NEW ORLEANS — Opening night was supposed to be a symbol for these Knicks. They were fun, they played fast, and they were buoyed by their young core. That they won was just an added benefit. That game was a validation of what David Fizdale had been preaching since he took over as the team’s coach. These Knicks might not be all that good but they would be enjoyable.



Wednesday night in Oklahoma City, that wide-eyed promise had disappeared. The Knicks were waxed, yes, but they were also difficult to watch. Feisty losing could be tolerated; bad and blah could not.



The Knicks are 4-11 now and that isn’t surprising. But the disappearance of the up-tempo, invigorating style Fizdale promised is. That has been a victim of a young team, a dilapidated roster, and a coach trying to maintain competency. Whatever identity Fizdale hoped to imbue in the Knicks has been lost, so far. That, more than anything, should be worth an inspection.



It is a left turn...