New York Knicks: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

The New York Knicks have a storied history in the NBA, but the 21st century has been a rollercoaster ride filled with highs and lows. From playoff appearances to rebuilding years, several players have stepped up to carry the franchise on their shoulders. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane, highlighting the best player from each season since 2000, showcasing their stats, achievements, and overall contributions to the team.

2000-01 Season - Allan Houston

Stats: 18.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star

Allan Houston was the star for the Knicks in the 2000-01 season, earning an All-Star spot thanks to his smooth scoring ability. He led the team in points per game, being the main offensive option for New York. The Knicks finished with a 48-34 record and secured a playoff spot, but their run was cut short by the Toronto Raptors in the first round.

Houston’s jumper was as reliable as ever, helping keep the Knicks competitive during a time of transition. He had a knack for hitting clutch shots, and his leadership on the court was a key factor throughout the season.

2001-02 Season - Allan Houston

Stats: 20.4 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Allan Houston took his scoring up a notch in the 2001-02 season, averaging over 20 points per game. His shooting was consistent, and he was the focal point of the Knicks’ offense. Even though the team struggled and ended with a 30-52 record, Houston’s ability to put the ball in the basket kept things interesting.

The season was tough for the Knicks, but Houston’s performances gave the fans something to cheer about. His reliable mid-range game and leadership on offense remained crucial for New York.

2002-03 Season - Allan Houston

Stats: 22.5 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Allan Houston continued to be the offensive leader for the Knicks during the 2002-03 season, putting up a career-high 22.5 points per game. His shooting from mid-range and beyond the arc was a key part of the Knicks’ offense. The Knicks finished the season with a 37-45 record, missing the playoffs for the second year in a row.

Houston’s scoring consistency was one of the few positives for New York that season. He remained the go-to guy in crunch time and kept the team competitive in many games.

2003-04 Season - Stephon Marbury

Stats: 20.2 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 8.9 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Midway through the 2003-04 season, the Knicks made a blockbuster trade for Stephon Marbury, and he instantly became the team’s star. Marbury’s ability to score and facilitate made him the centerpiece of the Knicks’ offense. He averaged 20.2 points and nearly 9 assists per game, helping the Knicks finish with a 39-43 record and make a return to the playoffs.

Even though they were swept in the first round by the New Jersey Nets, Marbury’s arrival signaled a new era for the Knicks. His leadership on the court gave the team hope for the future, as they tried to build a contender around him.

2004-05 Season - Stephon Marbury

Stats: 21.7 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 8.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Stephon Marbury was once again the best player for the Knicks in the 2004-05 season. He increased his scoring to 21.7 points per game while maintaining his playmaking with 8.1 assists. The Knicks had a tough season, finishing with a 33-49 record and missing the playoffs.

Marbury’s ability to score and set up his teammates kept the Knicks in many games, but the team struggled to find consistency. His individual brilliance was clear, but the lack of team success highlighted the need for more help around him.

2005-06 Season - Stephon Marbury

Stats: 16.3 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Stephon Marbury was still the Knicks’ leader in the 2005-06 season, although his numbers dipped compared to previous years. The Knicks had a challenging season, finishing with a disappointing 23-59 record under head coach Larry Brown, who only lasted one season with the team. Marbury’s production was solid, but the team was in disarray, and his leadership alone wasn’t enough to keep New York competitive.

Marbury’s role was evolving, but he remained the primary playmaker and scorer. Even with his efforts, it was clear that the Knicks needed a new direction to get back on track.

2006-07 Season - Eddy Curry

Stats: 19.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Eddy Curry had the best season of his career in 2006-07, leading the Knicks in scoring and showing his potential as a dominant big man. His ability to score in the post was the highlight of New York’s offense. The Knicks finished the season 33-49, showing slight improvement but still missing the playoffs.

Curry’s performances gave fans hope that he could be the franchise’s next star, but concerns about his consistency and conditioning began to surface. Although the team remained stuck in mediocrity, Curry’s growth was a bright spot during a rough stretch for the Knicks.

2007-08 Season - Jamal Crawford

Stats: 20.6 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Jamal Crawford emerged as the Knicks’ leading scorer in the 2007-08 season, putting up over 20 points per game and becoming the team’s primary offensive option. His ability to hit tough shots and create his own offense was vital for New York, as they finished with a 23-59 record.

Crawford’s scoring flair made him a fan favorite, but the team’s struggles continued. The Knicks went through yet another coaching change, and the constant turnover made it difficult for any player to truly thrive. Still, Crawford’s offensive firepower was one of the few reasons to watch the Knicks that season.

2008-09 Season - David Lee

Stats: 16.0 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

David Lee became the Knicks’ best player during the 2008-09 season, posting impressive double-double numbers and leading the team in rebounding. His hustle and efficient scoring around the rim were key elements of New York’s offense. The Knicks, under new head coach Mike D’Antoni, finished with a 32-50 record.

Lee’s ability to contribute in multiple areas made him a standout for the team, and his work ethic earned him respect from both teammates and fans. As the Knicks looked to rebuild, Lee’s growth as a player became a foundational piece for their future plans.

2009-10 Season - David Lee

Stats: 20.2 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star

David Lee had a monster year in 2009-10, becoming the Knicks’ first All-Star since 2001. He averaged a double-double and showed off his passing ability, helping keep the Knicks competitive in games, even though the team finished with a 29-53 record. Lee’s hustle and relentless work on the boards made him a fan favorite, and his growth as a player was one of the few bright spots in a tough season.

This was Lee’s last season with the Knicks before he moved on to the Golden State Warriors, but his time in New York solidified his status as one of the top big men in the league.

2010-11 Season - Amar'e Stoudemire

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.9 BPG, 0.9 SPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

Amar'e Stoudemire brought new life to the Knicks in 2010-11, becoming an instant fan favorite and leading the team back to the playoffs for the first time since 2004. He was an All-Star and made the All-NBA Second Team, putting up over 25 points per game and showing his dominance in the paint. The Knicks finished with a 42-40 record, securing a playoff spot, but were swept in the first round by the Boston Celtics.

Stoudemire’s arrival marked the start of a new era for the Knicks, and his leadership helped turn the team into a playoff contender once again.

2011-12 Season - Carmelo Anthony

Stats: 22.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

Carmelo Anthony was the Knicks’ undisputed star in the 2011-12 season, leading the team in scoring and guiding them to another playoff appearance. The Knicks finished with a 36-30 record in the lockout-shortened season and made it to the playoffs, where they were eliminated by the Miami Heat in the first round.

Anthony’s scoring ability was key to the Knicks' success, and his leadership kept the team competitive. Even though the playoff run was short, Melo’s presence brought hope to Knicks fans for the future.

2012-13 Season - Carmelo Anthony

Stats: 28.7 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, Scoring Champion

Carmelo Anthony had his best season as a Knick in 2012-13, leading the league in scoring with 28.7 points per game and guiding the team to a 54-28 record, their best in years. He was an All-Star once again and made the All-NBA Second Team. The Knicks made it to the second round of the playoffs, but their run ended at the hands of the Indiana Pacers.

Melo’s scoring explosion made the Knicks one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, and for the first time in a while, New York felt like a legitimate contender.

2013-14 Season - Carmelo Anthony

Stats: 27.4 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star

Carmelo Anthony was once again the heart and soul of the Knicks in 2013-14, carrying the team with his elite scoring ability. Melo averaged 27.4 points and over 8 rebounds per game, but the Knicks struggled to find consistency, finishing with a 37-45 record and missing the playoffs.

Anthony’s individual brilliance was clear, but the lack of support around him made it difficult for the Knicks to make any real noise. It was a frustrating season for Knicks fans, but Melo’s scoring kept things exciting.

Related: Chicago Bulls: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

2014-15 Season - Carmelo Anthony

Stats: 24.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star

Carmelo Anthony’s 2014-15 season was cut short due to injury, but he still put up solid numbers when he was on the court. Averaging 24.2 points per game, Melo continued to be the team’s main offensive threat. Unfortunately, the Knicks had a disastrous season, finishing with a 17-65 record, one of the worst in franchise history.

Anthony’s knee injury forced him to miss a big chunk of the season, and without their star, the Knicks had no real chance of being competitive. This year marked the beginning of a rebuild for the franchise.

2015-16 Season - Carmelo Anthony

Stats: 21.8 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star

Carmelo Anthony bounced back from injury and had another All-Star season in 2015-16. He averaged 21.8 points and 7.7 rebounds per game while also showing off his improved playmaking with 4.2 assists. The Knicks, however, still struggled as a team, finishing with a 32-50 record and missing the playoffs once again.

Even though the team was in rebuild mode, Anthony continued to lead by example, doing his best to carry the Knicks and provide leadership on the court.

2016-17 Season - Carmelo Anthony

Stats: 22.4 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star

In what would be his final season with the Knicks, Carmelo Anthony once again led the team in scoring, putting up 22.4 points per game. The Knicks finished with a 31-51 record, marking another disappointing year. The 2016-17 season was filled with drama, as trade rumors surrounding Anthony grew louder, eventually leading to his departure in the offseason.

Though it was a frustrating year for the Knicks, Melo’s impact on the franchise remained significant, as he continued to be the face of the team through good and bad.

2017-18 Season - Kristaps Porzingis

Stats: 22.7 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star

Kristaps Porzingis emerged as the Knicks' star during the 2017-18 season, putting up career-highs in scoring and earning his first All-Star selection. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim made him one of the most versatile big men in the league. Unfortunately, Porzingis’ season was cut short due to an ACL injury, and the Knicks’ playoff hopes vanished with him. The team finished the season with a 29-53 record, but Porzingis' rise to stardom was a huge positive.

Porzingis’ injury marked a turning point for the franchise, leading to a rebuild that saw him eventually traded to the Mavericks the following year.

2018-19 Season - Tim Hardaway Jr.

Stats: 19.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

With Kristaps Porzingis sidelined and later traded, Tim Hardaway Jr. took over as the Knicks’ primary scorer in the 2018-19 season. He averaged 19.1 points per game and was the team’s go-to option on offense. Even though Hardaway put up solid numbers, the Knicks struggled to find wins, finishing with a league-worst 17-65 record.

The season was mostly a rebuilding year for the Knicks, as they cleared cap space and positioned themselves for a potential big offseason. Hardaway’s performance, while strong, wasn’t enough to change the team’s fortunes, and he was traded midseason to the Dallas Mavericks as part of the Porzingis deal.

2019-20 Season - Julius Randle

Stats: 19.5 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 3.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Julius Randle joined the Knicks in the 2019-20 season and quickly became their best player, leading the team in scoring and rebounding. His versatility as a power forward who could score inside and stretch the floor made him a valuable asset. The Knicks, however, finished with a 21-45 record, missing the playoffs once again.

Randle’s performance was a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season, and his leadership on the court started to lay the foundation for what would come next. His play set the stage for a breakout year in 2020-21.

2020-21 Season - Julius Randle

Stats: 24.1 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 6.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, Most Improved Player

Julius Randle had a career year in 2020-21, leading the Knicks to a surprising 41-31 record and their first playoff appearance in eight years. He was named an All-Star, earned All-NBA Second Team honors, and won the Most Improved Player award. Randle’s ability to score, rebound, and facilitate made him the centerpiece of the Knicks’ resurgence.

The Knicks finished fourth in the Eastern Conference but were eliminated by the Atlanta Hawks in the first round. Randle’s playoff performance didn’t match his regular-season brilliance, but his leadership and breakout season brought excitement back to Madison Square Garden.

2021-22 Season - Julius Randle

Stats: 20.1 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 5.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2021-22 season was a rollercoaster for Julius Randle and the Knicks. After his breakout campaign the year before, expectations were high, but both Randle and the team took a step back. His numbers were still solid, nearly averaging a double-double, but his shooting percentages dropped, and frustrations grew on and off the court. The Knicks finished the season with a 37-45 record, missing the playoffs.

Randle still led the team in scoring, rebounding, and assists, but the magic of the previous year seemed to fade. The season ended with questions about Randle’s future with the team and whether he could bounce back to his All-Star form.

2022-23 Season - Jalen Brunson

Stats: 24.0 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 6.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

In his first year with the Knicks, Jalen Brunson quickly established himself as the team’s leader and best player. His ability to score and create for others transformed New York’s offense, and he brought much-needed stability at the point guard position. Brunson averaged 24 points and 6 assists per game, leading the Knicks to a 47-35 record and a playoff spot.

Brunson’s leadership and clutch performances, especially in the postseason, were instrumental in the Knicks’ success. New York made it to the second round of the playoffs, where they were eliminated by the Miami Heat, but Brunson’s arrival signaled that the Knicks had found their new franchise cornerstone.

2023-24 Season - Jalen Brunson

Stats: 28.7 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 6.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-NBA Second Team, All-Star

Jalen Brunson had an incredible 2023-24 season, solidifying himself as the Knicks’ leader and one of the top guards in the league. He averaged a career-high 28.7 points per game along with 6.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds, helping the Knicks to a 50-32 record. This was New York’s first 50-win season since 2012-13. Brunson's consistent performances earned him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team and he was also selected as an All-Star.

Brunson’s shooting was impressive, with 47.9% from the field and 40.1% from beyond the arc. His leadership and ability to deliver in clutch moments played a big role in the Knicks finishing second in the Eastern Conference and getting into the second round. Although they fell short in the playoffs, his impact on the team was undeniable. His 2023-24 performance has set the stage for even higher expectations heading into the 2024-25 season.

Related: Boston Celtics: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century