The New York Knicks, who are called the Knicks by their fans, are a powerful team in the NBA to be reckoned with. Starting in the 1940s, the franchise has had a lot of ups and downs, but has always had a loyal fan base and following. Whether you’re a big Knicks fan or just curious to learn about the team, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about the greatest New York Knicks players of all time, conveniently arranged below. Read on to see the best of the best in ascending order when it comes to Knicks!
Julius Randel
Starting the list of the best Knicks players of all time is current player Julius Randle. While it is unusual to see a current player this high up the ranks, Julius Randle is no ordinary player. While he’s only been playing since 2019, Randle has made a name for himself and has already earned more than most Knicks players. If you’re not convinced why this guy deserves a place on the list, you can Buy Knicks playoff tickets And see for yourself! With his only All-Star appearance and MVP award, his name is cemented in the NBA Hall of Fame.
Bill Bradley
The next player on the list goes back a bit, as do most of the best Knicks players, and is an icon in NBA history. Bill Bradley, played for the Knicks in the 1970s and was a valuable player during their runs in 1970 and 1973. After a contract with the Knicks, Bradley made one All-Star appearance before rosters expanded and he had to retire his jersey. Even though he left sports to pursue a career in politics, Bradley remains a well-liked athlete. The Knicks wouldn’t be the same to many fans without Bill Bradley.
Alan Huston
Next on the list is a popular player from the early 2000s, who amassed a fan base and a solid track record. Alan Houston came to the Knicks in the early 2000s from the Detroit Pistons and made a name for himself there. His scoring and outside shooting ability helped him become the franchise star After Patrick Ewing’s reign came to an end (we’ll get to that later!). Alan Houston was a two-time All-Star and was the key player who led the team through a handful of postseason runs. Houston was the face of the Knicks in 1999, and he led them to the NBA Finals that year, cementing his All-Star status!
Earl Monroe
The next All-Star player on the list is none other than Earl “The Pearl” Monroe. Earl Monroe had many nicknames to accompany his rise to success from “The Pearl” to “Black Jesus” to “Thomas Edison”. This NBA icon was more than just a cool nickname and the Knicks owe much of their success as a franchise to them. While Monroe had some ups and downs throughout his time in the Knicks, he was a valuable player and a crowd favorite. Thanks to Monroe, the Knicks were able to win the NBA Championship in 1973 and take back the Cup!
Willis Reed
It’s hard to acknowledge the Knicks and their success without talking about Willis Reed. Willis Reed was the key and best player in the greatest moment in New York Knicks history. After an injury in 1970, he returned and played with more passion and fire than ever before, leading the team to victory in the NBA championship. Reed was the MVP of the NBA Finals in 1970 and 1973 when the Knicks won their titles. Adored by fans, Reid remains the only player to ever be named the regular season MVP or Finals MVP as a member of the Knicks.
Patrick Ewing
Last but not least, the final name on this list represents the best New York Knicks player of all time: Patrick Ewing. Anyone who knows anything about the Knicks or basketball can attest to this guy and his success. Patrick Ewing joined the franchise in 1985 and led them to fitness and victory very quickly. Before Ewing, the Knicks had been a title contender for many years and finally made it with him. Ewing made 11 All-Star appearances and was consistently the MVP in every league. The only thing that stopped Patrick Ewing from winning the title was that he played in the same era as him Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon.
So there you have it! With this comprehensive list in mind, you’ll all be enjoying the best of the New York Knicks! From Randle to Bradley to Houston, Reed and finally Ewing, the Knicks have never had a shortage of great players. Whether you watched them in the 90’s or still keep up with them today, the Knicks are a team with a lot to offer!