2010 NBA Portland Trail Blazers at New York Knicks, October 30, 2010, Roy Spoil Knicks Season Opener
POR 100, NYK 95 – Star-Studded Premiere at Garden Is Spoiled for Knicks by a Rerun. Madison Square Garden’s opening night, filled with smoke, lasers, and Michael Buffer’s booming introduction, was marred by a controversial replay that spoiled Amar’e Stoudemire’s official debut for the Knicks. The Knicks, who fought hard against the Portland Trail Blazers, lost 100-95 after a critical replay overturned an out-of-bounds call with just 6.5 seconds left, giving Portland possession and sealing the victory.
Player of the game:
Brandon Roy: 29 PTS, 10-23 FGM, 44 FG%, 2-4 3PM, 7-8 FTM, 6 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 3 TOV
The game began with Portland quickly establishing an 11-1 lead. Although the Knicks managed to rally, Stoudemire’s crucial turnover late in the game proved costly. A replay review showed the ball had touched Stoudemire, not Blazer Marcus Camby, leading to a reversal of possession. Despite Stoudemire’s 18 points and Wilson Chandler’s strong performance with 22 points and 16 rebounds, the Knicks couldn’t overcome the setback.
The Knicks had led by as much as 92-83 in the fourth quarter, but Portland responded with a decisive 9-0 run. Key moments included a missed driving layup by Raymond Felton and missed free throws by LaMarcus Aldridge, which kept the game within reach but ultimately led to Stoudemire’s crucial turnover. Gallinari’s ongoing slump and a sore wrist contributed to the Knicks’ struggles, with his confidence and shooting visibly affected.
Opening night, filled with star appearances and high energy, ended in disappointment. What was expected to be a grand debut turned into Stoudemire’s introduction amid a mix of highs and lows. The Knicks’ showcase of their revamped roster and promising future was overshadowed by a controversial replay and a missed chance.
