Hour 1: Are the 2026 Knicks Better Than the 90's Knicks?
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In this episode of 'Bart & Carlin,' the hosts engage in a spirited debate over whether the current 2026 New York Knicks team surpasses the legendary 1990s Knicks in talent and overall quality. They examine the evolution of the franchise, contrasting the gritty, physically dominant 90s teams led by Patrick Ewing with today’s more versatile, deep, and statistically superior roster featuring stars like Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby. The discussion centers on how the modern Knicks have transformed their style of play—maximizing player strengths and improving team cohesion—making them arguably the best team in franchise history. While acknowledging the romanticized legacy of the 90s squads, especially their 1994 Finals run, the hosts argue that today’s team has greater raw talent, better depth, and a more sustainable championship window. The conversation also touches on the psychological shift in fan confidence, with listeners weighing in on whether this team inspires more trust than past iterations. The episode further explores concerns about physicality in the upcoming series against the Sixers, particularly around Joel Embiid’s potential for provocation and the risk of on-court altercations.
The current Knicks roster is more talented and deeper than any team in franchise history, including the 1990s dynasty.
The team’s recent stylistic shift—reducing Brunson’s ball-handling burden and maximizing Cat’s playmaking—has unlocked their full potential.
Fan confidence is rising, but the team must overcome the psychological hurdle of past failures and maintain health to capitalize on their championship window.
The 1990s Knicks were legendary for toughness and grit, but their lack of elite supporting talent limited their success despite being close to a title.
The modern Knicks’ best chance to win a championship is now, with key players entering their prime and limited time before major contract decisions.
Opening Banter and Outfit Theme: 'Negroes in the Wild'
The hosts begin with lighthearted banter about Carlin’s safari-inspired outfit, jokingly naming a new segment 'Negroes in the Wild' and riffing on fashion, color symbolism, and cultural references. The playful tone sets a casual, irreverent mood for the episode.
The Core Debate: 2026 Knicks vs. 1990s Knicks
“This overall is the best Knicks roster that we've seen in 40 years. And that's just fact from the way it's standing up right now.”
The 1990s Legacy: Grit vs. Talent
“They went deep with Atlanta, a team they should have demolished. So is it because they planned like if they would play Boston, if Boston were the one, would we be saying that?”
Fan Perception and the 'Best Team' Question
“I think we remember them the way we want to remember them. It's like anything in life when you think about old relationships that feel like they were great and why did I bail out of that one?”
The 2013 Carmelo Era and the 'Overrated' Narrative
The hosts critique the romanticization of the Carmelo Anthony-era Knicks, arguing that despite their star power and one playoff series win, they lacked depth, cohesion, and true championship pedigree. They contrast this with the current team’s health and balance.
“You've already done all the good things to get to 90. To get to 95, you almost got to be perfect. And that pursuit is challenging to go from good to great.”
“This overall is the best Knicks roster that we've seen in 40 years. And that's just fact from the way it's standing up right now.”
“Watch the elbow. Watch Embiid. That's all I'm saying.”
Hosts
new york knicks
other
1990s knicks
other
chris carlin
person
bart scott
person
jalen brunson
person
patrick ewing
person
og anunoby
person
carmelo anthony
person
john starks
person
joel embiid
person
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