New York Knicks: Five Christmas gifts fans have received in 2018-19

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 29: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks snaps a selfie with a fan during their Open Practice on September 29, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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New York Knicks Allonzo Trier Tim Hardaway Jr. (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Staying competitive

The New York Knicks only have 10 wins in 34 games, which obviously does not correlate to a winning season. They own reasonable expectations to develop players and rebuild in this 82-game slate, but that has not kept them from surprisingly playing competitively.

While the Knicks opened the season 1-5, they stood toe-to-toe with the Brooklyn Nets, Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks and Golden State Warriors within the first two weeks. It was eye-opening and showed that, while this team will struggle to claim victories, they have the ability to claw back and fight in contested games.

This held true in double-digit point deficits, as well, whether it was against successful or weak teams. Most recently, they overcame a 21-point difference to topple the Charlotte Hornets. It took 22 points against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but resulted in a loss.

The Knicks also went head-to-head with the Bucks a second time around and won, 136-134, in overtime, in arguably their most impressive game of the season.

This team may not reach the postseason, but they have delivered intriguing performances more often than not. That’s something for Knicks fans to appreciate. If that was unexpected, then it makes for an early Christmas gift.

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