New York Knicks: 5 most intriguing games of the 2017-18 season

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 22: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Head coach Jeff Hornacek of the New York Knicks in action against the Portland Trail Blazers at Madison Square Garden on November 22, 2016 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Trail Blazers 107-103. 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. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

2 of 6

PHILADELPHIA, PA – JANUARY 11: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers warms up with Joel Embiid #21 prior to the game against the New York Knicks at the Wells Fargo Center on January 11, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

5. Philadelphia 76ers

HOME – MONDAY DEC. 25 NOON EST

This game starts off the list simply because it is the annual “Knicks showcase game” on Christmas as the NBA looks to feature it’s promising young players nationally in the biggest media market. The Philadephia 76ers are the new young and fun team. Everyone is excited to see with names like Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons and this year’s No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz. Madison Square Garden is the perfect backdrop for such talent to have their national coming out party for the fans to enjoy.

The Knicks should be motivated by this and play hard regardless of their record going into the game simply because being a prop for another team’s highlight reel is embarrassing enough. Winning this game in front of a sold-out home crowd on Christmas can spark more from the team heading into the new year.

Markelle Fultz lit things up in Summer League before his injury and the opportunity to put on a show in Madison Square Garden on Christmas will be extremely enticing. A Knicks win would be the ultimate Christmas gift for a loyal and stressed fan base begging for something to cheer for this season.

Home/New York Knicks