The notion, as of late, with the NBA is that big market teams are the only teams that can contend. It makes sense after all, as big markets are places that appeal to superstars — not just for contention hopes — but to help build their brand as well.
LeBron James fled the Cleveland Cavs for what? A big market team.
Steve Nash wanted to go where? A big market team.
Carmelo Anthony wanted what? A big market team.
Big markets will always attract superstars, and this has been a problem for the Denver Nuggets since ‘Melo left for the greener pastures in New York City.
Denver was expected to crumble post-Melo, but have done things in an unorthodox way, as they rebuild with a — GASP — team focus. The Nuggets are even better in 2012 as, arguably, the deepest team in the league and aren’t believing the big market hype.
New York City has long been a major attraction for superstars, but haven’t seen a title since ’73, and they are chock full of star power once again, but they still aren’t seen as contenders.
Ty Lawson, via the Denver Post, laughs at the “big market” argument, by posing a rhetorical question:
“When was the last time New York won a championship?” said Denver point guard Ty Lawson, barely able to conceal a smirk.
I know a New York Knicks fan will just see the quote, without context, and say “When was the last time Denver won a ‘ship? OH” not thinking that Denver isn’t a big market and doesn’t attract stars.
Lawson is correct with his generalization, by all though processes NYK is a big market team, and thus, won championships. However, the Knicks are an anomaly in their own way.
Oh, this is going to be a splendid season, indeed.
