Troublesome Front Line The Knick losses can be attributed to more than just the Boston Garden.

His shooting, which had disintegrated to 37 percent in the five Knick losses that cost them the Atlantic Division title, was no better in the first round.

The team's interest was heightened by the Knick loss at home on Wednesday.

All signs pointed toward a Knick loss.

He realized that the Knick loss to the Los Angeles Lakers was only the third game of the season.

Before Tuesday's Knick loss to New Jersey, Sprewell said: "I understand that's something I have to live with for the rest of my career.

Sweet Revenge The victory avenged one of the three Knick losses at home, a 110-103 overtime decision to Charlotte on Dec. 10.

A Knick loss would put Chicago into the conference final against the Detroit Pistons on Sunday afternoon.

"It's a matchup that can go either way," Sprewell said after he missed 8 of 12 shots and got to the free-throw line only four times in the 87-83 Knick loss.

A Knick loss to the Bulls and two victories by the Hawks would give Atlanta the third-seeded berth.