identity.

Playing Style

Melo is an exceptional scorer—an elite volume shooter with a smooth mid-range game, deep three-point range, and the ability to create shots in isolation. His offensive skill set made him one of the most feared scorers of his era, and he carried the Knicks offensively for many seasons.

Achievements and Legacy

Anthony’s scoring titles, All-Star selections, and clutch performances made him a fan favorite. His 62-point game in 2014 against the Charlotte Hornets remains one of the most iconic scoring performances in franchise history. Melo’s swagger, confidence, and ability to make difficult shots electrified Madison Square Garden and reignited the Knicks’ relevance in the NBA landscape.

Why Cut Melo?

While Melo’s scoring was dazzling, his tenure with the Knicks was marred by playoff struggles, defensive lapses, and questions about leadership and team chemistry. His style, while electrifying, was often isolated, and the team lacked sustained postseason success during his era. In this debate, his offensive brilliance is undeniable, but his overall impact and longevity with the franchise are less than Ewing or Reed.

Summing Up the Choices

Start: Patrick Ewing

Ewing’s comprehensive game, leadership, and defining role during the franchise’s most competitive era make him the clear choice for the starting spot. His defensive dominance and durability set the tone for Knicks teams seeking success in the ‘80s and ‘90s. His legacy as the franchise’s greatest player and the face of its most iconic moments justifies his starting position.

Bench: Willis Reed

Reed’s legendary status as the captain and his heroic Game 7 moment place him among the all-time Knicks greats. His leadership helped establish the franchise’s first championships and created a blueprint of resilience. While his era predates the modern game, his influence remains foundational in Knicks history. Bench him here, acknowledging his legendary status but recognizing the evolution of the game.

Cut: Carmelo Anthony

Melo’s scoring prowess and star power revitalized the franchise temporarily but lacked the sustained playoff success and leadership qualities of Ewing and Reed. His style, though electrifying, is more isolated and less versatile. His tenure, while memorable, doesn’t elevate him to the same legendary status as these other icons, hence the cut.

Final Reflection

This trio represents the different chapters of Knicks history: Reed as the gritty captain who brought the first championships, Ewing as the dominant force of the ‘80s and ‘90s who embodied resilience and defense, and Melo as the modern scorer who electrified the Garden but fell short of ultimate glory.

The choices made—start Ewing, bench Reed, cut Melo—are rooted in their overall impact, leadership, style, and legacy within the franchise’s storied history. Each player’s contribution is vital in understanding the evolution of Knicks basketball, and while the debate is subjective, it underscores the rich tapestry of talent that has defined Madison Square Garden’s hallowed halls.