Wow. Excuse me for getting emotional about a preseason game, but that was superb.
The Knicks were getting blown out of the gym by the Cleveland Cavaliers after a pathetic third quarter. The deficit was nearly 20, and it appeared to be yet another desultory loss as head coach Tom Thibodeau brought in the kids.
And then...SHAZAM!
The defensive intensity picked up immediately, and the Cavs started to wilt. To his credit, Dennis Smith Jr. (8 points, 4 assists, 5 steals) really helped amp up that pressure. But DSJ was removed and rookie Immanuel Quickley took over the reins at point guard, and the Knicks soared into the lead.