How Knicks Can Dominate Two Timelines on Christmas

The Knicks have a 1-1 record in the Brunson era on Christmas Day. Hosting the Spurs in Madison Square Garden, the Knicks amazingly have their best shot at extending their win streak by two games on Christmas.

With Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Brunson, New York perhaps boasts its best roster since the 1990s.

The Knicks rank second in offensive rating and 14th in defensive rating, giving them a 19-10 record, which places them third in the Eastern Conference. Despite a so-so start to the season, only three losses separate them from the reigning NBA champions, the Boston Celtics. 

A win over the Spurs on Christmas Day would extend their winning streak to three games and cut into their race for the Eastern Conference's top echelon. 

However, these aren't your 2023-24 Spurs. No longer is San Antonio trotting out forgotten or unknown point guards to "lead" the offense. Chris Paul is now in charge, which makes Victor Wembanya even more dangerous than his rookie season, where he finished second place for the Defensive Player of the Year award. 

Although the Knicks don't have anyone who can stop or even contain Wembanyama, Thibodeau could use Towns' offensive prowess to make him exhaust his energy on defense. 

Ultimately, beating the Spurs affects the Knicks' future and their current Eastern Conference standings, and beating Wembanyama in Madison Square Garden is as good a gift as any for a Knicks fan.