NBA - Knicks vs. Nets Episode 3

NEW YORK -- In today's crowded 11-game NBA schedule, no match-up attracts more intrigue and interest than the joust between the Brooklyn Nets and the New York Knicks at the Madison Square Garden.

For the Knicks, it's a fight for bragging rights, the chance to re-establish themselves as the kings of New York basketball. For the newbie Nets, it's a fight for validation, an opportunity to win the affection of some of the Big Apple's basketball-loving denizens.

And for those of us sportswriters who are tasked to chronicle these events, it's Episode 3 in Year One of the Battle of the Burroughs, a budding rivalry that could further color and enthrall the NBA for many, many years to come.

The Nets drew first blood when they edged the Knicks 96-89 last November 26 at the decadent $1 billion Barclays Center. But the Knicks exacted sweet revenge on December 11, pocketing a slim 100-97 decision. While today is the tie-breaker, it won't be for all the marbles since both teams meet again for the fourth and final time in the regular season on January 21 next year at The Garden.

The Knicks enter tonight's skirmish slightly wobbly, with the Knicks losing a blowout shocker at the hands of the Houston Rockets last Monday at The Garden while the Nets fell to a 92-90 nail-biter in their Barclays backyard against the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night.

But the losses do not diminish the luster and bluster of tonight's encounter. These Knicks and Nets, they always save the best for each other. (RS)