Knicks Front office

The New York Knicks ended the 1994-95 season in heart breaking fashion.  The Knicks came into that season with high expectations as defending eastern conference champions.  After a slow start New York finished the season 55-27, their fourth consecutive 50 win season under Pat Riley.  After trailing the Indiana Pacers 3-1 in their eastern conference second round series the Knicks rallied to force a game seven.  The Knicks trailed 97-95 on their final possession.  Patrick Ewing drove the lane and missed a finger roll off the back iron from point blank range.  NBC cameras trailed a dejected Pat Riley as he returned to the locker room wearing a look of disgust.

This would prove to be Pat Riley's last season with the Knicks.  The organization failed to meet Riley's expectations financially nor did the two sides agree on the championship coaches desire to attain more control in the front office. 

Micky Arison purchased the Miami Heat franchise in 1995.  Arison, who was never interested in being a hands on owner hired a basketball guy to make basketball decisions.  Riley jumped ship to Miami beginning in the 1995-96 season.  Within one year the Heat would set a then franchise record 61 wins.  The Knicks have never won more than 60 games in a season.  Under Pat Riley the Miami Heat have won three NBA championships.  The Knicks have won two NBA championships since the leagues inception in 1946.

Isiah Thomas was arguably the most destructive general manager in Knick history.  Yet Thomas still serves as a special consultant to James Dolan.  Donnie Walsh developed the players New York used to acquire Carmelo Anthony.  The Knicks failed to resign Walsh after his contract expired.

The New York Knicks troubles are a direct result of poor management.