Why Nets Can't Rival Knicks

The Nets haven't beaten the Knicks since Jan. 28, 2023. While the Nets had success during the Kevin Durant era of the franchise, they never eclipsed the Knicks in relevancy. Even during the playoff-less years in Madison Square Garden, the Knicks had the heart of New Yorkers.

Before the Knicks' eight-game win streak over the Nets, the Brooklyn franchise flamed the James Dolan-owned organization for nine consecutive contests. Still, even with their success over the Knicks, the Nets failed to capitalize on five consecutive postseason berths. 

Meanwhile, the Knicks have more postseason series victories in two years than the Nets have in four seasons.

Digging deeper into the "rivalry" of which the NBA continues to push, likely due to geographical and marketing purposes, the Knicks have an all-time 109-107 record over the Nets. 

Even if the Nets win an NBA championship, the Knicks' popularity, cultural influence, and storied history would still eclipse any success. Yet, the NBA insists on pushing the two as legitimate foes. Another Knicks win would only double down on the Madison Square Garden darling as the better franchise.

Meanwhile, a Nets victory wouldn't dent the "rivalry."