4. Oct. 28 vs. Chicago Bulls
Once upon a time, a New York Knicks vs. Chicago Bulls game would be nationally televised. The days of Patrick Ewing‘s Knicks vs. Michael Jordan‘s Bulls reigned supreme in the 1990s, offering fans a rivalry of two of the NBA’s top teams. These were matchups to circle on the calendar.
Fast-forward to 2019, and New York vs. Chicago holds little meaning on any NBA schedule, at least until these teams return to playoff relevance.
Both squads have intriguing young talent, which could make future games notable. If the Bulls’ core comes together, and if the Knicks take steps forward with Robinson and RJ Barrett, perhaps these teams find themselves on an ESPN or TNT broadcast by 2020 or 2021.
Plus, big market teams playing head-to-head always adds something extra, as these are some of the sport’s most discussed, praised and criticized organizations. Even though the Bulls and Knicks are not playoff favorites, they may still garner interest from NBA League Pass subscribers or other ways to stream this game.
Otherwise, this game does not hold much water on New York’s schedule; it is just the end of a two-game homestand.
One day, Knicks vs. Bulls games can mean something again. They may play competitively for a few nights this season, but the return of spotlighted clashes is years away.