The Atlantic Division might be the toughest one in basketball. In a Q&A with ESPN's Jared Zwerling, three-point threat, Steve Novak of the New York Knicks, said that the team is looking forward to the tough matchups in the up and coming 2012-2013 season.
When asked about his thoughts on how competitive the Atlantic would be this season, Novak replied, "That's the way we want it. That's when it's at its best."
He also mentioned that it riles up the fan base and ensures that they stayed glued to the Knicks throughout the season.
"That's when the fans are able to enjoy it the most, and when there's teams that are truly neck-in-neck like that, that'll just make us more and more ready for every game. It's great," said Novak, who led the NBA in three-point percentage in 2011-2012.
For the Knicks, it will be a challenge this season. They have built up their bench and brought in veterans to mix in with the young guys in their roster. Former Knicks Raymond Felton, Marcus Camby and Kurt Thomas will be back in New York this season.
Novak will be looking forward to play against teams like the Miami Heat and Brooklyn Nets. The Heat revamped their bench with the additions of three-point gurus Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis. The Nets have a new area, new city and new starting roster to show off as they attempt to become relevant in the Eastern Conference once again.
After the Knicks have made the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, but have not put together successful runs once in the playoffs.
Novak will definitely play a pivotal role in the Knicks' success. He will be the outside threat that will increase Knick leads and bring them back from deficits.
The Knicks will immediately get tested as they play at Barclays Center in Brooklyn against the Nets in the first game of the season on November 1.
